To the Editor:

Concerning the matter of water extraction, I believe it’s time for some voices of reason to be considered on the subject. Without question, some folks who have voiced opposition to water extraction are passionate about their beliefs and have represented their views in a dignified manner. There are those who have not. An emotional response is what they seek regardless of the facts. The suspension of emotion is imperative for an accurate understanding of this topic, however. Opposing water extraction from existing resources on the basis of an emotional belief system is nothing short of an irrational response and an unwillingness to accept objective criteria. 

During the recent debate in Wells, a number of forums were made available for the public to become informed about the sustainability of our water resources and the extent of regulatory oversight conducted by the state. During these presentations, it was made clear that Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Wells Water District has significantly increased water capacity through new subsurface water sources since the shortages of 2002 from Branch Brook, a surface source. Nevertheless, the opposition continues to inflame fears of a shortage despite facts to the contrary that demonstrate excess capacity to a significant degree.

Further demagoguery continues with the negative assertions made against Poland Spring’s parent company Nestle. The consideration of water extraction is a local one framed by state law. Condemning Nestle has no substantive relevance to the issue of water in our community. Poland Spring is a Maine company founded 164 years ago and a significant contributor to Maine’s economy. Half of its Maine workforce of 800 lives in York County; its wages contribute to the local economies where employees reside. Poland Spring has made capital investments in Maine of $439 million, $230 million of which is invested in the York County town of Hollis. It has preserved 1,000 acres of land in the Fryeburg region, most of which is for public access. Its fleet of vehicles uses biodiesel fuel and it continues to evolve packaging, which today uses 30 percent less plastic. Few businesses in Maine have best practices that even approach those of Poland Spring. 

Disparaging Nestlé’s corporate interests in today’s global economy is meaningless when Venezuela’s Citgo provides gasoline and heating oil to Maine consumers, when we purchase running shoes from Adidas or this week’s groceries. Where’s the anger about Hannaford Bros. Belgium owner Delhaize Group?

Take the time to learn facts rather than submit to fear mongering and emotional misdirection of a radical minority.

Jeffrey Cole

Kennebunk