DRMS Comment Objection Intake - DEV 4/2/2025 (39)

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Comment/Objection Narrative* I urge you to reject the proposed expansion of the Caribou Mine.This project poses irreversible risks to public lands,water resources,air quality,and local communities—risks that no mitigation plan can fully address. Expanding this mine would limit public access to land that belongs to everyone, prioritizing private profits over community rights.One of the most alarming impacts is on the watershed,particularly Coon Track Creek and its associated wetlands.The proposal to reroute surface water flows could severely disrupt the ecosystem, endangering the region's trout population and degrading water quality. Boulder's public drinking water supply depends on the integrity of this watershed—this is not a risk we can afford to take. The mining company's history of noncompliance with environmental regulations is well-documented.There is no reason to believe that stronger oversight will change their track record.At a minimum,the highest possible financial warranty must be required to ensure that taxpayers aren't left paying for inevitable environmental damage. Beyond water concerns,the expansion would bring a sharp rise in heavy machinery traffic, increasing road safety hazards and damaging local infrastructure. Increased truck activity will also generate dust pollution, worsening air quality for residents and visitors.Additionally,airborne particulates from mining operations pose long-term health risks,especially for those with respiratory conditions. Fire danger is another major concern.This region is both fire-adapted and fire-prone due to decades of fire suppression.The use and storage of explosives must be subject to a rigorous, independent fire prevention plan, ideally reviewed by experts from the U.S. Forest Service. Simply put,this expansion is not worth the cost.Given the company's history of environmental violations,the risks to Boulder's drinking water,air quality, public safety,and local wildlife, no amount of regulation can make this project acceptable. Before this turns into yet another environmental disaster, I urge you to reject the expansion outright. The public should not bear the consequences of corporate recklessness. Please prioritize the health of our lands,water,and communities by saying no to this expansion. 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 Caribou Mine Perm ittee/Operator Name 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.