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EGLE approves Eagle operational changes

MICHIGAMME — Eagle Mine can make changes to some of its operational procedures following a decision by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy announced Friday.

EGLE approved a permit to install which will allow the company to add an outdoor on-site aggregate and sand storage area immediately north of the mine’s existing temporary development rock area in Michigamme Township where it will operate a rock screening plant.

In a separate request, company officials asked to revise the permitted allowable trucking limits from a 12-month rolling limit to a calendar-year limit for both the Humboldt Mill and the Eagle Mine to cover periods of adverse weather conditions.

The requests were made to “optimize the reliability” of the mine’s backfilling operation by allowing it to store a larger quantity of aggregate and sand, which is used to make cement to backfill areas of the mine where mining activity has ceased.

In an email Friday, Eagle Mine Environmental Superintendent Jen Nutini the ability to haul ore from the Eagle Mine to the Humboldt Mill throughout the year allows the company to adapt to weather-related delays as well as community requests to halt trucking during public events along the route.

“The total amount that can be mine or hauled does not change,” Nutini said. “This additional flexibility helps ensure the safety of our drivers and the community.”

According to the EGLE response to comments document, approximately 40 people attended a virtual public hearing on March 30.

Lisa Bowers can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 242. Her email address is lbowers@miningjournal.net.

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