Broomfield, CO—August 12, 2020—Navajo Transitional Energy Company (NTEC) has received final regulatory approval to expand its Spring Creek Coal mine in southern Montana. The long-sought approvals add approximately 72 million tons of recoverable coal reserves within 974 acres.
The final approval from the Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management comes after approvals from Montana DEQ, Montana SHPO, Montana Sage Grouse Oversight Team, and US Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement.
State and federal agencies did an extensive analysis with significant public input for over eight years before providing approval. The thorough nature of the reviews, including a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement by the State of Montana, ensures a sound and responsible mining plan and provides regulatory oversight of operations.
In addition to maintaining its world-class mining and award-winning reclamation standards, NTEC will support the Montana Sage Grouse Oversight Team’s Stewardship Fund with a $107,000 contribution.
NTEC immediately began work in the new area, demonstrating a commitment to improving and capitalizing on the Spring Creek mine. The addition of these acres allows the company to continue providing family-wage jobs in Montana and Wyoming for years to come. The expansion should produce tens of millions in taxes and royalties, supporting state and local communities and supporting hundreds of mineworkers.
Spring Creek Mine has a reputation for providing a very consistent product to its customers. With these additional reserves, the mine will continue producing high-quality coal.