For the past 40 years, the Red Wing Environmental Learning Center has been introducing young people to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. As a former director of the ELC for 30 years, I have had the opportunity to observe life-changing effects this natural wonder has had on hundreds of young lives. TheBWCAW is the only wilderness of its kind in the lower 48 states and has been used and cherished by millions of Minnesotans and U.S. citizens. On several occasions, I have encountered visitors from foreign countries paddling through this remarkable area. With our increasing population and a greater demand for areas providing peace and solitude, the canoe country has become invaluable and irreplaceable now and for future generations.
Despite these noble attributes, the BWCAW today is under serious threat. The attack is the possibility of sulfide mining operations adjacent to the wilderness. As we speak, the Duluth Metals Company with financial backing from a mining company from Chile is drilling exploratory holes within three miles of the South Kawishiwa River near Ely. Sulfide mining in the United States has a deplorable track record of contaminated lakes, rivers and groundwater. Not to mention the harmful effects on human health, fish, wildlife and flora. In several cases, sulfide mining companies have declared bankruptcy or refused to pay for abatement when problems occur, leaving taxpayers to pick up the tab.
I have traveled in Arizona, New Mexico, South Dakota, and Tennessee where sulfide mining has taken place. One word describes the experience—depressing. It is unconscionable that this type of mining activity might take place near a national treasure.
I am aware of the need to create new jobs, particularly in rural Minnesota. However, in light of the tragic environmental disaster unfolding in the Gulf of Mexico, the ultimate question Minnesotans should be asking is….”Can Minnesota afford to risk the beauty and integrity of an irreplaceable national paradise to create 300 to 400 jobs that are here today and in all likelihood gone tomorrow?” For the sake of our children and grandchildren, I hope the answer is a resounding no!
Bruce Ause
Red Wing, MN
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