BLM approves mineral exploration project in Nevada

ALTURAS, Calif. — The Bureau of Land Management has approved mineral exploration on 200 acres of public lands in Nevada, including requirements that minimize conflicts with natural, cultural, and historic resources. The project by Hog Ranch Minerals, Inc. includes construction of drill pads, new access roads, and staging areas in support of exploratory drilling at the site of the former Hog Ranch gold mine in Washoe County.

“BLM carefully reviewed public comments on the draft environmental analysis and worked with cooperators, including Tribal governments, the Nevada Department of Wildlife, and the Nevada Sagebrush Ecosystem Technical Team, to assess potential impacts to cultural and biological resources,” said Craig Drake, manager of the BLM Applegate Field Office. “Public input shaped the decision and guided opportunities to minimize impacts to sensitive plant species and special status wildlife species.”

The Hog Ranch Mine produced gold from the early 1980s to the mid-1990s. The site was reclaimed after mining operations ceased.

The decision record, environmental analysis, and maps for the project can be viewed online. Additional information is available by phoning BLM’s Surprise Field Station in Cedarville at 530-279-6101.