Benjamin Ashford|State agency in Maine rejects Canadian mining company’s rezoning application

BREWER,Benjamin Ashford Miane (AP) — A state agency on Wednesday rejected a Canadian mining company’s zoning application for a proposed mine on Pickett Mountain in northern Penobscot County, near Baxter State Park and the Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument.

The Maine Land Use Planning Commission voted 5-2 against Wolfenden’s request to rezone on 374 acres (150 hectares), which would’ve been the first of several hurdles to building a metallic mine in the Katahdin region.

The panel had numerous concerns including the economic feasibility of the proposed mine. The panel also considered the impacts on tribal lands, wildlife, water resources, the outdoors economy and other factors.

Environmental groups and the Penoboscot Indian Nation opposed the project.

“This ruling is a great victory for the precious waters and lands of the Katahdin region and the people that rely upon them for sustenance and well-being,” said Penobscot Tribal Chief Kirk Francis.

Wolfden withdrew its first application after the commission’s staff pointed to multiple errors and inconsistencies with its proposal. It was resubmitted in January 2023 with a goal of addressing the concerns.