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Comment/Objection Narrative* <br /> I strongly oppose the expansion of the Caribou Mine. No amount of mitigation can justify the irreversible harm <br /> this project will cause to public lands,water resources,air quality,and local communities. <br /> This expansion would significantly reduce public land access,prioritizing private industry profits over the <br /> public's right to these spaces.Additionally,the impact on the watershed—particularly Coon Track Creek and its <br /> associated wetlands—has not been adequately addressed.The applicant's plan to re-route surface water flows <br /> risks severe disruption to the ecosystem,including the region's trout population,which depends on cold,clean <br /> water.Any degradation of water quality in this area threatens not only aquatic life but also the larger watershed <br /> that ultimately feeds into Boulder's public drinking water supply.This risk is unacceptable. <br /> The mining company has a well-documented history of failing to adhere to environmental protections.There is <br /> no reason to trust that they will comply with regulations now.To ensure that local communities and downstream <br /> water users are not left shouldering the costs of cleanup and water replacement,the absolute maximum <br /> financial warranty must be required.Anything less puts taxpayers at risk when—inevitably—environmental <br /> damage occurs. <br /> The expansion would also bring a dramatic increase in heavy machinery traffic through Nederland and the <br /> surrounding area,creating safety concerns and further degrading local infrastructure.The increased truck traffic <br /> on dirt roads will generate significant dust pollution,further reducing air quality for residents and visitors. <br /> Additionally,the mining operation itself will contribute to airborne particulates,exacerbating respiratory issues <br /> and negatively impacting the health of nearby communities. <br /> Furthermore,the expansion increases fire danger in a region that is both fire-adapted and fire-prone due to <br /> years of suppression.The storage and use of explosives must be addressed with a detailed fire prevention <br /> plan,which should be reviewed by independent experts, including the US Forest Service. <br /> The last thing this region needs is another environmental disaster.To prevent this site from becoming yet <br /> another Superfund liability, independent,comprehensive studies must be conducted on every aspect of the <br /> proposed mining activities. However,given the company's history,the destruction of public land,and the threats <br /> to Boulder's drinking water,air quality,and community safety, no amount of oversight or regulation can make <br /> this expansion acceptable. <br /> I urge you to reject the expansion of the Caribou Mine outright.The risks—to water,wildlife,air quality, public <br /> lands,and local communities—far outweigh any possible benefits. <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 /> Perm ittee/Operator Name <br /> Grand Island Resources, LLC <br /> ADDITIONAL INFORMATION <br /> Are there supporting photos, maps, or documents you wish to upload? <br /> Yes • No <br /> By submitting this form electronically you agree to receive any/all follow up correspondence from the Division of <br /> Reclamation, Mining,and Safety at the email address you have provided. <br />