Minnesota Congressman Chip Cravaack inserted a provision that would have the shorter timeframe apply to mining projects already in the works, such as the copper mine proposed near Hoyt Lakes. The bill limits the permitting process to 30 months, which will reduce time for public input and legal challenges.

Townships in Goodhue County are talking about setting up their own restrictions to limit the mining of silica sand, which is used to help extract oil and gas from wells. Some opponents of the sand mines think the county has not done enough to keep them out.

PolyMet Mining says tests using reverse osmosis have succeeded in removing sulfates from water. The development could be a key step in removing a top environmental objection to the company's proposed copper mine near Hoyt Lakes.

News blogger the Cucking Stool says a conflict of interest is "inevitable" with mining association president and registered lobbyist Craig Pagel serving as a citizen on the Fisheries Oversight Committee. The blog quotes the DNR itself as saying "these appointments are for individuals, not formal representatives of particular organizations."

The number of taconite jobs in 2011 was up nearly 11 percent compared to the year before, according to figures by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. Wages in 2011 were also the highest since 2000 -- totaling $357 million. The Iron Range took a major hit during the recession in 2009 when all six of Minnesota's taconite plants temporarily shut down.

The Rochester Post Bulletin reports both the Houston and Fillmore County Boards passed resolutions earlier this week. Goodhue, Wabasha and Winona are also among the list of counties, cities and townships concerned with the proliferation of silica sand mines.

The new position will act as a facilitator for mining projects and oversee state regulations for taconite and copper-nickel mining. Officials say they're hoping to fill the role as quickly as possible.

Critics warn new copper and nickel mines will harm northeastern Minnesota's land and water. But St. Louis County commissioners sided with those who say mining can be done well and bring economic prosperity.