2024-04-03_REVISION - M1990057 (6)

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Comment/Objection Narrative* Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to you today in both my professional capacity as a Professor in Life and Environmental Sciences at the University of California, Merced,and also as a concerned citizen deeply committed to preserving our natural environment and ensuring the well-being of our communities. It has come to my attention that CJK Milling Company, LLC, proposes to reopen the Leadville Mill and utilize cyanide in the processing of mine waste piles, a plan that poses significant and irreparable harm to the Leadville area and its surrounding ecosystems, particularly the Upper Arkansas River basin. The use of cyanide,a highly toxic chemical, in processing mine tailings presents an unacceptable risk of contamination to both surface and groundwater resources.The proposed dry stack method for storing processed materials lacks a foolproof method to prevent leakage of cyanide and other hazardous chemicals. This is not merely a theoretical risk;the potential for such leakage poses a direct threat to the health and safety of Lake County residents,the local wildlife populations,and the economic well-being of the community reliant on tourism and recreational activities. Furthermore,the Leadville area and the Upper Arkansas River basin have seen considerable efforts and financial investment towards environmental restoration, particularly in addressing the legacy of historic mining activities.The proposed mill threatens to undo decades of progress,jeopardizing the longest continuous stretch of Gold Medal waters in the nation,a testament to the region's resilience and dedication to environmental restoration. The environmental assessment provided by CJK Milling Company, LLC, lacks comprehensive groundwater mapping and fails to address the full spectrum of risks associated with disturbing the East Side waste piles. Without a thorough understanding of groundwater depth,flow pathways,and rates,the community is left vulnerable to the consequences of a spill or leak.This oversight is unacceptable and undermines any claims of responsible environmental stewardship. In light of these considerations, I strongly urge the DRMS to reject the permit application submitted by CJK Milling Company, LLC.The potential for environmental catastrophe,the irreversible damage to our natural resources,and the threat to public health cannot be justified by any economic benefit proposed by the reopening of the Leadville Mill. I implore you to consider the long-term consequences of this decision on our environment,our communities, and future generations. Responsible industrial development and environmental stewardship must go hand in hand; however,the proposal by CJK Milling Company, LLC, represents a significant step backward in our collective efforts to protect and preserve our natural world. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. I,along with many concerned citizens and environmental advocates,await your decision with the hope that you will act in the best interest of the environment and the people it sustains. Sincerely, Justin Yeakel Associate Professor Biology Program Chair Life and Environmental Sciences University of California, Merced Permit Number* Enter valid letter and then numbers,for example M1977999, M1999777UG or C1981201. M1990057 Permitting Action Type Select revision type or leave blank if comment pertains to a new permit application or NOI