Minnesota Governor Bans Some Mining In Boundary Waters Wilderness

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has taken executive action to protect the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) from nonferrous mineral mining.

According to the Ely Echo, Gov. Walz signed Executive Order 26-10 directing the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to halt new permitting and environmental review for nonferrous mining projects in the Rainy River Headwaters Watershed.

Nonferrous minerals include metals such as copper, nickel, gold, silver, zinc and lead.

The order also directs the DNR to issue no new state mining leases in the watershed and review existing leases to ensure they comply with current requirements.

“The Boundary Waters is a national treasure,” Walz said, adding that the goal is to protect its waters, wildlife and the communities and businesses that depend on outdoor recreation.

The move comes after Congress voted to overturn a 20-year federal protection that had restricted mining activity near the BWCAW.

That decision reopened the possibility of mining proposals involving minerals such as copper and nickel.

Under the executive order, Minnesota will also decline to participate as a cooperating agency in federal environmental reviews of proposed nonferrous mining projects in the watershed.

State officials say the action is intended to provide long-term protection for one of Minnesota’s most popular wilderness destinations.

The administration also plans to draft legislation that would permanently prohibit nonferrous mining in the Rainy River Headwaters Watershed.

Supporters say the move will help protect clean water, wildlife and the region’s outdoor recreation economy for future generations.