Federal Register #2026-15255

USDA Forest Service Seeks Input on Bear Lodge Rare Earth Mining Project EIS

The USDA Forest Service, Black Hills National Forest, is seeking public input as it prepares an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Bear Lodge Rare Earth Project in Wyoming. - Government Buyer: - U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Black Hills National Forest, Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment - OEM/Vendor: - Rare Element Resources Inc. (project proponent and developer) - Project Scope: - Proposed open-pit mining of rare earth elements, specifically neodymium-praseodymium (Nd/Pr), on National Forest System lands - Construction of mining infrastructure and support facilities, including: - Guardhouse - Access and haul roads - Safety fencing - Utilities - Dewatering pond - Water pipeline - Mineral processing facilities - Products/Services Requested: - No specific product part numbers or purchase quantities at this stage - Environmental review and analysis (EIS preparation) - Notable Requirements: - Assessment of environmental impacts (hydrology, air quality, scenic/cultural resources, wildlife) - Potential amendment to forest plan for visual standards - Public comment solicitation as part of NEPA process - Project expected to create approximately 240 construction jobs and 120 operational jobs - Private investment estimated to exceed $500 million - Total project duration estimated at 22 years (including construction, mining, processing, and reclamation)

Description

The USDA Forest Service, Black Hills National Forest, intends to prepare an environmental impact statement (EIS) to analyze the effects of the proposed Mine Plan of Operations submitted by Rare Element Resources Inc. for the Bear Lodge Rare Earth Project. The project involves open-pit mining for rare earth elements on National Forest System lands and associated infrastructure. The EIS will evaluate potential environmental impacts and the need for a project-specific forest plan amendment. Public comments are solicited by August 28, 2026, and the complete EIS is expected to be published in late 2027.

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