Coal dust wasn’t part of the dream

To the editor:

I am very concerned about the proposed strip mine at Wishbone Hill. There is risk of coal dust contaminating the air, pollution of ground water, damage to streams where salmon run and the noise of blasting and machinery shattering the peaceful quiet of the Valley. Before moving to the Valley, my family and I dreamed of making our home in the Mat-Su area, putting down roots and living closer to nature. Coal dust in the garden was never part of that dream.

Jobs are important, but the health of the people and the land is more so. I think Wishbone Hill will be of better use if preserved and respected. I think that if people work together and put their energy into developing creative solutions there could be plenty of jobs to support the surrounding communities without putting their health at risk or damaging the landscape. It is my hope that dangerous mining operations will be halted in their tracks.

Lacey V. Brooks

Wasilla