DNR gives NewRange Copper Nickel the green light to make improvements to the tailings basin

NewRange Copper Nickel can make improvements to their tailings basin, now that the DNR has issued a Dam Safety Permit Amendment.

The amendment issued Tuesday allows for the construction of a new spillway at the top of the existing inactive tailings basin, the addition of coarse tailings fill to keep water away from the edge of the dam, and the construction of a rock-lined channel directing any water that leaves the spillway to an existing storage pond.

According to the DNR, these changes will improve the dam stability by preventing ponded water from encroaching upon the perimeter dam during extreme precipitation events.

These new features will replace the existing water management structure at the tailings basin that is no longer functional.

The DNR said the amendment does not expand the capacity or increase the footprint of the existing tailings basin.

DNR dam safety experts met with representatives of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and considered the Band’s comments as part of the DNR’s review of the NewRange amendment application. The DNR also considered all other comments received on the proposed amendment. The DNR’s review of the proposed amendment determined that the planned construction meets all requirements of Minnesota’s dam safety laws and that it would increase the safety of the dam.

The project overall remains on hold while legal challenges play out in court.