You are invited to a private meeting for contributors to substantive public comments on the draft environmental impact statement, hosted by WaterLegacy.org.

This is a limited opportunity, with comment period set to close February 3, 2010. Your comments are critical to the project receiving the scrutiny it deserves. It would create toxic acid mine drainage for hundreds or thousands of years.

Register NOW. Be sure to state your topic or area of interest in the DEIS.

All levels of citizen participation are welcome. Some would just like to sign a form letter and hand it in. Some would like to pick a narrow topic and write comments in one hour, or stay for the duration and write extensive comments.

You will benefit by learning from other citizens, background and technical documents, information and tips to make your comments most effective. We will facilitate according to your needs.

Professional input is welcome. Even if you may not feel comfortable submitting written comments on the EIS directly, your expertise would be very beneficial.

Meanwhile, you can demand that DNR provide adequate public participation in the environmental review process. Specifically, ask for 1) extension of the comment period from only 90 to at least 180 days; 2) more convenient and interactive public hearings around the state. Email: Stuart Arkley MDNRstuart.arkley@dnr.state.mn.us

If you cannot attend, but would like resources to help you submit your comment, Email your request to info@waterlegacy.org We can help commenters learn about PolyMet, and provide talking points and drafts.