Washington, D.C. — Today, the EPA released its peer-reviewed “Assessment of Potential Mining Impacts on Salmon Ecosystems of Bristol Bay, Alaska” and concluded that mining posed serious risks to salmon and Alaska Native cultures. In response, Michael Conathan, Director of Ocean Policy at the Center for American Progress, issued the following statement:
After years of research, public comment, and independent, scientific peer review, today we have a verdict on the future of Alaska’s Bristol Bay watershed. This assessment shows a clear choice between a natural, renewable salmon resource or a mine that will operate for a few decades and leave behind toxic waste that must be monitored forever. The Obama administration must not allow the Pebble Mine project or any other mining operation of its scale and scope to move forward in the Bristol Bay watershed.
A CAP analysis released in June 2013 called upon the EPA to finalize its watershed assessment, so that the potential effects of development could be clearly understood. A forthcoming report will offer a more in-depth analysis of today’s assessment.
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To speak with an expert or for more information, contact Anne Shoup at [email protected] or 202.481.7146.
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