The Department of the Interior has approved a mining plan modification for the Rosebud Mine in Rosebud and Treasure counties, Montana. The decision will help in recovering approximately 33.75 million tons of federal coal. Also, the decision of the federal coal recovery will extend the mine’s operation through 2039. This decision marks the second-largest federal coal mine expansion approved since the beginning of the second Trump administration.
The approval from the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement indicates more than 300 well-paying jobs and ensures more than 300 high-paying jobs, strengthening Montana’s economy while furthering the Trump administration’s commitment to American Energy Dominance. Notably, the coal mine in Montana from the Rosebud Mine powers the Colstrip and Rosebud power plants that have the ability to generate more than 1,500 megawatts of electricity, which can power well over a million homes. The projected annual royalties to be paid to the federal government are over $9 million.
“This administration is focused on unleashing American energy, creating good-paying jobs and restoring economic certainty for our communities,” said Acting Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management Adam Suess. “By responsibly developing our domestic coal resources, we’re reducing reliance on foreign energy, strengthening national security and powering America’s future.”
The mining plan modification is consistent with President Trump’s Executive Order 14241, Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production and Executive Order 14261, Reinvigorating America’s Beautiful Clean Coal Industry. The modification of expansion of coal mine in Montana also supports Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum’s emphasis on energy independence, rural prosperity and permitting certainty.