It is being predicted that both iron ore and copper mining will experience a comeback in the US Midwest, as there is currently a demand for both commodities in local and foreign markets.
There are six mines that are either proposed or already under construction in the Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin areas. Specifically in the Minnesota area where there are four new operations that are using advanced technology to extract iron ore from waste rock that was mined long ago.
Lundin’s Eagle Mine, a nickel and copper operation located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, is due to begin production this fall. The Eagle mine is expected to bring $4 billion into Marquette Country over its eight-year lifespan, permanently employing 300 people and creating 1,200 indirect jobs. However, there are some concerns over the possible environmental damage, especially to the many nearby lakes. For example, one of the ore bodies is located directly under the headwaters of the Salmon Trout River and may have the potential of creating acid mine drainage that would flow down the river and eventually to Lake Superior. The mining companies maintain that they have learned from past mistakes and will leave a very small footprint this time around.