Stay up-to-date on proposed mining projects near the BWCAW and Superior National Forest, including the latest updates on Twin Metals and PolyMet, permitting status, court challenges, possible threats to the north woods environment, communities, air and water quality. See the map for locations and proximity to wilderness areas and watersheds.
TOP MINING STORIES:
Minnesota GOP Official Asks President to Reverse Twin Metals Decision
Rep. Kurt Daudt sent a letter to President Trump asking him to overturn Obama actions on mining near the Boundary Waters.
Minnesota Governor Says Twin Metals Mine Rejection Could Be Reversed
Next president could overturn a recent ruling against the proposed mine on the Superior National Forest.
Federal Government Cancels Twin Metals Mineral Leases
Decision may be fatal for copper-nickel mine proposal upstream of the Boundary Waters and mark the beginning of long-term protection of the wilderness watershed.
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.
Freemans Finish Year in the Boundary Waters, Travel to Washington, D.C.
Wilderness adventurers and advocates leave the wilderness for the first time in 366 days and quickly catch a plane to the capital.
Company Proposing Mine Near Boundary Waters Sues Government To Ensure Mineral Rights
Lawsuit claims 50-year-old leases must be renewed automatically, despite government’s opinion that it has the right to reject them.
‘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.
Public input needed on decision about mining next to the Boundary Waters
Comment period opens up for major decision about the future of Twin Metals – or its end.
Patagonia Executive Explains Opposition to Mines Near the Boundary Waters
Adam Fetcher’s experiences in canoe country when he was younger connect to his work today at the environmentally-active outdoor company.
More Major Moves for Northern Minnesota Mine Proposals
Significant developments have come in a flurry recently, from federal problems for Twin Metals to news that most Minnesotans oppose mining near the Boundary Waters.
Dayton Opposes Copper Mining in Boundary Waters Watershed
Governor of Minnesota tells Twin Metals he will block mining activity on state lands near the wilderness.
Major Mining Milestone: Final Environmental Review Released for PolyMet Proposal
Public comments will be accepted until Dec. 14 on the controversial copper mine.
Minnesota Student Studies “Best-Case Scenario” for Proposed Copper Mine
Award-winning science fair project explores a Wisconsin mine’s disputed legacy as PolyMet permitting approaches.
PolyMet’s Pollution Would be Pointed at the Boundary Waters
Discovery of incorrect data conflicts with assumption that contaminated discharge would flow toward Lake Superior.
Next Adventure for Ely Couple Will Be Living in the Boundary Waters for a Year
Starting in September, pair plan to camp, travel, and educate from the wilderness for 12 months in an effort to help protect it.
New Draft Completed of PolyMet’s Environmental Impact Statement
Detailed analysis of the proposed copper-nickel mine will now be reviewed by tribes and other authorities.
Rep. McCollum Seeks Legislation To Halt New Mining in BWCAW And Voyageurs Watersheds
Congresswoman announces bill to revoke federal mineral leases in Rainy River basin.
Boy With Leukemia Makes a Wish to Protect the Boundary Waters
Sick teenager asks federal officials to prevent mining from polluting canoe country.
How Humans Affect the Boundary Waters’ Woods
Researcher Lee Frelich says wilderness forests are being changed in several ways.