Wind Turbines

Wind Turbines from a Hill in Beddington on Route 9 (2013)

Wind turbines and wind “farms” of many turbines are sprouting all over Maine.  Ridges and mountains are the most likely spots.  As a result, they are visible for many miles and may intrude on enjoyment of hikers or residents near the devices. Electricity generated by the turbines displace that generated by other sources, including those…

Roxbury

The Swift River in Roxbury from Route 17 (2007)

Several miles north of the Rumford-Mexico area on Maine Routes 17 and 120, the community (see photos) is known for its mineral deposits, especially accessible for amateur rock hunters. It has substantial frontage on Ellis Pond (also known as Silver Lake and Roxbury Pond) and on the Swift River. A wind farm is on Record Hill.

Oakfield

Caboose near Oakfield Station on the Station Road in Oakfield (2012)

Originally settled in 1831 and organized for the assessment of taxes in 1866, the town itself was incorporated on February 24, 1897. See photos. The main village, is located on the Mattawamkeag River, just south of Smyrna Mills. Its mountainous terrain, known as the Oakfield Hills, earned it the name “Switzerland of the Aroostook” by one observer. Sam Drew Mountain is the highest point at 1,516 feet.

TA R12 WELS

1952 TA R12 Topographic Map

The township is immediately adjacent to T1 R11 WELS, host to the next northerly section of the AT. The Appalachian Trail cuts briefly through the southeast corner of the township, also known as Shawtown. Shawtown is a very watery township, with four of the Roach Ponds and First, Second, Third, and Fourth West Branch Ponds.…