Alaska is filled with extraordinary wildlife, as well as valuable natural resources.
Wild Chronicles travels to Bristol Bay, site of a proposed gold-mining pit, and the center of raging debate. Geologists claim there are billions of dollars worth of gold to be had, but biologists fear a devastating spill of toxic mining chemicals could threaten the wild sockeye salmon population.
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What are the benefits of a gold mine in Bristol Bay?
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A gold mine would provide hundreds of jobs, improving the economy of the region.
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How large would Pebble Mine be?
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Pebble Mine would be an open pit about two miles long and 528 meters (1,700 feet) deep.
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A leak or spill from Pebble Mine would endanger the local sockeye salmon population. What is another danger of such a spill?
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A spill could contaminate freshwater resources. As Jack, a native of Bristol Bay, says, "Pure water is more precious than gold."
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scientist who studies living organisms.
to argue or disagree in a formal setting.
person who studies the physical formations of the Earth.
valuable chemical element with the symbol Au.
a material that humans take from the natural environment to survive, to satisfy their needs, or to trade with others.
total number of people or organisms in a particular area.
poisonous.
worth a considerable amount of money or esteem.
organisms living in a natural environment.
