BLM accepting RBC comments

RBC I The Bureau of Land Management has released an environmental assessment for public comment on an application for a coal exploration license northwest of the Deserado Mine in Rio Blanco County.Blue Mountain Energy Inc., which operates the Deserado Mine, is proposing to drill up to 15 coal exploration wells using a truck-mounted air-water drill rig. Hole depths would vary from 300 to 685 feet. The estimated seven acres of land that would be disturbed would be reseeded and reclaimed once the work is completed.The exploration project will help the company determine where additional coal reserves may be located near its existing mining operation and leases.“This kind of project helps ensure any additional development of federal coal resources is conducted in an orderly manner consistent with multiple use management,” said White River Field manager Kent Walter.The required coal exploration license would be valid for two years. The company hopes to complete the project in 2011. Each well should take about one week to drill.The EA may be viewed on the WRFO website by going to http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/wrfo/index.html. BLM will accept public comments on the EA through Sept. 26, 2011. Written comments can be mailed to Paul Daggett, BLM WRFO, 220 E. Market Street, Meeker, CO 81641, or sent via email to [email protected]. Please note “Coal Exploration License” in the subject line for all emails. For more information, please contact Paul Daggett at 970-878-3819.Before including address, phone number, email address, or any other personal identifying information in your comment, be advised that your entire comment, including personal identifying information, may be made publicly available at any time. While individuals may request BLM to withhold personal identifying information from public view, the BLM cannot guarantee it will be able to do so.