BLM Authorizes a Coal Lease Sale within the Wayne National Forest
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WASHINGTON – In keeping with the Administration’s goals of promoting energy security and economic growth, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) authorized a competitive coal lease sale for seven federal tracts encompassing nearly 433 acres and containing an estimated 1.4 million tons of sub-surface mineable federal coal reserve within the Wayne National Forest in Perry and Morgan counties, Ohio.
The BLM’s Eastern States (ES) Office is offering these federal coal resources in response to a coal lease by application (LBA) that was filed by CCU Coal and Construction, LLC (formerly Westmoreland and Buckingham Coal Company), which operates an adjacent, privately owned, underground coal mine. This mine operates three units within more than 8,500 acres of permitted coal reserves, producing 1.2 million tons per year. The mine provided approximately 155 jobs in 2018, which are expected to be maintained. If completed, this lease would extend employment at the mine for approximately 12 years.
The tracts will be leased to the qualified bidder of the highest cash amount, provided that the bid meets or exceeds the BLM’s estimate of the fair market value of the tract. The minimum bid established by regulation is $100 per acre or a fraction thereof, and is not intended to represent the fair market value, which will be determined by the authorized officer after the sale. Coal production on Federal lands accounts for 40 percent of domestic coal production.
The sale date and guidance for submitting sealed bids will be announced no earlier than 30 days prior to the sale.
Consistent with Executive Order 13783 of March 28, 2017, Promoting Energy Independence and Economic Growth; and Secretarial Order 3349, American Energy Independence, the BLM plays an important role in the responsible development of oil and gas, coal, critical minerals, and renewable sources – all of which can occur on public lands. Energy produced in the United States promotes national security, economic prosperity and job creation.
The BLM manages more than 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.