Minnesota governor halts state work on Boundary Waters mining projects
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz suspends state work on mining projects near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, citing environmental concerns.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has suspended state work on proposed mining projects in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a move that comes four months after the federal government lifted a ban on such activities in the region.
The order, signed on Tuesday, directs state regulators to refrain from participating as a cooperating agency in any federal environmental review of nonferrous mining projects in the Rainy River watershed, which is connected to the Boundary Waters. The state will also hold off on conducting its own environmental reviews or permitting work on mining proposals while litigation over state mining regulations is ongoing.
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness spans roughly 150 miles in the Superior National Forest along Minnesota's border with Canada. It is a popular destination for canoeists, kayakers, and campers.
Twin Metals Minnesota LLC, a subsidiary of Chile-based Antofagasta Minerals, has been seeking to mine copper, nickel, and other metals in the national forest since 2019. The company maintains that its operations can be conducted without storing waste rock above ground, which would eliminate a potential source of acid drainage. The proposed mine site is located upstream from the wilderness area, raising concerns about potential pollution.
In April, President Donald Trump signed a congressional resolution lifting a 2023 federal moratorium on mining in the forest, arguing the move would create jobs and boost the mining industry.
Walz, a Democrat who did not seek reelection this year, said the action is necessary to protect the area. "It's our duty as Minnesotans to ensure the sacred place remains wild, pristine and unharmed," he said.
The decision drew criticism from U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber, a Republican, who accused the governor of waging "outright war on Northern Minnesota and our way of life." He said years of review and private investment had been "erased in seconds."
Environmental advocates welcomed the move. Becky Rom, chairperson of Save the Boundary Waters, said the science is clear that copper mining and the wilderness cannot safely coexist. She said the action helps safeguard clean water, the wilderness, and the outdoor economy.