AP reported that Kennecott Eagle Minerals Company has begun drilling a nickel and copper mine in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Ms Deb Muchmore spokeswoman said that the company recently conducted the initial blasting and drilling of bedrock at the site in northwestern Marquette County. It will take about a year to drill a mile long underground tunnel.

The opening is about 260 feet west of Eagle Rock, an outcrop that is considered sacred by the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. The company has promised to protect the rock which is surrounded by trees and fenced off from the industrial site.

Opponents are challenging in court the state Department of Environmental Quality's decision to issue permits for the mine. An Ingham County judge refused this month to delay blasting until she rules on the lawsuit.

(Sourced from Associated Press)