BLM approves updated Kirkland Mine plan of operations
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PHOENIX – The Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Hassayampa Field Office has approved an updated Mining and Reclamation Plan of Operations and Final Environmental Assessment (EA) for a pozzolan mine on approximately 88 acres of public lands near Skull Valley, proposed by the Kirkland Mining Company LLC (KMC). The updated plan supports the responsible development of mineral resources and includes new modifications that address concerns raised by the local community during the public input process.
Modifications include a revision of the mine’s overall footprint to avoid sensitive resources and the creation of a buffer area between the mine and washes that drain into Copper Basin Wash, in order to avoid impacting riparian and wildlife resources. Additionally, offsite water sources were identified for dust control in order to not impact groundwater sources in the immediate vicinity of the mine.
Based on the analysis in the Final EA, the BLM has determined that the project would not cause significant impacts and that an environmental impact statement is not required. The BLM has signed a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) and issued a Decision Record.
“Under the BLM’s multiple-use mission, we work to strike a balance in land use and resource management,” said Phoenix District Manager Leon Thomas. “In this case, reaching this balance requires working with the applicant to plan for the most effective use of mineral resources, avoiding significant impacts, and listening to public input. By sustainably developing this resource, the project has the potential to meet the applicant’s needs while having a positive impact on the local economy,”
High quality pozzolan is used as a replacement for cement in the production of concrete.
The approved documents and other materials are available online at http://go.usa.gov//xnJFX . Responses to comments received during the 60-day public comment period are also available on the project website.
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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.