BLM approves Caldwell Canyon phosphate mine in Idaho
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SODA SPRINGS, Idaho — The Bureau of Land Management has approved the Caldwell Canyon Phosphate Mine that would support approximately 800 jobs and eventually generate more than $80 million in federal lease royalties, while supplying phosphate used in agriculture and other industries.
Under its approved mine plan, P4 Production, LLC, will develop several phosphate leases on Schmid Ridge, about 14 miles northeast of Soda Springs. The mine plan covers approximately 1,830 acres of public and private lands.
“This decision supports Executive Order 14241, Immediate Measures to increase American Mineral Production. In doing so, it provides a stable source of phosphate for the agricultural industry and provides high-paying jobs for the community,” said BLM Acting Idaho Falls District Manager Robert Taylor. Up to 30% of domestically produced phosphate is mined in southeastern Idaho, supporting the national demand for phosphate-based agricultural products.
Operations at the new open-pit mine are expected to allow the company to adjust operations, as the existing Blackfoot Bridge Mine becomes depleted. The new Caldwell Canyon Mine is the BLM’s only elemental phosphate ore or phosphate rock mine, which would supply P4’s plant in Soda Springs for approximately 40 years. The company’s mine plan provides mitigation for wildlife, especially Greater sage-grouse, that will benefit the region. During mining, the company will restore disturbed public and private land as it becomes available, an approach known as concurrent reclamation.
In June 2023, a U.S. District Court vacated the 2019 final EIS and ROD for the original Caldwell Canyon Mine Project. P4 Production submitted the Caldwell Canyon Revised Mining and Reclamation Plan in September 2023, plus another revision in January 2024. The Draft EIS was released in December 2024.
The BLM announced the approval today in a Record of Decision, accompanied by a Final Environmental Impact Statement, which are both are available on the BLM National NEPA Register.
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.