Haines is being asked to consider the biggest question we have faced in a generation. Is a large-scale industrial mine operated by two foreign corporations in our upper watershed a good fit for our community? As a fisherman in Haines for most of my life, my main concern is for fish habitat. For others, it may be different jobs, sport fishing or a subsistence lifestyle. Making an informed decision is key and we need information and data free of bias, spin and self-interest.
This brings me to the make-up and perspective of the “mining forum steering committee.” Of the nine committee members, four have direct financial interests in seeing the mine move forward, and four others were picked because they’d be a reliable yes vote in favor of the mine. For two years the mine’s V.P. has chaired the committee. While this may suit the needs of Constantine, it does not bring bias-free information to Haines. Those of us with serious concerns have to look for information elsewhere. While this is time consuming, it is important as this decision will impact many generations to come. I would encourage everyone to come and hear Gregg Erickson, former state economist under the Hammond administration, speak at the Chilkat Center at 7 p.m. on Feb. 25th on the likely impacts of the Palmer Project on the Haines economy. Gregg was rejected as a potential speaker twice by the mining forum steering committee—a glowing recommendation in my book.
JR Churchill