DEQ near decision on Copperwood Mine permit

Agency: Environmental Quality

For More Information                                 Brad Wurfel, 517-241-7395, wurfelb@michigan.gov 

                                                                   Joe Maki, 906-346-8563, makij3@michigan.gov

March 6 meeting scheduled Ironwood for public comment

The DEQ recently announced its proposed decision to grant a Part 632 Mine permit to Orvana Resources US Corp. to conduct mining operations at the proposed Copperwood Mine in Gogebic County.

The department's proposed decision follows an extensive review by the DEQ, which incorporated public comments and supporting information, to determine whether Orvana's proposal meets the strict standards contained in Michigan's mining laws. 

Based on information available, the DEQ has determined that the application appears to meet the requirements for approval under Part 632 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act. The DEQ is required to make its decision based solely on whether a proposal meets those standards. 

The department will host a public hearing March 6 at Gogebic Community College, E4946 Jackson Rd., to accept public comment on the proposed decision. The hearing is scheduled 6-9 p.m.. 

Following the hearing, the DEQ will accept written comments until 5 p.m. on April 3. The DEQ is required to issue a final decision on the mining permit by May 1. The decision date may be extended if the DEQ requires additional information from ORUSC based on questions raised by public comments.

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