This fight has gone on long enough.
For over a decade the threat of an environmentally, economically and culturally devastating open-pit copper and gold mine in the headwaters of Bristol Bay has reared its head. And for over a decade anglers, hunters, naturalists and concerned citizens by the millions have raised their voices again and again in opposition to the mine.
Yet, in spite of the exceedingly clear reality that the finite short-term economic windfall for foreign mining interests pales in comparison to the permanent loss of the most productive and pristine salmon spawning habitat in the world, a $1.5 billion annual economic engine, and the irreplaceable backbone of native Alaskan cultures, the beast simply won’t die. Our government seems unwilling to side with our own citizens and stand up for common-sense, basic human decency and truly sustainable business.
Yes, this fight has gone on long enough
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers released its Draft Environmental Impact Statement recently and it shows a bias toward the short-term value of gold on the global market rather than on the long-term value of natural resources, economics, and culture already in place in Bristol Bay. There is also significant concern over the fact that there is only a 90-day window for public comment – starting March 1st – rather than a longer period, given the project’s complexities and what’s at stake.
We need to raise our voices once again and Save Bristol Bay
AFFTA and the fly fishing industry have proudly stood with our friends in the Bristol Bay campaign from the beginning. And we will continue to offer our full support until the Pebble Mine proposal has been unequivocally denied. But we need you to add your voice, too.
The public comment period opens on March 1. It is crucial for everyone reading this to submit comments to the Army Corps **click here to submit yours**. These comments are the foundation of Save Bristol Bay’s efforts to force the government to go back and do the job right.
If you are an Alaskan resident, please urge Sen. Lisa Murkowski to demand a robust permitting process that involves Alaskans and addresses your concerns. This DEIS fails to meet that standard and Sen. Murkowski needs to know you care **click here to express your support**. She holds an important gavel in the Senate and can demand answers from executive agencies that are failing Alaskans.
Thank you all for your continued support.
American Fly Fishing Trade Association
321 E. Main St.
Suite 300
Bozeman, Mt 59715
USA
Read also:
www.flyfishing-blog.com/2018/06/17/anglers-delight-as-pebble-mine-backer-pulls-out/
www.flyfishing-blog.com/2017/03/20/bristol-bay-a-pebble-mine-whirlwind-since-the-election/
www.flyfishing-blog.com/2018/10/01/nautilus-reels-produces-limited-edition-reel-to-aid-bristol-bay-fight/