 The Trump administration has lifted a roadblock to copper nickel mining near the boundary waters canoe area of Minnesota. The Obama administration in 2016 withdrew about 234,000 acres of the rainy river watershed from eligibility for mineral leasing pending further study, citing the potential threat to the boundary waters. On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Agriculture canceled the withdrawal. It says companies may soon be able to sign mineral leases in the area. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.