The Utah Division of Oil, Gas and Mining is accepting public input on interpreting and applying environmental regulations governing the permitting and operations of mines in the Castle Valley region and across the state.
“The division has been working diligently for several months to address a legislative audit of the coal program that was released in December of last year,” explained DOGM director John Baza.
“Many good discussions and staff analyses have resulted from our efforts and, before we implement future changes, we now wish to have public input concerning our work,” contained the division director
According to state agency officials, the legislative audit identified progress improvements that, when implemented, DOGM expects will more effectively and efficiently serve the interests of local and state citizens.
“It’s important to note that the audit was not connected in any way with the disaster at Crandall Canyon,” pointed out Baza.
“Our responsibilities are concerned solely with the enforcement of surface environmental regulations and not with underground mine worker safety,” pointed out the division director.
At the local level, DOGM will conduct a public input meeting May 29 at 9 a.m. in the Canyon Room at the Emery County Courthouse.
The courthouse is located at 95 East Main in Castle Dale.
In addition to attending the public meeting, Castle Valley residents may send comments directly to the attention of John Baza, Utah Division of Oil, Gas and Mining, 1594 W. North Temple, Suite 1210, P.O. Box 145801, Salt Lake City, UT 84114-5801.
Residents with Internet access may also email comments regarding the matter to johnbaza@utah.gov.
The deadline for submitting input to the state coal mine regulation agency is June 13.
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