Another winter of discontent?

Aside from those who don't care or, worse yet, find the impact from massive new development attractive, I can only say there often appears to me to be a general apathy displayed by the majority of our fellow citizens. Many, I believe, consider this onslaught inevitable, so we should just let it happen.

There are a number of messages offered by the development community and its supporters that mostly serve to confuse, such as, it's good for the economy; it's the jobs, stupid; it'll bring in new taxes; wow, new shopping! The real focus of our attention should be on the capacity of our community and our environment to expand and adapt to the challenges brought on by these issues.

When we at the Conservancy urge a cautious and more studied approach, we find ourselves being labeled as naysayers and obstructionists. When we point out reasonable concerns that simply ask for a bit more research and analysis that could help to prevent significant problems in the future, we are extremists.

We simply seek a more balanced approach to the use of what is collectively all our natural resources. Our message is sidelined too easily because, in my opinion, the message is about prevention and preservation. How do you prove the value of something that doesn't happen? Our society likes shiny and new. That wins the day every time you speak to the public, and woe to the one who calls into question the value of anything to the contrary.

It's sad but true, we are hooked on the religion of consumption and materialism. Nature for many has become something to be dealt with, controlled, and overcome. Nature has a brilliant way of showing us simple solutions if we are willing to learn, not to over-think the obvious, embrace experiences from our past, and look to the future with the same creativity that propels us to seek the shiny and new.

James V. Celano III

Executive Director