Crunch time for PolyMet

You probably saw that PolyMet/Glencore got some of their permits from the state. It’s important to bear in mind that they still have plenty more to get. The way they got their permits so far is messed up - especially if they ultimately get away with it.

First, Minnesota’s Center for Environmental Advocacy (MCEA) has argued PolyMet is planning to build a dramatically bigger mine than it has actually proposed. The second is that some disputes over the project — such as questions raised about the safety of its tailings dam intended to store waste — should be subject to review from an administrative law judge...

Based on financial information submitted by PolyMet through Canadian disclosure laws, however, the MCEA contends the mining company wants to build a mine at least double in size. Copper-nickel mining has long-term risks for the environment, including the creation of acid that can leach heavy metals into water.

“It is very rare for a regulatory agency to say no to an expansion,” Aaron Klemz, a spokesman for the MCEA, told reporters Thursday. “This is a very common technique for the mining industry — to get their camel’s nose under the tent and then come in with the actual proposal.” Klemz’s organization has a pending lawsuit challenging the decision to not review a larger mine in the Court of Appeals. - MinnPost

Moreover:

Paula Maccabee, WaterLegacy Advocacy Director and Counsel expresses concern that the DNR has allowed PolyMet to put up much less financial assurance than required by law to protect taxpayers:

“It would be very troubling if the DNR was allowing PolyMet to circumvent the rules and low-ball financial assurance to make PolyMet’s economically marginal sulfide mining project appear financially feasible.” - WaterLegacy

So, we’ll see.