BLM coal lease sale at Freedom Mine nets $106,292
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BILLINGS, Mont. – The Bureau of Land Management today announced Coteau Properties Company of Beulah, N.D., was awarded a lease to mine 18.3 million tons of available federal coal across 1,070 acres for $106,292 at Freedom Mine in Mercer County, N.D.
The mine will also generate annual rental fees of $3 per acre and a 7% royalty payment on coal produced. Royalties paid will be shared evenly between the State of North Dakota and the U.S. Treasury. These leases support energy independence, rural economic development, and fiscal responsibility, all while ensuring fair returns for U.S. taxpayers.
“Through this sale, the BLM is delivering on its commitment to responsibly manage America’s energy resources,” said BLM Montana/Dakotas State Director Sonya Germann. “By cutting red tape and opening access to coal reserves, we’re supporting domestic energy production, local jobs, and sustainable economic growth.”
This lease sale aligns with the administration priorities under Executive Order 14154, “Unleashing American Energy,” which directs agencies to remove regulatory barriers and encourage energy exploration and production on federal lands. It also advances key provisions of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, including regular coal lease sales, reduced royalties, and streamlined leasing reviews designed to revitalize American energy production and reinvigorate domestic coal leasing.
Please visit the BLM’s Coal Program website for more information.
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.