Potassium Mine

Potassium Mine

David Sparks Ph.D.
David Sparks Ph.D.
The Bureau of Land Management out of  Idaho Falls District and USDA Forest Service Caribou-Targhee National Forest today each released a Record of Decision approving portions of the East Smoky Panel Mine and Reclamation Plan under their jurisdiction. The J.R. Simplot Company (Simplot) proposed expanding the Smoky Canyon Mine into the East Smoky Panel using a new design that reduces impacts associated with phosphate mining. 

“Phosphate mining in southeast Idaho is critical to provide minerals for use in products that support agriculture, wildfire suppression, and other industries in Idaho and elsewhere and to contribute to the region’s economy,” said BLM Deputy Director for Policy and Programs William Perry Pendley. “This joint decision will ensure that these benefits continue for years to come.”

The East Smoky Panel Mine Project will keep more than 600 jobs for at least three years at Simplot’s existing Smoky Canyon Mine and Don Plant processing facility, generating approximately $180 million per year in associated salaries and indirectly supporting 1,326 jobs in the region.

“The decision strikes a balance between resource extraction and conservation while providing opportunities for high-paying jobs in the local community,” said Mary D’Aversa, BLM Idaho Falls District Manager. “We are pleased that we were able to work with the USFS, Simplot, and the public to come to a decision that provides for responsible phosphate mining.” 

The BLM and the USFS used the Final East Smoky Panel Mine Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to make separate, coordinated decisions related to the proposed project. The ROD released by the BLM approves the Mine and Reclamation Plan, modifies the existing Smoky Canyon Mine and Reclamation Plan, and enlarges the existing leases.

The USFS provided recommendations to the BLM regarding surface management on leased National Forest System lands. The USFS ROD approves Special Use Authorizations for off-lease activities and approves amendments to its land-use plan to add management prescriptions and designate utility corridors.

Previous ReportOur Food Link
Next ReportMilk Pricing