Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced on Tuesday that the state will not be processing permits for proposed mining projects in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. This decision comes four months after the federal ban on mining in the area was lifted by the U.S. Congress and the Trump administration.
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, located along Minnesota’s border with Canada in the Superior National Forest, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Governor Walz emphasized the importance of preserving the wilderness in its natural state, stating that it is the responsibility of Minnesotans to protect this sacred place.
Although Governor Walz’s executive order is temporary and set to expire in April, the next governor could choose to extend it. Twin Metals Minnesota LLC, a subsidiary of Antofagasta Minerals based in Chile, has been pursuing a mining project in the national forest since 2019. The company asserts that their mining operations would be environmentally friendly, with no waste rock stored above ground to prevent potential acid contamination.
Concerns have been raised about the potential environmental impact of mining activities in the area, particularly in relation to water pollution. President Trump’s lifting of the federal moratorium on mining in the forest was aimed at boosting the mining industry and creating jobs.
Governor Walz’s order also prohibits Minnesota regulators from participating in federal environmental reviews of nonferrous mining in the Rainy River watershed, which is connected to the Boundary Waters. Additionally, the state will refrain from conducting environmental reviews or issuing permits for mining proposals amidst ongoing litigation over state mining regulations.
The move has drawn criticism from U.S. Representative Pete Stauber, who accused Governor Walz of harming the economy of northern Minnesota. Meanwhile, Becky Rom, chairperson of Save the Boundary Waters advocacy group, commended the governor for taking steps to protect the wilderness area.
Legal expert James Coleman highlighted the added uncertainty that Governor Walz’s order brings to proposed mining projects, emphasizing the complexities of obtaining both state and federal approvals for such ventures.