The mines are operated adjacent to important waterways and are polluting them.
The statement that describes an impact of open-pit operations in Minnesota is:
"The mines are operated adjacent to important waterways and are polluting them."
The statement that describes an impact of open-pit operations in Minnesota is: "The mines are operated adjacent to important waterways and are polluting them." This is because open-pit operations involve excavating large open pits on the surface of the earth to extract minerals, such as iron ore, copper, and gold. In Minnesota, these mines are often located near important waterways, which can include rivers, streams, and lakes. During the mining process, various pollutants, such as sediment, chemicals, and heavy metals, can be released into the water, causing pollution and potentially harming the aquatic ecosystem and the communities that rely on these waterways for drinking water and recreational activities. To find this answer, one would need to research the specific environmental impacts of open-pit mining operations in Minnesota, including their proximity to waterways and the potential pollution effects.
