A proposed gold mining project which would take place on over 70% of public land in Idaho threatens so much - salmon and other iconic fish species, as well as the disturbance of the public land itself. At the end of November, the U.S. Forest Service released a draft environmental impact statement on the proposed Stibnite Gold Project. The project could have a devastating outcome for salmon and other fish in Idaho. In summary, the massive statement outlined the following items which are extremely bad for fish:

⛔️ Increased heavy metal contamination in the Salmon River

⛔️ Higher stream temperatures

⛔️ Loss of general ecosystem function and habitat

The USDA is only allowing public comments until January 10, 2023.....a time when many are off, on vacation, around the holidays. As a start, help advocate for a full 120-day comment period so that concerned citizens have time to learn and share their comments. Here's how you can help:

✍️ Use the following as a guide letter to the USDA (thanks to the wonderful folks at 'Save the South Fork') and send it to the email address provided in it: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5dc1974b21fc847fd1995377/t/62bc7c29f9dea10f0bd7b5f5/1656519721531/120-day+comment+period+letter+outline.pdf

It's a first step in helping to protect our public lands in Idaho, as well as iconic fish species.

📸: Idaho Rivers United
Source: Salmon Source to Sea; Idaho Rivers United; Save the South Fork