Azmar mine on Pagan a good thing

I would like to respond to the recent letters concerning the proposed Azmar mining operation on Pagan. I am a former hardrock gold miner who has worked in both above ground, open pit and underground gold mines in the beautiful state of Nevada. I have also experienced life in a wonderful community, Wenatchee, WA., where a gold mine operated just outside of town. I was able to experience the positive political, social and economic influence the mining industry has in a community.

With that said, from my perspective as someone who has worked in the mining industry and as an environmentally concerned community member, I am very excited about the opportunities Azmar Corp. is presenting to the CNMI. We are being offered a chance for jobs, economic support and a relevant industry when we really need it. This is a long-term opportunity for the current and future work force.

In response to some concerns aired in the prior letters, allow me to offer my input:

1. Ken Moore doesn’t have to be an experienced mine operator to make Pagan work. The owners in Nevada were not experts either. They, like what I’m sure Mr. Moore will do, will develop a team of mining experts to run the operation at a profit. He will generate critically needed jobs for those of us in the CNMI who can support the company mission. The need, most likely, will be for mine management personnel, mining engineers, equipment operators, general labor support, office and clerical staff to name a few.

2. Mining is one of the most highly regulated industries in the country. It is regulated by MSHA, the mining equivalent of OSHA for general industry. MSHA highly involves itself in all aspects of the mining operation from employee training to ensuring a company follows the myriad of safety and environmental rules regulating mining.

3. The environmental regulation for mining is very stringent and exacting. A mining company spends millions of dollars ensuring environmental impact is minimal if at all and often provides protection bonds up-front.

4. As for the immediate impact to the CNMI, local jobs and community support will be a godsend for us all in this difficult time. Not just the monies to the government but jobs and support to community events are usually substantial.

5. I understand permits have been issued for mining operations in the past. So why are we challenging Mr. Moore now when for all indications he can run a quality and profitable mining operation that will be a huge, direct benefit for the CNMI?

In closing, if Azmar, and Ken Moore, is willing to provide this wonderful opportunity to the CNMI, I feel we should accept this chance with open arms and embrace this future and not reject it. I know when the mining permit is issued and the job openings are posted, I will the first in line hoping for an interview.

Rob Erickson
CNMI resident