Ongoing Ecological Baseline Studies for an Idaho Mining Project

Since 2003, JBR has performed baseline wildlife (including migratory bird, raptor, and ground-nesting bird species), vegetation, noxious weeds, threatened and endangered species, wetlands, water resources, noise, and visual surveys for a proposed mine. Located in southeastern Idaho, the project area is over 3,000 acres and includes the main pit, mill and office facilities, tailings pond, access roads, electric transmission line, and slurry pipeline located on BLM, USFS, and private land.

JBR biologists have conducted species-specific surveys for such wildlife as great grey and boreal owl, three-toed woodpecker, northern goshawk, bats, several amphibian species, fur-bearing mammals and predator species, and fish. Surveys were conducted during all target seasons in accordance with USFS protocols. JBR biologists and GIS specialists also conducted intensive mapping and baseline habitat assessments for the proposed disturbance areas, including both the exploration and production project phases. JBR staff prepared Environmental Assessments in 2003 and in 2009 for exploration work on USFS land, with mineral rights administered by BLM, and they are currently preparing baseline technical reports for all resources to be evaluated under the Environmental Impact Statement. JBR staff have worked closely with both BLM and USFS agency project managers and resource specialists throughout the planning, exploration, and production permitting processes.

• Greg Brown - Division Manager -