Biden Administration’s Controversial Move to Evacuate Minnesota Forest Region
Biden administration aims to evacuate 225,504 acres of northern Minnesota forest over 20 years.
DOI disallows mining in Duluth's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and surrounding areas.
Decision made to preserve ecological balance and watershed, based on scientific analysis and public feedback.
Twin Metals Minnesota mining venture holds major portion of US cobalt reserves, along with copper, nickel, and platinum-group elements.
Critical minerals crucial for eco-friendly energy technologies like EV batteries and wind turbines.
Global mineral supply chain dominated by China and hostile/human rights-violating nations.
State Department signed accord for funding mining operations in DRC, where child labor used in cobalt mines.
Rep. Bruce Westerman criticizes Democrats for targeting US mineral-rich region and playing political games.
CEO of National Mining Association expresses concern that decision contradicts Biden administration's goals and may result in mining operations in countries with lower environmental and safety regulations.