This week, anti-mine protester Cynthia Pryor was arrested for alleged trespassing after reportedly refusing to move from the path of a bulldozer.
Where Pryor was arrested, preparatory work was taking place on a 120-acre site leased by the Kennecott Eagle Minerals Company from the state. Kennecott hopes to begin constructing surface facilities there for its nickel and copper mine this summer, hence the protest.
Pryor's misdemeanor case has yet to play out in Marquette County District Court, where it will be determined whether she did, or did not, break the law.
We understand many mine opponents believe the company still needs a permit from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency before work can begin. Indeed, Kennecott modified its underground water discharge system with state approval. And on the advice of attorneys, the company withdrew its EPA application, thinking it no longer was required, given the design change.
The EPA has not yet substantiated that claim. However, Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment officials have agreed, based on Kennecott's assertions that the company has all the permits it needs to begin work.
Like Pryor's question of trespass, this issue too will be decidedly resolved with an EPA confirmation or denial in the days and weeks ahead.
We hope both sides of this mining issue will proceed with calm, caution and clear thinking. It's possible, and perhaps even likely, that protests will grow in size and frequency the closer Kennecott moves toward mine construction. As a result, we'd expect the company will seek to ensure safety for everyone by prohibiting access to the site.
While we understand and wholly support efforts to engage in peaceful protest, we do not support law breaking in any way, shape or form.
Period.
Additionally, we would not support Kennecott moving ahead with work without the proper approvals, if that was determined to be the case.
As these issues move forward toward resolution, we trust everyone involved on both sides of the issue will think long and hard before they decide to act.
There's too much at stake for either side to take actions impulsively.