NorthMet Project: Process

Environmental Review - SEIS

  1. Preparation Notice

    • The DNR develops a preparation notice that outlines the scope of the SEIS, including the impacts, alternatives, and mitigation measures not addressed in the Final EIS.

    • Public comment period and meetings on the preparation notice

    • Once the DNR publishes the preparation notice, the public can review it, share feedback, and attend public meetings.

  2. Draft Supplemental EIS

    • Following completion of the preparation notice phase, the DNR prepares a draft SEIS that describes and evaluates potentially significant environmental effects, alternatives, and potential mitigation measures as they relate to the project’s proposed changes.

  3. Public Comment and Meetings on the Draft SEIS

    • Once the DNR publishes the Draft SEIS, the public has the opportunity review it, provide comments, and participate in public meetings.

  4. Final Supplemental EIS

    • The DNR revises the document based on public input and prepares the Final SEIS.

  5. Public Comment on the Final SEIS

    • The DNR publishes the Final SEIS and the public is given one last opportunity to review and provide comments.

  6. Adequacy Decision

    • After reviewing all comments and ensuring the SEIS meets state requirements, the DNR issues a final decision on the adequacy of the environmental review.

Permit to Mine permitting

  1. Mine Waste Characterization Conference (DNR and applicant)

    • The DNR and applicant meet to outline chemical, mineralogical and petrological analyses and laboratory tests to be conducted on mine materials. This is ongoing through the life of the mine.

  2. Mine Waste Characterization (applicant begins process)

    • Analyses and lab tests describing acid generation and dissolved solids release

    • Characterization of reagents to be used

    • Additional mine waste characterization as may be required

  3. Preapplication Conference and site visit

    • The DNR and applicant review the proposed mining operation and provide direction on the preparation of a permit to min application.

  4. Public Informational Meeting - in conjunction with Preapplication Conference

    1. The DNR invites participation by MPCA, Minnesota Environmental Quality Board (EQB) and local governments.

  5. Preparation of Application (applicant)

    • Application submitted to DNR and DNR reviews and comments on application

    • Applicant provides further information as needed, and DNR reviews and comments on new information

    • These two steps may repeat themselves multiple times

  6. DNR determines application complete

    • DNR publishes notice of application in State Register and EQB Monitor

    • Applicant publishes notice in newspaper once a week for four weeks (22 days)

    • Written objections must be filed within 30 days of last newspaper publication

    • DNR determines person objecting meets criteria (10 days)

  7. DNR resolves issues. If substantial changes result, applicant republishes application. If issues are not resolved, DNR holds a hearing. Hearing will also be required if DNR denies application or requires additional conditions

  8. DNR permit decision: within 120 days after hearing record or 90 days after examiner's report, whichever later. If no hearing, DNR approves application within 120 days after last day to object

Other permits

Proposed changes to the NorthMet Project may require NewRange to obtain new or amended permits, including Dam Safety, Water Appropriation, Take of Endangered and Threatened Species Take, and Public Waters Work permits, among others.

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