To the Journal editor:

The Copperwood Mine Project is guaranteed destruction to not only the western Upper Peninsula, but Lake Superior as well (impacting Wisconsin, Minnesota, the rest of the Upper Peninsula, Canada and everything downstream). EGLE, Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, should not be granting permits to a project that would lead to the clear-cutting of Upper Peninsula forests, the destruction of wetlands and the rerouting of streams.

The Great Lakes Basin, especially around Lake Superior, is one of the most beautiful areas in the world. How can we permit a foreign entity — as the project is proposed by Highland Copper, a Canadian company – to take water from our lake and disturb one of our state parks, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park?

Pulling water from Lake Superior for intake is downright irresponsible in our current water climate. Fresh water is finite and arguably the most valuable resource in the world, which is why companies want to steal it from Michigan. And the mine won’t just pollute water, it will also pollute the air and contaminate the soil.

The Upper Peninsula is known for its pristine wilderness. Nature tourism runs year round. Without action, the Copperwood Mine could negatively impact forests, wetlands and waterways. So far, actions of the people have blocked taxpayer dollars from funding the mine. Everyone should do their own research into the project. Petitions are available and donations can be made to Protect the Porkies and Citizens for a Safe and Clean Lake Superior.

Not taking action allows your tax dollars to be spent without your input on projects that impact your home.

Sincerely,