Pebble Mine isn’t worth the cost

To the editor:

For the last couple of years, a great debate has been present in the state of Alaska over the development of a large industrial gold mine at the mouth of one of the richest salmon runs and spawning grounds in the world.

This mine, referred to as Pebble Mine, is a threat to jobs in Bristol Bay for reasons any sane and rational voter ought to understand. No such mine, nor previous similar endeavors of this scale, have avoided causing catastrophic effects on their local fisheries. While these mines may create a temporary influx of jobs, the economic and environmental repercussions far outweigh the short-term gains.

Now, it must be observed that mining is an essential component of our world’s industry and every day life. No person with a cellphone or a computer can make a claim that mining should be shut down across the board (unless he or she is willing to give up such comforts and conveniences). However, the question at hand with Bristol Bay is not one of simply upsetting a few homeowners and fishermen — it is one of destroying the livelihood of thousands for generations to come.

Should the salmon of Bristol Bay become poisoned, an incredible example of wild salmon production in the modern world would be lost. The reputation for Alaska fish being poisonous and toxic will spread and ultimately drive down the value of our catches across the state, causing thousands to abandon their life’s work in search of more gainful employment.

The wild Alaska salmon fishing industry would weaken to a point that it might never recover from — in exchange for a temporary boom in mining that will ultimately create a handful of local employment options in return for the many that would be lost.

Pebble Mine isn’t worth the cost. Call your state senators and representatives and tell them to vote “yes” on Senate Bill 152, which would provide greater protection for the Bristol Bay ecosystem. Don’t allow a tragedy to happen that cannot be undone.

Sam Dinges

Age 18, Palmer