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BLM Extends Coal Leases Southwest of Somerset

by KREX News Room
by Cori Coffin

Story Created: Dec 28, 2012 at 11:39 PM MDT

Story Updated: Dec 29, 2012 at 12:23 AM MDT

GUNNISON COUNTY, Colo. - The Bureau of Land Management has decided to expand federally-owned coal leases by 1,721 acres about seven miles southwest of Somerset.

The coal leases are adjacent to existing federal coal leases operated by the West Elk Mine. The expansion allows the recovery of up to 19 million tons of coal and extends mining operations by up to three years.

Currently West Elk Mine employs more than 375 people. Total direct economic benefits associated with the coal mines in the North Fork Valley exceed $60 million annually.

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