News

KBJR-TV
December 13, 2009

More than a hundred people gathered in Aurora this evening to share their opinions on the multi–million dollar Polymet Mining Project.

The DNR is gathering input on the project's Draft Environmental Impact statement.

There's a lot at stake.

The PolyMet project would bring a type of mining to the Iron Range never seen before in Minnesota.

If the plans for the nonferrous, copper–nickel mine move forward, it's anticipated that 900 or more jobs will be created in mining and mining related industry.

The Iron Range economy has taken a big hit during the recession, and some say PolyMet is the perfect solution to the unemployment problem.

Others fear the implications of PolyMet's open pit mine would have devastating results on the environment.

They say acid mine drainage will contaminate ground and surface water.

The public submitted written comments about PolyMet's environmental impact statement at the open house at Mesabi East High School.

The Minnesota DNR will use the comments as a guide for any changes they may make to the EIS.

The public comment period will continue until February.

After the EIS is finalized, PolyMet officials will move toward gaining permits to break ground.

The proposed site for the PolyMet mine is in Hoyt Lakes.

The DNR is hosting another informational open house tomorrow in Blaine.