“Arch Resources has reaffirmed their commitment to closing their coal mines in the Powder River Basin. The company plans to end production at Coal Creek by the end of the year and is also working to reduce operations at Black Thunder. We again call on the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to review the mines’ reclamation plans in order to ensure they are aligned with the closing dates. Furthermore, the state must review the company’s bonds and sureties to avoid Wyoming taxpayers paying the tab for the inevitable reclamation.”

“Arch’s plans to wind down their Wyoming operations are just one more indication that coal mines throughout the Powder River Basin are facing significant losses, which will greatly impact our communities. It’s imperative that we develop a plan to ensure mine workers receive the assistance needed to transition to new careers and stabilize our communities.”

  • Stacy Page, Powder River Board member & former Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality Regulator