BLM to hold federal coal lease sale at Falkirk Mine in North Dakota
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BILLINGS, Mont. – The Bureau of Land Management will hold a sealed-bid coal lease sale on Sept. 10, 2025, offering access to an estimated 11.3 million tons of federal coal at the Falkirk Mine in McLean County, North Dakota. The proposed lease would support mine operations through 2045, reinforcing America’s energy security and supporting local jobs.
The sale reflects the federal government’s strong commitment to revitalizing the U.S. coal industry and expanding access to abundant, affordable domestic energy—key goals under President Trump’s Executive Order 14241, “Reinvigorating America’s Beautiful Clean Coal Industry.”
“This action is about putting American energy first,” said Acting BLM Director Bill Groffy. “Leasing this coal ensures a reliable domestic supply, supports high-paying jobs, and helps power the nation while reinforcing our commitment to responsible land and resource management.”
Falkirk Mining Company has proposed to lease approximately 800 acres of federal coal. The area has been thoroughly reviewed through a joint draft environmental assessment by the BLM and the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement. The public comment period ran from June 23 through July 7, with a public meeting held July 7.
The sealed-bid sale will be held at 10 a.m. MST on Sept. 10, 2025, at the BLM Montana State Office, 5001 Southgate Drive, Billings, Montana. The minimum bid is $100 per acre. The lease will go to the qualified bidder offering the highest bid that meets or exceeds fair market value.
This leasing opportunity directly supports the Trump administration’s America Energy Dominance energy policy by cutting red tape, increasing access to federal resources and creating long-term stability for rural economies. It also advances Secretary Burgum’s goal of unleashing domestic energy production while maintaining efficient and responsible permitting processes.
For full bidding instructions and details, visit 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.