DNR opens public comment on Greens Creek Mine reclamation plan renewal

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources has opened a public comment period on the renewal of Greens Creek Mine's waste management permit and reclamation plan, inviting public comment on how one of the region's largest industrial operations will eventually close and restore lands on Admiralty Island.

Hecla Greens Creek Mining Company is seeking renewal of its existing Waste Management Permit and Reclamation and Closure Plan, identified as application J20262682RPA, for the underground polymetallic mine located about 18 miles southwest of Juneau. The mine facilities are near Hawk Inlet on northern Admiralty Island in the Tongass National Forest and partly within the Admiralty Island National Monument, accessed by boat and road from Hawk Inlet. The renewal governs how tailings, waste rock, and facilities will be stabilized and closed at the end of mining, affecting long-term water quality protection and surface reclamation requirements on state lands.

Greens Creek operates year-round on Admiralty Island and produces silver, zinc, lead, and gold. The state also opened a public comment period on a prior Greens Creek renewal in 2014, part of a longer permitting arc for the operation.

The public notice invites comments and requests for additional information within a defined comment period. Residents and organizations interested in submitting input on the renewal application can contact the Division of Mining, Land and Water through the information listed in the public notice.