Sam Snyder of the Wild Salmon Center talks with host Mike Leonard about the economic, cultural, and environmental importance of Alaska's Bristol Bay fishery. It is the last great sockeye salmon fishery of its kind, in addition to being home to rainbow trout, bears, and more of Alaska's incredible wildlife. 

Pebble Mine is a proposed copper and gold mine that would be built at the headwaters of Bristol Bay. It is estimated that about 96% of the material mined would be considered waste. With so much waste, the threat of damaging acid mine drainage and further degradation of this habitat is predicted. Conserving the habitat is critical because it is spawning ground for salmon. Likewise, damage to the watershed could damage the economy, as Bristol Bay is a major worldwide fishing destination. 

The EPA is expected to set restrictions on Bristol Bay that would make it impossible for Pebble Mine or any other large-scale mining operation to operate. This is exciting news that would protect Bristol Bay once and for all. 

Take action to conserve Bristol Bay's iconic fishery by visiting the Wild Salmon Center and Keep America Fishing. By adding your name to these support letters, you will encourage the EPA to act urgently.