500 signatures reached
To: Oklahoma Department of Mines
Stop the Sand Mine
To the Oklahoma Department of Mines:
We, the undersigned, respectfully request that the Oklahoma Department of Mines refrain from taking any further action regarding the issuance of an operating permit for the Unisands LLC surface mine (non-coal Permit LE-2841) until the necessary studies have been completed. These studies are crucial to assess the potential impact of the proposed mine, which is located within the watershed for the City of Madill's drinking water supply and the reservoirs that provide water for Marshall County.
Specifically, we request the following studies be performed:
- An environmental impact study to understand the effects of a 582-acre surface mine on the surrounding environment.
- The impact on residents, communities, and the county if the mine lowers the flow of water from springs that feed the main reservoirs supplying water to the Marshall County Water Corporation and the cities of Madill and Kingston.
- The long-term effect of dewatering the mine over its estimated lifespan (>100 years) on surrounding surface waters and water wells used for domestic purposes and irrigation.
- Establishing limits on the depth of the mining operation to protect the main aquifers from contamination and intrusion.
- The impact of fugitive dust and silica sand dust (less than 10 microns) generated by blasting, loading, conveying, processing, and transportation, on the health of residents and nearby communities.
- The effects of fugitive dust from mining activities on local crops.
- An endangered species study to identify any listed endangered species within the proposed mining area.
- An assessment of the impact of increased truck traffic on Hwy 70 and Simpson Road.
- The effects of blasting on residents in proximity to the mining operation.
- An air monitoring study at existing mines to determine any potential public health dangers before permitting additional mines.
Given that a proposed 200-acre lake in the same watershed less than one mile north of the proposed mining site requires numerous studies before approval, it is imperative that the State of Oklahoma apply the same level of scrutiny to a 582-acre surface mine. Therefore, we urge the Oklahoma Department of Mines to ensure these critical studies are completed before proceeding with any permitting actions.
Why is this important?
In an effort to protect the water, air, and residents of Marshall County we are seeking further study of the potential impacts of the proposed sand mine. Please consider signing this petition; your support is appreciated.