DRMS Comment Objection Intake - DEV 3/29/2025 (17)

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Comment/Objection Narrative* The Cross Gold Mine,owned by Grand Island Resources in at Caribou, Nederland,Colorado,is proposing to expand its current operation of approximately 10 acres to approximately 200 acres.The operation expansion is important because it continues the extraction of essential natural resources such as gold,silver, lead,and Zinc, and also stimulates the state's economy. However,this expansion could become problematic for the local ecosystem as well as for the town of Nederland and the city of Boulder,which are located directly downstream of this operation. In 2021,the mine was placed under a cease and desist order due to excessive releases of heavy metals, including copper,gold,silver,cadmium,zinc,and lead,following an underground tunnel collapse.After GIR worked to repair and upgrade the water treatment system,the cease and desist order was lifted in 2023. Despite GIR's efforts to maintain acceptable water quality,there was a large, inadequately explained spike of copper released in December 2024.The regulatory standard for copper is just.2 mg/I, but the December 2024 measurement is 3.4 mg/I.This is not acceptable. Myself and Others in my Nederland community are concerned that the water treatment system may not be adequate for active mining conditions. We propose that you require the applicant to demonstrate(1)the ability to sustain compliance with water quality standards at current activity levels before permitting a 20-fold expansion and(2)the ability of the upgraded water treatment system to effectively treat water from a greatly expanded operation of over 200 acres. Rigorously assess the likely impact of the proposed expansion of existing tunnels and the creation of new tunnels upon ground and well water. We also propose a rigorous and frequent water quality monitoring system be put in place for 100+years. Also, if the applicant is to remove up to 40,000 cubic yards of waste rock for 50 years,then they have to measure to prevent acid mine runoff,including testing of waste and host rock,which are appropriate. Please require the applicant to explain how Coon Track Creek, its associated wetlands,and the surrounding ecosystem will be impacted by this re-routing and how they will mitigate the impact. Let this be an opportunity to support local mining operations while maintaining the integrity of our local ecosystem and streams! Permitting Action Comment/Objection is Regarding • New Permit Change to Existing Permit Permit Number* (?) Enter a valid permit number M1977410 County* Colorado County where the proposed operation is located Boulder Enter one county only Site Name Cross Mine, Perm ittee/Operator Name Grand Island Resources ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Are there supporting photos, maps, or documents you wish to upload? Yes • No By submitting this form electronically you agree to receive any/all follow up correspondence from the Division of Reclamation, Mining,and Safety at the email address you have provided.