A Threat to the Okefenokee Swamp

Twin Pines Minerals, LLC, (Birmingham, Alabama) wants to mine on the sandy ridge that serves as the eastern edge of the immense bowl-like depression that retains the water of the swamp. Twin Pines’ plan initially calls for mining on about 4 square miles, but the company said that it eventually wants to expand to about 19 square miles. The process to be used is a form of strip-mining and will alter the soil composition of the area – which, in turn, will hamper drainage and alter the hydrology.

The Okefenokee Swamp/National Wildlife Refuge/Wilderness is NOT a suitable location for a project of this nature. It is considered one of the "Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia", is the largest blackwater swamp in North America, and has been designated a National Natural Landmark.

The health of the St. Marys River depends on the integrity of the Okefenokee Swamp, myriad species rely on its wellbeing, and tourism in the area is an economic boon to our region. In those respects, it is very much a matter of concern for this city Council. (The St. Marys River is born of the River Styx. Note the proximity of the headwaters to the proposed mining site in the attached image.)

It is the St. Marys EarthKeepers’ position that the Twin Pines mining project presents unnecessary and unacceptable risks, and that the application should be denied - unless and until a full Environmental Impact Study indicates that absolutely no harm will come to the Okefenokee Swamp, its tributaries, species, rivers, and future. We are joined in our concern by the Georgia Conservancy, SELC, the Suwannee Riverkeeper, and over 20 other regional and national environmental organizations.

From the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service:

“We have concerns that the proposed project poses substantial risks for significant affect to the environment. Should impacts occur they may not be able to be reversed, repaired, or mitigated for."

"Titanium is a common mineral, while the Okefenokee is a very uncommon swamp."

"This will likely change its properties and the hydrology of the area."

The Georgia Conservancy offers this excellent summary: https://www.georgiaconservancy.org/okefenokee/mining