Ancient Agricultural Wonder Challenges Historical Narratives

Deep in the forests of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, along a scenic bend of the Menominee River, archaeologists have made a discovery that is rewriting our understanding of Indigenous agricultural practices in North America. A complex system of raised agricultural beds, spanning more than 330 acres, has been unearthed in what is now known as the Sixty Islands archaeological site in Menominee County.

This remarkable site, part of a larger cultural complex called Anaem Omot (meaning “Dog’s Belly” in the Menominee language), dates back approximately 1,000 years and was actively maintained until the 17th century. The discovery challenges long-held assumptions about the limits of farming in northern regions with harsh climates and short growing seasons.

Sophisticated Farming in Unexpected Territory

Led by Dr. Madeleine McLeester, an assistant professor of anthropology at Dartmouth College, the research team used drone-mounted lidar technology to penetrate the dense forest canopy and reveal intricate patterns of raised garden beds measuring 4 to 12 inches high. What makes this discovery particularly significant is the scale and sophistication of the agricultural system in a region traditionally considered unsuitable for farming.

“Most field systems have been either lost or destroyed due to intensive land use across most of North America,” explains Jesse Casana, a professor of anthropology at Dartmouth and senior author of the study. “Through this research, we get this little window of preservation into pre-Colonial farming in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.”

Excavations revealed that some ridges had been rebuilt repeatedly across a 600-year period, beginning around the year 1000. The farmers didn’t simply plant crops; they engineered the landscape, clearing forests, establishing fields, and amending the soil with wetland soils, household refuse, and ash to improve fertility.

More Than Just Farmland: A Sacred Cultural Landscape

The site contains much more than agricultural fields. Lidar surveys uncovered ceremonial and domestic features interwoven with the farming areas, including a circular dance ring, a rectangular building foundation believed to be a colonial trading post, multiple burial mounds, and 19th-century logging camps.

Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Anaem Omot includes a cluster of significant ancestral sites stretching along the Menominee River corridor. Its relevance spans archaeology, history, and contemporary tribal heritage, making it a sacred landscape for the Menominee people.

Another Crucial Reason to Oppose the Back 40 Mine

This extraordinary archaeological discovery provides yet another compelling reason why the proposed Back 40 mine should not move forward. The Join the River Coalition has been fighting against this open-pit sulfide mine that would be situated near the Menominee River, just 150 feet from the water’s edge.

The proximity of this irreplaceable cultural and historical landscape to the proposed mining operation raises serious concerns about potential damage to archaeological sites that have remained remarkably preserved for over a millennium. Mining operations could disturb not only known archaeological features but also undiscovered sites that may exist in the area.

The Anaem Omot complex represents a continuous cultural connection for the Menominee people, whose ancestors engineered this sophisticated agricultural system against all odds. Allowing mining operations in this culturally and historically significant area would risk destroying irreplaceable evidence of Indigenous innovation and land management that has survived for over 1,000 years.

Preserving Cultural Heritage and Ecological Balance

The Join the River Coalition’s fight against the Back 40 mine now has additional scientific and cultural weight behind it. The discovery of these ancient agricultural fields demonstrates that the Menominee River corridor is not just an ecosystem worth protecting for its natural resources, but also a cultural landscape that holds invaluable information about Indigenous agricultural practices and land management strategies.

As we face growing challenges related to sustainable farming and climate adaptation, these ancient agricultural systems may hold important lessons. The Menominee ancestors developed sophisticated methods to farm successfully in a region with poor soil quality, cold temperatures, and short growing seasons – precisely the kind of adaptive knowledge that could prove valuable in our changing climate.

The ancient fields of Anaem Omot represent both a window into our past and a potential guide for our future. Their preservation is not just about honoring Indigenous heritage but also about protecting a living laboratory that could inform sustainable agricultural practices for generations to come.

By opposing the Back 40 mine and supporting the Join the River Coalition, we can help ensure that this remarkable archaeological site and the knowledge it contains remain intact for future generations to study, appreciate, and learn from.

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In a region where water quality is paramount to both economic prosperity and quality of life, one county stands conspicuously silent on a major environmental threat. Kewaunee County has emerged as the only county bordering both Green Bay and Lake Michigan that has not passed a resolution opposing the controversial Canadian Back 40 Mine proposed for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

The Devastating Potential of the Back 40 Mine

The proposed Back 40 Mine, if approved, would create an 800-foot deep crater just a few hundred feet from the banks of the Menominee River. This is not a small-scale operation but a massive open-pit sulfide mine that threatens one of our region’s most valuable natural resources.

The Menominee River is not just any waterway. It’s a beautiful, powerful, and remarkably unimpaired river that serves as a vital fishery and recreational destination for thousands of visitors each year. More critically, it empties directly into Green Bay and Lake Michigan, meaning any contamination would potentially affect the entire Great Lakes ecosystem.

Sulfide mining is particularly concerning because when sulfide minerals are exposed to air and water, they can create sulfuric acid—a process known as acid mine drainage. This toxic runoff can devastate aquatic life and contaminate drinking water sources for generations.

Local Voices of Concern

Concerned citizens like Sue Weisser have been raising the alarm about Kewaunee County’s puzzling position. In her letter to the editor published in the Peninsula Pulse on February 23rd, 2018, Weisser expressed her frustration with the county’s inaction.

“It is extremely embarrassing for Kewaunee County residents,” Weisser wrote, pointing out that while the county already struggles with water quality issues, its representatives have failed to take a stand against another potential threat to clean water.

Weisser’s letter highlighted a troubling disconnect: a county already known for water contamination problems remains silent on a project that could further endanger its water resources. As she poignantly asked in her letter, if clean water is truly the board’s priority, why hasn’t it joined neighboring counties in opposing the mine?

A Regional United Front—Minus One

Every other county along the shorelines of Green Bay and Lake Michigan has recognized the serious threat posed by the Back 40 Mine and taken formal action to oppose it. Door County, Brown County, Marinette County, and others have all passed resolutions expressing their concerns about the potential environmental impact.

The Menominee Tribe of Wisconsin has been particularly vocal in its opposition, citing not only environmental concerns but also the destruction of cultural sites that would result from the mining operation.

Yet Kewaunee County stands alone in its silence, despite sharing the same waterways and facing the same potential risks as its neighboring counties.

