STEPHENSON, MI (WTAQ-WLUK) – A lot of people spoke out Thursday night at Stephenson High School about a proposed gold, zinc, and copper mine along the Menominee River in Upper Michigan.
Last month, the mine, known as the “Back Forty Project”, received preliminary permit approval from the state of Michigan.
Joe Maki, with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, spoke to WLUK
“We feel though our statute is strong enough that with our requirements that if they do have say an oil spill or something from a truck that its identified early enough before it becomes a widespread problem”
For the past several years, Toronto-based Aquila Resources has spent about $70 million investigating putting an open air mine on the edge in Lake Township.
Before issuing final decisions on the permits, Michigan officials wanted to hear from the public. One hundred people signed up to speak during the four-hour public hearing.
Cindy Ives was one of them.
“I’m thinking the DEQ really should hear us out. It’s water. Water is something we all need. It’s very important.”
Based on the speakers and applause, most people at the hearing share similar environmental concerns about the mine.
Ada Deer is former chairperson for the Menominee Indian Tribe.
“A mine will destroy the land, the environment, the animals, the water”
Mine supporters were also at the meeting. Wayne Erickson sees plenty of benefits.
“I think it’s going to be good for our community. It’s going to bring people in. It’s going to create jobs for those that are unemployed here. They are going to be good paying jobs.”
The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality must make a final decision on the permits on or before December 1st.
