Our community in Perryville, MD prides itself on the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Chesapeake Bay area, especially Carpenters Point. This land, our land, is not only a vital part of our state's natural heritage but also fundamental to our quality of life. But now, we face a serious threat from proposed sand mining and deforestation activities. York Building Products' plans could cause irreversible harm to this treasured environment.

What's at stake? Our home values, for one. The overburdening of our local infrastructure, including the roads we rely on daily. Our private home wells, the source of our drinking water, could face contamination, endangering our health. Not to mention, the overall welfare of our community will be detrimentally impacted by the noise and dust from mining operations. Our friends in the animal kingdom are not exempt from these effects, especially those species that already sit on the brink of extinction.

According to data from the U.S. Geological Survey, sand mining can lead to altered river channels, increased flood risk, groundwater table reduction, land erosion, and basin-wide biodiversity loss. Its noise and dust can contribute to the deterioration of our health. By allowing these activities to proceed, we stand to destroy everything that defines and enriches our community.

Deforestation similarly poses its risks, with the US Department of Agriculture warning of increased carbon emissions and diminished wildlife habitats arising from loss of forest cover. This exchange of short-term economic gain for long-term environmental loss holds serious consequences for us all.

This is not just a local issue—it’s a matter of global importance.

The Cecil County Board of Appeals has the power to prevent this looming environmental disaster by rejecting the special exception permit for these activities. We urge the Board to consider the long-term impacts of this decision and to stand with the concerned citizens of Perryville. Together, we can preserve the ecological balance and natural beauty of our community.  

Send your letter to your Maryland Congressional Representatives opposing this special exception permit that will cause an environmental tragedy near the conjunction of the North East River and the Chesapeake Bay in Cecil County. Please sign this petition to show your support for denying this permit and safeguarding our environment. 
Stand with us! Your signature can make a difference.