Editor:
Concerns about mining of Alberta's eastern slopes and Foothills.
The biggest question is selenium and arsenic contamination. What is the government prepared to do about this problem?
To date, there is not an effective method of removal that has been developed. In Alberta, there are reported cases of unsuccessful removal of toxic levels of both selenium and arsenic in our watersheds due to mining.
Across the border in B.C., we see the same issues on a bigger scale. Do we want this for our watersheds?
Is the UCP government aware of our already very limited water supply, and how their proposed allotment to mining companies will adversely affect the users downstream including municipalities, irrigation systems, ranchers, farmers, other industry, etc.?
Coal dust is another real threat to the health of flora, fauna, and human populations in the affected areas. Respiratory problems are one the worst issues.
Health experts have linked exposure to coal dust to respiratory illnesses such as pulmonary inflammation, asthma, heart attacks and cancer risks.
Does our government also know that coal, when in direct contact with oxygen can lead to spontaneous combustion? Are there measures in place to eliminate these potential dangers?
What about the potential loss of tourism revenue that will result? Who will be coming to Alberta to see landscapes scarred by surface mining?
The most recent figures found showed tourism revenues for the province in 2018 of $8.2 billion, brought here by about 25 million visitors. This is a much greater amount than expected revenues from mines.
The loss of recreation areas for Albertans who rely on these areas will be huge. Where will these Albertans recreate instead?
In light of all these big questions, how can we justify allowing surface coal mining anywhere in Alberta, especially on the eastern slopes and foothills?
Sherry Quintilio,
Sundre, Alta.
