Let me see if I understand this: Two companies want to dig copper-nickel mines in northern Minnesota in environmentally pristine areas, one of which is close to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Then, after 20 years or so, they could close shop, take their profits, and leave behind highly toxic "lakes" that would have to be monitored for 500 years to prevent the leakage of nasty stuff, including into our groundwater supply.
Some of the lakes and streams that could be affected feed into the Great Lakes, which contain a significant concentration of the world's most valuable and limited commodity, fresh water.
Copper is also a valuable commodity, and mining jobs provide economic opportunities for local workers.
But in this case, jobs do not not outweigh the potential harm we could impose upon future generations if we take the risks that this mining would require.
Bill Allen
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Duluth
