The saga of Minnesota’s elusive copper-nickel mine is a tale of optimism marred by lengthy delays and legal battles. Since PolyMet Mining first presented its ambitious plan in 2005, the project has been ensnared in controversies and court rulings, with key permits either revoked or suspended. Now rebranded as NewRange Copper Nickel, the project shows signs of revitalization, fueled by a $20 million salvage operation and significant investment from global mining giants. Yet, as environmental concerns loom and legal hurdles persist, the region stands divided on what promises—and perils—this mining venture truly holds.
It’s a story from Minnesota, but the meta themes are just as true in North Dakota. If you don’t see how, consider the Dakota Access Pipeline, the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline and other projects that swirl in the whirlpool of industrial development.
