Threat of mining pollution puts Boundary Waters on annual list of threatened rivers
American Rivers has named the wilderness waters to its list for a second time in five years as critical decisions loom.
Pollution
From mercury to manoomin, sulfate causes ecological ripples in Minnesota waters
Common chemical in industrial discharges has far-reaching effects on lakes, rivers, and the plants that live in them.
State report: Headwaters region in northern Minnesota has ‘exceptional’ water quality
Multi-year study finds the Boundary Waters and surrounding area have clean and healthy lakes and streams.
Trump administration renews mineral exploration near Boundary Waters
Twin Metals project gets new lease on life after Interior Department lawyer reverses policy and says government must allow access.
PolyMet and state agency disagree on mine proposal’s closure costs
Debate over ‘damage deposit’ ramps up with dueling reclamation estimates.
Twin Metals legislation passes House, Senate support seems elusive
A bill restoring mineral rights near the Boundary Waters squeaked through the House of Representatives last week, but doesn’t yet have a Senate author.
Scientific research released on connections between mining pollution and wild rice
State-sponsored studies sought to improve understanding of the complex ways sulfate harms the iconic plant.
Minnesota’s Arrowhead region has notably dark night skies
Cook County encourages visitors to come see the Milky Way and the northern lights in its pitch black sky.
Remote lakes on Isle Royale are turning toxic and we don’t know why — yet
Scientists recently discovered more harmful algae blooms at the National Park in Lake Superior, a surprising problem for pristine waters surrounded by unbroken forests.
Three more days to comment on proposal to block mining near the Boundary Waters
Communications error results in extension of deadline to weigh in on withdrawing public lands from mining next to the wilderness.
Study: No connection between forest fires and mercury levels in fish
Measuring mercury in two different lakes before and after, and absent, fires showed fears about short-term contamination are unfounded.
Doctors Speak Up About Health Risks of Northern Minnesota Mine Proposals
A group of physicians from Duluth and across northeastern Minnesota have written an article about the potential human health impacts of sulfide-ore mining in the state. Article explains how Twin Metals and PolyMet could expose people to contaminants, and how doctors could help.
PolyMet Applies for Key Mining Permit
Mining company submits long-awaited application to mine copper, nickel and other metals on the Superior National Forest.
Harmful Algae Prompt Water Warnings in Voyageurs National Park
Blooms of toxin-producing plants were recently spotted in areas of Kabetogama and Rainy lakes.
‘Today’ Show Reports on Freemans’ Year in the Wilderness
NBC reporter travels to the Boundary Waters to interview married adventurers with two months left in their twelve-month trip.
Retired Regulator Says Water Studies Show Fragile Lakes Downstream of Twin Metals Proposal
Former MPCA official writes that White Iron Chain of Lakes have few natural defenses against mine pollution.
PolyMet Submits First Permit Applications for Proposed Mine
Company seeks to use water, discharge wastewater, and use dams around its tailings basins.
Federal Government Considers Rejecting Mining Rights Near the Boundary Waters
Forest Service offers chance for public to weigh in whether or not mines should be allowed in the wilderness watershed.
Mining Update: First Months of 2016 Include Major Moves for Northern Minnesota Mining Proposals
By Greg Seitz Gov. Dayton declares opposition to copper-nickel mining in Boundary Waters watershed Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton has halted new leases of mineral rights on state lands near the Boundary …
Something in the Water Bent Paddle Brewing
Bent Paddle Brewing of Duluth joins the call to protect the planet’s most precious resource. By Greg Seitz The water of Lake Superior is famous for its beauty, depth, cold, and …