JUNEAU -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is planning eight meetings in which to share information about, and gather public comment on, its draft watershed assessment for Bristol Bay.

The assessment responded to concerns about a large copper-and-gold prospect near the headwaters of Bristol Bay. EPA said it looked at the potential effects of mining in the region and wasn't about a single project, such as Pebble Mine.

Even without dam failures, the agency found, there would be effects on fish due to eliminated or blocked streams, removal of wetlands and a loss of fish habitat as water is used for mine operations.

Meetings begin May 31 in Seattle and are planned over the following week in Anchorage, Dillingham, Naknek, Levelock, Igiugig, Nondalton and New Stuyahok.

EPA is taking public comment through July 23.