Governor’s Executive Order Aims to Protect Boundary Waters from Destructive Mining

DENVER - An executive order issued by Minnesota Governor Tim Walz aims to prevent copper sulfide mining near the Boundary Waters Wilderness Canoe Area and protect important wildlife habitat, clean drinking water, and abundant recreation opportunities that fuel the rural economies of the Land of 10,000 Lakes' Rainy River Watershed.

"The Boundary Waters is too valuable to risk with toxic sulfide-ore mining. This iconic wild place sustains diverse wildlife, clean water, and an outdoor recreation economy that supports 17,000 jobs," said David Willms, associate vice president for public lands at the National Wildlife Federation. "The governor's executive order attempts to conserve important habitat for hundreds of wildlife species while defending the rural communities that depend on the economic benefits of the Boundary Water's world-class fishing, hunting, canoeing, and camping opportunities."

"Prohibiting this mine on the doorstep of our country's most visited wilderness area ensures that future generations of Americans will be able to enjoy the water, wildlife, and recreation opportunities that makes the Boundary Waters unique," said Brad Gausman, Executive Director of Minnesota Wildlife Federation. "Minnesota has a proud mining heritage but allowing this copper sulfide mine near an irreplaceable wilderness would be a mistake. The Minnesota Wildlife Federation applauds the governor for recognizing that the Boundary Waters is too precious to put in harm's way."