Wyoming Trona Mine Shifts North to Spare Sacred Playgrounds
Published Date: 2/28/2025
Notice
Summary
The Bureau of Land Management just released the final environmental report for the Dry Creek Trona Mine project in Sweetwater County, Wyoming. They picked a plan that moves processing facilities north of I-80, cutting pipeline impacts and protecting a popular recreation area. Locals and nature lovers should watch for the decision, which won’t happen for at least 30 days after the EPA’s announcement.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Pipeline Impacts Cut; Recreation Area Protected
The Bureau of Land Management selected Alternative D, which moves processing facilities north of I-80 about 8 miles west of Green River, Wyoming. The water supply pipeline length is reduced from 24.66 miles to 6.4 miles and this change eliminates disturbance through the U.S. Forest Service Flaming Gorge Recreation Area and the Blacks Fork Priority Habitat Management Area for Greater Sage‑Grouse.
Project Footprint Increased to 7,015 Acres
The preferred Alternative D results in a larger project footprint of 7,015 acres. The decision states that the development of the well field and mine production levels remain unchanged from the other alternatives.
Decision Wait: Minimum 30‑Day Delay After EPA Notice
The Bureau of Land Management will not issue a decision for at least 30 days after the EPA publishes its notice of availability in the Federal Register. The notice also notes that the EPA usually publishes such notices on Fridays.
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