The Department of the Interior has announced plans to prepare an environmental impact statement for a proposed modification to the mining plan at Black Butte Coal Company in Sweetwater County, Wyoming. The proposal would allow access to additional federal coal reserves.
This move comes after President Donald J. Trump declared a national energy emergency on January 20, 2025. The administration has emphasized its focus on domestic energy production and economic security through policies such as Executive Order 14261, which aims to support the coal industry.
Adam Suess, Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management, stated: “The Trump administration is cutting bureaucratic red tape and putting American energy back where it belongs—at the center of a strong and sovereign nation. This mine expansion is about more than coal—it’s about powering our grid, protecting our families, and putting American workers first.”
Black Butte Mine has been in operation since 1977, supplying thermal coal to the Jim Bridger Power Plant and supporting jobs across multiple jurisdictions. The new plan would allow development of Pits 10 and 15 under Federal Coal Lease WYW-6266. It is expected to unlock around 9.2 million tons of federal coal while disturbing approximately 450 acres of land. Mining operations are projected to continue until at least 2039.
The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement will conduct the required environmental review within a condensed timeline of just 28 days as part of efforts to expedite permitting processes.
A virtual public scoping meeting is scheduled for August 18, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. MDT via Zoom. Registration details and further project updates can be found at https://www.osmre.gov/laws-and-regulations/nepa/projects.
Public comments on the proposal can be submitted by August 21 via email or mail as specified by the department.
For additional information, NEPA Project Manager Charlie Kwak can be contacted by phone or email during business hours.
