6g. Step One: Obtain Mining Rights and Regulatory Approvals
It takes years to secure the necessary permits and approvals to start mining from the Public Service Commision. During this time, the mining company compiles data and creates a detailed plan to return the mined land back to its original state. Collecting the data necessary for the permit takes about two years.
Click or tap the boxes to learn more about the types of data collected.
Baseline
Data
The company collects baseline data on the area’s pre-mined soil, vegetation, land use and wildlife.
Surface and
Groundwater
The surface and groundwater is analyzed so its quality can be restored to pre-premined quality and safety.
Cultural
Factors
The company also considers cultural factors. For example, some areas have significance to local tribes. The company collects the data and archaeologists study it.
Land
Leases
The permit process requires leasing the land from landowners, which is unique to North Dakota. While in some states a permit can be filed for approval without notifying the landowner, North Dakota regulations were created to protect landowners.