BLM Tres Rios Field Office releases preliminary coal exploration analysis for public comment
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DOLORES, Colo. - The Bureau of Land Management, Tres Rios Field Office is seeking comments on a preliminary environmental assessment that analyzes an exploration license application submitted by GCC Energy. The 23-hole drilling proposal, which is federal coal underlying predominately private land, would aid GCC in locating coal resources adjacent to their King II Mine near Hesperus, Colorado.
The exploration license application proposes to use a small rig to collect core samplings from depths of up to 600 feet. Existing routes would be used to access drill sites and no new roads have been proposed. After drilling, all disturbed areas would be re-seeded and drill holes would be plugged per state standards to protect groundwater.
“If the core sampling data indicates there is an economic coal resource, the company would be required to go through a competitive process, additional environmental analysis and community involvement to apply for the rights to develop the coal,” said Connie Clementson, BLM Tres Rios Field Manager.
To review the preliminary EA for the exploration license, go to: http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/BLM_Information/nepa/TRFO_NEPA.html.
Written comments on the preliminary EA should be submitted by Oct. 5, 2015, via mail to the BLM Tres Rios Field Office, Attn: Helen Mary Johnson, 15 Burnett Court, Durango, CO 81301, via email to blm_co_coalcommenttresrios@blm.gov or via fax at 970-882-6841.
Currently, there are seven producing coal mines in the State of Colorado (two are surface mines, the remaining five are subsurface) totaling 60,000 acres and with an estimated economic output of $1.2 billion. There are 55 coal leases in Colorado, covering 88,677 acres.
Before including your address, phone number, email address or other personal identifying information in your comment, be aware that your entire comment – including your personal identifying information – may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so.
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.