Threats to the Agricultural Reserve
- Abuses in the child lot (tot lot) provision in the Rural Density Transfer (RDT) zone
- Special Exceptions- examples include golf courses & large equestrian centers
- Further industrialization of the Agricultural Reserve- examples include the landfill, Neutron Products toxic chemical cleanup that is pending state enforcement.
- Outer Beltway/Techway Proposals from federal, state, and local government
- Future growth and annexation of Poolesville- This rural town has grown from 450 to 5100 people in 5 years. Poolesville is maxed out on available water resources, and there is constant development pressure from real estate developers to extend the town limits and further develop the surrounding farmland. The town will need additional water withdrawal permits if they allow for more development, and they are currently under a moratorium. The additional growth would strain the school and road infrastructure.
- Cuts in the budget for open space and farmland preservation
Up County Health Issues
A federal court has ruled that the Washington Metropolitan region will be reclassified as a severe non-attainment area by the EPA. The industrial complex in Dickerson ranks as #1 for the top three criteria air pollutants.
- Air Pollution from the current industrial complex in Dickerson and the health threat posed by expansion of the industrial facilities. Our industrial facilities in Dickerson are the top three polluters in Montgomery county for Nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds and particulate emissions.
- Groundwater contamination is a concern. The EPA has designated our aquifer a ‘Sole Source Aquifer" so any projects that could pollute or deplete our water supply are a vital concern to residents and farmers.
- Potomac low flow- New water intake pipes, and power plant expansion plans are threatening the Potomac water quality and quantity.
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