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FRIDAY, AUGUST 30, 2002

Wisconsin state regulators are concerned about possible pollution from a mine operation proposed near the Mole Lake Reservation.

The Sokaogon Ojibwe Tribe has opposed the 55 million-ton zinc-copper sulfide mine. The mine would be located upstream from Rice Lake, an important cultural and food source.

The Forest County Potawatomi Tribe, the Menominee Nation, local goverments and environmentalists also oppose the proposal. Potawatomi chairman Gus Frank said the state's concerns show that the mine shouldn't be approved.

The opponents have asked the state to buy the land. Gov. Scott McCallum (R) said he would consider the request.

Get the Story:
DNR raises questions about mining company's plans (AP 8/29)

Relevant Links:
Sokaogon Band, Mole Lake Reservation - http://www.molelake.com Ban Cyanide at Crandon Mine - http://www.alphacdc.com/treaty/cyanide.html
Nicolet Minerals - http://www.crandonmine.com
American Indian Environmental Office, EPA - http://www.epa.gov/indian

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Mine near Wis. reservation upheld (1/30)
Wis. tribe has hopes after cyanide ban (11/7)
State fighting tribal water ruling (11/6)
Wis. might appeal Ojibwe decision (9/25)
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