Michigan, Minnesota iron miners required to cut emissions by nearly 60% under EPA proposal

The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed significant restrictions on mercury emissions from iron mining operations in the Upper Midwest.

The six iron ore processing plants in northeastern Minnesota would be required to cut their emissions by 57% by the end of 2026. They're the largest source of mercury pollution in Minnesota, accounting for about half its emissions. The rule also applies to two mining operations in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Virtually all U.S. iron ore processing occurs at those Michigan and Minnesota mines.