Ad as it appeared in the newspaper:  STWUP 9-19 (5)

“We, the undersigned medical professionals, would like to express our concern and register our objection to the construction and operation of metallic sulfide mines in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Our concerns revolve around the following issues:

1. The inevitable contamination of our ground and surface water from acid mine drainage since there never has been a mine of this type that has not “leaked” (acidifying the water and leaching of heavy metals).

2. The impact of this contamination on the health of mine workers and the surrounding communities.

3. The blighting of wilderness areas which residents, visitors and the local economy depend upon for hunting, fishing and other forms of recreation and relaxation (our mental health).

4. The permitting process being driven by political forces and issues, not sound science. We have recently witnessed the incredible environmental and economic consequences of this form of permitting in the oil industry. It would seem reckless to allow this kind of risk to the Great Lakes.”*

*There are numerous irregularities and procedural violations that have occurred in the permitting process, including the MDEQ admittedly not following the non-ferrous mining law, that are currently being addressed through litigation.