Seaport development versus environmental preservation: The case of Sears Island, Maine, USA

The expansion or construction of a seaport is often proposed as a means of spurring economic growth in an area, in addition to providing quality facilities for importers and exporters. When there are underlying environmental considerations, the speculative nature of anticipated benefits may invite determined opposition from preservationist groups, or reinforce their objections. This paper examines such a conflict, over the proposed development of a dry cargo and container terminal at Sears Island, in upper Penobscot Bay, Maine, USA.