ISHPEMING, Mich., Feb. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Kennecott Eagle Minerals Company today received all of the state permits it needs to refurbish and operate the Humboldt Mill. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment completed permitting for the project, issuing four permits covering air emissions, water discharges and other operations associated with the mill.

Jon Cherry, General Manager of Kennecott's Michigan operations said the company's efforts to revitalize the mill reflects Kennecott's commitment to sustainable development practices, and bringing greater value to the community. Cherry said the mill project has been well received throughout the community, and is an exciting and integral addition to the company's portfolio of Michigan operations.

"The revitalization of the Humboldt Mill makes a great deal of sense from a business perspective, and also from the perspective of adding value to the community through additional investment, job creation, and business opportunities for others in the area associated with the mill," said Cherry. "We have had great confidence in the project and what it means for the community from the beginning, and welcome the permits today."

The MDNRE today issued the following permits:

• A Nonferrous Metallic Mine Permit for general operations of the mill
• A National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit for returning treated wastewater to the environment
• An Air Use Permit for air emissions
• An Inland Lakes & Streams Permit for improving and reactivation of the existing tailings reservoir.

Kennecott plans to use the mill for the same purpose it has been used historically -- to crush and grind rock that contains minerals. The mill will produce nickel and copper concentrates for supplying processing facilities.

Kennecott will begin clean up of the mill property -- both inside and outside -- later this year. Next year, Kennecott will build a new stand-alone water treatment plant at the site to ensure water discharged as part of the milling process meets state and federal quality standards. The plant has been designed specifically for Kennecott's planned Humboldt Mill operations. Later refurbishment plans include upgrading and replacing some of the millworks, and installation of equipment and structures for ensure the modern, safe, and efficient workings of the facility.

Kennecott will invest nearly $100 million in the Brownfield redevelopment project, which will employ approximately 200 workers during the construction effort, and 50 – 70 full time workers once the mill is operational (2013). Humboldt Mill will be a new source of tax base to Humboldt Township and the N.I.C.E. School District.

Humboldt Mill permits are available online at http://tiny.cc/A7SMJ.

SOURCE Kennecott Eagle Minerals Company

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