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    Mineral-Based Materials Boost Economy; U.S. Mining Posts Uneven Year    
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 US Newswire: Processed materials made from minerals contributed an         
 estimated $326 billion to the U.S.  economy in 1993, a five percent        
 increase, but the domestic mining industry saw production values decline   
 slightly, according to a report released today by the U.S. Bureau of       
 Mines (USBM).                                                              
 Looking ahead: Industry analysts and mineral producers anticipate a        
 better year in 1994.  They count on growth in U.S. motor vehicle sales     
 and increased highway construction to stimulate domestic demand for        
 minerals.  Legislative developments in 1993, however, suggest that the     
 industry can also expect to be held increasingly accountable for the       
 benefits it derives from public lands and its impact on the environment.   
 Before Congress adjourned for the year, the House and Senate passed bills  
 reforming the Mining Law of 1872.  Although a compromise bill has not yet  
 been negotiated, both proposals set royalties on the value of hardrock     
 minerals produced from federal lands.  A portion of the money collected    
 would be used to reclaim abandoned mines.  Bills introduced in the Senate  
 to reauthorize the Clean Water Act and improve wetlands management         
 emphasize pollution prevention and expand the number of activities that    
 can be regulated in wetland areas.  Both would result in new               
 environmental safeguards for mining and mineral processing.                


