Biden's move to protect Boundary Waters is great, but we need stronger laws

[TexasTowelie]

Minnesotans and Americans across the country celebrated last month when the Biden administration announced that it applied for a 20-year moratorium on copper-sulfide mining on 225,000 acres of federal land surrounding the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

For almost a decade, proposed copper-sulfide mining near the Boundary Waters has been one of the biggest environmental fights in the country. The move towards banning this type of mining near the Boundary Waters is a major turning point. Everyone should take the time to celebrate, and though it might be a bit chilly, maybe take a spontaneous trip north and reconnect with the wilderness we are so fortunate to have in our state.

But the dangers of copper-sulfide mining are not behind us. To truly protect our waters, Lake Superior, and the Boundary Waters, we cannot solely rely on the federal agencies. We need to enshrine these protections in law by passing a “Prove It First” law.

The Prove It First law is simple: Before a copper-sulfide mine can open in Minnesota, there must be proof that a similar mine has operated for 10 years and was then closed for 10 years without causing pollution. Twin Metals asserts that they can mine safely, without polluting. But talk is cheap. Where is the proof?

Read more: https://www.bluestemprairie.com/bluestemprairie/2021/11/chris-knopf-bidens-move-to-protect-boundary-waters-is-great-but-we-need-stronger-laws.html

[multigraincracker]

1. "Twin Metals asserts that they can mine safely, without polluting"

and if they fail, they just file for bankruptcy and start over under a new name. I would only allow this mining if they can post a, lets say $4billion bond or insurance policy. The real risk can be determined by the Insurance Actuaries to get the real cost. If it is really safe, I'm sure Lloyd's of London will charge them the true cost. If not, it ain't safe.