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Comment/Objection Narrative* <br /> I object to the proposed reopening of the Leadville Mill due to the significant and long-term risks it poses to <br /> water quality, public health,and environmental stability in Lake County.The proposal would disturb previously <br /> mitigated mining waste piles on the east side of Leadville and transport these materials through the historic <br /> downtown corridor,creating unnecessary risks of airborne contamination,spills,and community disruption. <br /> Once reprocessed,the resulting waste would be stored in a manner that does not convincingly demonstrate <br /> long-term protection of surface or groundwater, nor does the application adequately address perpetual <br /> monitoring and management responsibilities. <br /> Of particular concern is the potential impact to groundwater and the Upper Arkansas River basin.The <br /> application does not sufficiently identify groundwater depth,flow pathways,or rates across the site, information <br /> that would be essential in the event of a spill or system failure.Without this data,it is unclear how contamination <br /> would be contained or remediated to protect nearby wells,surface waters,and downstream uses including <br /> recreation,agriculture,and drinking water supplies. High water consumption associated with the milling process <br /> also raises concerns about reduced water availability in the Leadville area. <br /> Decades of public investment and restoration work have gone into repairing the legacy impacts of historic <br /> mining in the California Gulch watershed, resulting in nationally recognized Gold Medal waters in the Upper <br /> Arkansas River. Disturbing stabilized waste piles risks reversing this progress by increasing erosion, releasing <br /> toxic materials into air and water,and threatening wildlife habitat and human health through fugitive dust and <br /> potential chemical exposure. <br /> Given the scale of risk,the sensitivity of the environment,and the lack of clear,enforceable plans for long-term <br /> waste management and water protection, I urge DRMS to deny this permit application. <br /> Permitting Action Comment/Objection is Regarding <br /> New Permit Change to Existing Permit <br /> Permit Number* (?) <br /> Enter a valid permit number <br /> M1990057 <br /> County* <br /> Colorado County where the proposed operation is located <br /> Lake <br /> Enter one county only <br /> Site Name <br /> Perm ittee/Operator Name <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 />