Pebble Mine Setback: Local Initiative Passes to Block Permits for Mine
In a close vote (280 to 246) Lake and Peninsula borough voters have approved an initiative to forbid the issuance of permits for the proposed Pebble Mine in Alaska. The proposed Pebble Mine would be the world’s biggest gold and copper mine, located in the watershed feeding into Lake Iliamna and the waters of Bristol Bay, Alaska, home of one of the world’s largest sustainable salmon fisheries and other important fisheries. The proposed mine has created one of Alaska’s most polarized natural resource battles, pitting potential jobs against protection of one of the state’s most important fisheries and the environment. Proponents of the mine are expected to challenge the initiative in court. For the present, the vote is considered an important victory by fisheries and conservation interests. The Bristol Bay salmon fishery is a natural wonder that provides employment for thousands of people, both within and outside the State of Alaska, and needs to be protected and preserved.
