Way back in 1830s, Michigan was applying for U.S. Statehood, but before doing so, Michigan was involved in the Toledo War where they contested the area north of the Maumee River as belonging to Michigan, which included the northwest corner of Ohio. Michigan lost their claim but the US government gave the northeastern portion of the Wisconsin Territory to Michigan as compensation. On January 27, 1837, Christmas came late because the Upper Peninsula, which was isolated from Michigan, was included. It was chock full of valuable resources that included: copper, iron, lumber, dolomite, and other commodities that brought billions of dollars into Michigan’s coffers. Once mining exposed the riches, the race was on to exploit the area and pollution became rampant. As environmental laws slowed down runaway resource rape, Michigan became 1 of 2 states that does not need US Federal government approval for mine permits. As long as the waste products of mining stay on the Wisconsin side of Lake Michigan, it’s no problem. Recently, the Back 40 sulfide mine was given the go ahead and a Canadian company along with a few good old, connected boys are going to make a killing. A sulfide mine is a hard rock mine where the rock is crushed and the desirable elements are coxed out with chemicals. The undesirable sulphur within reacts with released hydrogen and forms toxic sulphuric acid which plays havoc with the flora and fauna of the area. However, the economic gain from jobs and taxes makes working people’s lives fulfilling as their children grow up with the best computer games available. Long cold winters ensure gaming skills as Michigan’s best players enter the world internet championships. With trophies coming home to Michigan residents, who really cares if acid lays in the soils or flows through the blood streams of creatures and outdoor enthusiasts who trek the beauty of the U.P.? The investors sure don’t.
Torked Truth 