Donlin Gold: A Path Forward for Rural Alaska, Not a Reckless Gamble
The Donlin Gold project, located in Alaska’s Yukon-Kuskokwim (Y-K) region, represents a transformative opportunity for rural Alaska, not the reckless gamble portrayed by some critics. This region, larger than Pennsylvania, grapples with exorbitant energy costs and underdeveloped infrastructure, hindering economic growth and prosperity. Donlin Gold, with its vast 34-million-ounce gold reserve, offers a potential solution, promising jobs, infrastructure development, and a much-needed economic boost to this underserved area. Dismissing this project based on misinformation and unfounded fears would be a disservice to the people of the Y-K region who deserve the chance for a better future.
The development of the Donlin Gold project has been a meticulous and transparent process spanning over three decades. Far from being rushed, the project underwent a rigorous six-year environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), culminating in the issuance of crucial permits, including the Clean Water Act Section 404 permit and a federal right-of-way. These permits were not granted lightly; federal agencies applied stringent standards and thorough analysis before concluding that the project met the necessary environmental safeguards. Following the permit approvals, over $220 million was invested in the project and surrounding communities, demonstrating a commitment to responsible development and local partnerships.
Despite meeting these stringent regulatory requirements, Donlin Gold has faced legal challenges from national environmental groups. While the U.S. District Court for Alaska dismissed most of these claims, one narrow issue remains regarding a hypothetical worst-case tailings release scenario and its analysis under NEPA. This legal process underscores the importance of due process but has unfortunately led to unnecessary delays, hindering the project’s progress and potential benefits.
Calista Corp., a regional Alaska Native corporation, has played a vital role in the Donlin Gold project, consistently demonstrating strong leadership and engagement with its shareholders and the broader community. Accusations that Calista has ignored its shareholders are baseless. Over the past few decades, more than 200 community meetings have been held to discuss the project, alongside numerous community visits and open houses in recent years. This level of engagement reflects Calista’s commitment to transparency and ensuring that the voices of its shareholders are heard. Calista has been instrumental in securing shareholder benefits, including high hire rates during past field seasons, demonstrating a tangible commitment to local ownership and participation.
The Donlin Gold project aligns with national priorities focused on strengthening domestic supply chains for critical minerals like gold, essential for national security. Both the Biden and Trump administrations have recognized the importance of responsible mineral development in Alaska, with the Department of Defense and the Department of Energy expressing support for such projects. This convergence of federal support, regional leadership, and a pressing economic need presents a unique opportunity for responsible mining in Alaska.
However, this opportunity is threatened by outside environmental groups whose obstructionist tactics impede progress. These organizations, often well-funded, raise money by opposing virtually every resource development project, regardless of scientific evidence or regulatory compliance. They are not accountable to the families in rural Alaska struggling with high energy costs or the Calista shareholders seeking better lives. The proposed 316-mile natural gas pipeline associated with the Donlin Gold project could significantly reduce energy costs across the Y-K region, providing much-needed economic relief and serving as a testament to the tangible benefits of responsible resource development.
Calista Corp. has demonstrated unwavering accountability and leadership throughout the Donlin Gold project’s development. The project represents not only a gold mine but a path towards a stronger, more prosperous future for rural Alaska. Supporting responsible resource development, rather than succumbing to obstructionist tactics, is crucial for realizing Alaska’s full economic potential and improving the lives of its residents, especially in remote regions like the Y-K Delta. The Donlin Gold project represents a generational opportunity that should be embraced, not dismissed based on misinformation and fear-mongering.