On Wednesday, May 20th, more than 250 fishing, hunting, and outdoor recreation businesses from across the country sent a letter to President Donald Trump calling on him to deny the Pebble Limited Partnership’s key federal permit.
The letter comes as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is poised to release its final Environmental Impact Statement in the coming months, a key document in the permitting process for the gold and copper mining proposal.
The letter was delivered by executives of The Orvis Company, American Fly Fishing Trade Association, and Trout Unlimited. “If built, the mine would immediately jeopardize thousands of American jobs, hundreds of businesses, a sportfishing and hunting paradise, and thriving outdoor industries,” the letter reads. Read the full letter here.
“Pebble mine would not only be bad for the environment, it would be bad for business. We got involved because we saw a direct threat to Bristol Bay’s substantial outdoor economy and commercial fishery, which so many businesses and communities rely on for financial security. Our customers travel from all over the world to the region to experience the unique landscape and to fish for wild, native salmon and trout, supporting a thriving tourism economy. Economically and environmentally, this mine is not worth the risk.”
The letter highlights both the value of the Bristol Bay region, as well as problems with the massive mining proposal. The decision for the important federal permit for the proposed mine is expected by mid-2020.
Industry leaders in the region came out once again to advocate for their Bristol Bay-based businesses. “Alaskans have made clear for more than a decade that this mine is not wanted. Numerous state and federal agencies have pointed out flaws in the proposal and review. It's time to stand up for American jobs and our outdoor heritage, not a mining company based in Canada,” said Brian Kraft, president of the Katmai Service Providers and owner of two fishing lodges in the Bristol Bay area. Read what other industry leaders had to say here.
The letter was delivered alongside a similar request for President Trump to deny the federal permit signed by over 30,000 individual hunters and anglers from across the country.
Hunters, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts have been opposed to Pebble for well over a decade, and have tirelessly worked to ensure that the jobs, fish-based recreation economy, and sporting tradition are continued in the years to come.
If you live in Alaska, please contact Governor Dunleavy to remind him that Pebble poses a serious threat to the sporting industry that supports thousands of American jobs and is unwanted by a majority of Alaskans. Please write or call the Governor today.