DNR Won’t Extend Comment Period on PolyMet Review

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Regulators say they won't extend the 90-day comment period for the environmental review for the proposed PolyMet copper-nickel mine beyond March 13.

The Department of Natural Resources and other agencies said Thursday they've given the public ample opportunity to review and comment on the nearly 2,200-page document. They say over 19,000 comments have been received, and no new information has emerged to justify extending the comment period.

That drew an angry response from environmental attorney Paula Maccabee, who says conservation groups requested extra time just last week because of new data on water flows at the site and newly discovered gaps and inconsistencies in the review.

PolyMet's proposed mine near Babbitt and processing plant near Hoyt Lakes would be Minnesota's first copper-nickel mining operation if it wins the necessary approvals.