Overview: Why an SEIS is being prepared
On DATE, 2026, NewRange notified the DNR of proposed changes to their NorthMet Project. Under Minnesota Rules 4410.3000, Subp. 3.B, the DNR prepare a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) when a project’s proposed changes are so substantial that they could alter its significant environmental impacts, or if new information/circumstances arise that could significantly affect those impacts in ways not considered in the final EIS. After reviewing the proposed changes to the NorthMet Project, the DNR determined on DATE that an SEIS is required. The DNR will prepare an independent, state-only SEIS to evaluate the proposed project. The agency understands that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) will prepare a federal SEIS under the National Environmental Policy Act, which serves a similar purpose to the state’s environmental review.
The DNR will coordinate with USACE, to the fullest extent possible on matters such as data, analytical approaches, and public participation. The DNR will also seek to coordinate closely with USACE as we undertake Minnesota’s consultations with Tribal Governments.
Background: 2015 Final EIS History
Between 2005 and 2015, the NorthMet Project underwent an extensive environmental review process. In accordance with state and federal laws, a joint state/federal EIS was prepared under the leadership of the DNR, USACE, and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS). This process resulted in the NorthMet Mining and Land Exchange Final Environmental Impact Statement. The Final state EIS was deemed adequate by the DNR in March 2016, marking the end of the state's environmental review process.
Final EIS (2015)
Record of Decision (2016)
The SEIS does not restart the EIS process; instead, it builds upon the existing EIS, focusing specifically on proposed substantial changes and new information.
Next Steps: The SEIS Process
The SEIS process includes three phases: 1) SEIS preparation notice; 2) SEIS preparation; and 3) SEIS adequacy determination.
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The DNR is currently drafting the SEIS preparation notice, which will identify what has changed since the 2015 Final EIS, including new information or circumstances that could affect environmental or socioeconomic impacts. The SEIS preparation notice will also outline issues tobe analyzed, project alternatives to be examined and studies to be undertaken. It will also provide a schedule for preparing the SEIS. This phase can involve input from other agencies and Tribal Governments.
SEIS Project Materials: Information and Documents used to Prepare the SEIS
DNR Documents
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Proposer-provided Materials
Below are documents prepared by NewRange. The DNR makes no claim regarding the accuracy of the content provided. As RGU, the DNR will assess the accuracy and completeness of all information used in the SEIS, including proposer-provided information.
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