How You Can Make a Difference

While government action is crucial, citizen involvement is equally important in protecting our shared natural resources. If you’re concerned about the Back 40 Mine and its potential impact on the Menominee River, Green Bay, and Lake Michigan, there are concrete ways you can help:

1. Contribute financially: Visit https://jointherivercoalition.org/contribute/ to make a donation. Every contribution helps fund the ongoing legal and advocacy work needed to stop the mine.
2. Volunteer your time: Your skills and energy are valuable resources in this fight. Visit https://jointherivercoalition.org/volunteer/ to learn about volunteer opportunities with the River Coalition.
3. Contact your representatives: If you’re a Kewaunee County resident, reach out to your county board members and ask them why they haven’t joined other counties in opposing the mine. Your voice matters.

The Time to Act Is Now

The permitting process for the Back 40 Mine is already underway, with several approvals already granted. The window for effective opposition is narrowing, making immediate action essential.

The Menominee River, Green Bay, and Lake Michigan are treasures that belong to all of us, not just to mining companies seeking profit. These waters support our economies through tourism, recreation, and fishing; they provide drinking water to millions; and they are integral to the identity and culture of our region.

We cannot afford to stay silent while these resources are threatened. Join the River Coalition today, and help ensure that these waters remain clean and healthy for generations to come.

This blog post reflects the current situation regarding the Back 40 Mine project. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Join the River Coalition website.

The post Kewaunee County Stands Alone: The Only County Not Taking a Stand Against the Back 40 Mine appeared first on Coalition to SAVE the Menominee River, Inc..

GORO’s $8.3 Million First Quarter Loss: A Silver Lining for Menominee River Protection

In what can only be described as a promising development for environmental advocates, Gold Resource Corporation (NYSE American: GORO) reported a substantial $8.3 million loss in its first quarter of 2025. This financial setback represents more than just numbers on a balance sheet—it symbolizes renewed hope for the pristine waters of the Menominee River and the dedicated efforts of the Join the River Coalition.

Financial Troubles Mount for Mining Giant

The company’s recent SEC filing reveals a concerning financial picture, with GORO’s net loss amounting to $0.07 per share for the quarter. According to the report, this significant loss was “mainly attributable to lower production and a decrease in net sales.” The company’s mining operations at its Don David Gold Mine in Mexico have experienced declining grades and production volumes, with equipment availability becoming a critical issue due to the aging and poor condition of its mining fleet.

With only $6.2 million in working capital and $4.9 million in cash as of March 31, 2025, GORO’s financial foundation appears increasingly unstable. Their total cash cost after co-product credits for the quarter reached a staggering $2,494 per gold equivalent ounce, while their all-in sustaining cost climbed to $3,252 per ounce.

Why This Matters for the Menominee River

The Join the River Coalition has been tirelessly fighting against GORO’s proposed Back Forty mine project in Menominee County, Michigan. This controversial mining operation would be located just 150 feet from the Menominee River, which forms the border between Michigan and Wisconsin and flows into Green Bay, Lake Michigan. The proximity puts critical waterways at risk of acid mine drainage and heavy metal contamination.

“Gold Resource Corporation’s financial desperation is precisely why we remain deeply concerned about their Back Forty mining project,” notes the Join the River Coalition. “Companies facing financial difficulties often prioritize profit over environmental protection.”

A Pattern of Financial Pressure and Environmental Risk

While GORO attempts to stabilize its finances through its Mexican operations, environmental advocates point out that their financial struggles raise serious questions about how the company might cut corners when it comes to environmental safeguards at the Back Forty project.

The company’s SEC filing also reveals that GORO requires $38.5 million in capital investment to exploit newly defined mineral deposits at its Mexican operation, this after nearly facing bankruptcy last November due to exhausted high-quality mineral deposits. Total production at their Mexican mine had already plummeted by almost 50% from its 2019 peak.

What This Means for Environmental Protection Efforts

For the Join the River Coalition and other environmental advocates, GORO’s continued financial struggles provide a crucial window of opportunity to strengthen opposition to the Back Forty project. With the company scrambling to secure additional capital through ATM sales and tax refunds, its ability to advance the environmentally questionable Back Forty project faces significant obstacles.

“The decline of GORO is not just a cautionary tale for investors; it’s a rallying cry for a more responsible approach to resource extraction,” states the Join the River Coalition.

How You Can Help Protect the Menominee River

The Join the River Coalition continues to monitor GORO’s regulatory filings and public statements regarding the Back Forty project while supporting legal challenges to any renewed permitting attempts. Their work stands in solidarity with indigenous communities, particularly the Menominee Tribe, who consider the area sacred ancestral land.

For those concerned about protecting the Menominee River and surrounding ecosystems, there are several ways to get involved:

1. Contribute to or volunteer with the Join the River Coalition
2. Stay informed about developments regarding the Back Forty project
3. Support legal challenges to mining permits in the region
4. Engage with local, state, and federal officials to ensure proper scrutiny of any revised mining plans
5. Raise awareness about the environmental risks associated with the proposed mine

As GORO’s financial challenges continue to mount, environmental advocates have reason for cautious optimism. Every quarter that passes with the company focused on financial survival rather than advancing the Back Forty project is a win for the Menominee River and the diverse ecosystems and communities that depend on its health.

Join the River Coalition remains committed to protecting our environment from harmful mining practices and will continue to oppose the Back Forty project, regardless of Gold Resource Corp’s financial maneuvers elsewhere. Our water, our wildlife, and our communities deserve nothing less than our vigilant protection.

The post GORO’s 8.3 Million Loss Offer Hope for Menominee River Protection appeared first on Coalition to SAVE the Menominee River, Inc..

April 22, 2025

In a world where environmental threats continue to mount against our precious water resources, Indigenous voices remain at the forefront of protection and advocacy. Tonight, Madison community members have the rare opportunity to engage with two of Wisconsin’s most dedicated Indigenous water defenders: Paul DeMain (Skabewis) and Gracie Waukechon (Meyawaew).

