Comment today on Chuitna coal mine plan

To the editor:

The proposed Chuitna coal mine is, at best, a poor plan for Alaska’s economy and environment. The mine is a prime example of the modern-day definition of “progress.”

Is “progress” using technology to wreak havoc on one of the dearest natural resources for Alaskan and Canadian Native peoples in exchange for a dangerous finite resource for export? Is it “progress” if it will do nothing to benefit the people, land or state?

A green light for the Chuitna coal mine spells danger for more than the people of Tyonek and Beluga. Chinook salmon spawn in Chuitna and its tributaries.

Chinook salmon stocks are already facing a steady decline. Denying water rights to the people in communities near the Chuitna is a slap in the face to the unique traditions of Alaska peoples.

The Texas billionaires who own PacRim need more money like Cook Inlet needs coal dust and the Native peoples of Alaska need more colonization and destruction.

Submit a comment today supporting water in streams for salmon and people by emailing the state Department of Natural Resources (kimberly.sager@alaska.gov) and Gov. Bill Walker (bill.walker@alaska.gov).

Hillary Hafner

Palmer