Brown Trout photo by Pat Clayton (fisheyeguyphotography.com) for American Rivers’ Smith River campaign.
Call to Petition: Smith River
By Lauren Stallings Clement / Conservation Editor / August 30, 2016
[dropcap]A[/dropcap]merican Rivers has called for a petition against a proposed copper mine along the Smith River, Montana. Drawing on Montana’s past tragedies and continuous clean-ups from mining, like the infamous Big Blackfoot River, American Rivers notes that their experts believe the mine could result in another huge clean-up.
Mines have left a devastating legacy on Montana’s rivers and fish habitats. The Environmental Protection Agency’s Superfund is still working to clean the toxic waste and mercury contamination on the Clark Fork. Work has been going on for over a decade to restore the area.
It could also permanently damage a vital trout habitat that brings in nearly $10 million annually into the local community via recreational fishing (American Rivers). The mine and its potential economy-boosting attributes are simply not worth the risk.
Find the petition here: Say No to Copper Mining in the Headwaters of Montana’s Smith River
Montanans: “This mine is not worth the risk”
Montanans urge Governor Steve Bullock to support “No Risk” on Montana’s Smith River.
Protecting the Smith River from copper mining is challenging because Montana’s mining laws are very permissive. Further, industry lobbyists continue pursuing efforts aimed at limiting public sentiment in decision making.
If the mine is built, it has significant potential to degrade the Smith’s water quality. It could also destroy a treasured wild trout fishery through acid mine drainage, contamination with toxic heavy metals, nutrient pollution, and drying up critical fish habitat.
The Smith is one of the most cherished rivers in Montana – generating millions of dollars annually for fishing outfitters and surrounding communities
