The HoltraChem Manufacturing plant in Orrington, constructed in 1967, sits in close proximity to the Penobscot River. Staff photo by David A. Rodgers.

Maine's largest source of mercury pollution has been an environmental sore spot for years. Yet, state and federal regulators have done little until very recently. Meanwhile, the pollution has continued.

Portrait of a polluter
HoltraChem is Maine's largest source of mercury, but closing it would cost jobs.

Recharge, recycle to reduce mercury pollution
But involvement by consumers pales in comparison to the need for long-term controls on power plants and incinerators.

Readers, leaders respond to Portland Newspapers' mercury series
The subject stirs strong feelings among Mainers.

Oct. 2 update: Plant's neighbors cautioned on stream
The DEP decides it's time to let people know the stream draining from Holtrachem property is polluted and dangerous.