Our Geologic Resources Management Division (GRMD) regulate several mining industries in Michigan including, metallic mining, native copper mining, sand dune mining, and coal mining. We enforce regulations which address issues such as transportation, storage, treatment, and disposal of ore, waste rock, and plans for mining and reclamation. The mining industries are also regulated by other environmental statutes and divisions within the EGLE such as our Air Quality Division and Water Resources Division.
There are also several other important mineral commodities such as gypsum, dimension stone, limestone, and aggregate (gravel pits) that are mined in Michigan but are not regulated by EGLE. These industries, although not requiring a mining permit from EGLE, may be subject to federal, state, or local air, water, or land use permits.
Regulated by Part 635: Coal Mining, a Coal Mine Reclamation Permit is required for mining coal in Michigan.
Requirements for permitting, reporting, and reclamation of sand dune mines are established by Part 637: Sand Dune Mining.
Regulated by Part 631: Ferrous Mineral Mining, ferrous or iron containing minerals are used in common manufactured products.
Melanie Humphrey, HumphreyM@Michigan.gov or 906-250-7564.
The Upper Peninsula Geological Repository (UPGR) is located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula near the Sawyer International Airport in Gwinn, Michigan. The collection is enclosed within a 44,000 square foot warehouse and holds drill core and cuttings with an emphasis on Northern Peninsula Geology.
