BLM seeks public comments on proposed Bald Mountain Mine Expansion Juniper Project in White Pine County
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ELY, Nev. – The Bureau of Land Management today published a Notice of Availability in the Federal Register opening a 45-day public review and comment period for the Bald Mountain Mine Plan of Operations Amendment Juniper Project draft environmental impact statement. The draft EIS analyzes a proposal from the operator, KG Mining (Bald Mountain) Inc., to extend the life of the current Bald Mountain mine by 11 years and expand the North Operations Area by approximately 3,969 acres of new surface disturbance on private and public lands in White Pine County. The public comment period closes 45 days from Friday, Aug. 18, 2023.
The BLM plans to host two public meetings, one in-person and one virtual, where participants can ask questions about the project and provide comments. Meeting dates, locations and information on how to login and participate virtually will be announced at least 15 days in advance through local media and the BLM National NEPA Register.
“Public comments received for this draft EIS will help inform our understanding of potential issues and support BLM efforts to design mitigation strategies and alternatives,” said BLM Project Manager Concetta Brown.
The operator is preparing an Eagle Conservation Plan to request an incidental take permit for golden eagles from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. The draft EIS includes analysis of potential effects and impacts of the proposed project on golden eagles, their nests and territories in the area and addresses potential issuance of a take permit.
More information including maps and other planning documents are available at the BLM National NEPA Register. Comments can be emailed to BLM_nv_eydo_juniper_eis@blm.gov (preferred) or mailed to: BLM Ely District Office, 702 North Industrial Way, Ely, NV 89301, Attn: Project Manager Concetta Brown.
For more information, including specific technical or schedule questions related to the virtual public meeting, contact BLM Project Manager Concetta Brown at 775-289-1885 or ccbrown@blm.gov.
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.