Associated Press - May 17, 2007 9:25 AM ET
Flambeau Mining wants to be released from the copper and gold mine it closed in Ladysmith several years ago.
But some environmentalists say if Flambeau is released from any
further reclamation of the site, the state and public could be left
with the responsibility of cleaning up any possible contamination.
The issue is the subject of a public hearing continuing today.
Flambeau Mining is asking the Department of Natural Resources for a
final "certificate of completion." It would state the site has been
reclaimed to the point where it can support wildlife and recreation.
Flambeau spokeswoman Jana Murphy says extensive monitoring has shown the former mine site has stabilized.
A contested case hearing at the end of the month will take a closer
look at whether Flambeau Mining has only recently removed contaminated
soils.
Information from: Chuck Quirmbach, Wisconsin Public Radio
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