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Comment/Objection Narrative* <br /> Water quality in this area is of extreme concern: <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. Require the applicant to demonstrate(1)the ability to sustain <br /> compliance with water quality standards at current activity levels before permitting a 20-fold expansion;and(2) <br /> the ability of the upgraded water treatment system to effectively treat water from a greatly expanded operation <br /> of over 200 acres. Rigorously assess the likely impact of the proposed expansion of existing tunnels and the <br /> creation of new tunnels upon ground and well 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 /> Ensure that the environmental protection plan addresses the adjoining area as well as points downstream; <br /> specifies which minerals and chemicals will be present in the ponds and at what anticipated concentrations;and <br /> explains how birds,aquatic,and land-based native wildlife will be protected.Additionally,the applicant plans to <br /> re-route surface water flows uphill of the operation around the disturbance area.Again,require the applicant to <br /> explain how Coon Track Creek, its associated wetlands,and the surrounding ecosystem will be impacted by <br /> 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 Resource <br /> ADDITIONAL INFORMATION <br /> Are there supporting photos, maps, or documents you wish to upload? <br /> 9 Yes No <br />