Environmental Impacts

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Jefferson County has designated portions of the mine site as a "susceptible aquifer recharge area." Gravel mining has been known to damage aquifers by altering topography. Large scale excavation in this area will have an adverse impact on water runoff through this slide-prone area.

Further, this watershed has great importance to wildlife (including endangered salmon) and the residents who depend on it. The beach at the site is designated a "Shoreline of Statewide Significance" and "Conservancy" in the Jefferson County Shoreline Master Program. The area is home to vast amounts of wildlife, such as eagles, osprey, herons, and hawks. The canal is also known regionally for the abundant shellfish here, and is home to many commercial shellfish farms.

The transport ships will remain tied to the pier with their engines running while loading, which can take 12 hours or more depending on vessel size. The resulting air pollution from diesel fumes, noise pollution from machinery and loading operations, potential water pollution from oil and fuel spills, and the danger of introducing invasive species from ballast/bilge water or vessel bottoms, are just a few examples of environmental risks that will upset the balance of this fragile eco-system.