Draft mining permit issued for Aquila's back forty project

TORONTO — A milestone was reached in the permitting process of a development-stage mining operation in the southern U.P. today

Officials from Aquila Resources, Incorporated, announced that the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality has proposed the decision to issue a draft mining permit for Aquila’s Back Forty Project. That permit, along with discharge and air pollution control permits – will be the subject of a public hearing put on by the DEQ on October sixth. A public comment period will be held through November third.

The company is also working with the DEQ on the review of its Wetlands Permit for the project. Aquila officials say the planned zinc and gold mine in Menominee County would create around two hundred fifty jobs.