July 30, 2007

The DEQ suspended the permit application process earlier this year so it could ensure that the public had been given the opportunity to review all of the technical documents associated with the project.  Two independent reviews -- one by Dr. Donald Inman and another by Dr. Wilson Blake -- have concluded that several of DEQ's procedural reforms will ensure that a complete public record is maintained and affirmed that the proposed project meets all of the requirements of Michigan's new mining laws.

With that information, the DEQ has reinstated its earlier proposal to approve a series of permits to the company.  This action remains only a proposal and the public will continue to have an opportunity to provide comments.  The following public hearings have been scheduled:

• West Branch Community Center in Forsyth Township from September 11-12 from 1 to 4:30 and 6 to 9:30 p.m.; and September 13, from 1 to 4:30 p.m.
  
  
• Lansing Center in downtown Lansing on September 19 from 1 to 4:30 and 6 to 9:30 p.m. 

The public comment period will remain open through October 17, and written comments can be sent to DEQ/DNR Kennecott Comments, Office of Geological Survey, P.O. Box 30256, Lansing, Michigan 48909-7756, or by e-mail at DEQ-Kennecott-comments@michigan.gov. 

The Mining Permit Application, technical reviews, and other documents may be accessed on the DEQ's Web page at http://www.michigan.gov/deq, then click on Kennecott Eagle Project under "Issues to Watch."

The Eagle Project Mine proposes to produce nickel, copper, and other metals from a small but rich metal sulfide deposit located about 25 miles northwest of Marquette.  Kennecott would use underground mining methods that are designed to avoid impacts to the nearby Salmon Trout River or adjacent lands.  The entrance to the mine, as well as the associated surface facilities, would be at a remote upland location, and the ore would be transported by truck and rail to a processing site in Ontario. Kennecott proposes to backfill the mined-out areas with waste rock, gravel, and cement and reclaim the entire area to its original condition at the conclusion of mining.

Editor's note:  DEQ news releases are available on the department's Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

"Protecting Michigan's Environment, Ensuring Michigan's Future"

Revised July 30, 2007 by Pat Watson