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Comment/Objection Narrative* <br /> I am writing to oppose the proposed expansion of the Cross Mine from approximately 10 acres to more than <br /> 200 acres.The environmental impacts and dangers associated with the proposed expansion are simply too <br /> great. <br /> The mine discharges into Coon Track Creek,which drains into tributaries before entering Barker Reservoir,the <br /> primary drinking water source for the city of Boulder.The expansion could significantly impact well water up- <br /> canyon from Boulder,surface water in Barker Reservoir and drinking water quality in the city of Boulder. <br /> The December 2024 water quality violation for copper combined with the 2021 Cease and Desist Order are <br /> significant red flags.The repeated surface and ground water violations suggest that the water treatment system <br /> may not be adequate for active mining conditions. If the permit is granted, it should require the applicant to <br /> demonstrate(1)the ability to sustain compliance with water quality standards at current activity levels before <br /> permitting a 20-fold expansion;and(2)the ability of the upgraded water treatment system to effectively treat <br /> water from a greatly expanded operation of over 200 acres. It is also critical to rigorously assess the likely <br /> impact of the proposed expansion of existing tunnels and the creation of new tunnels upon ground and well <br /> water. <br /> 50 years of mining is a long time.To ensure that the quality of downstream water complies with all applicable <br /> standards protecting humans,fish,and wildlife, put a rigorous and frequent water quality monitoring system in <br /> place for 100+years.Also,if the applicant is to remove up to 40,000 cubic yards of waste rock for 50 years, <br /> then measures to prevent acid mine runoff, including testing of waste and host rock,are appropriate. <br /> Any new permit should also ensure that the environmental protection plan addresses the adjoining area as well <br /> as points downstream;specifies which minerals and chemicals will be present in the ponds and at what <br /> anticipated concentrations;and explains how birds,aquatic,and land-based native wildlife will be protected. <br /> Additionally,the applicant plans to re-route surface water flows uphill of the operation around the disturbance <br /> area.Again, require the applicant to explain how Coon Track Creek,its associated wetlands,and the <br /> surrounding ecosystem will be impacted by this re-routing and how they will mitigate the impact. <br /> Require the maximum permissible financial warranty to cover the risk of bankruptcy and all potential <br /> environmental damage so that local municipalities and downstream water users are buffered from potential <br /> clean-up and water replacement costs to the maximum extent permissible by law. <br /> Living as we do in a landscape that is fire adapted, but also fire prone due to fire suppression, require that the <br /> applicant explain how explosives will be stored and used so that the fire danger is reduced to the absolute <br /> minimum possible.Then consult with experts, including the US Forest Service,about the adequacy of these <br /> measures. <br /> It is critical to take all necessary measures to prevent this site from becoming another Superfund site, including <br /> seeking comprehensive, independent studies of critical aspects of the proposed mining activities. <br /> Permitting Action Comment/Objection is Regarding <br /> • New Permit Change to Existing Permit <br /> Permit Number* (?) <br /> Enter a valid permit number <br /> M1977410 <br /> County* <br /> Colorado County where the proposed operation is located <br /> Boulder <br /> Enter one county only <br /> Site Name <br /> Cross Mine <br /> Perm ittee/Operator Name <br /> Grand Island Resources <br />