Mining in the BWCA
"Beneath the surface of the BWCA and the Superior National Forest are rich deposits of copper, nickel, and platinum. These deposits created large controversies regarding what to do with it. In 1887, Ely was the center for mining operations and in 1950, mineral exploration and drilling was conducted. Companies have tried to get to the minerals ever since, but have failed to receive permission."-Joe Baltich
The Boundary Waters Act of 1978, didn't ban mining but created a 222,000 acre mining protection area, because of this, people still fight about who has the right to use the minerals in the BWCA.
The Boundary Waters Act of 1978, didn't ban mining but created a 222,000 acre mining protection area, because of this, people still fight about who has the right to use the minerals in the BWCA.
Mining would be beneficial in the BWCA because the rich resources would make mining companies a lot of money, and the economy would benefit immensely. Many people would be employed, and northern towns would once again prosper. Many people feel these benefits far outweigh the environmental disruption.
"The mines will provide skilled, long-term, good paying jobs to the economy, and in addition will provide hundreds of (additional) jobs and economic growth for our region."- Michael Skrbich, Hoit Lakes city administrator.
On the other hand...
Preservationists know that mining in the BWCA causes air, water, land and sound pollution which can all greatly affect the quality of the BWCA.
Today, there is a large sulfide mining debate going on in the BWCA.