I am a mining engineer and geologist with more than
60 years of mining experience. Currently involved in the Kennecott Eagle deposit dispute in Michigan, I read with interest the News Tribune's articles concerning pros and cons of proposed mining by PolyMet and Duluth Metals. They're proposing to mine in very large areas very rich in metals, but which also are extremely sensitive environments.
Has anybody seriously considered a compromise whereby mining would all be underground, very selective rather than with very large openings, and backfilled with the tailings as a cemented "paste," which sets up and locks up the undesirable acid-producing mineral waste? A large proportion of the metals could be mined, but not all, which is better than nothing. The higher cost of selective mining would be offset by the higher value of the materials mined. The surface would not be affected by subsidence. There would be no extensive tailings impoundments.
Why not a compromise?
Jack Parker
ADVERTISEMENT
Toivola, Mich.
