Sulfide Mining - Acid Mine Drainage
Mining
Sierra Club volunteers have been active in Minnesota mining issues since the founding of the North Star Chapter in 1968.
Sulfide mining, a toxic type of mining never done before in Minnesota, is risky to our environment, workers and communities. Mining sulfide rock releases acid and toxic metals that pollute rivers and groundwater for hundreds of years Long after the profits are spent and the products buried in landfills.
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has prepared a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (Draft EIS) for the proposed PolyMet Mining Inc. NorthMet Project.
- The deadline for public comments is February 3, 2010. Comments can be submitted to with Northmet in the subject line, and should include a full name and legal mailing address.
- The DNR will hold two public informational meetings for the
purpose of considering public comments on the Draft EIS, as follows:
Wednesday, December 9, 2009 — 7:00PM (Open House at 5:00PM)
Memorial Gymnasium
Mesabi East Schools
601 North First Street West
Aurora, Minnesota 55705
Thursday, December 10, 2009 at 7:00PM (Open House at 5:00PM)
Schwan Center
National Sports Center
1700 105th Avenue Northeast
Blaine, Minnesota 55449
View the new short film, Precious Waters, created by the Friends of the Boundary Waters.
Where the Sierra Club Stands: Let's ask for proof, not promises from promoters of metallic sulfide mining in Minnesota's northwoods
A kind of mining new to Minnesota has significant long-term risks of pollution and economic instability. This industry has a poor track record of stewardship and integrity. But solutions such as requiring proof it has been done without harm in a similar climate; protecting pristine natural areas from disturbance; not mining where perpetual treatment of drainage pollution is required; and demanding secure and significant financial assurance for reclamation can help keep our waters clean for future generations.