Event Details

Date: Tuesday, April 22, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Social Justice Center, 1202 Williamson Street, Madison, WI

About the Speakers

Paul DeMain (Skabewis)

Paul DeMain is a respected journalist and a powerful voice in the movement to shut down Line 5, the controversial oil pipeline threatening the Great Lakes watershed. His Ojibwe name, Skabewis, means “the messenger” – a role he embodies with profound commitment.

“I speak for things that don’t have a voice,” DeMain explains. “I speak for the water, and for our natural world that is impacted by water.”

His decades of experience in journalism have equipped him with the skills to amplify Indigenous environmental concerns and bring critical attention to threats facing Wisconsin’s waterways.

Gracie Waukechon (Meyawaew)

Gracie Waukechon, also known as Meyawaew, represents the next generation of Indigenous environmental leadership. A student at the College of the Menominee Nation and an activist from Bonduel, Wisconsin, Waukechon is a member of the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and Menominee descendant.

Her advocacy work has taken her across Minnesota and Wisconsin, speaking out against Line 5 and the Back Forty Mine. Her voice has reached international audiences, as she has spoken in Toronto and Montreal during screenings of the documentary film “Bad River.”

A Critical Conversation

Tonight’s informal conversation offers attendees a unique opportunity to learn directly from these two Wisconsin Indigenous water defenders. DeMain and Waukechon bring critical voices to the struggle for social and environmental justice, particularly regarding water protection efforts in Wisconsin and throughout the Great Lakes region.

Their presence in Madison extends beyond this evening’s event. Tomorrow, April 23, they will participate in a lobby day and press conference at the Capitol as part of the Wisconsin Right to Boycott campaign, connecting their environmental advocacy with broader social justice movements.

Why This Matters

Water protection stands at the intersection of environmental stewardship, Indigenous sovereignty, and human rights. The threats posed by projects like Line 5 and The Back Forty Mine represent not just environmental concerns but direct challenges to the traditional lifeways and treaty rights of Indigenous nations.

By centering Indigenous voices in environmental conversations, we acknowledge both the disproportionate impact of environmental degradation on Native communities and the valuable knowledge these communities bring to protection efforts.

Join the Conversation

Whether you’re a longtime environmental activist, a concerned community member, or simply interested in learning more about Indigenous perspectives on water protection, tonight’s conversation offers valuable insights and opportunities for engagement.

The Social Justice Center provides an accessible, community-centered space for this important dialogue. No registration is required – simply arrive ready to listen, learn, and engage.

In the words of Paul DeMain: “I speak for the water.” Tonight is your chance to hear what the water, through its dedicated defenders, has to say.

This event is supported by the Madison Rafah Sister City Project. For more information, contact rafahsistercity@yahoo.com.

The post Voices for the Water: A Conversation with Indigenous Defenders Paul DeMain and Gracie Waukechon appeared first on Coalition to SAVE the Menominee River, Inc..

Introduction: What is NatGold?

NatGold represents a groundbreaking shift in how we think about gold as an investment and commodity. At its core, NatGold is a financial innovation that allows gold reserves to be tokenized and traded digitally while the physical gold remains untouched in the ground.

Think of it this way: Instead of extracting gold from the earth—a process that requires heavy machinery, chemicals, and extensive land disruption—NatGold creates digital tokens on a blockchain that represent ownership of gold still in its natural state. Each token corresponds to a specific amount of verified gold reserves, giving investors the ability to own gold without the environmental consequences of mining it.

How NatGold Works in Simple Terms

1. Resource Verification: Geologists and mining experts confirm the existence and quantity of gold deposits at specific locations.
2. Digital Tokenization: These verified unmined gold reserves are converted into digital tokens on a blockchain platform.
3. Investment and Trading: Investors can purchase these tokens, which represent ownership rights to specific amounts of the unmined gold.
4. Custody and Verification: The physical gold remains in the ground, preserved in its natural state, while independent auditors regularly verify that the reserves remain intact.
5. Value Preservation: The tokens maintain their value based on the amount of gold they represent, following traditional gold market pricing.

The Future of Mining: A Paradigm Shift

NatGold has the potential to fundamentally transform the mining industry by creating what some are calling “virtual mining.” This approach could:

• Redefine Resource Extraction: Mining companies can monetize resources without physically extracting them, creating a new revenue stream that doesn’t depend on traditional extraction methods.
• Extend Resource Lifespans: By tokenizing reserves rather than extracting them immediately, companies can strategically manage their resources over much longer timeframes.
• Create Hybrid Operations: Mining companies might develop models where some deposits are physically mined while others are preserved as NatGold reserves, providing financial flexibility and risk management.
• Change Exploration Incentives: The ability to monetize discoveries without immediate extraction could encourage more exploration in sensitive areas, with the understanding that physical mining might never occur.

Environmental Benefits: Mining Without the Footprint

The environmental advantages of NatGold are substantial:

• Zero Extraction Impact: Since the gold remains in the ground, there’s no land disruption, habitat destruction, or landscape alteration.
• No Chemical Usage: Traditional gold mining often uses toxic chemicals like cyanide and mercury for extraction, which can contaminate water sources. NatGold eliminates this risk entirely.
• Water Conservation: Conventional gold mining requires enormous amounts of water—up to 265,000 liters per kilogram of gold. NatGold preserves this precious resource.
• Carbon Footprint Reduction: The heavy machinery and processing facilities used in traditional mining create significant carbon emissions that NatGold avoids.
• Preservation of Biodiversity: By leaving ecosystems intact, NatGold helps protect plant and animal species that might otherwise be displaced or endangered by mining operations.

Economic Implications: New Opportunities in the Gold Market

NatGold creates several interesting economic dynamics:

• Asset Diversification: It provides investors with a new asset class that combines the stability of gold with the convenience of digital assets.
• Value for Mining Companies: Companies can monetize gold reserves more quickly without waiting for the lengthy process of mine development and extraction.
• Reducing Market Volatility: By potentially slowing the rate at which new physical gold enters the market, NatGold could help stabilize gold prices.
• Local Economic Benefits: Communities near gold deposits could benefit financially from NatGold projects without suffering the negative aspects of physical mining operations.
• Lower Capital Requirements: Mining companies can generate revenue from gold deposits without the massive capital investments required for extraction infrastructure.

Bridging the Gap: Can NatGold Satisfy Both Environmentalists and Mining Companies?

