Science group releases video, overview of Dillingham discussion
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) has published an article highlighting the Pebble Mine issue, which was raised at the science organization’s first-ever Arctic Science Symposium in Dillingham last month. “Proposed Pebble Mine Has Alaskan Community Focused on Critical Science and Policy Issues,” by Edward W. Lempinen, addresses the cultural and economic significance of the Bristol Bay fisheries and the role science has to play in the debate over Pebble Mine development.
In describing the symposium’s half-day public forum on Pebble Mine, Lempinen noted the focused tone of the discussion and audience questions.
“As they consider the benefits and risks that the mine may bring to the area, many people want to know whether mining waste could escape the Pebble site to damage waterways or hurt fish, and whether mine engineering can build dams and containments strong enough to endure for hundreds of years in an active earthquake zone.”
A shorter version of this article also appears in the October 28, 2011 issue of Science magazine.
Media related to this article
Video: AAAS has posted a 51-minute video of the public forum, which included the following panelists:
- Tom Crafford, Director, DNR Office of Project Management & Permitting
- Bryce Edgmon, AK Representative (D-37)
- Rick Halford, Dillingham resident and former Alaska State Senate President
- John Shively, CEO of the Pebble Partnership
- Tiel Smith, Land and Resource Manager, Bristol Bay Native Corporation
Photos: Slideshow with photos from the Symposium.
More about AAAS
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) is an international non-profit organization dedicated to advancing science around the world by serving as an educator, leader, spokesperson and professional association. It publishes the monthly journal Science, among other publications. For more information, visit www.aaas.org.