NORTHERN WISCONSIN IN AN ECOLOGICAL, ECONOMIC, AND CULTURAL ASPECT

Abstract

In 2014 the Gogebic Taconite, LLC proposed an open pit taconite mine in Northern Wisconsin. This mine would combat the increasing demand for steel in the United States. The Gogebic Iron Range has a geological area that is ideal for extracting taconite. Economically, steel is a commodity that is going to be demanded in the future. An increase in demand will cause a direct increase to the need to supply taconite. However, the process of removing the iron causes ecological, cultural and economic issues, some being negative and positive. The mining industry provides economic growth for the surrounding communities, but could degrade the surrounding land and watersheds. Ecological degradation is of great concern to the native tribes and citizens who thrive because of the land. Iron Ore is a finite resource. The scarcity and common use of natural resources has put a burdened on the land. Ecological, economical and cultural cohesion will need to occur for the mine to be sustainable.