An Evaluation of Local Government Environmental Regulation Focusing on Taconite Mining in Minnesota and Wisconsin

Abstract

Throughout the history of environmental policy there has been a shift in environmental regulation from the local level to higher levels such as sate and federal. While these changes have resulted in uniform environmental standards across the nation, local governments encounter the difficulty of protecting themselves from environmental harms, and they find themselves bearing the costs of environmental injustices. The purpose of this study is to evaluate Wisconsin mining policy to determine if the development of the Gogebic Taconite mine in the Penokee Range will be detrimental to the surrounding areas. The economic benefits of increased employment and generation of money in the surrounding counties is contrasted with the severe environmental damage and potential health risks to the local residents. What can be concluded from taking into consideration these factors and the current mining law in Wisconsin is the lack of adequate protection for both the environment and the public health of Ashland and Iron county citizens.