MPCA issues final 3 state permits for PolyMet copper-nickel mine
(KMSP) - The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued the final three state permits for PolyMet’s proposed copper-nickel mine in northeastern Minnesota.
The agency announced Thursday it had approved the water and air quality permits for the NorthMet mining project as well as issued a Clean Water Act Section 401 certification, which focuses on wetland protections.
The NorthMet project will create an open pit copper, nickel, cobalt and precious metals mine in the Hoyt Lakes-Babbit area. It will be the state’s first copper-nickel mine.
Last month, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources issued PolyMet a permit to mine. The project still requires water and air quality permits in order to proceed.
Despite criticism from environmental protection groups, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission released a statement Friday standing by its decision.
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission stands by its decision to grant a Certificate of Need for the proposed Line 3 Pipeline Replacement Project. The Commission is a five-member independent, quasi-judicial board whose members are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate to staggered 6-year teams. The Commission based its decision in this proceeding on the applicable law and a full evidentiary record after vigorous input and participation by the litigants and the public.