Forest Service Notice of Intent to Prepare EIS for Black Pine Gold Project Mine Plan

The U.S. Forest Service (Sawtooth National Forest) and Bureau of Land Management are initiating an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Liberty Gold (USA) Inc.'s proposed Black Pine Gold Project in Cassia and Oneida Counties, Idaho. The plan involves expanding four existing open pits and creating four new ones on National Forest System and BLM lands, with ore processing via cyanidation heap leach on BLM lands. The 17-year mine life includes reclamation over 25 years. A project-specific amendment to the Sawtooth Forest Plan is needed due to visual quality inconsistencies. This notice starts a 30-day public comment period ending May 4, 2026, for identifying issues, alternatives, and impacts like hydrology, wildlife (e.g., sage grouse), cultural sites, scenery, air quality, and grazing. Public meetings (one virtual, one in-person) will be announced. The full EIS is expected in two years, with the project under FAST-41 for streamlined permitting. Approvals required include USFS/BLM mine plan approval, IDEQ cyanidation and air permits, and IDL mine operating/reclamation plans. Comments must be submitted by deadline via website or mail to influence the analysis and objection eligibility. Forest Supervisor decides on USFS MPO approval and mitigations; BLM Field Manager on support facilities.

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