While permits have yet to be issued and shovels aren’t in the ground, the prospects for Twin Metals Minnesota and other copper-nickel mining ventures in the region are decidedly better than they were a week ago at this time.
Mining advocates are breathing sighs of relief if not in a celebratory mood, and the anti-mining folks are justifiably worried in the wake of U.S. House action this week that reverses the mineral withdrawal/mining ban last implemented by the Biden Administration.
It appears that the Twin Metals project is just 51 U.S. Senate votes away from a shot in the arm that could push the project much closer to reality.
No matter how one slices it, the action this week is a win for Twin Metals and most certainly for U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber (R), who has been steadfast and persistent in his push for new mining in the region.
Stauber has held field hearings on the Iron Range, brought Congressional allies here to listen to the concerns and pressed forward even when hope seemed lost and even in the wake of harsh criticism and even ridicule.
And let’s be clear, the win this week is just one step forward - albeit a big one - in the quest to bring new mining and new employment to a region badly in need of better economics.
Stauber made it clear that the reversal is not a green light for the Twin Metals project or any other project for that matter.
Permitting must still be obtained and a long process remains, but this will ensure that there will be a process and that the federal government won’t issue blanket “no” when it comes to copper-nickel mining in northeastern Minnesota.
The anti-mining folks have been pushing hard for the 20-year and eventually a permanent ban - essentially shutting off discussion before it can be started.
That’s flat out wrong and it’s heartening to see that Congress - or at least the U.S. House - recognizes that.
It will be interesting indeed to see where our two U.S. Senators - including one with Ely ties from her grandfather working in the Pioneer Mine and her eyes on the governor’s mansion come down on this issue.
But that’s a discussion for another day. For now, we salute Stauber for his persistence and advocacy for the region and our way of life.
