EPA takes another step toward banning Pebble Mine over potential damage to salmon streams

The Seattle office of the Environmental Protection Agency says the proposed Pebble Mine would create “unacceptable adverse effects” on salmon fishery streams that feed Bristol Bay.

The decision next goes to the EPA Office of Water under a four-step review process.

Here is the EPA document released Thursday.

The Anchorage Daily News has detailed coverage. Alaska Public Media quotes Pebble Chief Executive John Shively as claiming this is federal overreach.

The proposal now goes to Radhika Fox, assistant EPA administrator for water, who could approve it and veto the project, make changes or reject it within two months.

Here is a statement from the Natural Resources Defense Council.