Juneau, Alaska (KINY) – A proposed decision on the Greens Creek Mine Extension Project is ready for public view, along with a final environmental analysis. The mine operates on Admiralty Island in the Tongass National Forest. The project would increase the facility’s tailings disposal capacity.
The recommended decision allows for the extension of the mine’s tailing disposal facility in two phases under more robust mitigation and monitoring measures designed to protect water quality and nearby habitats. It would also allow Greens Creek to continue its production for 12-18 more years.
“The Forest Service recognizes the importance of mineral resources to the nation’s well-being and supports mineral exploration and development as part of our multiple-use mandate,” said Tongass Forest Supervisor Frank Sherman. “At the same time, our experts strive to work toward minimizing the impacts of mining activities and on other forest resources by working closely with the state and other federal agencies to ensure measures are in place to protect water quality and nearby aquatic habitats.”
Individuals or organizations who submitted specific written comments regarding the proposed project, either during scoping or other designated opportunities for public comment, may file objections to the draft decision. These commenters can submit objections in several ways:
- Electronically (preferred): https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public//CommentInput?Project=57306.
- By Mail or Hand Delivery: Regional Forester Janelle Crocker, USDA Forest Service, Alaska Region 709 W. 9th Street, P.O. Box 21628 Juneau, AK 99802-1628
- By Fax: (907) 586-7840
The Greens Creek Mine is the nation’s largest silver producer. It is unique in that it operates within a National Monument. Mine employees earned over $76.8 million in wages and benefits in 2022.
