FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 18, 2007
MARQUETTE, MICH. – A team of national mining experts today explained how a controversial mine proposed in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is too risky based on threats it poses to the state’s natural resources and public health.
The National Wildlife Federation commissioned 12 industry experts from around the country to review the mining permit application and compiled the findings, which were submitted to the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources yesterday.
See the links below to view news coverage:
Houston Chronicle
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/fn/5228521.html
Indiana Fox 20 TV
http://www.fox28.com/News/index.php?ID=26674
MSNBC John Flesher
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21379368/from/ET
I wanted to express my gratitude for the work that the National Wildlife Federation, Huron Mountain Club, and Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, among others have put into seeking out unbiased input from engineers and technical experts on this seriously flawed permit application. This additional information should have been sought out and considered by the state of Michigan after the questionable oversight of this process by the Department of Environmental Quality. I can only hope that the DEQ and the DNR will take the findings presented by these varied and accomplished experts seriously when making the final decision on Kennecott’s permit applications.
I also ask those reading this:
Please ask that your governor and members of congress remind the DEQ and the DNR of the far and long-reaching effects their decision on this first permit application under the new (& untested) Part 632 Rules will have on Michigan and the Great Lakes’ future. The burden of proof sits on the corporation applying for a permit under this new statute. Kennecott has presented a dangerous and flawed permit application. Therefore, it is the DEQ’s legal responsibility to deny this permit.
Lastly, I want to tell everyone that voiced their concerns about this proposed project, either verbally at the hearings or by writing to the DEQ/DNR, that I thank you. It is not easy to get up in front of your community and express yourself on such a technical and emotional topic. Those folks who I had the pleasure of hearing speak at the various public hearings were respectful, articulate and genuine.
You make me proud to be part of this community!
Where does one get an actual copy of this report?
Found, thanks for posting. It be great if you had a link on this page also.
The deer in that area are already on the decline,ALL wildlife,plant&animal will be affected by this mine!
If this mine goes in I will join the 51st. state bandwagon before Lansing destroys more of OUR U.P.
Mike.