After reading the letters questioning why the Gifford Pinchot Task Force is against the proposed strip mining operation, I’d like to state some important facts. Ascot’s plans to initiate a strip-mining operation started my own research on strip-mining operations around the world. The mining industry has made considerable technological advances; however, there is a fundamental area that continues to be left out of the discussion, the effects on surface water and groundwater aquifers.
Utilizing several academic data bases, I was unable to find one example where a strip-mining operation has not tainted, polluted or destroyed the surrounding fresh water resources. Statistics indicate it would affect the water resources that serve millions of residents and tourists in the Southwest Washington and Northwest Oregon regions. This does not address the detrimental effects upon the wildlife and our own children affected by the pollutants from the mining and smelting processes.
I challenge anyone to find some record of where strip mining does not have a negative impact upon the environment, the wildlife or the communities that support these operations. Ensuring our own safety and the natural resources is the motivation behind the GPTF efforts.
Lynn E. Jones
VANCOUVER
