BLM seeks input on proposed mining exploration project in California

BARSTOW, Calif. - The Bureau of Land Management is seeking input during a 30-day public comment period on its draft environmental analysis of St. Cloud Mining’s proposed mining exploration project adjacent to its existing mine in Inyo County.

St. Cloud Mining proposes to drill 43 boreholes on public lands east of Death Valley Junction to explore for clinoptilolite, a mineral widely used in many industries to control moisture, capture odors, and neutralize potentially harmful compounds. The proposed exploration would occur within the Amargosa North Area of Critical Environmental Concern and result in less than one acre of surface disturbance.

BLM will hold a public meeting to provide information and answer questions about the proposed project on April 11, 4-6 p.m., at Tecopa Community Center, 400 Tecopa Hot Springs Road, Tecopa, CA.

BLM invites public comment on alternatives and potential environmental effects presented in the environmental assessment through May 3. Substantive comments may be submitted through BLM’s National NEPA Register. For additional information, please contact Jamie Livingood at jlivingo@blm.gov.