History of Our Work on Mining Issues

Since 2003, The Yellow Dog Watershed Preserve has dedicated significant time and resources to protecting the watershed from the multilayered threat of sulfide mining. The Eagle Project, a nickel and copper mine whose main ore body lies below the headwaters of the Yellow Dog and Salmon Trout Watersheds, has been our primary concern. YDWP began monitoring water quality in the Yellow Dog River in 2003 and in the Salmon Trout in 2012, establishing baseline data should Eagle Mine ever contaminate these watersheds. YDWP continues to keep a vigilant eye on Eagle Mine and its processing facility, Humboldt Mill, through water monitoring, permit evaluation, and land monitoring.

New Mineral Exploration Boom in the Upper Peninsula

Exploding demand for minerals like copper and nickel in the tech, automotive, energy, and military industries is giving fresh impetus to mineral prospecting in the Central and Western Upper Peninsula. In response, YDWP is initiating a new monitoring program in our watershed and beyond to keep track of new drilling and to ensure that environmental regulations are not violated.

Citizen Information Clearinghouse: Report Mining Activity in Your Area!

Although we possess useful tools for remotely monitoring suspected mining sites, we depend on the public to inform us exactly where exploratory drilling may be taking place. If you have reason to believe mineral prospecting is happening in your area, even if it is outside the Yellow Dog or Salmon Trout Watersheds, please complete the following form, so that we may follow up with you and investigate the site itself. Thanks for your help!

Suspected Mining Site Report Form