Mine or Not?
If mining operations are to occur in this area, how should they be done? How do we minimize the cost and maximize the benefits for all the stakeholders? As I have participated in various meetings, tours, and workgroups around Michigan and Wisconsin that have addressed this issue, I have come to several conclusions.
  • Society is not willing to go back to the Stone Age.
  • World demand for minerals is increasing.
  • Recycling is not enough and mining is not going away.
  • Some companies in the mining industry have had a miserable track record in the areas of environmental protection and community relations.
  • Other companies are trying to minimize any negative affects mining may have.
  • Local residents with a great love for their rich natural resources have the greatest desire to protect them.
  • When coupled with accurate information, knowledge, and a spirit of cooperation they have a great power to make changes for the good.
  • Government regulation is not the complete answer.
  • Global economics is a powerful driving force. This force can be harnessed to improve the quality of life for all people.
  • Diverse groups, consistently working together in an atmosphere of common courtesy and mutual respect can produce positive results.
  • Media only conveys information.
  • True communication best occurs face to face.
    • With this in mind, I support Dr. Gertsch's team proposal to form a community outreach program within the Sustainable Futures Institute at Michigan Technological University. This program would provide needed science based information from multiple academic disciplines including Biology, Mining Engineering, Sociology, and Economics.
    This information would be distributed via the Internet, brochures and videos to home computers, schools, and local libraries. It would also provide important funding for local town meetings, workgroups and committees, where community members can meet face to face with government officials and mining industry representatives. As concerns are resolved and permanent solutions are discovered, this information can then be used by other communities that face similar situations.
    Programs like this need funding to be successful. Grant monies are available, but travel expenses must be raised to get them.
    We don't know if there will be a mine in our area or not, but if there is we need as much professional help as we can get to make it a good one. Windows of opportunity like this can close. It's time to take action.
    Your support is needed now. Many small donations add up. Please send your tax-deductible contribution for this "travel expense fund"
    to:
    Michigan Tech. Fund
    Account # 1853
    1400 Townsend Drive
    Houghton, MI 49931
    For a tax deductible receipt, include your name, address Phone #, and account # 1853
    Credit cards can be taken by phone by calling Michigan Tech Fund at 906-487-2310
    From 8:00 am - 4:30pm East
    Dale Andersen
    www.mine-or-ours.info