All natural sockeye, eh? Do any of the man-made hatcheries count as "natural" too?
Based on the lack of credible engineering and scientific responses or references in the opinion, it really appears as if the author's text, "and will continue forever if we take care of it" seems out of place. Drawing parallels to mines in other areas that lacked adequate regulatory oversight, that did not have the same geology is also a sly way of inflaming opinions to say, "No mining ".  As an opinion - belief based  on unsubstantiated feelings.
One thing is apparent from the author, even IF pebble started with a small footprint and mined responsibly and demonstrated a positive impact on salmon habitat (as is expected from initial Pebble goals), he will still hold his opinions.