The unique structure of NatGold creates a rare opportunity for alignment between groups that have traditionally been at odds:

For Environmentalists:

• Preservation of natural landscapes and ecosystems
• Elimination of toxic runoff and water contamination
• Reduced carbon emissions and resource consumption
• Protection of biodiversity and habitat conservation

For Mining Companies:

• New revenue streams that don’t require expensive extraction
• Ability to monetize deposits that might be challenging or controversial to mine
• Improved ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) profiles for investors
• Potential for higher valuations based on unmined reserves
• Reduced operational risks and liabilities

Potential Challenges to Overcome:

• Ensuring robust verification of gold reserves
• Developing industry standards for NatGold tokenization
• Creating regulatory frameworks that recognize and support this new asset class
• Addressing concerns about eventual extraction rights
• Ensuring equitable distribution of benefits to local communities

The Road Ahead: Implementation Challenges and Opportunities

While NatGold represents an exciting innovation, its widespread adoption faces several hurdles:

1. Regulatory Clarity: Governments and financial authorities need to develop frameworks for this new asset class.
2. Industry Standards: The mining and investment communities must establish agreed-upon standards for verification, tokenization, and trading.
3. Technology Infrastructure: Reliable and secure blockchain platforms are essential for maintaining trust in the system.
4. Market Education: Investors need to understand how NatGold differs from both traditional gold investments and other digital assets.
5. Community Engagement: Ensuring that local communities near gold deposits benefit from NatGold projects will be crucial for social acceptance.

Could the Back 40 Mine be a Viable Solution?

The mine perfectly illustrates the problem NatGold aims to solve – valuable mineral resources (1.1 million ounces of gold plus other metals) trapped in regulatory limbo for over two decades. With its proximity to the Menominee River creating environmental concerns and multiple failed permit attempts, traditional mining faces uncertain prospects despite Gold Resource Corporation’s $30 million investment.

NatGold would allow immediate monetization of these verified reserves without environmental impact or further regulatory delays. The extensive geological assessments already completed provide the verification needed for tokenization, while the strategic importance of the minerals for green energy and national security adds value to digital ownership.

Back 40 could serve as a compelling proof of concept for NatGold, demonstrating how digital tokenization can bridge the gap between environmental protection and resource utilization, creating economic benefits from minerals while they remain safely in the ground.

Conclusion: A Golden Opportunity for Sustainable Innovation

NatGold represents one of the most promising innovations in the mining sector in decades. By allowing gold to fulfill its role as a store of value without the environmental consequences of extraction, it creates a path toward more sustainable resource management.

The concept challenges our traditional understanding of mining and resource utilization, suggesting that the value of natural resources can be realized without their physical consumption. If implemented thoughtfully, with strong verification mechanisms and equitable distribution of benefits, NatGold could indeed create that rare win-win scenario where environmental protection and economic development go hand in hand.

As we look toward a future where sustainable practices become increasingly important, NatGold stands as an example of how financial innovation and environmental consciousness can work together to create meaningful change in how we value and interact with the natural world.

The post NatGold: The Revolutionary Approach That Could Transform Mining Forever appeared first on Coalition to SAVE the Menominee River, Inc..

A Mining Project of Unprecedented Scale Threatens Our Waterways

In an alarming development for everyone concerned about Michigan’s precious waterways, Highland Copper Co. and Kinterra Capital Corp. are advancing plans for the White Pine North project, which would become one of the largest independent copper development projects in the United States. This mining operation would dwarf the already controversial Copperwood mine, containing more than twice the copper, an estimated 5.7 billion pounds compared to Copperwood’s 2.7 billion pounds.

As Join the River Coalition, we’ve been at the forefront of opposing environmentally destructive mining projects like the Back Forty mine on the Menominee River. Today, we must sound the alarm about another potentially catastrophic mining project threatening Michigan’s waters and ecosystems.

Dangerous Proximity to Lake Superior

What makes the White Pine North project particularly concerning is its massive tailings basin, which would be located just two miles south of Lake Superior. The existing tailings basin from the original White Pine mine covers 5,600 acres (8.75 square miles) and is 5.5 miles long and up to 70 feet high.

Most alarmingly, the company plans to raise the dam on the north side of the basin by an additional 26 feet to accommodate new tailings. This is a recipe for disaster, especially considering that outflow from the basin routinely flowed into Lake Superior when the original White Pine mine was operational.

Click on the map to view larger image.

Learning from Mining Disasters

Our experience opposing the Back Forty mine has taught us that when sulfide ore waste is exposed to air and water, it generates sulfuric acid, creating highly toxic acid mine drainage. Just as we’ve seen with other copper mines like the Kennecott Bingham Canyon Mine in Utah, these operations leave a legacy of contamination that can last for generations.

Like the Bingham Canyon mine, White Pine North would create:

• Water contamination risks threaten fish populations and drinking water
• Groundwater impacts affecting rivers and wetlands
• Long-term environmental damage requiring costly remediation
• Cultural and historical damage to the region

Inexperienced Operators, Inadequate Oversight

Neither Highland Copper nor Kinterra Capital has ever built a mine from scratch. Highland Copper has already demonstrated a troubling disregard for environmental regulations – in 2018, they were fined $25,000 for unpermitted drilling during spring snowmelt, in and around wetlands at another project site.

This lack of experience is particularly concerning given Michigan’s “extremely understaffed” Dam Safety Program, which the Association of State Dam Safety Officials has warned is inadequate “to perform the mission of dam safety as required by rules, legislation, and best practice.”

Economic Claims vs. Environmental Reality

While proponents tout job creation, the reality is that these short-term economic gains come at a tremendous long-term environmental cost. The White Pine North project would employ about 545 workers for its 22-year projected lifespan, but the environmental damage could persist for centuries.

Dale Burie, President of our Coalition to SAVE the Menominee River, has noted: “After many years of metallic sulfide mining, with every mine proven to have polluted nearby water and contaminated the environment, we should recognize these ingredients as a recipe for disaster.”

Threat to Lake Superior and Regional Waterways

Lake Superior isn’t just any body of water – it’s the world’s largest freshwater lake by surface area and holds 10% of the world’s fresh surface water. The lake sees 3.5 million visitors annually, and contamination would not only harm marine wildlife but also pose significant public health risks.

