***Washington

Glacier Northwest hopes to add 177 acres to its 335-acre DuPont mine in order to extend the site’s life by 14 years. The Associated Press reports the project features construction of a new tributary to Sequalitchew Creek, which would increase water flow in the stream and enable it to support salmon in a 4,000-foot stretch. To do so, however, a cut in the creek canyon would be required to connect the man-made tributary to the stream and that has caused members of an environmental group, Nisqually Delta Association, to speak against the project. Glacier Northwest officials say the project won’t harm the historic features of the creek canyon. “First, we are enhancing, not harming, the creek,” Glacier Northwest Vice President Mark Leatham told the news service. “Second, we wouldn’t be mining in the bluff. We’re notching the bluff to get water back in the creek.” The Nisqually Tribe, which is eager to restore stream flows, supports the project.

***Wisconsin

A group of citizens wants Portage County officials to put tougher restrictions on a mining company operating near a park in Stockton, The Stevens Point Journal reports. Wimme Sand & Gravel held a hearing for comments on its plan to reclaim the property when mining is completed, but some residents told the newspaper that they don’t believe the plan goes far enough. Although one called plans to build a berm to serve as a buffer between the park and the pit “a good start,” he added that timelines need to be established for when the berm will be built and seeded and those timelines need to be enforced.

Wisconsin

A constant mist and sprinkles dampened attendance at this year’s Quarry Quest, held at Michels Materials quarry in Nee-Nah, but didn’t dissuade those in attendance from having a good time. According to The Post-Crescent, approximately 5,000 people attended the event, which raises monies for local charities. It was the 10th anniversary of the event, which is typically attended by 10,000 to 15,000. Popular events included a chance for youngsters to work with a trained operator to control backhoes, boom lift rides, off-road trips in Hummers, and tours on haul trucks.