Representative Pete Stauber Criticizes Cancellation of Twin Metals Mineral Lease, Citing Economic Impact
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has canceled one of the mineral leases held by Twin Metals Minnesota, a decision that U.S. Representative Pete Stauber (R-MN) has publicly criticized. The lease, located near Babbitt, was terminated after nearly a year of review, with the DNR stating that Twin Metals had not met the performance and production requirements. This cancellation follows an executive action by Governor Tim Walz last month, which halted Twin Metals' efforts to establish a copper-nickel mine in the Rainy River Headwaters Watershed due to concerns about potential pollution to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Representative Stauber, who represents northeastern Minnesota and supports the region's mining industries, called the DNR's decision "another blow to Northern Minnesota," arguing it disregards union jobs and significant funding for Minnesota's school districts. The canceled lease is set to officially end on November 10.
