A Nederland mine could restart operations after mining activities were paused in 2022 due to heavy metals leaking into water sources and a failure to report water quality data. After the violations were reported, stage regulators determined that Cross Mine met the definition of a Designated Mining Operation, requiring stricter regulations for the operation due to potential exposure of toxic or acid materials during mining operations. “The nature of the materials… that they are handling and moving has led to water quality impairment, which is why they’re treating water,” said Michael Cunningham, Director of DRMS. Now, GIR is applying to restart mining operations, and a decision on the application is currently scheduled for July 6. The new application proposes a permit area of 205 acres, an increase of nearly 195 acres from GIR’s initial permit for 10 acres.