Here is how non-ferrous mining is handledIn Minnesota several copper/nickel projects have been blocked more than 50 years (not kidding) and no one has been able to advance a discovery to a mine. Helium production is very very different and hopefully a discovery will be followed reasonably quickly by production. But it won't be months. It will be at least 1-2 yesrs. But that is actiually fast. If Jetstream1 flows well, all is possible. Good sustainable flow rates are the hurdle.
All mining projects in Minnesota must obtain various air and water permits or certifications from the MPCA (in addition to several other permits from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources) in order to operate. Only after the company submits a formal proposal to state and federal agencies, can the environmental review and permitting processes begin. New mining projects can take several years to complete environmental review and obtain all of the necessary permits and approvals before construction can begin. For new projects, the public is afforded multiple opportunities to provide input and comment during the review and permitting processes. There is additional opportunity for public involvement when the MPCA permits come up for reissuance, usually after a period of five years, or a major amendment.
After a mine receives their permits and certifications from the MPCA, they must adhere to the requirements or face enforcement actions, which can include fines and/or corrective actions to remedy the situation.