MARQUETTE COUNTY -- Rebecca Humphries, the Director of the Department of Natural, is expected to sign two permits needed by Kennecott Minerals to build a mine in the Yellow Dog Plains of Marquette County.

That's what a spokesman for the DNR told TV6 Wednesday.

The actual signing of the two permits--for surface lease rights and mine reclamation--is expected Thursday.

Last month, after years of controversy and several public hearings, the Department of Environmental Quality approved mining, water and air permits for the mine. Construction on the mine could begin almost immediately after the DNR permits are approved.

Opponents of the mine, who claim it could jeopardize the environment, have filed suit to stop the mine.

The nickel and copper mine, which will take about two years to build, will operate for about eight years. It's expected to employ about 100 local workers.