AAW Supports Copper as Official U.S. Geological Survey Critical Mineral

American Agri-Women (AAW) applaud the bi-partisan request to designate copper as an official U.S. Geological Survey Critical Mineral. Senators Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Mike Braun (R-IN), Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Mitt Romney (R-UT) sent the request the U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Deb Haaland.

AAW President Heather Hampton+Knodle said, "AAW has long supported policies that allow the United States to be self-sufficient in food and energy production. Copper is one of several minerals that are critical for many industries, especially telecommunications and 'green' technology to meet energy goals set by policymakers."

The bi-partisan letter comes on the heels of Interior announcing a 20-year ban on mining in Northeastern Minnesota. Geologists estimate 95% of the U.S. domestic supply of nickel resources, more than 50% of cobalt, and approximately 33% of copper are located in the 225,000-acre area that has been in the planning phase for more than 10 years. The project, known as Twin Metals, reports they have invested more than $550 Million to develop a modern, sustainable, underground mining effort over the last decade.

"The fact that the federal government did not complete a full Environmental Impact Statement or consider available scientific data in its decision is deeply concerning. It violates federal law," said Hampton+Knodle. The legal requirements are found in the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Twin Metals has petitioned the agency for the opportunity to go through the regulatory process to determine if it can meet federal and state standards. It filed a lawsuit against Interior for arbitrarily revoking the company's federal mining leases in January 2022.

"It is bitter irony that the State of Minnesota recently passed the 'Blackout Bill' to mandate carbon-free electricity by 2040 and the federal government has taken their ability to obtain the critical minerals needed to create the technology off their own table." If the moratorium stands, it is estimated the state will lose $1.7 billion in private investment for construction and permitting, 3 million hours of union labor, and 750 permanent jobs.

AAW promotes the welfare of our national security through a safe and reliable food, fiber and energy supply. Since 1974, AAW members have worked together to educate consumers, advocate for agriculture, and offer networking and professional development opportunities.