Lakeview BLM Releases Final EIS and Issues Decision on the Perlite Mine Expansion
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LAKEVIEW, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lakeview District has analyzed the potential impacts of a proposed perlite mine expansion, and through the issuance of a Record of Decision (ROD), is proposing to authorize the expansion of the existing mine by up to 262 additional acres. The BLM intends to allow the expansion of the mine in a manner that protects culturally significant sites and raptor nests and reduces visual impacts.
Cornerstone, Inc., submitted a proposed amendment to its existing Plan of Operations, which would expand the existing Tucker Hill perlite quarry and preserve 30 jobs for up to an additional 25 years (45 years total) of operation. Perlite is a volcanic glass used in insulation and plant growth mediums.
“The Tucker Hill perlite quarry is a vital part of the Lake County economy,” said District Manager Todd Forbes. “This project means decades of additional job security and economic development for communities in the surrounding area, and the BLM is proud to play a part in sustaining those benefits.”
The BLM is releasing the ROD concurrently with the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) in accordance with the provisions of 40 CFR 1506.10(b)(2). The FEIS and ROD have been mailed out to interested publics, cooperating agencies, and Native American Tribes. The documents are also available on BLM’s ePlanning website at https://eplanning.blm.gov/epl-front-office/eplanning/planAndProjectSite.do?methodName=dispatchToPatternPage¤tPageId=68947. The decision is currently subject to State Director review or appeal in accordance with the provisions described in the ROD.
For more information, contact Phil D’Amo or Paul Whitman at 541-947-2177.
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.