Public Hearing on South Coast Mining

Mining opponents packed a hearing last year in Gold Beach. Photo by Kyle Ashby.

Oregon Shores is fully in support of the south coast conservationists who have been advocating very effectively for a “mineral withdrawal” that would block nickel mining in the headwaters areas of important south coast watersheds.  Hunter Creek and the Pistol, North Fork Smith and Illinois rivers would all be affected.

In response to the strong outpouring of opposition to mining, the U.S. Department of the Interior will consider a 20-year withdrawal.  The U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management had earlier proposed a 5 year withdrawal.  At a series of well-attending public meetings last fall, and in written comments in response to the federal agencies’ Environmental Assessments, conservationists asked for 20 years.  More than 45,000 comments were received—with 99% in support of a longer withdrawal period before any mining may be allowed in those areas.

The public has been heard, at least to the extent that the agencies are considering the longer withdrawal period.  But for proper public process, they will need to hold another public hearing on the new proposal.  This hearing will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 15, 6:30-8 p.m., in the Brookings-Harbor High School auditorium (625 Pioneer Rd.). Testimony will be limited to two-minute segments.

The ultimate goal is a permanent withdrawal of these headwaters areas from prospective mining.  But the longer 20-year duration of the temporary withdrawal is important given the likely delay by Congress in its current gridlock.  Republicans have refused a hearing to the Southwestern Oregon Watershed and Salmon Protection Act, which would protect these watersheds.  It may well take more than five years to move legislation, and miners could move in if the temporary withdrawal elapses.

For more information, or to participate in carpooling, contact Ann Vileisis of Kalmiopsis Audubon in Port Orford, 541-332-0261, anvil@earthlink.net; or Dave Lacey in the Gold Beach area, 541-373-0487, davejlacey2010@gmail.com.