Copper Mine Controversy in the Iron Range Sparks Outrage - March 2016

Copper Mine Controversy in the Iron Range Sparks Outrage The first ever copper mine controversy in Minnesota is well under way and Governor Mark Dayton is feeling the pressure. Dayton was asked in early February to sign an agreement that would allow Twin Metals Minnesota to access state land to complete pre­project activities relating to the underground copper mine set to be about 10 miles south of Ely.

Eight lawmakers signed the letter but this is still far from an agreement to let pre planning begin. Twin metals feels that the state is dragging its feet when it comes to approval but lawmakers feel they are taking the appropriate measures. Dayton says that no matter what, he will not approve the Twin Metals issues until they have gone through the proper channels.

“I do not intend for my administration to proceed on any aspect of the Twin Metals project until after the PolyMet EIS adequacy determination and possible subsequent permitting processes are resolved,” the governor said. His stance is clear and so far he has refused to budge despite prodding from both sides.

Those that support copper mining claim that the papers have been sitting on the governor’s desk with the appropriate signatures for months without any action. There has been intense pressure from both sides on Dayton to move ahead with the final approval for the project as it would mean the potential for 300 new jobs in the area which are desperately needed.

The company states that with the go ahead on the project they could be ready for environmental review as early as 2018. The state has so far been reluctant to approve the project and it is unclear just why the governor has chosen to stall the way that he has. It is the hope of all parties involved that progress be made either toward the start of the project or its rejection so that alternate plans can be drawn up and the process can continue toward completion.