SalmonState considering all options as EPA continues to suppress science

ANCHORAGE, AK—SalmonState and its co-plaintiffs are considering all available options after a procedural ruling of dismissal in the lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 

“This ruling does not in any way change the fact that a mine of the size, type and location of Pebble will have a negative impact on the renewable resources of Bristol Bay and will not meet the standards laid out in the Clean Water Act,” said SalmonState Executive Director Tim Bristol.

 “We filed this lawsuit in hopes of stiffening the spines of EPA political appointees, who are turning their backs on years of science, independent review and public comment conducted by their own staff,” he continued. “The science is clear: the proposed Pebble Mine would endanger Bristol Bay — the world’s greatest remaining sockeye salmon run — and the jobs and ways of life that depend on it.”

In 2014, the EPA proposed Bristol Bay Watershed Assessment (BBWA)-based protections for Bristol Bay, its residents, its salmon and its jobs. On July 30, 2019, however, EPA political appointees announced the withdrawal of the proposed protections. It is that withdrawal that SalmonState challenged.

“It’s unfortunate that EPA political appointees continue to look out for a foreign mining company over the needs and wishes of Alaskans,” Bristol continued. “In spite of their dereliction of duty, the Bristol Bay Watershed Assessment remains the leading science for this unparalleled place.  SalmonState will be considering all available options moving forward.”