The environmental impact assessment for the original White Pine mine noted that outflow from the tailings basin routinely flowed into Lake Superior. With climate change increasing the frequency of extreme weather events, the risk of catastrophic tailings dam failures grows ever more severe.

The Real Cost of Copper

For every ton of ore extracted from copper mines like White Pine North, only a tiny fraction becomes usable copper – the rest is waste containing harmful substances like mercury, arsenic, cadmium, and lead. These toxic elements have been identified by the World Health Organization as among the “top 10 chemicals of major public health concern.”

According to environmental protection organization Earthworks, copper mines have a poor track record for containing waste, with 100 percent of copper mines experiencing pipeline spills and 92 percent failing to adequately control mine wastewater.

A Call to Action

As the Join the River Coalition, we’re calling on all concerned citizens to:

1. Learn More: Educate yourself about the risks of sulfide mining and the specific concerns regarding both the White Pine North and Copperwood projects.
2. Contact Decision-Makers: Write to state and federal officials expressing your concerns about the environmental risks these mining operations pose to Lake Superior and surrounding waterways.
3. Support Our Coalition: Join the River Coalition and other environmental groups in our efforts to protect Michigan’s precious water resources.
4. Share This Information: Help spread awareness about the environmental threats posed by these massive mining projects.

Conclusion

The proposed White Pine North mine represents a significant escalation in the threats facing Michigan’s environment. With more than twice the copper reserves of Copperwood, a massive existing tailings basin that would need to be expanded, and its dangerous proximity to Lake Superior, this project demands our immediate attention and opposition.

In the words of Allison Werner, Policy and Advocacy Director at the River Alliance of Wisconsin: “The risks to our waters are too high for this project to go forward. It’s not a matter of if pollution will occur; it is a question of when it will occur. Long-term protection of drinking water, cultural resources, fisheries, and economies is far more important than this short-term project.”

Join us in standing against this threatening development and protecting Michigan’s precious waterways for future generations.

JOIN THE FIGHT TODAY!

• Contribute
• Volunteer
• Donate

Leave a comment below sharing your thoughts on how we can better protect our rivers and watersheds from mining pollution. What concerns you most about the proposed Back 40 Mine project?

Information courtesy of the 906 Report. To receive more information like the one in this blog post, please subscribe to the 906 Report over at https://the906report.beehiiv.com/subscribe.

The post Proposed White Pine North Mine Would Dwarf the Copperwood Mine: A Looming Environmental Threat appeared first on Coalition to SAVE the Menominee River, Inc..

Financial Struggles Behind Resource Announcements

Gold Resource Corporation (NYSE American: GORO) recently filed a report with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 5, 2025, revealing plans to extend operations at its Don David Gold Mine in Oaxaca, Mexico, for at least three more years. While investors might celebrate this news, those of us concerned with protecting Michigan’s precious waterways see this development in a much more troubling light.

The filing discloses that Gold Resource Corp requires $38.5 million in capital investment to exploit these newly defined mineral deposits. This substantial capital requirement comes after the company nearly faced bankruptcy last November due to exhausted high-quality mineral deposits at its Mexican operation. Total production at the Don David Gold Mine had already plummeted by almost 50% from its 2019 peak.

There is no mention of proposed Back Forty mine in new business analysis.

What This Means for Our Michigan Waterways

The company’s financial desperation is precisely why we at Join the River Coalition remain deeply concerned about their Back Forty mining project proposed for Menominee County, Michigan. While Gold Resource Corp attempts to stabilize its finances through its Mexican operations, the controversial Back Forty project continues to loom as a threat to our pristine waterways, including the Menominee River.

A History of Environmental Disregard

We must remember that permits for the Back Forty project were initially secured by Aquila Resources, the original owner. However, the wetlands permit was overturned during a contested case hearing after damning testimony revealed that Aquila had manipulated test data to reach predetermined outcomes supporting their application.

Rather than face accountability, Aquila announced it would no longer defend its permits in court and would “redesign” the project—a classic tactic to circumvent environmental protections. Gold Resource Corp acquired the project in December 2021, inheriting this troubling legacy.

Financial Troubles and Environmental Shortcuts

Gold Resource’s stock may have jumped 167% this year on news of the Mexican mine extension, but this financial pressure raises serious questions about how corners might be cut when it comes to environmental safeguards at the Back Forty project. Companies facing financial difficulties often prioritize profit over environmental protection.

The proposed Back Forty mine would be located just 150 feet from the Menominee River, which forms the border between Michigan and Wisconsin and flows into Green Bay, Lake Michigan. This proximity puts critical waterways at risk of acid mine drainage and heavy metal contamination.

Regulatory Setbacks and Project Status

Development of the Back Forty project has stalled due to regulatory setbacks and Gold Resource’s financial difficulties. While the company focuses on its Mexican operations, we remain vigilant about any attempts to revive the Back Forty project under the guise of financial recovery.

The Three Sisters Vein System: Economic Lifeline or Environmental Risk?

Gold Resource Corp has highlighted the “Three Sisters” vein system at its Don David Gold Mine as crucial for extending mine life and improving profit margins. Allen Palmiere, President and CEO, has stated: “We were successful in conserving our cash to focus on the successful discovery and delineation of the new higher grade Three Sisters vein system, which is anticipated to extend our mine life and improve our potential margins.”

While this may temporarily relieve financial pressure, it does not remove the fundamental environmental risks associated with the Back Forty project.

Implementation Plans Raise Concerns

To exploit these newly identified resources in Mexico, Gold Resource Corp has outlined several initiatives, including contractor engagement, equipment acquisition, and processing plant upgrades. The company’s focus on ramping up production in Mexico reflects a profit-driven approach that does not bode well for environmental stewardship in Michigan.

Capital Requirements and Future Plans

The $38.5 million capital investment requirement breaks down into approximately $7 million for mining equipment purchases and mill upgrades, plus approximately $8 million in working capital over the next 12 months. The company has raised $2.5 million through a registered direct offering in January 2025 and an additional $3 million through its ATM Program in January and February 2025.

If Gold Resource successfully stabilizes its finances through the Mexican operations, the Back Forty project could be revived, posing renewed threats to Michigan’s environment.

