Minnesota DNR’s decision puts spotlight on action for BWCA state legislation
June 7, 2023 8:51 amA decision by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources adds uncertainty to regulators’ role in deciding the future of copper-nickel mining in the watershed of the Boundary Waters. Now, the state legislature has the power to change the underlying laws that protect the BWCA.
A May 31st, 2023, decision issued by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) declined to issue a broader decision declaring state lands in the watershed of the Boundary Waters off-limits to copper-nickel mining. This announcement limits the actions that the state agency can undertake to permanently protect the Boundary Waters watershed. The DNR acknowledged that copper-nickel mining poses significant long-term risks to the Boundary Waters watershed and recommended that the state legislature consider additional measures to protect the Wilderness Area.
While Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters is not a plaintiff in the case that prompted this decision, our call to action couldn’t be clearer: It’s up to us to prompt action from a bipartisan group of state legislators in Minnesota to change the underlying laws protecting the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
In its ruling, the DNR acknowledged that laws regarding noise and light impacts from proposed mining operations are not adequate to fulfill their legal requirements to protect the Boundary Waters during proposed mining operations. Minnesota DNR will announce a separate process to evaluate those rules. DNR also ruled that the feasibility of copper-nickel mining in the watershed of the Boundary Waters is better suited for the state legislature, saying,
“Any decision to modify a fundamental state policy of this nature belongs in front of the legislature, rather than an executive agency.” – Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, May 31st, 2023 ruling
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness holds cultural, ecological, and recreational value for Minnesotans and visitors alike. Its unparalleled access opportunities, rich biodiversity, and clean waters make it a destination that hunters, anglers, and backcountry paddlers cherish. Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters’ top priority is preserving this legacy for future generations.
Instead of rushing into decisions that may have irreversible consequences, the Minnesota DNR and state legislators should take a cautious approach by considering the long-term impact of copper-nickel mining on the Boundary Waters before issuing any further rulings affecting hardrock mining in the watershed. Implementing stronger clean water and habitat regulations and conducting comprehensive environmental impact assessments are essential to ensure that this wilderness’s integrity is preserved.
It is our responsibility to protect the Boundary Waters for future generations, ensuring that they can experience all the wilderness has to offer while enjoying the bountiful hunting and fishing opportunities it provides for years to come.
The Minnesota DNR’s decision means we must take action – what can you do to help?
Contact your state legislators using the Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters form. Tell your representatives to support state legislation to protect the Boundary Waters, HF 329 and SF 267, legislation that would address the changes necessary to permanently protect the Boundary Waters from hardrock mining on state lands in the watershed of the BWCA.
Make a gift to Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters to support our work at the state legislature. Joining our effort as a donor is the best way to ensure our voices continue to be heard. Since 2017, Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters has worked with hunting and fishing conservation groups across the state to organize Public Lands Day demonstrations at the state legislature, inviting a bipartisan group of speakers to participate, speak with constituents about the BWCA and the need for long term watershed protections.
Browse the Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters store to gear up before your next Boundary Waters trip, all while helping spread the word about efforts to protect the BWCA for future generations permanently.
