An iron mine in the Penokee Range seems less likely, now that mining company Gogebic Taconite is closing its Hurley office.
In a statement company President Bill Williams says wetland issues make further major investment too expensive.
He adds that environmental concerns could lead to U.S. EPA intervention, in light of the agency’s recent halting of the Pebble Mine project in Alaska.
The company is leaving the door open to further exploration, saying it will continue to look into the possibility of a mine permit.
It’s also promising to fulfill bond obligations in remediating test sites.
The Hurley office will close March 1st. The company says its employees have been offered severance packages.
