Metallic mineral exploration is proposed in two separate St. Louis County locations by the company Encampment Minerals Inc.
The DNR received exploration plans last week from the company.
One site is 5 miles southeast of Hoyt Lakes, and the other is 13 miles east of Cotton.
Both plans call for diamond drilling exploratory borings and geophysical surveys.
If the proposal meets the requirements of applicable state law and is approved by the DNR, Encampment will have the right to explore the specified state lands under a nonferrous metallic mineral lease.
The DNR has 20 days to respond.
Review of exploration plans identifies natural resources, features, and land administrators that may be impacted by proposed activities.
Encampment has explored the Hoyt Lakes area intermittently since 2009, according to the plan.
The company has regularly submitted exploration plans in recent years in pursuit of precious metals, copper and nickel.
