School Trust Lands and Local Economies
Policy on Land Access and Education Funding
CWCS raised concerns about access restrictions in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) and the impact on local communities. A central issue was the status of Minnesota’s 86,000 acres of School Trust Lands within the BWCAW. These lands, intended to generate revenue for public schools, have been unable to do so since 1964 due to the area’s wilderness designation.
In the 1990s, lawmakers discussed exchanging these lands for federally owned land outside the BWCAW or auctioning them under state law. No solution was reached, partly due to opposition from environmental groups that objected to potential private ownership.
Legislative Developments and Working Groups
In 2010, the Permanent School Trust Fund Advisory Committee formed a working group to address the issue. CWCS was excluded from this group, although environmental advocates were involved. The group proposed a hybrid plan to exchange 30,000 acres and purchase 56,000 more.
In 2012, the state passed a bill to expedite land exchanges. By 2016, state and federal agencies denied Twin Metals access and lease renewals. CWCS and local organizations criticized these actions, citing job losses and reduced revenue for schools.
Outfitter Advocacy and Federal Withdrawal Concerns
In the 1990s, Cliff Wold, a local outfitter, distributed thousands of brochures with Minnesota maps. These brochures aimed to warn the public about the long-term goals of some preservation groups. Concerns resurfaced after the proposed 20-year federal mineral withdrawal affecting over 400,000 acres. This included 95,000 acres of School Trust Lands. Revenue projections from copper-nickel mining exceeded $3 billion over 20 years.
Energy and Economic Development Positions
CWCS supported policies that combined environmental protection with economic development:
- Backed domestic oil and gas exploration to reduce reliance on foreign sources.
- Supported a plan to reduce diesel use through truck Auxiliary Power Units (APUs), aiming to save fuel and reduce emissions.
- Opposed ethanol subsidies due to water usage, erosion, food prices, and poor fuel efficiency.
- Encouraged alternative energy investments in wind, solar, hydrogen, and nuclear power.
- Called for renewed investment in rail to cut fuel use.
Tourism, Jobs, and Population Stability
CWCS argued that tourism alone could not sustain communities. It noted a decline in Boundary Waters visits, with fewer than 98,000 visitors in 2014. It cited an aging visitor base and reduced interest in outdoor recreation among younger generations.
The group supported limited motorized access, as allowed by law. CWCS opposed preservationist efforts to eliminate motor use, warning of further declines in tourism and community health.
Broader National Context and Mineral Supply
CWCS linked local restrictions to national land policies. In recent years, over 10 million acres in western states were removed from future mineral development.
The organization raised concerns about U.S. dependence on foreign minerals. These are needed for consumer electronics and defense. CWCS supported local mining due to Minnesota’s environmental and labor regulations. It contrasted these with countries like China and South Africa.
Environmental Case Study: The Brook Trout
CWCS shared a case from the Dunka Pit, a high-sulfide area formerly mined by Reserve Mining Company. After the mine closed, the pit filled with water. In the 1990s, workers found large native brook trout thriving there.
A geologist described these trout as indicators of water quality, similar to canaries in coal mines. The trout’s survival, despite nearby sulfide-rich waste, was presented as evidence that aquatic life can persist in such environments.
Community Advocacy and Public Involvement
CWCS collaborated with groups like Up North Jobs, Jobs for Minnesotans, and Minnesota Miners. These groups shared updates and encouraged public comments on land withdrawal proposals.
It continues to advocate for balanced land use policies. These should support conservation, school funding, and economic stability for northern Minnesota communities.