It is very disheartening to see the future, in the form of Braxton Seifert, arguing for cheaper energy prices at the expense of clean air and potable water and good soil. Money will not replace the Earth’s resources. It is only right that big corporations should be held responsible for damage they cause to our planet in the name of providing us energy. They cannot be allowed to exploit the health of all to, yes, provide us what we want as consumers, but yes, at a profit to themselves.

Responsibility must be assigned to clean up the aftermath. Energy companies must be stewards of the environment for the good of all. The people running and working at these companies need the same clean Earth we all do. The superfund will ensure damage can be mitigated. It is setting aside money upfront to take care of future expenses incurred by potential reckless usage of our irreplaceable assets. Don’t be persuaded by short term gains into gambling away Minnesota’s natural resources.Pay now or pay more later.

Karen DeRoode

Ghent