DRMS Comment Objection Intake - DEV 1/26/2026 (9)

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Comment/Objection Narrative* I am an avid fly fisherman that frequently fishes the Arkansas river;consequently, I support this reclamation effort due to its impact on water quality improvement. Improvement of water quality should be a primary goal of any reclamation project and the removal and/or reduction of leaching from historic mine dumps is critical.As a Colorado citizen, improving the ecosystem health of our state is paramount. Cleaner environments are better for all citizens and our state. Mined land reclamation can achieve several positive environmental impacts, helping to reverse or reduce damage caused by mining activities. Key impacts include: 1. Restoration of land stability Reclamation reduces land subsidence, landslides, and surface instability by reshaping and stabilizing mined areas. 2. Reduction of soil erosion and sedimentation Vegetation cover and proper grading prevent soil loss and reduce sediment entering nearby water bodies. 3. Improved water quality Treating mine waste and acid mine drainage limits contamination of rivers, lakes,and groundwater. 4. Recovery of ecosystems and habitats Reclaimed land supports plant growth and wildlife, promoting biodiversity and ecological balance. 5. Improved soil health Replacing topsoil and adding organic matter restore soil structure, nutrients,and microbial activity. 6. Reduction of air pollution Vegetation decreases dust and airborne pollutants from exposed mine surfaces. 7. Carbon sequestration and climate benefits Re-vegetation captures carbon dioxide,contributing to climate change mitigation. 8. Improved landscape aesthetics Reclamation transforms degraded mine sites into visually pleasing landscapes. 9. Long-term environmental sustainability Reclaimed lands can be reused for agriculture,forestry, recreation,or conservation with minimal environmental risk. Overall, mined land reclamation helps transform environmentally damaged areas into stable, productive,and ecologically functioning landscapes Water quality is improved through mined land reclamation by controlling pollution sources and restoring natural water systems affected by mining. Key ways include: 1. Control of acid mine drainage(AMD) Reclamation covers or removes sulfide-rich materials that produce acidic runoff, reducing acid and heavy metal release. 2. Prevention of sediment runoff Stabilizing soil and re-vegetation reduce erosion, preventing sediments from entering streams and rivers. 3.Treatment of contaminated water Constructed wetlands,treatment ponds,or chemical treatments are used to neutralize acidity and remove metals. 4. Restoration of natural drainage patterns Re-grading land restores natural water flow, reducing flooding and stagnant contaminated pools. 5. Protection of groundwater Lining waste disposal areas and sealing mine openings prevent pollutants from leaching into groundwater. 6. Reduction of toxic substances Proper management of mine waste reduces the release of heavy metals such as lead, mercury,and arsenic. 7. Improved aquatic habitats Cleaner water supports fish, invertebrates,and other aquatic life, restoring stream ecosystems. Overall, mined land reclamation helps return water systems to cleaner,safer,and more biologically healthy conditions. As a concerned citizen who believes strongly in environmental stewardship, I spent 11 years working at the Colorado Department of Natural Resources. I spent another 13 years,working in SES roles at the Department of Regulatory Agencies and Governor's Office. I am quite familiar with statutes, rule making and the role of regulatory agencies.That being said, I support the mission of DRMS and staff as you must make a legitimate recommendation to your board for approval or denial of this action. I implore you to focus on the facts and science represented by CJK Milling in their application.As we know,emotional responses from others are often not factual and do not represent planned and expected outcomes.