Environmental groups kick off copper-nickel mining campaign

Copper-nickel mining
In this October 2011 file photo, a prospecting drill rig bores into the bedrock near Ely, Minn., in search of copper, nickel and precious metals.
AP Photo/Steve Karnowski

Three environmental groups are teaming up to run what they describe as an educational campaign about copper-nickel mining.

The campaign includes billboards, social media, and a website called Mining Truth.

Read a MPR News primer on the copper-nickel mining debate.

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Paul Danicic, executive director of the Friends of the Boundary Waters, said only 5 percent of Minnesotans know about plans for copper-nickel mines in northeastern Minnesota.

"The issue is too important to be made without everybody participating in it," Danicic said.

Danicic said he's aiming for a respectful, fact-based dialogue.

"Learn about it now, this summer, because there's going to be opportunities throughout the decision-making process for input soon," he said. "It's important for Minnesotans to take the time now to learn the facts."

The other groups involved are Conservation Minnesota and the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy.

Several companies are conducting exploratory drilling in northeastern Minnesota. The first company to propose a mine, Polymet, said the long-awaited environmental review for its proposed project near Babbitt will be ready for public comment early in 2013.