Walz halts mining permits near Minnesota Boundary Waters

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has taken executive action to stop certain state mining near the Boundary Waters.

The order directs the Minnesota DNR and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (PCA) to stop issuing leases and permits and to review all existing mining leases in the Rainy River Headwaters Watershed.

Walz’ action comes just four months after congress narrowly voted to overturn a 20-year federal ban against mining in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, opening the door to renewed copper and nickel mining proposals.

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