Walz order bans nonferrous mining near Boundary Waters
Gov. Tim Walz signed an executive order Aug. 18, 2026 banning new nonferrous mining in the watershed feeding the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness to protect water and treaty rights.[1]
The order directs Minnesota agencies to deny new nonferrous mining permits, leases and related approvals inside the designated Boundary Waters watershed protection zone.[1] Walz framed the move as necessary to protect water quality, tribal treaty rights and the tourism economy anchored by the Boundary Waters.[1]
Copper-nickel mining proposals in northeastern Minnesota had been the immediate flashpoint the administration said the order addresses, putting the governor at odds with mining interests.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- Gov. Tim Walz signed an executive order on Aug. 18, 2026 banning new nonferrous mining in the watershed that feeds the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
- The order instructs Minnesota agencies to deny new nonferrous mining permits, leases and related approvals in the designated BWCA watershed protection zone.
- The policy pits the Walz administration against copper-nickel mining proposals in northeastern Minnesota and is justified by the governor as necessary to protect water quality, treaty rights and the BWCA-based tourism economy.
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August 18, 2026