LAS CRUCES, N.M. - The Bureau of Land Management today began a 30-day public comment period on proposed adjustments to the Foothill Dolomite Mine Project. In 2021, the BLM approved American Magnesium, LLC’s request to develop and operate a 40-acre quarry on public lands 12 miles south of Deming in Luna County for 20 years. The proposed adjustments would make operational changes to the site, including new access points and equipment staging. The comment period closes Sept.13, 2023.
Dolomite, a type of limestone, is a key source of magnesium, which has been identified as a critical mineral by Executive Order 13817, Federal Strategy to Ensure Secure and Reliable Supplies of Critical Minerals and is listed on the Department of the Interior’s 2022 final list of critical minerals.
American Magnesium, LLC recently submitted an amendment to their existing plan to add an additional staging area, change resource confirmation drilling methods from a grid drill pattern to five drill sites, and access the southern portion of the project area via an existing road and two rail lines.
For additional information and to submit comments please visit the BLM National NEPA Register (preferred) or mark comments ATTN: Foothill Dolomite Mine EA Amendment and mail or hand deliver to BLM Las Cruces District Office, 1800 Marquess St., Las Cruces, NM 88005.
For more information, contact the BLM Las Cruces District Office at (575) 525-4300.
Source: Bureau of Land Management