Hello, I am a homeowner on…

Hello,

I am a homeowner on Nym Lake within the area of the exploration permit and I have several concerns regarding this project as follows:

1) Nym Lake borders Quetico Park and is an access point for backcountry canoeing. There are two tourism operators on the lake, one of which promotes eco-tourism and relies on the quiet and lack of industry on the lake for its business.

2) There is a Quetico Park access point/boat launch as well as a public access/boat launch located at Nym Lake landing. Many community members use the public boat launch area for swimming and enjoyment during the summer. I would be concerned if the Proponent was planning to use the public boat launch for transportation of any equipment or personnel to site.

3) Nym Lake Road is a semi-private road that, although accessible by the public, is maintained by homeowners. Concern that heavy equipment or machinery would use the road.

4) There are close to 40 homes and cottages on Nym Lake, many of which are used during the summer months. Enjoyment of these properties includes the expectation that no heavy equipment, industrial noise, excessive boat traffic will impact that enjoyment.

5) A portage is located between Nym and Nickleby Lakes, which one of the proposed trails (old logging road) will cross. This portage is used by residents year round. The old logging road is relatively overgrown and not very visible currently when using the portage. Concern that the trail will be impacted.

6) There is a surface rights owner that has not been excluded from the permit application area.

7) I am concerned about any impact to trees as a result of trail creation. Primarily that no White or Red Pine should be disturbed as these take a long time to start and mature. I am also concerned that the drilling, trails, or workings will be visible from the shoreline.

8) Many homeowners, including myself source their drinking water directly from Nym Lake. I am concerned about any potential impacts to the water quality.

9) I am concerned about potential noise from the project, as parts of the drilling program are located approximately 1.5 km from my property, and sound travels easily across the lake.

Overall, given the concerns expressed above, and as a homeowner within the vicinity of the proposed project, I am in opposition to this project. I do not agree with the Ministry concept of 'minimal impacts' as a result of early exploration activities. Even a relatively small exploration project can have long-lasting impacts to the natural landscape. As an example, the old logging roads near Nym Lake have not been used since the 70s, however are still visible after nearly 50 years. These logging roads/trails are used by animals and harvesters which introduces harvesting pressure on wildlife populations locally, and increased access to the area results in lasting impacts to the ecosystem.