(LETTER) Gravel mining is loud, dirty and potentially harmful to health

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Dear Casper,

Don’t let anyone fool you: gravel mining is a loud, dirty business and it doesn’t even mention mine reclamation.

I suspect the underlying aquifer is the Laramide and not the Big Horn Mountains, more than 100 miles to the northeast. The billowing rock particle dust from mining and washing will contain silica that will drift across central Wyoming and Casper with prevailing winds. Silicosis is a long-term cancerous disease that will manifest itself long after the mine has closed and disappeared.

The rubber hits the road under the plan that Prism Logistics will submit to the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, everything previously promised is just nonsense. Wait until the application is submitted and then request a public hearing for input on the protection of aquifers, air quality, road traffic and quality of life issues within 300 meters of the mine.

There are so many unanswered questions about the impacts of a mining, washing, sorting and rock crushing facility near Casper. Protecting the environment and human health is in the details. Why are they so hesitant to discuss the details and scents?

Jim Sherrard
Casper born and now living in Texas

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