HURLEY, WI (AP)-- The company looking to open an iron ore mine in northern Wisconsin says it closed its office in Hurley on Sunday, casting doubt on the future of the project that sparked fierce debate and opposition from environmentalists and tribal members near the site.
Bill Williams, president of mining company Gogebic Taconite, released a statement Friday announcing the sudden move.
He says the company will "continue to investigate the possibility of pursuing a permit to mine" but it can't justify having an office in Hurley without the prospect of immediate action.
Williams says the company's revelation of wetlands in the area makes continued investment "unfeasible at this time."
He says reclamation activities at monitoring and testing sites will be completed.