Click the logo to download your  free PDF version

           Click the logo to download your  free PDF version

 

To purchase this space contact Gordon

The Bureau of Land Management is inviting public input on a proposed coal exploration project in Utah’s Muddy Creek Canyon area as part of a larger federal effort to re-invigorate the coal industry and advance American energy independence. 

Canyon Fuel Company, LLC, has proposed drilling 10 exploration holes on 9,276 acres of public land in Sanpete County. The project would use low-impact drilling methods to assess potential coal resources. 

“This project marks another important step in restoring commonsense access to America’s energy resources,” said BLM Acting Director Bill Groffy. “Since April, we’ve taken a series of actions to revitalize the U.S. coal industry—supporting jobs, local economies, and energy security. Today’s announcement is part of that broader commitment.” 

This is the BLM’s first coal exploration notice nationwide since 2019. The proposed project follows recent BLM actions under the Trump administration that support the coal industry, including: 

These actions align with recent executive orders issued by President Trump focused on strengthening U.S. energy production, reducing reliance on foreign fuels, and reinvigorating the coal industry

If the Utah plan is approved, Canyon Fuel Company will begin environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act after gathering and reviewing public feedback. The full exploration plan is available for public review at the BLM Utah State Office, 440 West 200 South, Suite 500, Salt Lake City, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (excluding federal holidays). 

The 30-day public comment period will begin with the official notice published in the Federal Register on July 11, 2025, and will close on Aug. 11, 2025. Comments must be sent to both: 

Christina Price, Deputy State Director 
BLM Utah State Office 
440 West 200 South, Suite 500 
Salt Lake City, UT 84101 

Eric Beard, Geologist 
Canyon Fuel Company, LLC, c/o Sufco Mine 
397 South 880 West 
Salina, UT 84564