Mesabi Daily News
Opinion: Jon Cherry

Once we’re ready begin mining and processing, we’ll hire as many as 360 people to fill stable, good-paying jobs. In addition, the University of Minnesota Duluth estimates that indirect opportunities could generate nearly twice that number of jobs in St. Louis County alone.

Economically, our operations will provide St. Louis County’s economy with a $500 million boost each year – or $10 billion over the 20-year life of the proposed project, according to a study by UMD.

But, as jaw-dropping as these numbers are, we certainly don’t want all of this economic promise to overshadow the environment. As part of state regulations, before we even begin mining, we will set aside funding that is legally protected to ensure that the site will be properly closed, monitored and maintained.

Read more: http://www.virginiamn.com/mine/article_19724722-f95a-11e2-ba4e-0019bb2963f4.html