One Voice: The Fight to Save the Chestnut Ridge

In 1990, rumors started about a proposed limestone quarry that would affect hundreds, potentially thousands of acres on Chestnut Ridge in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. Two years later plans solidified. One person spoke up against big business, big money, big threats-and relatives. Many ridge lovers-who had each come to know the mountain in their own ways-joined the battle, a fight that did not truly end until 2003. Cavers used eastern woodrats, bats, and underground voids to slow down the machinery. Blairsville residents used water. The Chestnut Ridge Conservancy used plants and quarry dust studies. And the Hillside Community Association used decades-old deeds and pieces of paper in the fight. Their efforts led to the longest case ever brought before the Pennsylvania Environmental Hearing Board over a mining permit. It started with one voice. That voice was joined by many others in a chorus for the common good. All it took was the courage to speak up and the drive to never give up.