St. Paul, MN— State Representative Spencer Igo, R-Grand Rapids, sent a letter to Gov. Walz and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Commissioner Sarah Strommen today urging immediate action to address rising water levels in the Canisteo Legacy Mine Pit.
“Since taking office, I have been working with community, county, and state leaders to find a solution to fix rising water levels in Canisteo and save our towns,” said Igo. “To date, despite our best efforts, we have been unable to come to a legislative solution. That’s why I am calling on Governor Walz and the DNR to move forward with funds from the agency’s general operating budget to cover the costs and fix this problem once and for all. We cannot afford to wait any longer.”
As of November 2021, the DNR has stated that water levels in Canisteo are within 15 feet of overflowing at two natural overflow locations—one of which is directly north of Bovey. At this rate, overflow could occur as early as 2023. Rising water levels are putting property, public safety, and water quality at risk in the communities of Bovey, Coleraine, and Taconite.
This year, Rep. Igo offered an amendment to the Omnibus Environment and Natural Resources Supplemental Finance and Policy bill that would have provided $6,350,000 for the creation of an outlet structure for Canisteo—alleviating water levels. Igo’s amendment was changed by the House Democrat majority to provide only $850,000 for the operation and maintenance of the project.
A copy of the letter can be found here.
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