SMOKY RECORD OF DECISION

The Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management released their Record of Decision on the proposed expansion of the Smoky Canyon Mine operated by the J.R. Simplot, Co. Both agencies defied their own scientists and overwhelming public concern to accede to all demands made by the phosphate industry. The only real surprise in the decision came as BLM administrators eliminated the standard public appeal process.

The decision by both federal agencies to approve mine expansion will increase selenium pollution in area streams and groundwater and be in violation of federal laws. If the government agencies are willing to favor the interests of private industry over those of the public, then ordinary people must take action.

The Forest Service decision will be appealed by our partnership and our partnership will also support legal actions being prepared against the decisions. We are not opposed to responsible mining practices. We do oppose irresponsible, illegal decisions leading to new contamination and lack of clean up for past mistakes. Simplot and the agencies must take action now to clean up the selenium pollution at Smoky Canyon.

PARTNERSHIP PICNIC

The partnership will host a fun summertime picnic for our members on August 12th at Ross Park in Pocatello. Beverages and a main dish will be provided. We are asking members to bring a side or a dessert to share. Please come out and show your support for the campaign and meet other members. Please RSVP Angela Carpenter at 208-220-1916 or acarpenter@carbioucleanwater.org

The Caribou Clean Water Partnership has completed a couple of very successful summer projects this year.



We spent a day with partners and students from St. Xavier University working on the Deer Creek Trail in the Sage Creek Roadless Area. This pristine area could soon be destroyed by the new mine expansion approved by the feds.

Several of our members also helped out with a fence project at the Blackfoot River Wildlife Management Area. We offer our deepest thanks to all who took time to participate in these events.

Download a printable version here (, 250 K)

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