Cyanide Flavored Trout
The Oncorhynchus mykiss, also known as the rainbow trout. One of the most sought after fish throughout the states. The rainbow trout is as delicious as it is challenging to hook. For Californians, the Owens River is synonymous with anglers throughout the state. Whether you’re a fly fisherman or bait caster, the Owens river in Mammoth, California is place of legend. The 5 hour road trip from Southern California is well worth the chance of hooking a rainbow trout. I’ve spent many Fridays driving through the night after work in order to fish the Owens River for the weekend.
Kore Mining, a Canadian drilling company that recently landed a permit allowing it to search for gold near the hot springs ranch on the Owens River. The mining company was allotted plans to drill multiple sites against the river. For those of us who lack drilling experience of a geology degree, cyanide is required when drilling for gold. This action can bring great harm to the ecosystem throughout the river. The multiple drill sites go down at depths of 250 feet. Not only does the cyanide bring a risk to the fish population, other species are at risk including; Tule elk, mule deer, sage grouse, and quail.
Photo by Jonathan Bergamo
The cyanide heap leach mine can be a devastation to the environment. Kore’s exact plan is to plans to install 14 drill pads 30 x 50 feet on Forest Service land adjacent to Hot Creek. Several dirt roads will be installed to access the pads as well. A significant amount of water will be needed for this operation, however, KORE’s point of access from our limited water supplies has yet to be determined. The drilling operation will also generate waste that KORE is required to haul off. When exploratory drilling commences, the operation will be 24 hours, there will be lights installed at night time hours, and the Long Valley will see a significant amount of traffic from large trucks. The mine is considered a Categorical Exclusion which was granted by District 5 rangers. CE’s are used to bypass environmental assessment or environmental impact statements, claiming operations will have no significant impact on the environment.
For fisherman and outdoor enthusiasts alike, take action to stop Kore mining. This mining operation can be the ruin of our cherished Owens River. Protect the places we love in order to have future generations experience the places we love.
