2013-06-03_GENERAL DOCUMENTS - M1977215

• Permit No: M1977215
• IBM Index Class Name: GENERAL DOCUMENTS
• Doc Date: 6/3/2013
• Doc Name: DECISION NOTICE
• From: FOREST SERVICE
• To: DRMS
• Email Name: RCO
• Media Type: D
• Archive: No

As required by NEPA (40 CFR 1501.7), the Forest Service provided an early and open process to
determine the scope of issues to be addressed and to identify the issues related to this EA.
On August 10, 2012, the Forest Service published a public scoping notice in the Valley Courier
that announced that a formal 30 -day public scoping period would begin on that date and
formally end on September 9, 2012.
The Forest Service encouraged public participation throughout the development of the EA.
On Tuesday evening, August 14, 2012, the Forest Service held a public scoping "open- house"
meeting from 7:00 — 9:00 PM at the community center in Creede, Colorado to allow the general
public the opportunity to learn more about the Bulldog Underground Exploration and
Development Program, the NEPA process, and the nature of public participation in the NEPA
process.
Notification of the availability of the EA for Comment was mailed to approximately 39
individuals, organizations, or congressional representatives.
1.4 FINDINGS REQUIRED BY OTHER LAWS AND REGULATIONS
This decision is consistent with the Rio Grande National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan
(Forest Plan), as required by 36 CFR 219.10(e). All mining operations under the 1872 Mining Law are
designed to be as compatible with the proposed Forest Plan Goals and Objectives as possible. By
statute, mining claimants have the right to access and develop a claim. The Forest Service cannot deny
or unduly delay operations. (See RGNF Forest Plan, page 3 -325). The project is compatible with the two
management areas within which the project is located. (See EA, page 3)
1872 Mining Law / FLPMA / NEPA
This project is consistent with the 1872 Mining Law and the Federal Land Policy and Management Act
(FLPMA) of 1976 because it provides the proponent with reasonable access to their unpatented mining
claims. This project was prepared under and complies with the regulations for the National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
National Mineral Program Policy
The Federal government's policy for minerals resource management is expressed in the Mining and
Minerals Policy Act of 1970, "foster and encourage private enterprise in the development of
economically sound and stable industries, and in the orderly and economic development of domestic
resources to help assure satisfaction of industrial, security, and environmental needs. " Within this
context, the National Forests and Grasslands have an essential role in contributing to an adequate and
stable supply of mineral and energy resources while continuing to sustain the land's productivity for
other uses and its capability to support biodiversity goals.
Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Act (as amended) (34 -32 -101 et seq. CRS)
RGS will need a Technical Revision to their existing permit through the Colorado Division of Reclamation
Mining and Safety (DRMS), to address bonding requirements for activities associated with construction
of the water treatment plant, pipelines, and waste rock storage on private ground near the existing TP -2
site. An amendment of the 110(d) mining permit to expand the affected areas is ongoing.
Bulldog Underground Exploration and Development Project DN/FONSI Page 4