2011-03-03_REVISION - M1981185 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mr. Wally Erickson Division of Reclamation Mining & Safety 691 CR 233, Suite A-2 Durango, Colorado 81301 RE: M-1981-185, Wildcat Mining Company Mr. Erickson, 'Our 01 0 Mlrj,? aRleka 0 fatf e?et? c/7 As a resident of CR 124 for 27 years, I would like to comment on the Wildcat Mining Company's permit in La Plata Canyon. I understand historically that mining was initially how La Plata Canyon was developed and that private in-holdings still occur in our National Forest for this reason but, I do not feel that Wildcat Mining Company's permit should be approved for any activity, mining or otherwise. The conduct of this company to date is reason enough that this permit should be denied. They have continued to mine and build unsafe roads even though they had an order to cease and desist all operations. Their disregard for regulations has been well documented and there is not enough State and Federal funding available to closely monitor their behavior. The location above the La Plata River, a direct and indirect water source for those who live downstream is reason enough to deny this permit. I have no reason to believe that they, will contain their waste and show concern for the people downstream or the flora and fauna that lives in this fragile ecosystem based on their actions to date. Poisonous chemicals have been used in the past to process minerals and I have no confidence that they will not be used again to squeak out the small amount of precious metals that may be left there. La Plata Canyon is a recreational area used by many. They come to visit the natural beauty and enjoy the history of the canyon. Those visitors also help support our County by visiting local businesses. A mine Wor mill run by persons who continually disregard the regulations in place to assure safety is incongruous with our National Forest and sh Id not be allowed. Sincerely, - Deborah R. Ba ton 679 CR 124, Hesperus, CO 81326 (970) 385-4501