1. United States
2. Minn.
3. Letter

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a national treasure that must be protected from the severe risks posed by sulfide-ore copper mining. This type of mining has a track record of causing permanent water pollution and ecological devastation. The proposed Twin Metals mine would be located in a watershed that flows directly into the Boundary Waters, putting this cherished wilderness at grave risk. Recent studies by the U.S. Forest Service and EPA have concluded that mining this close to the Boundary Waters poses an unacceptable threat of "irreparable harm" to this fragile ecosystem. The proposed 20-year mining moratorium in the surrounding federal lands is a sensible and science-based policy to safeguard the Boundary Waters from toxic pollution. This region is simply too ecologically valuable and sensitive to be sacrificed for risky mining interests. I urge you to reject any attempts to undermine the mining moratorium or prematurely reinstate mining leases in this vulnerable watershed. The Boundary Waters is a priceless public resource that belongs to all Americans. We have an obligation to protect it from potential destruction for the benefit of private mining profits. Please defend this irreplaceable wilderness from threats that could ruin it forever.