Here is a link to the S-K 1300 Technical Report Summary on the Don David Gold Mine Project, Oaxaca, Mexico report.

Call to Action

As members and supporters of the Join the River Coalition, we must remain vigilant. Gold Resource Corp’s financial struggles and attempts at recovery through its Mexican operations do not diminish the threat posed by the Back Forty project. We must continue to:

1. Monitor Gold Resource Corp’s regulatory filings and public statements regarding the Back Forty project
2. Support legal challenges to any renewed permitting attempts
3. Raise awareness about the environmental risks associated with the proposed mine
4. Engage with local, state, and federal officials to ensure proper scrutiny of any revised mining plans
5. Stand in solidarity with indigenous communities, particularly the Menominee Tribe, who consider the area sacred ancestral land

Conclusion

Gold Resource Corporation’s recent SEC filing regarding its Mexican operations represents a company desperate to avoid financial collapse. While they focus on extending the life of their Mexican mine, we must not lose sight of the threat posed by the Back Forty project to Michigan’s precious waterways.

Join the River Coalition remains committed to protecting our environment from harmful mining practices and will continue to oppose the Back Forty project, regardless of Gold Resource Corp’s financial maneuvers elsewhere. Our water, our wildlife, and our communities deserve nothing less than our vigilant protection.

JOIN THE FIGHT TODAY!

• Contribute
• Volunteer
• Donate

Leave a comment below sharing your thoughts on how we can better protect our rivers and watersheds from mining pollution. What concerns you most about the proposed Back 40 Mine project?

Information courtesy of the 906 Report. To receive more information like the one in this blog post, please subscribe to the 906 Report over at https://the906report.beehiiv.com/subscribe.

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The Silent Killer in the Coal Mines

For generations, coal miners have descended into the darkness to power our homes, businesses, and industries. But many emerge from their careers carrying something deadly inside their lungs—coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP), commonly known as “black lung disease.” This preventable yet incurable occupational lung disease has claimed countless lives and continues to affect miners worldwide, raising serious questions about the true cost of coal extraction.

Understanding Coal Workers’ Pneumoconiosis

Coal workers’ pneumoconiosis develops when miners inhale coal dust over extended periods. The fine particles penetrate deep into the lungs, where the body’s defense mechanisms cannot remove them. Over time, these accumulated particles cause inflammation, fibrosis (scarring), and permanent damage to lung tissue.

The Progressive Nature of Black Lung

CWP typically develops in two stages:

Simple CWP: Characterized by small, round opacities in the upper lobes of the lungs, visible on chest X-rays. Miners might experience minimal symptoms at this stage.

Complicated CWP (Progressive Massive Fibrosis): As the disease advances, the small opacities coalesce into larger masses exceeding 1 cm in diameter. Lung function deteriorates significantly, leading to:

• Chronic cough with black sputum
• Shortness of breath, initially during exertion but eventually even at rest
• Chest pain and tightness
• Reduced lung capacity
• Heart problems due to increased strain
• Respiratory failure in advanced cases

Once established, there is no cure; treatment focuses only on managing symptoms and slowing progression.

The Devastating Human Impact

Behind the clinical description of CWP lie stories of profound human suffering. Miners who develop this disease often experience:

Physical Deterioration

Former miners with advanced black lung describe the sensation as “drowning on dry land.” Simple activities like climbing stairs, playing with grandchildren, or even walking short distances become impossible. Many become dependent on oxygen tanks and are confined to their homes.

Psychological and Financial Burden

The transition from being breadwinners to being dependent on others takes a severe psychological toll. Many miners develop depression and anxiety as they watch their health and independence slip away. Meanwhile, medical bills mount while their ability to earn income vanishes.

Family Impact

Families often become caregivers, watching loved ones struggle for breath. Many wives become widows prematurely, and children lose their fathers to a preventable occupational disease.

The Resurgence of Black Lung

After decades of decline following the Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969, black lung disease has made an alarming comeback in recent years. Research from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has documented a doubling of CWP cases since 2000, with more severe cases appearing in younger miners.

Contributing factors include:

• Longer working hours as workforce reductions force remaining miners to work extended shifts
• Mining of thinner coal seams requires cutting through more rock, generating more silica dust
• Inadequate dust monitoring and control in some operations
• Failure to comply with safety regulations by certain companies

The Case for Transitioning Away from Coal Mining

The persistence of black lung disease represents a moral failing of our energy system. While coal has powered economic growth for generations, its continued extraction comes at an unacceptable human cost.

Health Imperative

Despite decades of regulation, monitoring, and technological improvements, coal mining continues to produce new cases of CWP. The fundamental problem remains: coal dust is harmful to human lungs, and no amount of engineering controls has completely eliminated exposure.

Economic Considerations

Critics often cite job losses as a reason to maintain coal mining. However:

• The coal industry has been declining for decades due to market forces, regardless of health concerns
• Renewable energy now employs more Americans than coal, oil, and gas combined
• Economic transition programs can help miners find alternative employment
• The healthcare costs of treating black lung disease represent billions in externalized costs

Environmental Reasons

Beyond the direct human health impacts, coal mining and combustion contribute to:

• Climate change through carbon emissions
• Local air and water pollution
• Ecosystem destruction
• Acid mine drainage

A Just Transition Forward

Advocating for the end of coal mining doesn’t mean abandoning coal communities. A just transition requires:

1. Investment in affected communities to create alternative economic opportunities
2. Job training and education programs for miners and their families
3. Enhanced healthcare and benefits for those already suffering from black lung
4. Economic diversification in regions historically dependent on coal

Several former coal regions have successfully pivoted to new industries, from renewable energy manufacturing to tourism, technology, and healthcare.

The Path Forward

Transitioning away from coal mining represents not just an environmental imperative but a moral one. No energy source is worth the systematic sacrifice of workers’ health and lives. As society moves toward cleaner energy sources, we must ensure that:

1. Those suffering from black lung receive the care and support they need
2. Mining communities are not economically abandoned
3. The lessons of coal workers’ pneumoconiosis inform occupational health and safety in emerging industries

By addressing these challenges compassionately and comprehensively, we can honor coal miners’ contributions while ensuring future generations won’t suffer the same fate.

