The contested case hearing challenging permits for a Kennecott Eagle Minerals Company mine in northern Marquette County was scheduled to continue today with testimony from a structural geologist.
The National Wildlife Federation, Huron Mountain Club, Yellow Dog Watershed Preserve and Keweenaw Bay Indian Community are challenging the issuance of mining and groundwater permits by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality to Kennecott for its nickel and copper mine.
On Wednesday, Jack Parker and Marsha Bjornerud testified. Parker specializes in practical rock mechanics and Bjornerud is a structural geologist. Bjornerud is expected to conclude her testimony today.
“Both witnesses focused on how Kennecott failed to adequately characterize rock strength and whether the crown pillar will fail,” said Michelle Halley, an attorney for the National Wildlife Federation.
After Bjornerud, petitioners expect Wilson Blake, a DEQ subsidence reviewer, Stan Vitton, another specialist in geology and rock mechanics, will testify.
After the petitioner witnesses are finished testifying, witnesses for Kennecott and the DEQ will be called to the stand.
The hearing is important because Kennecott cannot begin work on the Eagle Project until the contested case is settled.

John Pepin, Marquette Mining Journal