We need to bring to your attention an attempt by a mining company to build a new mine in violation of the Oklahoma Moratorium on new mines over the Arbuckle-Simpson Aquifer.  The Oklahoma Department of Mines has signaled it plans to agree to allow Covia to build a new mine near Hickory, more than three miles from its existing one, connect them with a pipe, and then argue it's just an expansion of the old mine. It is a potential loophole that would allow the nearly unlimited development of new mines throughout the aquifer.

In fact, the Oklahoma Department of Mines initially denied Covia’s application, stating “ODM’s administration has determined six (6) miles distance between the existing mine and the new acreage is not a reasonable allocation of the allowances provided by HB 2471.” However, an appeal of that initial denial was granted, allowing Covia to move forward with its application. 

As you may recall, HB2471 (passed in 2019) placed a moratorium on the issuance of new mining permits until further study of the effects of pit water removal on the Aquifer could be assessed. As this new proposed site is three-plus miles from their existing operation, it should be considered a new mining application and thus subject to the permit moratorium.

The Oklahoma Department of Mines disregard for HB2471 threatens the Arbuckle-Simpson Aquifer.  These mines deplete water resources and put a great deal of stress on the aquifer's ability to support the springs and streams that are the literal lifeblood of our communities. The Arbuckle-Simpson provides drinking water to municipalities, rural water districts, and domestic wells throughout South Central Oklahoma, and its preservation is vital to the area's continued economic growth. 
 

If this concerns you, your action matters.  In the past, when many people have protested, it sent an important message and put CPASA in a position to fulfill its mission of protecting the resource.  If you feel inclined to help, please protest. You do not need to live in the area to express your concerns about the impact these mining operations have on the Arbuckle-Simpson Aquifer. If you’ve spent time at Turner Falls, Falls Creek, or enjoyed fishing or swimming in the Blue River, you’ve created memories courtesy of the Arbuckle-Simpson!

The Oklahoma Department of Mines deadline for receipt of protests is November 6th.  You can do that using the form that's located here, along with more information about Covia's permit.

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We will have more information at our annual meeting, Monday, November 3rd, at 6 pm in Room 221 of the Chickasaw Business and Conference Center (830 E Main Street) on the campus of East Central University in Ada. 

All are encouraged to attend! 

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