By Mark Moran

Advocates in Alaska’s Interior warned a proposed gold mine on the Johnson Tract in Lake Clark National Park threatens critical habitat ecosystems and a large chunk of the state’s economy.

Contango Silver and Gold Mining Inc. said it will be sensitive to the environment while creating jobs. Contango is working with Alaska Native-owned Cook Inlet Region Inc. to establish the mine at the headwaters of the Johnson River, a prime spot for commercial and sportfishing, bear watching, salmon runs and ecotourism.

David Jenkins, president of Conservatives for Responsible Stewardship, contended the environmental risk is not worth the economic reward, especially when the bulk of the profit from the mine flows to out-of-state investors, including asset management companies like BlackRock and Vanguard.

“Why would you risk a 100% Alaskan economic engine that’s sustainable and just keeps providing benefits year after year for something that’s temporary, and most of the economic benefit is likely to go elsewhere outside of the state of Alaska?” Jenkins asked.

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