I listened to a discussion hosted by the Alaska Forum on the Environment between Pebble Partnership CEO Tom Collier and former Alaska State Senator Rick Halford, a Pebble opponent. Like many Alaskans, I’ve followed this issue closely, especially since it would impact my home. I was appalled at the lies spread by Mr. Collier during the presentation and owe great thanks to Mr. Halford for correcting him and telling the truth. I want to clear up a few points upon which Pebble is trying to mislead Alaskans, especially as we go into an important public comment period.

JUNEAU — The former public face of the Pebble mine project is advancing closer to a confirmation vote as head of the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, despite a surge of public testimony in opposition.

The latest federal review of the proposed Pebble Mine is still making headway despite the ongoing partial shutdown of the federal government, with its first results anticipated late next month.

TOM COLLIER IS BUCKLED INTO THE BACK of a six-seat AS350 Helicopter, racing over the lowland bluffs of southwest Alaska. Clad in a black Helly Hansen jacket and baseball hat bearing the word Pebble, he doesn’t exactly look at ease, though he’ll later claim otherwise. When the chopper banks south, he reaches awkwardly for the ceiling, desperate for something to grab.