For more than a decade, the threat of North America’s largest
copper and gold mine has loomed over the headwaters of Bristol Bay, Alaska.
This project would directly impact the world’s largest and greatest sockeye
salmon run, putting in jeopardy 14,000 fishing jobs, a 10,000 year cultural
tradition of subsistence, and a huge sport fishing and tourism economy.
But today we have another chance to make sure this is all
protected. Click here to comment to the EPA now.
All told, the proposed Pebble Mine would threaten an existing
long-term sustainable economy valued at more than $1.5 billion annually, for a
short-term mine. The EPA has the power to ensure restrictions are in place that
will not threaten the fishery. Under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, the
EPA has the authority to restrict or deny a permit that will have adverse
effects on a fishery. More than a million Americans supported proposed
protections. Unfortunately, the new leadership at the EPA must be convinced
that we STILL support strong protections for Bristol Bay.
EPA took a justified step in 2014 to start the process of
restricting any large-scale mining in Bristol Bay that would harm salmon. The
public reviewed their Proposed Determination and weighed in with overwhelming
support.
It’s no time for complacency when it comes to Pebble Mine.
Please tell the EPA to follow the science and that you STILL support
protections for Bristol Bay. Please take action today.
