From: Jamie Bastedo [cygnus@theedge.ca]
Sent: December 15, 2008 10:11 AM
To: lpayette@nirb.ca
Cc: CPAWS NWT; Lani Cooke
Subject: Uravan Garry Lake Project, NIRB File 08EN037

Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Red
Dear all NIRB Board Members:


According to the GNWT, results of 2007 and 2008 surveys of Beverly caribou show that the numbers of adult cows seen during June surveys on the calving ground were significantly lower than in past years, and the number of calves seen during the 2008 survey was very low (15 calves for every 100 cows). No matter what numbers you look at, they all point to the same conclusion: the Beverly caribou herd is declining. And yet the Government of Canada continues to issue mineral tenures that allow for increased mineral exploration on the Beverly herd calving grounds.

The extent of the decrease in the Beverly herd is unknown but likely results from a combination of natural factors and impacts from human activities. What is clear is that we should not allow activities that will cause additional stress to the Beverly herd while the population is in such a vulnerable state. I therefore urge the Nunavut Impact Review Board (NIRB) to reject the application from Uravan Minerals to expand exploration activities for uranium in the core Beverly caribou calving ground northwest of the community of Baker Lake.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this application. Please inform me of your decision on this matter once it is taken.

jamie bastedo



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