Article Summary –
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will not issue new coal leases in the Powder River Basin, the largest coal-producing region in the U.S. The decision was laid down in a supplemental environmental impact statement, which outlines the agency’s natural resource strategy for the areas. The BLM has stated that existing federal leases would not be affected by the decision, allowing the Rosebud Mine and the Spring Creek Mine to continue operations until 2035 and 2060, respectively.
Bureau of Land Management Stops New Coal Leases in Powder River Basin
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has put a halt to issuing new coal leases in the Powder River Basin, America’s top coal-producing area. The move, detailed in a supplemental environmental impact statement, frames the agency’s natural resource strategy for areas under the jurisdiction of the Miles City and Buffalo, Wyoming offices.
Existing federal leases will not be affected, ensuring operations at the Rosebud Mine and the Spring Creek Mine will continue until 2035 and 2060 respectively. The decision sparked mixed reactions, with environmental groups praising the move while pro-industry groups and Republican politicians criticized it.
Mark Fix, a member of the Northern Plains Resource Council, hailed the decision as a “common sense plan that reflects the reality of today’s coal markets.” He added that the plan will protect taxpayers from wasting publicly-owned resources on subsidizing a declining industry.
Shift from Coal to Clean Energy
Coal-fired power in Montana has been decreasing, with power plants like the Lewis & Clark Station closing, while energy developers are bringing large wind farms online. However, this transition has been challenging due to coal’s economic impact and availability.
Despite housing the nation’s largest coal reserves, Montana has been grappling with concerns over the environmental and public health impact of burning coal. Coal power plants have been linked to increased mortality risks and the onset of heart and lung problems in nearby communities.
Reactions to the Decision
Some Montana Republicans, including Governor Greg Gianforte, U.S. Rep. Matt Rosendale, and others, have condemned the decision. They claim it drives up the cost of affordable energy and jeopardizes the reliability of the electrical grid. Rosendale accused the BLM of appeasing climate extremists while jeopardizing the economy and national security.
Conversely, Democrat Senator Jon Tester encouraged Montanans to participate in the public comment period and voiced his openness to opposing any decision that doesn’t benefit Montana.
The revised environmental impact statement initiates a 30-day protest period for those who have already participated in the planning process to contest the BLM’s decision.
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