Alaska Online Public Notices #F20269953

DNR review of Little Squaw Creek placer mining and reclamation permit application

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources is reviewing a placer mining and reclamation permit application for Goldrich Mining Company’s Little Squaw Creek Mine. - Government buyer: Alaska Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Division of Mining, Land & Water; the Statewide Bond Pool is identified in connection with the bonding transfer. - Applicant and named organizations: Goldrich Mining Company is the applicant and proposed operator; NyacAU, LLC is the prior operator transferring mine and reclamation responsibilities; RESPEC prepared the mine’s Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan. - Proposed activity: Mechanized placer mining, material processing, and progressive reclamation at Little Squaw Creek in the Chandalar Mining District near Coldfoot, Alaska. The plan describes five phases and approximately 18.38 acres of phased mining. - Proposed project equipment includes two trommel washplants and associated pumps, settling ponds, and recirculation ponds. These are mine equipment, not items being solicited for purchase. - The project also proposes a temporary creek diversion and temporary RS2477 trail bypass, followed by creek and trail restoration and site cleanup. - Notable requirements and conditions: DNR review and approval are required for the application and the transfer of reclamation liability. Goldrich must provide acceptable replacement financial assurance before existing bond or assurance can be released. The plan includes 12-foot highwall benches, 3-foot berms, and daily highwall inspections, along with segregation of state- and privately derived materials. - Additional attachment details: The SPCC Plan addresses oil storage, spill prevention and response, reporting, inspections, training, and emergency procedures. Mine operations are described as seasonal, with winterization during the off-season. - Public input: The notice invites comments as DNR considers whether to issue an authorization, potentially with stipulations. - Procurement status: This is a permitting and public-comment matter, not a solicitation to buy goods or services. No products, purchase quantities, or OEMs are specified.

Description

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources received an APMA application from Goldrich Mining Company for mechanical placer mining at the Little Squaw Creek Project in Crystal Creek, within the Chandalar Mining District near Coldfoot. The notice concerns review of a Plan of Operation Approval application under 11 AAC 86.800 and reclamation approval for state lands; cross-country travel outside state mining locations may also be authorized. The proposed operating period begins upon authorization and ends December 31, 2030, unless extended. Public comments are due October 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM AST, and DNR may issue an authorization with stipulations after review.

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