BLM approves sapphire mining project in Lewis and Clark County
Butte, Mont. – The Bureau of Land Management approved a five-year operation for the McCune Bar sapphire mine today. The plan covers a 6.1-acre area located about a quarter-mile inland from the northeast shore of Hauser Lake in Lewis and Clark County, Montana.
The Montana Sapphire Mining Company is authorized to mine and recover sapphires from McCune Bar gravels. The project includes 2.5 acres of mining and 3.6 acres of access road disturbance in a historically mined area. “This project is a great example of how we can support responsible mining while also protecting the public lands that are important to so many people in this area,” said Lindsey Babcock, Butte Field Manager.
The Butte Field Office environmental assessment found there would be no significant impacts to natural resources from the work. Additionally, the company is required to return the land to its original state, once operations are complete. During the 30-day public comment period, the office received valuable input on the project and will share the final decision directly with those who submitted comments and provided contact information.
The project supports Executive Order 14241 Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production, and will create jobs and facilitate domestic mineral production.
The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.