Georgia lawmakers move to block mine near Okefenokee Swamp

Dozens of scientists are questioning research from Twin Pines, a mining company trying to show that a proposed mine near Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge would have minimal environmental effects on the area. (Emma Hurt/WABE)

Emma Hurt / WABE

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Georgia lawmakers are trying to ban mining near the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge — as state regulators consider a permit for one such mining project.

A bill, introduced on a newly-proclaimed Okefenokee Day, would prohibit the state Environmental Protection Division from issuing new mining permits for the geologic feature known as Trail Ridge, which sits to the east of the Okefenokee Swamp in Southeast Georgia.