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:
Congressional committee passes ban on copper mining near Boundary Waters
A bill sponsored by Rep. Betty McCollum to permanently prohibit mining copper and other sulfide ore in the watershed of the Boundary Waters wilderness cleared a key House committee this week…
Forest Service says copper-nickel mining threatens Boundary Waters
“The environmental assessment released today provides a strong scientific foundation for a 20-year ban on copper mining near the Boundary Waters…”
Congressional hearing on Boundary Waters mining ban
Legislation authored by Rep. Betty McCollum would block mining on federal lands in the watershed of the BWCAW, was the subject of a hearing in a House of Representatives subcommittee yesterday.
EPA says PolyMet permit threatens waters with mercury pollution
Federal agency declares mine would cause pollution unacceptable to Fond du Lac Band.
Minnesota Supreme Court to review proposed PolyMet mine water permit
The highest court in Minnesota announced this week that it will hear a challenge to a key permit for the proposed PolyMet copper-nickel mine in northeastern Minnesota. It will consider the mine’s water pollution permit, and controversy…
Film about running across Boundary Waters nominated for international award
“Boundary Waters Traverse” follows Alex Falconer on long-distance run to raise awareness for wilderness.
Environmental groups sue to stop PolyMet over endangered species
A coalition of northern Minnesota environmental groups has sued the federal government citing a failure to protect critical habitat for endangered Canada lynx and the northern long-eared bat.
Federal officials revoke key Twin Metals mining leases near Boundary Waters
Biden administration revokes Twin Metals mineral rights for proposed copper-nickel mine. Secretary Deb Haaland stated: “After a careful legal review, we found the leases were improperly renewed in violation of applicable statutes and regulations, and we are taking action to cancel them.”
MPCA stands by PolyMet air permit despite concern of “sham permitting”
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has affirmed a permit issued to PolyMet, ignoring possible planned expansion of mine after permitting.
Mining ban near the Boundary Waters? The public is asked to weigh in.
Discussions will cover proposed plan to prohibit new mining activities in locations that threaten BWCAW, if successful, the prohibition would effectively block the proposed Twin Metals mine.
New tribal liaison helps Superior National Forest respect treaty rights
A new staff member with the U.S. Forest Service will provide dedicated communication and coordination with tribes and tribal entities in northern Minnesota.
Feds consider mining ban upstream of Boundary Waters
Officials with the U.S. Forest Service have taken a decisive step toward long-term protection of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, resuming study, could lead to 20-year mining moratorium.
Survey says Minnesotans support strong mining protections
A new survey finds split opinions but strong desire to prevent pollution. 61 percent of respondents said they agree mining should be prohibited…
Minnesota DNR required to review mining issues
State agency will debate PolyMet tailings permit and evaluate overall regulations.
Report: water quality “pristine” in Boundary Waters watersheds needs protection
New reports detail pristine waters of northeastern Minnesota, threats to the health, and strategies to protect them.
Court rejects PolyMet air pollution permit
Judges rule that state agency must consider company’s true plans for proposed copper mine.
Minnesota mining engineer says copper mine near Boundary Waters is ‘too risky’
Experienced engineer from Iron Range publicly states opposition to proposed Twin Metals mine.
EPA recognizes PolyMet mine could pollute tribal waters
In significant decision, federal agency says pollution from the proposed PolyMet copper-nickel mine “may affect” downstream lakes and rivers under the jurisdiction of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.
Courts decide key issues concerning mining near Boundary Waters
A series of rulings has offered wins and losses for both environmental groups and mining proponents.
EPA identifies Minnesota wild rice waters affected by mine waste, sets up legal battle
Federal agency overrules state’s efforts to ignore sulfate pollution.