Protecting our Earth, water, and air isn't a zero-sum game, as some candidates might have us believe. It's easy to adopt a non-negotiable stance in our passion.
Of course we all want to make sure our watershed stays protected. We also need the materials mined to sustain our global economy. The science exists to extract these minerals and ore in a safe and responsible manner. New science continues to develop to further protect our environment and allow for ore extraction.
We have only to look at our scientific history to see this is true. Practices that years ago were the standard are considered archaic today; that's as true for ming as other industries.
It's possible to be pro-mining and pro-environment. It's unfortunate this issue has become so divisive in Duluth.
When I look for a candidate to support in the City Council elections, I find myself looking at incumbent At Large Councilor Barb Russ. Her comments that the city has no authority with respect to mining near the Boundary Waters and that our state's stringent environmental-review process should proceed were both accurate and responsible.
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Russ' realistic approach to the PolyMet issue is one I can support.
Barb Hauck
Duluth
