State seeks public comment on Canyon Creek placer mining plan near Chicken

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comments through May 11 on a placer mining application for Canyon Creek in the Fourtymile Mining District near Chicken. Corey Bras applied for permits to conduct mechanical placer mining on state lands.

The proposed operation would cover sections of land in two townships near Canyon Creek. If approved, the authorization would run through December 31, 2035, with possible extensions. The application includes a plan of operations and reclamation plan for the mining work.

The department is reviewing whether to approve mechanical placer mining on state lands and authorize cross-country travel to access the sites. Any other state land use outside the mining locations would require separate permits.

Written comments must reach the Division of Mining, Land and Water by 5:00 p.m. on May 11. Send comments to the Fairbanks Mine Permitting Office at 3700 Airport Way, Fairbanks, Alaska 99709, or email [email protected].

Michelle Corrigan at the permitting office can answer questions at 907-451-2743. The full application packet is available for review by contacting the office.

After reviewing public comments, the department may issue an authorization with conditions. The proposed activity could be modified during the review process.