Three years ago we thought the Boundary Waters (BWCA), the largest wilderness area east of the Rockies, was safe when mining leases were cancelled. Now, Republican Congressman Peter Stauber wants to change all that, by introducing legislation to open this fragile wilderness to exploitation. Over a million acres with 1100 lakes, these waters extend over 150 miles along the U.S.-Canadian border.
Hey, but who cares about fragile ecosystems when there’s money to be made? Real money from mining interests. In 2022, the Forest Service released a report citing the dangers of toxic copper-nickel mining to the area. Of course, there won’t be many, if any, rangers to note the impact since the cyber dwarfs have fired Forest Service employees, who, BTW, are often involved in rescues of visitors.
But, not to worry, because with copper-nickel mining the area will be so destroyed that Minnesota’s largest tourist area will have fewer visitors. The mining companies can monitor wildfire danger, increased due to the climate catastrophe faced in this area since in spite of claims that firefighters are exempt from job cuts, they, too, have met Musk’s chainsaw approach to government.
Prayer for the Day
As we think of approaching the Season of Lent, O God,
Let us not simply wallow in repentance without action;
As we come into the season of reflection, O Lord,
Let us use this time to plan how to save your earth from harm.
Hold us fast to your demand not to abuse your world,
The one you have given us to care for.
In the name of the One who walks with us,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Existing literature suggests that hardrock minerals mining of sulfide-bearing rock, no matter how it is conducted, poses a risk of environmental contamination due to the potential failure over time of engineered mitigation technology.
From U.S. Forest Service environmental study (June 2022)
This is the way the law was set up. It’s a very strong scientific approach to everything we know about the (Boundary Waters), and what mining would pose in terms of risk to this place.
Becky Rom, chair, Save the Boundary Waters
O Lord, how long shall the wicked, how long shall the wicked exult?
They pour out their arrogant words; all the evildoers boast.
Psalm 94: 3-4