Fort Knox Mine seeks renewal near Fairbanks; public comment due June 7

Fairbanks Gold Mining Inc. is seeking state approval to renew operations at Fort Knox Mine and the Gil Project, with public comments due by 11:59 p.m. June 7. The Alaska Department of Natural Resources is reviewing the company's Plan of Operations and Reclamation Plan for continued open-pit mining, ore processing, and reclamation activities across 33 sections near Fairbanks in the Fish Creek area.

The renewal application covers ongoing operations at Fort Knox Mine, including open-pit mining, tailings storage, heap-leach operations, and phased reclamation. The company proposes to restore disturbed lands through contouring, revegetation with native seed mixes, and long-term monitoring of groundwater and surface water. The Gil Project would continue under care and maintenance status.

Fort Knox has undergone similar permit renewals before, most recently in 2014 when the state approved updated waste management permits and reclamation plans following a 30-day public review. A 2000 financial review calculated total reclamation costs at $12.1 million, and the 2014 permit approval required the company to submit annual financial assurance adjustments and updated reclamation cost estimates at least 120 days before permit expiration. The current renewal notice does not specify updated bond amounts or closure cost estimates.

The proposed activities fall under state mining and reclamation laws. Operations span multiple sections in Township 2 North, Ranges 2 and 3 East, Fairbanks Meridian.

Comments may be submitted electronically to [email protected] or mailed to the Division of Mining, Land and Water, 550 W. 7th Avenue, Suite 1430, Anchorage, AK 99501. Contact James Hyun at 907-334-2185 or [email protected] for questions. Supporting documents are available on the Fort Knox Large Mine Website.

After reviewing public comments, the department may issue authorization with conditions or modify the proposed activities.