BIG BAY - The Kennecott Eagle Minerals Company has begun site preparation work on state land to construct surface facilities for its nickel and copper mine.
However, mine opponents said the company does not have the necessary federal permit for construction to begin.
Last week, some equipment was brought in and work began on removing brush and otherwise preparing the site to erect fencing. Some environmental controls, including siltation fencing, also was put up.
"We are scheduled to start surface facilities this summer," said Matt Johnson, Kennecott government and community relations manager in Ishpeming.
In addition, Johnson said the mining company has not received a response from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on whether Kennecott needs an underground injection control permit before mine construction can begin.
Kennecott recently revised its design for the water discharge system of the mine, changing to a system in which pipes will be above ground rather than buried beneath the soil.
With this change, the company withdrew its permit application with the EPA, which had been under consideration for three years.
Kennecott has said it now has all the necessary permits in hand to begin construction. Officials with the DNRE have concurred, based on Kennecott's assertions.
The EPA response remains outstanding and Johnson said today, the company has no clear idea when it will be received.
Michelle Halley, an attorney and Lake Superior Project manager for the National Wildlife Federation, reacted strongly to the news work at the mine site had begun without receiving the EPA permit.
"Kennecott does not have a legal right to begin mine construction. If we must seek a preliminary injunction, we will," Halley said.
In fall 2008, a core shed and fencing for that structure were built on property owned by Kennecott. The work done last week getting ready for surface facilities construction was on property leased to Kennecott by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment.
"We're preparing the site for construction," Johnson said.
Kennecott officials do not know when building, including erecting a perimeter fence, will begin. With spring weight restrictions still in place north of U.S. 41, heavy equipment cannot be trucked to the area.
"We're working with the weather and road restrictions," Johnson said.
Kennecott recently began its contractor selection process and the company has let some contracts for the building site preparation work. A. Lindberg and Sons of Marquette has the contract for the work that began last week.
John Pepin can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 206. His e-mail address is jpepin@miningjournal.net.