Conclusion

Coal workers’ pneumoconiosis stands as a stark reminder that our energy choices have profound human consequences. The black lung epidemic represents a preventable tragedy that continues to claim lives despite decades of regulation and technological advances. As we confront the urgent need to address climate change, the persistent health crisis in mining communities provides additional moral clarity: it’s time to transition away from coal.

This transition must be managed with compassion and a commitment to economic justice for affected communities. But the status quo—where miners continue to develop an incurable, debilitating disease as a condition of their employment—cannot be defended on any grounds.

Have you or your family members been affected by coal workers’ pneumoconiosis? What do you think about the transition away from coal mining? Do you believe we can balance the needs of miners, communities, and environmental protection? Share your thoughts, experiences, and questions in the comments section below.

*Sources:

• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
• American Lung Association
• Journal of the American Medical Association
• United Mine Workers of America
• World Health Organization*

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The Silent Poison: Understanding Acid Mine Drainage

Across India’s mining landscapes, a chemical disaster unfolds daily with little public awareness. Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) has become one of the most persistent environmental challenges facing the country’s mining regions, particularly in the coal-rich areas of Northeast India. This environmental crisis offers sobering lessons for communities facing similar threats, including those opposing the controversial Back 40 Mine project in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

What Exactly Is Acid Mine Drainage?

Acid Mine Drainage occurs when sulfide minerals (primarily pyrite, often called “fool’s gold”) are exposed to oxygen and water during mining operations. This exposure triggers a chemical reaction that produces sulfuric acid and dissolved iron. As this acidic water flows through mines and mining waste, it dissolves other heavy metals such as copper, lead, mercury, arsenic, and zinc, creating a toxic cocktail that flows into nearby water bodies.

The chemical reaction is deceptively simple:

FeS₂ (Pyrite) + O₂ + H₂O → Fe²⁺ + 2SO₄²⁻ + 2H⁺

But the environmental consequences are profound and long-lasting.

The Indian AMD Crisis: Northeast India’s Struggle

In Northeast India, particularly in states like Meghalaya, Assam, and Nagaland, coal mining has created an environmental disaster that continues to unfold. The region’s abundant coal reserves contain high sulfur content, making them particularly prone to generating AMD.

Meghalaya’s Water Crisis

In Meghalaya, famous for its rat-hole coal mining techniques, rivers like the Lukha and Lunar have turned eerily blue-green—a visible sign of severe AMD contamination. The pH levels in these once-pristine rivers have plummeted to as low as 3-4, far below the neutral 7, creating an environment where few aquatic species can survive.

Local communities report that:

• Fish populations have virtually disappeared from many streams
• Crop yields have declined dramatically in areas irrigated with contaminated water
• Drinking water sources have been rendered unusable, forcing villages to rely on distant water sources

Health Impacts on Local Communities

The human cost of AMD in India has been severe. Communities living downstream from mining areas face increased:

• Gastrointestinal disorders from consuming contaminated water
• Skin conditions from bathing in or working with acidic water
• Respiratory issues from dust containing heavy metals
• Long-term exposure to heavy metals, potentially leading to neurological damage and cancer

The Back 40 Mine: Poised to Repeat India’s Mistakes?

The proposed Back 40 Mine project in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula bears striking similarities to the mining operations that have devastated Northeast India’s watersheds. The Back 40 would be an open-pit sulfide mine located just 150 feet from the Menominee River, which flows into Lake Michigan.

Why Back 40 Risks Creating an AMD Disaster

The Back 40 Mine proposal involves extracting ore containing copper, gold, zinc, and silver from sulfide deposits. These are precisely the types of minerals that, when exposed to air and water, create acid mine drainage. Key risk factors include:

1. Sulfide-Rich Ore Body

The mineral deposit targeted by the Back 40 project is rich in sulfide minerals—the primary culprits in AMD formation. When these minerals are excavated and exposed to oxygen and water, the chemical reactions that produce acid drainage begin almost immediately.

2. Proximity to Water Resources

The mine’s location just 150 feet from the Menominee River creates an imminent risk to this critical waterway. The Menominee is not only a boundary water between Michigan and Wisconsin but also supports:

• Important fisheries include sturgeon, bass, and walleye
• Recreational activities are vital to the local economy
• Drinking water for downstream communities
• Cultural and spiritual significance for the Menominee Tribe

3. Climate Factors

The Upper Peninsula’s abundant rainfall and snowmelt provide ample water to facilitate the chemical reactions that create AMD. This moisture, combined with the exposed sulfide minerals from mining operations, creates perfect conditions for generating acidic runoff.

Prevention vs. Remediation: Lessons from India

India’s experience with AMD demonstrates a crucial reality: once acid mine drainage begins, it can continue for decades or even centuries. At abandoned mines in Jharkhand and Odisha, AMD continues to flow from mines closed over 50 years ago.

Remediation efforts in India have proven both costly and largely ineffective:

• Lime neutralization requires continuous application and creates metal-laden sludge
• Constructed wetlands can become saturated with metals
• Diversion systems fail during monsoon seasons
• Complete watershed restoration has proven virtually impossible

The lesson is clear: preventing AMD is infinitely more effective than trying to clean it up afterward.

What You Can Do to Protect the Menominee River

The Join The River Coalition has been working tirelessly to prevent an environmental disaster at the Back 40 Mine site. Your support can make a critical difference:

1. Get Informed: Learn about the specific risks the Back 40 Mine poses to the Menominee River watershed.
2. Raise Your Voice: Contact Michigan and Wisconsin state officials, the EPA, and the Army Corps of Engineers to express your concerns.
3. Support Indigenous Leadership: The Menominee Tribe has been at the forefront of opposition to the mine. Support their sovereignty and traditional ecological knowledge.
4. Share What You’ve Learned: Use social media, community meetings, and personal conversations to raise awareness about the risks of acid mine drainage and the Back 40 Mine.
5. Follow the Science: Stay updated on environmental impact studies and demand rigorous scientific assessment of the project’s risks.

Conclusion: We Can Prevent History from Repeating

India’s ongoing struggle with acid mine drainage serves as a powerful warning for communities facing new mining projects like the Back 40. The scientific evidence is clear: sulfide mining near water sources inevitably risks creating AMD that can persist for generations.

