From: Christopher Sledzik [christopher.sledzik@yahoo.com]
Sent: December 5, 2008 2:55 PM
To: lpayette@nirb.ca
Cc: Strahl.C@parl.gc.ca; Prentice.J@parl.gc.ca; DShewchuk@gov.nu.ca
Subject: Uravan Garry Lake Project, NIRB File 08EN037

It has come to my attention that an important legislation is being considered that could seriously effect the precious lands of the Canadian Arctic. As a traveler of these magnificent grounds and admirer of traditional Canadian policies to protect its natural resources, I strongly urge you to deny Uravan Mineral's application for mineral development (of uranium) on the calving grounds of the Beverly Caribou Herd.

During the summer of 2007 I traveled by canoe down the Thelon River and into Gary Lake via the Morse River, which enters from the south. The views and experience I gained in this pristine area gave me a lifetime of inspiration and wonderment I would have not otherwise enjoyed. Coming from a comparatively urban setting in the United States, I have seen catastrophes that have ensued after the development of mining and other mineral abstratctions ravage once peaceful lands. The natural habitat and species that inhabit the barren lands will face certain abomination if they are met by industrial imposition. Most of all, the Caribou herds, a Canadian icon, would face yet another obstacle in their quest for survival.

Please consider my humble request and think of the long-standing impacts that mineral development would have on the Beverly Caibou Herd and the barren lands as a whole; deny Uravan Mineral's application, and know that you have perserved a great treasure to be enjoyed for generations to come.



Sincerely,


Christopher S. Sledzik
Kent State Graduate Student
Miami University Alum 2007
Cell: 330-687-8807
www.transarcticexpedition.com