State seeks public comment on Harris Creek placer mining plan near Teller

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comments through May 11 on a placer mining application for Harris Creek in the Kougarok Mining District near Teller. Vincent Burrill and George Hesketh Sr. applied to conduct mechanical placer mining on state lands.

The application covers sections in Township 3 North, Range 28 West, about 70 miles north of Nome. If approved, the authorization would run through December 31, 2030, with possible extensions. The department is reviewing the plan of operations and reclamation plan required for mining on state lands.

The application includes permits for mining operations and cross-country travel on state lands outside the mining locations. Other state land uses, if any, would be reviewed separately by the department.

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 her office. After reviewing public comments, the department may issue an authorization with conditions or modify the proposed activity.