Lesser review planned for land wanted for Minnesota mine
Go Deeper.
Create an account or log in to save stories.
Like this?
Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.
Correction (Jan. 26, 2018): An earlier version of this story inaccurately identified the company behind this mine proposal. It also included an erroneous photo, which has been removed. The below copy has been updated.
The U.S. Forest Service says it's downgrading an environmental review of a proposal to withdraw certain national forest land in Minnesota from minerals exploration for up to 20 years.
The land includes the site where Twin Metals wants to mine for copper and nickel, near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Supporters of the project have touted the jobs it would bring, but opponents fear the mining could lead to sulfuric acid polluting the area's pristine waters.
The Forest Service says it will do an environmental assessment rather than a more rigorous environmental impact statement, because no significant environmental impacts have been identified during a long public scoping period.
The Campaign to Save the Boundary Waters said the change means less opportunity for public input and rigorous scientific analysis.
Turn Up Your Support
MPR News helps you turn down the noise and build shared understanding. Turn up your support for this public resource and keep trusted journalism accessible to all.
Dear reader,
Your voice matters. And we want to hear it.
Will you help shape the future of Minnesota Public Radio by taking our short Listener Survey?
It only takes a few minutes, and your input helps us serve you better—whether it’s news, culture, or the conversations that matter most to Minnesotans.
