2018-07-09_PERMIT FILE - M2018016 (25)

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Peter Hayes Department of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety 1313 Sherman Street Room 215 Denver, CO 80203 Subject: Permit#M2018016, Douglas Mountain Mine Project July 2, 2018 Dear Mr. Hays, I am a concerned citizen in opposition to the development of a strip mine operation in Clear Creek County. The proposed gravel pit is to be located next door to the tranquil and historic town of Empire - the gem of Clear Creek County. Here are some major points to consider: 1. Water • Only .01 per cent of all Earth's limited freshwater is found in rivers and other surface water bodies around the globe. • Aggregate mining extracts everything required to sustain a healthy aquatic ecosystem necessary for good quality water. Trees, shrubs, all vegetation,the topsoil, substrate and all the small life forms that inhabit those areas are completely removed from the landscape. • The water table on the plateau to be mined feeds a natural spring and wetlands on its eastern escarpment that will likely dry up as a result of the proposed mining operation. 2. Wildlife • Empire is home to the famous Georgetown herd of Bighorn Sheep. This herd is one of the largest Bighorn Sheep populations in the state and requires a large habitat with a range of elevations to avoid disease. • The proposed mining development would destroy the only remaining natural plateau in Clear Creek County. This plateau is a natural habitat and migration corridor for elk, deer, moose, bear, and mountain lions- in addition to the famous Bighorn Sheep. • Aggregate mining causes higher than average concentrations of Pb, As,Cu, Ni, Cd, Hg,Ag and Zr. These higher concentrations may have very negative effects on plants and animals in the area and cause diseases such as brain and kidney damage, lung irritation, cardiac abnormality and eventual death to plants and animals. • Land erosion and silt from the proposed mine would potentially contaminate Clear Creek, disturbing fish habitat that has greatly improved in recent years. 3. Air Quality and Health • The Empire Valley is noted for high winds descending from the Continental Divide. A gravel mining operation will inevitably create massive, uncontrollable clouds of dust and unknown contaminants, risking respiratory issues for residents. Numerous studies have linked elevated particle levels in the air to increased hospital admissions, emergency room visits and premature deaths. Quotes from residents living near a gravel pit: