DEQ approves Orvana Copperwood Mine permit

Agency: Environmental Quality

For More Information                                      Joe Maki, 906-346-8563, makij3@michigan.gov

Brad Wurfel, 517-241-7395, wurfelb@michigan.gov 

The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality today announced it has approved a mining permit to Orvana Resources US Corp. for the proposed Copperwood Mine in Gogebic County, Michigan.

The department's decision follows a detailed review of Orvana's permit application, public comments and supplemental information to determine whether the proposed mining operation meets the strict standards of Michigan's mining law, Part 632 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act. 

Based on all information available, the DEQ has determined the application meets or exceeds the requirements for approval. 

Additional permits are required for the Copperwood Mine, including permits for air emissions, water discharges, wetlands impacts, and inland lakes and streams modifications. The DEQ is still reviewing those applications. 

The mining permit is not effective until all other Michigan environmental permits for the proposed mining operation are issued.

For more information about mining in Michigan, go to

http://www.michigan.gov/deq/0,1607,7-135-3311_4111_18442---,00.html 

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