Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced that the state will not be processing permits for proposed mining projects in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. This decision comes after a federal ban was lifted by the U.S. Congress and President Donald Trump’s administration four months ago.
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, a Democrat, emphasized the importance of preserving this sacred place in its natural state.
Although Walz’s executive order has a limited duration and would expire in April, the next governor could potentially extend it. Twin Metals Minnesota LLC, a subsidiary of Antofagasta Minerals based in Chile, has been pursuing mining activities for copper, nickel, and other metals in the national forest since 2019. The company claims it can conduct mining operations without storing waste rock above ground to prevent environmental harm.
Environmental concerns have been raised about potential pollution from mining activities affecting the canoe area, which is downstream from the proposed mine site. President Trump previously lifted a federal moratorium on mining in the forest to promote job creation and support the mining industry.
Under Walz’s order, Minnesota regulators will not participate in federal environmental reviews of nonferrous mining in the Rainy River watershed connected to the Boundary Waters. Additionally, the state will halt environmental reviews and permitting work on mining proposals during ongoing litigation over state mining regulations.
Governor Walz has also called for legislation to prohibit nonferrous mining in the Rainy River watershed. The decision has sparked criticism from U.S. Representative Pete Stauber, a Republican, who accused Walz of jeopardizing the region’s economic interests.
Supporters of protecting the Boundary Waters, including Becky Rom from Save the Boundary Waters, have commended Governor Walz for his actions to safeguard the wilderness area. Legal expert James Coleman highlighted that the governor’s order introduces uncertainty for proposed projects, as they require both state and federal approvals, which can be subject to changing political landscapes.
