Granite Falls -- Rock Quarry Will Pose Environmental Threat

It may be an ecological disaster if the proposed rock quarry goes in above Granite Falls, off the Mountain Loop Highway. Associated Sand and Gravel is proposing a 1,300-acre rock quarry that is more than two square miles. The mine would be the largest open-pit mine in Western Washington. The adverse effects on the quality of life include air pollution from the high concentration of arsenic in the area, loss of forest lands and wetlands, and ground-water pollution.

The quarry has applied for permits to use 600 gallons per minute from the aquifer north of the Mountain Loop Highway, just above the Granite Falls fish ladder. The use of water to run a quarry of this size will greatly threaten the quantity and quality of the water in the area.

Arsenic exists in this area. Near Granite Falls some arsenic-contaminated wells have been discovered. Will arsenic get into the ground water and the streams? What other toxic materials could be in this proposed quarry site? If the quarry is allowed to proceed, the risk may be to human life. Who is monitoring the tests that the quarry has done?

The danger to the area's ecosystem could be staggering. Associated Sand and Gravel should not be allowed to endanger this area.

This menacing giant would put at risk the beautiful recreation lands we all love and cherish. We cannot sacrifice our land, water and air to this 16-hour-a-day operation that will threaten the pristine area of the Stillaguamish River.

Associated Sand and Gravel is ready to release its draft environmental-impact statement in early fall.

Be aware, citizens, we will have only 30 days to respond to all these large and threatening environmental issues.

Katherine Berndt Redmond