The first of a series of public hearings on proposed withdrawal of public lands from mining in northern Arizona gets underway tonight in Phoenix. Given the emotional pitch of the debate, I recommend reading last week's editorial in the Flagstaff Daily Sun. There are complex issues at play that are regularly lost in simplistic headlines and fearful claims. The Sun editorial is clearly based on earlier reporting by Cyndi Cole. Their conclusion - we have to get it right. [right, federally 'segregated' areas that could be withdrawn from mineral exploration and development for 20 years]
Three hearings are set for Arizona this week:
* March 7, 2011 National Training Center, 9828 North 31st Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85051. The National Training Center (NTC), a federal building, requires non-government personnel to show drivers license, state identification or passport.
* March 8, 2011 High Country Conference Center, Agassiz & Fremont Rooms, 201 West Butler Avenue, Flagstaff, AZ 86001.
* March 9, 2011 Fredonia High School, Media Center, 221 East Hortt Street, Fredonia, AZ 86022.
* March 10, 2011 Homewood Suites, Santa Fe and Rio Grande Conference Rooms, 423 West 300 South Salt Lake City, UT 84101.