Feds Greenlight Massive Coal Expansion in Wyoming’s Powder River Basin

The Bureau of Land Management is moving ahead with a major coal project in the heart of Wyoming’s Powder River Basin — one that could open the door to more than 440 million tons of federal coal.

On Friday, the agency released its final environmental impact statement for the West Antelope III lease project, which spans about 3,500 acres next to the existing Antelope Mine in Campbell and Converse counties. If approved, the deal would let the Navajo Transitional Energy Company (NTEC) extend the life of its Antelope operations, keeping coal flowing from one of the nation’s biggest-producing regions.

BLM officials are also giving the public a chance to weigh in. A hearing on the coal’s fair market value and “maximum economic recovery” is set for Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025, from 6–8 p.m. at Wright Town Hall (395 Lariat Way, Wright, Wyoming).

The decision fits squarely with the Trump administration’s push to boost fossil fuel production and “reinvigorate” coal communities with new jobs and energy development. Supporters say the lease ensures a steady stream of low-cost energy, while critics argue it locks Wyoming deeper into coal at a time when the US is supposed to be transitioning to cleaner sources.

For those wanting the nitty-gritty details, planning documents are posted on the BLM National NEPA Register. Acting High Plains District Manager Todd Yeager is listed as the contact for more information ([email protected], 307-684-1141).

The BLM, which oversees 245 million acres of public lands and 700 million acres of subsurface minerals nationwide, says its mission remains balancing resource use with protecting public lands for future generations.