The decisions made today about the Back 40 Mine will affect the Menominee River watershed for centuries to come. By learning from India’s painful experience with AMD, we have an opportunity to prevent a similar environmental tragedy in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

We want to hear from you! Have you witnessed the impacts of mining pollution in your community? Are you concerned about the Back 40 Mine project? Share your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below to join this important conversation about protecting our precious water resources.

*Sources:

• Central Pollution Control Board of India
• Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India
• Journal of Environmental Management
• Environmental Science and Technology
• Join The River Coalition
• Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin*

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Introduction

The Kennecott Bingham Canyon Copper Mine in Utah stands as one of the world’s largest open-pit mines, visible even from space. While its economic contributions to the region are significant, the environmental cost has been staggering. As the Join The River Coalition fights against the proposed Back 40 Mine near Michigan’s Menominee River, examining Bingham Canyon’s environmental legacy offers critical insights into what could happen if we fail to prevent another potential environmental disaster.

Contaminants of Concern at Bingham Canyon

The Bingham Canyon Mine, operating for over 120 years, has released millions of pounds of toxic chemicals and heavy metals into the surrounding environment. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Toxic Release Inventory, the mine is Utah’s largest source of toxic releases, accounting for more than 80% of the state’s total toxic chemical releases in 2022.

Heavy Metal Contamination

The mining operations have released alarming quantities of hazardous substances into the environment, including:

• Lead and Lead Compounds: The mine’s most significant toxic release, lead contamination, causes brain and nervous system damage, particularly in children under six years old, leading to lower IQs. The CDC warns there is no safe level of lead in children’s blood.
• Arsenic: A known carcinogen that has contaminated both soil and water around the mine site.
• Selenium: Released from mining operations, selenium bioaccumulates in aquatic systems and can be toxic to fish and wildlife at even relatively low concentrations.
• Mercury: A harmful neurotoxin that, when inhaled, can cause emotional changes, insomnia, headaches, and impaired mental function.

In 1990, homes built on former floodplains near the mine were discovered to be contaminated with high levels of lead and arsenic, demonstrating how these contaminants can persist in the environment for decades and directly impact human communities.

Damage to Fish and Wildlife Habitat

According to documentation from Earthworks and other environmental organizations, the environmental impact of the Bingham Canyon Mine extends far beyond its immediate vicinity:

Water Pollution and Habitat Destruction

• Acid Mine Drainage: When sulfide-bearing rocks are exposed to air and water, they create sulfuric acid, leading to acidic runoff that pollutes groundwater and surface water systems.
• Heavy Metal Leaching: The mining process has allowed metals like arsenic, copper, lead, and cadmium to leach into water systems, severely impacting aquatic life.
• Ecosystem Damage: In 2008, the United States Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service sued Kennecott after the release of hazardous substances, including selenium, copper, arsenic, zinc, lead, and cadmium. A federal biologist claimed these chemicals “caused great damage to the ecosystems and resources that support the migrant bird populations, as well as other fish and wildlife habitats.”
• Wetland Impacts: The company’s tailings ponds already cover a massive area, and Kennecott has requested permission to expand onto 721 acres of wetlands south of the Great Salt Lake—crucial habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife.

Parallels to the Proposed Back 40 Mine

The Join The River Coalition’s fight against the Back 40 Mine is founded on legitimate concerns that mirror the environmental issues seen at Bingham Canyon. The proposed Back 40 Mine would be located just 150 feet from the Menominee River, which flows into Lake Michigan—a drinking water source for millions of people in the upper Midwest.

Similar Environmental Threats

• Sulfide Mining Risks: Like Bingham Canyon, the Back 40 would be a sulfide mine. When sulfide ore is exposed to air and water, it can easily generate sulfuric acid, creating highly toxic acid mine drainage.
• Water Contamination: The proximity to the Menominee River creates an immediate risk to fish populations, including lake sturgeon, smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike, and trout.
• Groundwater Impacts: The mine would require extensive groundwater pumping that would affect the river and area wetlands, potentially replicating the groundwater contamination seen around Bingham Canyon.
• Cultural and Historical Significance: While Bingham Canyon’s development preceded modern cultural preservation laws, the Back 40 project threatens ancestral burial grounds and cultural sites of the Menominee Tribe, adding a cultural dimension to the environmental concerns.

The Lesson: Prevention Is Better Than Remediation

Despite Kennecott spending more than $400 million on clean-up efforts in the 1990s to avoid being placed on the Superfund National Priorities List, the environmental damage continues. Dr. Brian Moench, who has studied the health impacts in Utah, notes: “The impacts are difficult to attribute exactly to their operation, but we know they’re there… This is an operation that releases environmental toxins to the community and has done so for 120 years. The level of contamination steadily gets worse year by year.”

This history teaches us that preventing mining disasters is far more effective than attempting to clean them up afterward. Once heavy metals contaminate groundwater or acid mine drainage begins, the environmental effects can persist for generations.

What You Can Do

The Join The River Coalition is working to prevent a similar environmental tragedy at the proposed Back 40 Mine site. Your support can make a difference:

1. Learn More: Educate yourself about the risks of sulfide mining and the specific concerns regarding the Back 40 project.
2. Contact Decision-Makers: Write to state and federal officials expressing your concerns about the Back 40 Mine’s environmental risks.
3. Support the Coalition: Join the River Coalition and other environmental groups in their efforts to protect the Menominee River and surrounding ecosystems.
4. Share This Information: Help spread awareness about the lessons from Bingham Canyon and how they apply to the Back 40 proposal.

Conclusion

The Kennecott Bingham Canyon Copper Mine stands as a stark reminder of the long-term environmental consequences of mining operations. Its legacy of contamination, habitat destruction, and ongoing remediation challenges should serve as a warning for projects like the Back 40 Mine. By understanding what has happened at Bingham Canyon, we can better advocate for the protection of the Menominee River and prevent similar environmental tragedies from occurring in the future.

Leave a comment below sharing your thoughts on how we can better protect our rivers and watersheds from mining pollution. What concerns you most about the proposed Back 40 Mine project?

Sources:

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Toxic Release Inventory
• Earthworks publications on Bingham Canyon Mine
• U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) research on contaminants
• Join The River Coalition reports
• Sierra Club Wisconsin Chapter
• Salt Lake Tribune environmental reporting

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