WRNC to broadcast mining forum

Residents of northern Wisconsin will have the opportunity to learn about the proposed Penokee Hills and Gogebic Range iron ore mine from a variety of perspectives. The college will sponsor a public forum on Saturday, Jan. 28, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Campus Center Alvord Theatre. Discussion will feature presentations on the geological, scientific, social and cultural aspects of mining with opportunities for the public to ask questions of the panelists and presenters. WRNC will broadcast the forum live from noon to 5 p.m. People may tune into 97.7 or listen online at www.wrnclp.org.

“As an educational institution with a long history of involvement in environmental matters, our role is to help provide sound information so individuals can make their own decisions about the complex issue of reestablishing mining in this region,” said Michael A. Miller, President of Northland College. “We want Mining and the Environment Week to take the conversation beyond ‘are you for or against mining’ so that our society can make informed decisions about one of the most important economic proposals in this state for many decades. What we decide now will affect our children and our children’s children.”

The Jan. 28 forum will include presentations from professionals with an informed understanding of various aspects of mining regulation and legislation. A group of panelists will ask questions of the presenters, followed by opportunities for audience questions.

Presenters will include Mike Wiggins, tribal chair of the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, who will address the issue of sovereignty and resource management; Tom Evans, Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey, University of Wisconsin-Extension, speaking on the role of resource regulation and democratic processes; George Meyer, executive director of the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation and retired secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, addressing recent mining history and regulation in Wisconsin.

Panelists will include Jennifer Giegerich, the Legislative Director of the Wisconsin League of Conservation Voters; Randy Lehr, Bro Professor at Northland College; and Patrick Boerboon, board member of the Ashland/Bayfield League of Women Voters, past Chair of the Town of Gingles and a private practice attorney. Campus Minister David Saetre will moderate the forum.

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