State regulators say Cargill’s plan to expand water storage at its salt mine under Cayuga Lake poses no environmental threat.

The Department of Environmental Conservation issued a “negative declaration,” meaning the proposed changes won’t significantly impact the environment. Cargill seeks a permit modification to store water used for dust control and rain runoff, without altering existing mining methods or expanding its footprint.

DEC emphasized there’s no link between the mine and the lake and promised continued oversight, including annual inspections and third-party reviews, to ensure public safety and environmental compliance.