Rep. Stupak says no federal permit needed for Kennecott nickel, copper mine in Michigan

EPA: No fed permit needed for Michigan mine

MARQUETTE, Mich. — A member of Congress says the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has decided that Kennecott Eagle Minerals Co. doesn’t need a federal permit to build a nickel and copper mine in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Democratic Rep. Bart Stupak, whose district includes the section of Marquette County where the mine would be located, announced the decision Friday. The Associated Press left messages seeking comment with EPA’s regional office in Chicago.

The federal permit was the last regulatory hurdle for Kennecott Eagle, which already has state permits to build and operate the mine.

Opponents of the project contend the mine would pollute groundwater and rivers in the remote area near Lake Superior. Kennecott says it will protect the environment.