DOI Approves Expansion of Navajo Transitional Energy’s Spring Creek Coal Mine, Montana
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The Department of the Interior has approved a federal mining plan modification by the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement for the Spring Creek Coal Mine in Big Horn County, Montana, operated by the Navajo Transitional Energy Company.
This decision extends the mine’s operational life by 16 years, enabling the production of approximately 39.9 million tons of federal coal and supporting 280 full-time jobs.
“The previous administration waged a full-on assault against U.S. energy. Under President Trump’s leadership, we’re reversing that course, unleashing American energy, and ensuring our nation’s security and prosperity,” said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum.
The Spring Creek Mine supplies coal domestically to Arizona, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington, as well as internationally to Japan and South Korea.
This expansion aligns with the Trump-Vance administration’s agenda to reduce regulatory burdens and promote energy production, as outlined in Executive Order 14154 — Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation and Interior Secretary’s Order 3421 — Achieving Prosperity Through Deregulation.
“By expanding access to our nation’s rich coal resources, we are not only bolstering our economy but also reinforcing our energy independence,” said Acting Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management Walter Cruickshank.
OSMRE prepared an environmental impact statement following a 2021 U.S. District Court for the District of Montana ruling that deemed the initial analysis inadequate. The EIS evaluates the different mining alternatives and the impacts on people and the environment.
The Department of the Interior remains steadfast in its mission to unlock America’s full potential in energy production, reduce consumer costs, generate revenue to address the national deficit, and ensure that energy security remains a top priority.
Navajo Transitional Energy Company (NTEC) is a world-class, diversified energy company with a unique purpose and vision. Established by the Navajo Nation to exercise sovereignty over its abundant natural resources, NTEC has grown rapidly and now has a sizeable and successful portfolio of mining, energy generation, and helium assets. NTEC is committed to achieving multi-generational, clean energy solutions that ensure the continued prosperity of the Navajo Nation while providing essential power to the entire Southwest and beyond. NTEC was recognized with the Sentinels of Safety award from the National Mining Association, the Safety Award for Large Surface Mine from the Rocky Mountain Coal Institute, and the OSMRE National Award for Excellence in Surface Mining Reclamation in 2024, 2022, and 2020.
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