The divide in our politics shows up in debates most starkly in terms of rural versus urban, blue collar versus white collar.  There are election results, polls, and studies that tell us this divide exists and, to some degree, the factors driving the division.  While our national politics dominates the conversation, oftentimes, local issues seem to be both the cause and effect of such division.  

In Northern MN, the issue of precious metal mining is the perfect example.  The issue has divided people in Duluth and the Iron Range - two communities that, when working collaboratively,  have been political bases of power in state politics and for their communities.  As the division on mining (and on rural vs. urban, white collar vs. blue collar) has grown, that political power has diminished.  

Precious metal mining is a divisive issue where hard lines are drawn on both sides of the issues. That leads to hyperbole, talking points, and media strategies that contradict each other and the public is left wondering what the truth is.  The issue of the state sulfate standards has intensified the issue of late and put the environmental impacts of manufacturing and economic vitality of the region's jobs back front and center. 

A comprehensive, objective analysis of the power dynamics, the science, the impacted and interested constituencies, the politics, and the risk vs. reward  is sorely needed.. 

Can it be done safely?  

Are the deposits as vast as the companies claim?  

What is the economic impact if the mines become operational?  

What is the fate of a region hemorrhaging jobs and young people if they don’t open?  

What are the arguments from labor, the companies, tribal nations, environmental groups, area businesses, and elected officials and how do they stack up?

These are just a few of the questions this project aims to address. We will create a comprehensive report on precious metal mining in MN and aim to create a plan for how leaders and communities navigate this issue dividing our people and keeping us from addressing many other challenges in our region, state, and country.