Community Controversy Over a Proposed Limestone Quarry

Abstract

Controversies over natural resource use often reflect differences in how urban inmigrants and established residents view the natural environment. One such disagreement took place in Haines Township, PA, over a proposed limestone quarry. The quarry dispute revealed an internal division between newcomers and oldtimers of the community. Some newcomers were concerned that operation of the quarry would deteriorate the quality of life in the community, and organized to stop it. At the same time, a small group supported the quarry. The majority of residents did not get involved in the issue. This study presents a qualitative account of the quarry dispute in Haines Township. Findings are consistent with the notion that rural newcomers of urban origin differ from established residents in their attitudes toward natural resource use.

Keywords:

• Inmigration
• Natural Resource Use
• Newcomers
• Nimby
• Oldtimers