DNR to Rewrite Mining Rules to Prevent Noise and Light Pollution in Boundary Waters

In a long-awaited decision issued May 31, 2023, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources found that current state rules governing where proposed copper-nickel mines can be built are not sufficient to protect the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness from noise and light pollution.

Read the full story from MPR News here.

Ciresi Conlin attorneys Katie Crosby Lehmann, Heather McElroy, and Melissa Goodman have represented Northeastern Minnesotans for Wilderness (NMW) pro bono for the last three years, seeking to force more protective rules related to nonferrous mining near the Boundary Waters. Even with this favorable order, the challenge isn’t over, and will now enter the contested case phase at the administrative level. Ultimately, the Ramsey County District Court will weigh in to determine whether the new rules are enough to protect the Boundary Waters from the risks of nonferrous mining pollution.