BlankFrom: Bill Erickson [wcerickson@comcast.net]
Sent: December 4, 2008 7:59 PM
To: lpayette@nirb.ca
Cc: DShewchuk@gov.nu.ca; Prentice.J@parl.gc.ca; Strahl.C@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Uravan Garry Lake Project, NIRB File 08EN037

To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing to urge you to deny the request for the Uravan Mineral's Garry Lake Project.

I have participated in three Barren Lands canoe trips since 2001 and will be participating in my fourth trip in July 2009.  One of the reasons I go on these trips is the chance to see large herds of caribou.  While I have had the opportunity to see scattered caribou, I have yet to encounter the large herds that I have seen in pictures.

It is my understanding that the Beverly Caribou Herd has experienced a devastating decline in numbers and that the reason or reasons for this decline is unknown.  I also understand that whatever the reason for the decline, it is imperative that the calving grounds be protected for the herd to have a chance to recover.  Therefore, I encourage you do everything possible to protect the calving grounds including preventing industrial activities in the area.

Canada has many rich heritages that I as an American, have grown to love and I look forward to continued travel in your country to experience them.  I hope that you will be able to protect them not only for your citizens, and also for us non-Canadians who are fortunate to have the privilege to canoe and travel in your great land.

Respectfully,

William Erickson
Round Lake, Illinois  USA


The paddle whispers, the canoe glides
So much water, so little time.