Photo Credit: YouTube/ Boundary Waters Canoe Area
(WASHINGTON, DC.) -- The resolution to lift the 20-year ban on mining near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) Wilderness passed the Senate Apr. 16, by a single vote. It will now be forwarded to Pres. Donald Trump for the final signature.
Those who support the resolution believe it could lead to a mining boom, but at the very least, it will help boost the local economy surrounding the area. The Legislature Native American Caucus opposes the action. Others believe it's an attack on tribal sovereignty and the Treaty of La Pointe, which has been in place for generations. Rep. Shelley Buck (DFL) called the decision devastating not only for those here in Minnesota, but for all public lands. When contacted for a comment on the recent vote, Rep. Buck had this to say:
"Federal courts have long recognized treaty-reserved hunting and fishing rights; however, this action substantially degrades our people's rights and our future. This fight is far from over. The legislature plays a key role alongside the MPCA, the DNR, and the Governor’s office. Minnesota is the ancestral homeland of the Dakota people, and as a Dakota woman, I will ensure our state does everything possible to protect our natural relatives. We take care of the water so she, in turn, can take care of us."
Video Credit: YouTube
Despite the vote, opposing parties continue to stress the ongoing environmental impacts associated with mining, a cost that will far exceed any temporary economic gain. There is still hope to overturn the vote on H.J. Res. 140 if Pres. Trump decides to veto it; however, that is extremely unlikely.
While supporters of the resolution consider this a win, future mining projects must all undergo years of review and are subject to public input, which may hold up the process of opening a mine in the area. Subsequent administrations also have the ability to overturn the order, but many worry if the process is speed tracked it may come at the cost of irrevocable damage to the BWCA and surrounding watershed.
To add to or correct any information in this report, please contact me at kristin.h@lead4earth.org.
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