The Natural Resource Development Association announced today that it will be submitting written testimony on proposed administrative rule changes the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) said were designed to correct inconsistencies, modernize rules, and provide needed clarity on nonferrous metallic mineral mining. The Wisconsin DNR is holding a public hearing on the rule changes this afternoon.
“For more than 30 years, the miner on the Wisconsin state flag has been in the unemployment line and he needs to get back to work,” said Nathan Conrad, Executive Director of the Natural Resource Development Association. “With 21st century technology and appropriate rulemaking and regulations, we can encourage and promote mining’s safe return to Wisconsin.”
The Wisconsin DNR public hearing – from 4-6:30 p.m., today – will review the proposed administrative rule, CR 20-043, regarding “Nonferrous metallic mineral exploration, bulk sampling, prospecting, mining and mining waste management.” Chapters NR 130 (Exploration and Bulk Sampling), NR 131 (Prospecting), NR 132 (Mining) and NR 182 (Mining Waste Management) are being revised.
“We are initially encouraged with the department’s efforts to modernize these administrative rules and implement substantial revisions based on the Mining for America Act, and believe this is a step in the right direction for the mining industry,” Conrad said. “The Mining for America Act of 2017 kickstarted the return of the mining industry in Wisconsin and, with revised rules, we hope to build on that momentum so we can realize the statewide economic opportunity waiting to be unleashed.”
The NRDA was a leading supporter of the Mining for America Act, and advocates for policies that lead to responsible natural resource development, allowing for both a strong economy and a clean environment.
If you are interested in participating or watching the hearing today live online, the public hearing can be seen here via the virtual location link. Public comments must be submitted by Monday, Oct. 26.
