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You are
receiving this bulletin as a subscriber to the email notification list
for the proposed PolyMet/NorthMet mining project. This list is
hosted by the Department of Natural Resources but is used jointly by the
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and DNR. If you are no longer interested in receiving these bulletins please use the links at the end to unsubscribe.
On
August 2, Poly Met Mining, Inc. (PolyMet) submitted a 401 certification
request to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) for its
proposed NorthMet project in northeastern Minnesota.
The 401 certification request can be found at www.pca.state.mn.us/quick-links/401-certification-northmet.
401 certification requests include a description of:
- the size and location of the aquatic resources, such as wetlands and streams, that will be excavated or filled
- how aquatic resources near the project footprint might be negatively affected
- a plan to replace lost aquatic resources; and
- a plan to monitor nearby aquatic resources in case additional resources are lost and must be replaced.
The
information contained in these documents helps the MPCA determine which
state and federal requirements apply. The MPCA will review the 401
certification request and evaluate the need to develop conditions for a
401 certification that ensures the project can meet applicable laws and
requirements, such as water quality standards. During this process it is
normal for MPCA technical staff to request additional information from
the applicant.
Public input will be
solicited if a draft 401 certification is developed. MPCA encourages
public participation during the formal public notice and comment period
when a draft certification is available for public review and comment.
Additional information about the MPCA’s permitting processes for the
PolyMet proposed project can be found on the MPCA’s webpage: www.pca.state.mn.us/northmet.
This
is one of several applications PolyMet will be submitting to the MPCA and Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
You can find information about other permits and approvals and receive
updates from the MPCA and DNR at the
state’s PolyMet web portal: www.mn.gov/polymet
Subscribers
to this email list will be notified of key steps in the permitting
processes for PolyMet such as opportunities for public comment, as well
as news of any other applications received by MPCA or DNR.
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