Trapper Mining gets final OK from Interior to operate Colorado coal mine

Trapper Mining Inc. recently received final approval from the Department of the Interior on its Environmental Assessment (EA), which was developed by the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) after a lawsuit from WildEarth Guardians.

The Interior Department issued a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI), which allows Trapper to continue its surface coal mining operations in Craig, Colorado, under current permits.

“On behalf of Trapper’s board, employees and families, and our entire community, I want to thank the Department of Interior and the professional team at OSMRE for working together to keep this important effort on track,” Trapper Mining President and General Manager Jim Mattern said. “The approach to the assessment has been thoughtful and thorough, and has provided the opportunity for robust public involvement.”

The mine has been open since 1977 and has been recognized as an industry leader in reclamation work, even winning a bronze medal from OSMRE for its work in this field.

“The Department of the Interior’s assessment confirmed that Trapper has no significant impact on air or water quality," Mattern said. "Once reclamation is complete, Trapper has virtually no lasting effect on the surface area in and around the mine — and in many cases actually improves the habitat for wildlife."