Donlin Gold: Navigating the EIS Process…One Step at a Time
June 25, 2013
It’s no news that Donlin Gold, LLC is proposing the development of an open pit, hardrock gold mine located approximately 15 miles northwest of Georgetown. Because it’s so close to home, it is important for the members of Georgetown to stay informed and be part of the public review process, so that we can be sure any potential impacts are minimized or avoided completely. The way to do this is to remain involved in the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process. Where are we in this process now?
The first part of this EIS process was the scoping. The scoping process completed by the Army Corps of Engineer came to an end on April 29, 2013. During the scoping process, a newsletter was sent out, government to government consultation was conducted with several tribes, including Georgetown, and 14 public meetings were held, for which a summary of the issues identified can be found here: http://donlingoldeis.com/GetInvolved.aspx. A complete scoping report will soon be posted on this website as well, which will go into greater detail of the comments made during the first part of the EIS process.
To give you a general idea of some of the issues raised:
An Increase in barge traffic(yearly would be 122 round trips, using 40 million gallons of fuel) and its impact on bank erosion, spawning grounds, and their displacement of subsistence and commercial fisheries;
Mercuryand its effects on fish, animals and human health;
Water quality and the potential introduction of contaminants from runoff, water treatment, tailings, fuel spills and the transportation of cyanide and captured mercury on the river;
Disturbance to fish and wildlife populations;
Health impacts to the people and their communities along the Kuskokwim;
Subsistence traditions being altered due to a rapid culture change, and a potential decrease in resources that are depended upon by the people living on the River.
All of these issues are important, and if any of them strike a nerve with you…it’s not too late to be involved! Staying informed is the #1 way to make a difference. Talk to your friends and families about these issues. Talk about what can be done, and voice your concerns. Although the official commenting period is over, the Corps always welcomes additional comments and/or concerns.
Contact Information for Army Corps Project Manager: Don Kuhle, Project Manager Don.P.Kuhle@usace.army.mil907-753-2780
Where are we headed?
It can be a confusing journey, this EIS process, but we are now looking forward to August of 2014, when the draft EIS is expected to be issued. In the meantime, the Corps and cooperating agencies will be working to develop alternatives, study the environment that will be affected, and asses the consequences of alternatives as well. Once published, the Draft EIS will become available for a 90-day publicreview. The Corps will hold additional public meetings at this time, to offer another opportunity for public comment.
Until then, I will be sure to keep you informed every step of the way!