News Roundup: May 26, 2017

Recent news related to the development of the proposed Pebble mine includes reports of a new advisory committee that Pebble Limited Partnership (PLP) has created, outlook for Northern Dynasty Minerals stock, and a proposed citizen’s initiative that seeks greater protections for salmon habitat.

Pebble seats new advisory committee of supporters, skeptics and experts – KDLG, May 26 (reprinted in Bristol Bay Times)

Pebble Limited Partnership (PLP) has created an advisory board that will be able to review a new smaller mine plan and other initiatives PLP has developed. The board currently consists of five people of varying backgrounds, including a long-time Pebble opponent and a former deputy assistant secretary to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Mining News: Pebble Advisory Panel – Petroleum News, May 26

PLP seeks to “expand engagement with external parties,” partially through an advisory group that it has formed comprising of “Respected, outspoken Native, conservation, military leaders.”

Why Northern Dynasty Minerals is a Ticking Time Bomb for Investors – Motley Fool, May 26, 2017

Motley Fool investment advisors argue that Northern Dynasty Minerals isn’t a good pick for investors based on two big factors: 1) Pebble is the company’s only mine, and 2) No one really knows whether it is economically viable.

Habitat protection would turn tables on miners – Alaska Dispatch News, May 25 (reprinted in Bristol Bay Times)

A new citizen’s initiative and a separate but similar House bill seek to add protections to salmon habitat.

Mining News: Pebble Door Opens – Petroleum News, May 21

Shane Lasley reports on the EPA/PLP legal settlement, addressing PLP’s efforts to reposition itself as a good neighbor, its design plans and timetable for seeking permits.

Even a smaller mine could face development hurdles – Alaska Dispatch News, May 19 (reprinted in Bristol Bay Times)

While PLP reportedly is looking to develop a smaller mine, reporter Alex DeMarban notes that the EPA already considered a smaller mine design when assessing risks to the Bristol Bay watershed.

EPA allows mine company to pursue permits near Alaska bay – Chicago Tribune, May 13

AP writer Becky Borer describes the settlement between EPA and PLP, including commentary from former EPA Regional Administrator Dennis McLerran and National Mining Assocation spokesman Luke Popovich.