HB 134

Salutations! I'm in Iliamna preparing for the HB 134 hearing tomorrow. I came down early to help site staff get things ready, and to be available for whatever information I can share about the bill.

In case you haven't heard of it, HB 134 is a bill created primarily to stop the Pebble prospect from becoming a mine. However, the proposed "salmon reserve" encompasses most of Bristol Bay, including all of Iliamna Lake. Once in place, the act would ensure that there would not be any further development within the "reserve", regardless of it's nature. No new bridges, docks, business structures, or even trails through the lands and woods surrounding your village.

Nice, huh?

The sponsors of the bill are attempting to stop the mine using a tactic akin to killing a mosquito with a shotgun. The consideration for those tribes and communities within the propose area is non-existent. We'll be forever burdened with life in a game reserve, but the sponsor will have kept his campaign promise!

Ridiculous.

Sooo...we sally forth, hopeful that folks understand what is occurring, and silently imploring them to speak their hearts.

Wheee...the fun never ends!

Q'uo