More than 30 miners could be working beneath the Cabinet Mountains by the end of the year, according to the CEO and president of the company developing the Montanore Mine south of Libby.
Mines Management Inc.’s Glenn Dobbs made the statement just days after an official with the U.S. Forest Service announced the proposed copper and silver mine would be in compliance with federal regulations.
“We’re very pleased with the decision and are looking forward to working on the project and hiring a number of local people,” Dobbs said.
In March, the U.S. Forest Service issued its final environmental impact statement and draft record of decision for the Montanore project. The public was then given the opportunity to comment on the draft decision. On July 22, Deputy Regional Forester David E. Schmid issued a letter responding to the objectors.
“I have reviewed all of the assertions that the project violates various environmental laws, regulations, polices, and the Forest Plan,” Schmid said. “My review finds the project will be in compliance with all applicable laws.”
While Dobbs and supporters of the mine celebrated , environmental groups were critical of the announcement. Groups like the Clark Fork Coalition and Earthworks have argued it is inappropriate to develop a mine underneath a wilderness area.
“These are very serious deficiencies,” said Bonnie Gestring of Earthworks. “The Forest Service has put the cart before the horse in drawing a conclusion before all the impacts have been determined.”
Schmid’s letter signaled that the final record of decision could be coming soon. Dobbs said he expects the decision in September. Once that happens, the Montana Department of Environmental Quality is expected to issue the appropriate permits to begin developing the mine. Dobbs said Mines Management would hire 30 to 35 people within a month of receiving the final permits.
Once miners get underground, they will begin to dewater the exploratory adit and start working on the mine evaluation and feasibility study. Dobbs said that process will take anywhere from 20 to 24 months.
Mining officials say the Montanore Mine could produce 7 million ounces of sliver and 60 million pounds of copper annually and employ about 350 people.