News

Forest Supervisor Decision Affirmed To Expand Phosphate Mine
News Release
USDA Forest Service
324 25th Street
Ogden, UT 84401-2310

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Larry Timchak
Phone: 208-557-5761
DATE: SEPTEMBER 10, 2008
08-45

Ogden, Utah…. A decision, by Caribou-Targhee National Forest Supervisor Larry Timchak, to issue special use permits allowing J.R. Simplot Co. to undertake activities outside of lease boundaries, was affirmed by Deputy Regional Forester, Cathy Beaty.

In June 2008, the decision was made by the Forest Supervisor to authorize phosphate mining activities outside of the Smokey Canyon Mine lease boundaries to access existing leases. These activities include two haul roads, power transmission lines, temporarily stockpiling of topsoil, and requirements for reclamation of disturbed areas. The appeal period for the decision ended in late July 2008, in which various appeals were filed.

“After reviewing the Record of Decision, the Final Environmental Impact Statement, and the project record, it is evident these documents demonstrate the Forest Supervisor complied with applicable laws and regulations,” Beaty said. “I believe this decision has been reached through careful environmental analysis and thorough consideration of the public’s concerns.”

The decision also authorizes road construction in Sage Creek and Meade Peak Inventoried Roadless Areas to access the existing mineral leases. It was determined by the Forest Supervisor that the decision is consistent with the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, the Caribou-Targhee Forest Plan, and National Forest Management Act.

For more information on this subject please visit the Caribou-Targhee National Forest website at www.fs.fed.us/r4/caribou-targhee/phosphate/ and www. fs.fed.us/emc/applit/
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-- Posted on Friday, September 12, 2008