Environmental advocates concerned about mining in northeastern Minnesota are using dog teams to carry petitions to the state capitol in St. Paul.
The Duluth News-Tribune has the story HERE.
Roughly 10,000 people have signed petitions that ask the state to slow plans to develop copper-nickel mines in northeastern Minnesota until concerns over the mine’s affect on water quality can be addressed. Advocates are concerned that the mines, some of which would be located near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, could cause acid drainage.
Mushers Frank Moe and Adam Harju plan to drive their dog-sled to St. Paul by Thursday. The pair set off from Grand Marias on Wednesday. Over the weekend, they were met in Duluth by fellow mushers David and Amy Freeman, who began their journey in Ely. On Sunday, the mushers rallied about 100 people in support of the effort.
Mining advocates say their plans are environmentally friendly and will protect northeastern Minnesota’s waters.