Wisconsin Mining Permits Could Take Mere 300 Days

A bill that would dramatically speed up Wisconsin’s mining permitting process is being considered by two Republican legislators. Right now the process takes two to seven years. The new legislation would reduce it to 300 days.

Senator Rich Zipperer of Pewaukee says reducing the timeline for ferrous, non-sulfide mining, like an open pit iron ore mine proposed in the Penokee Range by Gogebic Taconite, would still protect the environment. He says it’s important the process be fair, open but faster.

“When you’re looking to attract investment, attract jobs, they need to know how long their investment is going to be out there and cannot just afford to wait indefinitely on a project,” Zipperer said.

Gogebic Taconite will drill exploratory holes this summer in a four-mile stretch in Ashland and Iron Counties. Company President Bill Williams says this bill would set responsible limits on the length of the process. Otherwise, he says the company may abandon its plans for a mine if it takes too long.

“Without having the direct feel or pulse of our ownership or our corporate level, I would suspect that could be the case," Williams said.

The open pit mine in the Penokee Range would be in the 74th Congressional District - from where State Rep. Janet Bewley hails. She says fast-tracking the permitting process fits with Republican Governor Scott Walker’s “Open for Business” motto.

“When the Governor puts that shingle out and says 'Open for Business,' I think anyone who cares as much about the environment as we do, we’ve got to sit up straight and make sure all the t’s are crossed and i’s dotted and that our environment is protected. So is it a threat? I don’t know. Is it a reason to be more concerned and engaged? Absolutely,” Bewley said.

Zipperer hopes to have the legislation passed before the session ends June 30.