I posted recently on Facebook about my extraordinary time in the Boundary Waters of northern Minnesota. One thing I didn’t talk about is the devastating threat this pristine wilderness currently faces: sulfide mining.
Unlike iron mining, sulfide-ore copper mining generates waste rock full of sulfates, which, when exposed to air and water, becomes sulphuric acid, and leaches toxins like heavy metals into the surrounding water. Copper mining on the edge of the Wilderness would seriously damage and disrupt thousands of acres, with cascading effects on the ecosystem downstream. Studies show pollution from copper mining in the headwaters of the Boundary Waters would permanently damage extensively interconnected downstream lakes, rivers, & groundwater.
The Boundary Waters is a wildland refuge critical for resiliency in the face of global climate change. The 4.3 million-acre boreal ecosystem that includes the Boundary Waters, Canada’s Quetico Provincial Park, Voyageurs National Park, and the Superior National Forest is critically necessary for the planet as climate change forces adaptation, resilience, and the need to protect biodiversity.
Ely-based Save the Boundary Waters is working tirelessly to permanently protect the pristine environment from this threat along with their national coalition of 400+ conservation, hunting & fishing organizations, & businesses. I support them in their efforts and ask that you support them as well.
Follow @savethebwca on X (Twitter), Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn to learn more about this important issue and take action! #savethebwca
