To: Governor Bill Walker

CC: State of Alaska Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Andy Mack

Re: 2017 Groundhog (APMA) Permit Application No. 3099

Dear Governor Walker:

Alaska Native Tribes, commercial and recreational fishing interests, business owners, and Native corporations, have come together time and again to voice their support for protecting the Bristol Bay fishery and its critical habitat. It is clear we are united in our efforts to protect the Bristol Bay watershed from large-scale mining that threatens our communities, our livelihoods, and a way of life that has sustained the region’s indigenous peoples for thousands of years.

As you well know, Bristol Bay does not support transforming our pristine region into a mining district. As we have seen in the past, such mining exploratory efforts have left Alaskans frustrated with the permitting systems and potential liability of the toxic mess these companies leave in their wake. I respectfully request that you deny the permit application submitted by Quaterra Resources Inc. and Chuchuna Minerals for mining related activity at “Groundhog” near the town of Nondalton.

There is nothing more important to Alaskans than clean water and our thriving fisheries. Please listen to the people of Alaska and stand up for our fishing communities and cultures by denying this exploratory permit.

Sincerely,