RDC Comment Letter:
Eastern DPS Steller Sea Lion

October 19, 2010

Mr. Chuck White
State of Alaska Department of Natural Resources
Division of Mining, Land and Water
550 W 7th Ave Suite 920
Anchorage, AK 99501

Dear Mr. White:

The Resource Development Council for Alaska, Inc. (RDC) writes to express its support for the Jonesville Coal Mining Permit Renewal for an additional five-year term.

RDC is a statewide business association comprised of individuals and companies from Alaska’s oil and gas, mining, forest products, tourism and fisheries industries. RDC’s membership includes Alaska Native Corporations, local communities, organized labor, and industry support firms. RDC’s purpose is to encourage a strong, diversified private sector in Alaska and expand the state’s economic base through the responsible development of our natural resources.

The application for the renewal of the Jonesville Coal Mining Permit, submitted by Ranger Alaska, LLC, does not include any changes or modifications to the previously approved permit. The originally approved permit met all requirements of the Alaska Surface Coal Mining Control and Reclamation Act (ASCMCRA). ASCMCRA is a highly comprehensive permitting program, and combined with other current state and federal regulations, sufficiently protects the environment, water resources, and wildlife in the Jonesville area.

The Jonesville district is a historic coal mining area that should be further explored to determine its potential. RDC believes that new mining operations in the area, should they come to fruition, can be of great economic benefit to the local community and Alaska.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this important issue.

Sincerely,
Resource Development Council for Alaska, Inc.

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