BLM considers new areas for coal leasing in Montana and Wyoming
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WASHINGTON – The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comment on potential updates to coal leasing on public lands in the coal-rich Powder River Basin areas of southeast Montana and northeast Wyoming. Coal produced from the basin accounts for more than 85% of all federal coal production.
The BLM is considering updates to identify areas that may be suitable for future coal leasing. These potential changes are being developed in response to Secretary’s Order 3418, which implements Executive Order 14154—both titled “Unleashing American Energy.” These directives prioritize the allocation of energy resources on public lands and the federal mineral estate, including a possible revision of coal leasing decisions in the resource management plans for the Miles City and Buffalo field offices.
Notices of intent for both the Miles City Field Office and Buffalo Field Office proposed resource management plan amendments will be published in tomorrow’s Federal Register. Additional details are available at the BLM National NEPA Register (Miles City) and (Buffalo) websites, where the preferred method to submit comments is through the “Participate Now” button, which will open following tomorrow's publication.
Comments may also be mailed or delivered to:
BLM Miles City Field Office
111 Garryowen Road
Miles City, MT 59301
For more information, contact Project Manager Irma Nansel at [email protected] or 406-233-3653.
Or:
BLM Buffalo Field Office
1425 Fort St.
Buffalo, WY 82834
For more information, contact Project Manager Tom Bills at [email protected] or 307-684-1133.
The public comment period for both field offices closes on August 7, 2025.
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.