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IRON MOUNTAIN -- The condition of abandoned mines in Dickinson County would be more widely publicized under a plan the county board will consider.
The board Monday reviewed a resolution drafted by Commissioner Barbara Kramer that gives the county mine inspector the authority to develop a grading system for each mine, identified by name and owner.
An "A to F" classification is proposed, based on the mine's condition and the owner's compliance with the law. Results would be made available for publication, as well as placed on record with the county clerk.
According to the resolution, Mine Inspector Michael Ghere has documented deficiencies at mine sites across the county, but some owners have repeatedly refused to do recommended repairs and safety improvements.
State law, meanwhile, doesn't stipulate penalties for owners who fail to comply, even though they face liability risks.
Ghere's 2023 report covers about 25 abandoned mine sites, noting nearly all the fencing issues identified in 2022 and previously still remain, apart from mending he's done on his own.
Mine inspector is a part-time elected position in the county, funded at $6,364 in 2024. The county board reduced the salary for the position in 2012 after allocating $11,438 in 2011.
Fencing deficiencies have persisted for decades at some sites, with former Mine Inspector Steve Smith in 2014 estimating dozens of hazards such as open pits, shafts and sinkholes.
At Monday's county board meeting, Kramer and Controller Brian Bousley cited the additional danger of sites being promoted by third parties on social media.
The resolution may be up for a board vote after discussions with Ghere.
Jim Anderson can be reached at 906-774-3500, ext. 226, or janderson@ironmountaindailynews.com.