This bill would place a 3-year moratorium (July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2027) on the acceptance of applications by Georgia EPD for dragline surface mining permits of heavy sands minerals. This is the specific mining technique and minerals specified by Twin Pines Minerals, LLC for the proposed mine along a geological formation known as Trail Ridge in southeast Georgia.

In essence, this statutorily names the Twin Pines project as a pilot project and will restrict their proposed mining technique to the pilot site until scientific data can be obtained to determine the effects of the mine on surrounding ecosystems.

This bill strikes a compromise that provides some level of protection, albeit temporary, for the Okefenokee Swamp, while also respecting private property rights. 

GMA supports long-term solutions to protect the Okefenokee, as it serves as a significant groundwater recharge area and ensures safe and reliable drinking water to permitted public water systems in the St. Marys River basin. 

See HB 71, Okefenokee Protection Act for more information on the potential negative effects of the proposed surface mining on Trail Ridge.