EASTERN OREGON
MINING ASSOCIATION
JUNE 2024
VOLUME 417
MEMBERSHIP DUES ARE DUE IN JANUARY
IF YOU HAVEN’T PAID DUES YET THIS YEAR
Check the date on your address label. If it has 1-1-24 after your name, our records show that you haven’t paid your dues for this year. We need your help to stop the adoption of unreasonable and unworkable mining laws and regulations.
Please send your dues to: EOMA, PO Box 932, Baker City, OR 97814. You can also pay with a credit card on our website: eoma.us Or you can pay at the meeting. Your support is appreciated!
JUNE 7th MEETING AT ELK CREEK ENTERPRISES
The EOMA monthly meeting is at the Elk Creek Enterprises saw shop located at 890 Elm Street in Baker City. The Board Meeting will begin at 6:00 PM and the general meeting follows at 6:30 PM. Everyone is welcome to attend these meetings. There is time for discussing mining and getting to know other miners. We will give away a 1 oz. silver medallion at the end of the meeting.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Sadly, EOMA has lost another miner. Chuck Chase, was a significant early member of EOMA, and he served many years both as President, and as Executive Director of EOMA. Chuck passed away on April 28, 2024 in Boise.
We already miss his drive, passion. and leadership in keeping the importance of mining alive in today’s world. His work on Miners Jubilee, the State Panning Contests, his attendance at the American Exploration and Mining conferences, his work as editor of the EOMA newsletter, his work with members of congress all served to promote mining.
Ed Hardt gave the eulogy at Chuck’s funeral in Summerville. and a copy of that follows. Chuck’s persistence to save the mining industry will surely be missed.
HOW CHUCK CHASE GOT INTO MINING-Ed Hardt
Chuck went to Alaska in 1975. While there, he worked for a private contractor for $3.00 an hour.
He attended night school in Anchorage, Alaska, and became a geologist to better understand mineral resources. When he came back to Baker City, he and his father-in-law, Ed Dockweiler, spent a lot of time at Ed Dockweiler’s mine with Chuck’s wife, Mary Ellen and their children. Ed’s mine was located above the old town of Auburn.
Later on, Chuck worked at Bald Mt. Mine, about 10 miles west of Sumpter, Oregon, and the Silver King Mine on the Snake River. During this time, Chuck was gaining knowledge in underground mining.
Chuck joined the Eastern Oregon Mining Association in 1979 or early 1980. He served as President for a number of years and then he was appointed Executive Director, a very important position.
Chuck worked extremely hard to keep mining alive. He made at least one trip to Washington DC to promote mining with Bill Mote, Director of Northwest Mining Association in Spokane, Washington at that time. Northwest mining Association is now known as the American Exploration & Mining Association.
Chuck Chase was very active in bringing Miner’s Jubilee back to Baker City. He was frequently attending Chamber of Commerce Meetings to ensure that Mining was kept the number one theme for Jubilee. Sadly, it seems we are not in that mind frame now. Chuck would be proud of any individuals who might take on the task to bring mining back as the number one resource in Baker County.
On a humorous note, Chuck along with others, thought we should have a Beer Drinking Contest during Miner’s Jubilee. Unbeknown to the contestants that signed up to participate, the rules were as follows: Drink one bottle of beer, crawl ten feet to a wall, and back to the starting line. Fastest time was the winner. The CATCH WAS THAT THERE WAS A NIPPLE ON THE BOTTLE and you could not bite the nipple. Imagine the CHAOS!!!! Those macho beer drinkers were so “T’d” off, that contest was never repeated.
Chuck was instrumental in organizing the Miner’s Jubilee panning contest in Baker City. Other areas have panning contests, but The Eastern Oregon Mining Association holds the Oregon State Panning contest each year. No other organization can claim this privilege.
When Ed Hardt told Ken Anderson about Chuck’s passing, Ken stated, “HE WAS A GOOD HAND.” Those of us that worked with Chuck, KNOW HE WAS A GOOD HAND and he will be missed.
MEETING WITH DEPUTY REGIONAL FORESTER AND HIS STAFF-Jan Alexander
Ken and I were asked by Forest Supervisor Shaun McKinney, to visit with Regional Office Deputy Regional Forester, Merv George, and his staff. They are evaluating the way National Forests are being managed in Region 6.
We met for about an hour. Don George was before us and hit hard on the need for an open forest and the lack of trust with the Forest Service for the local people.
Ken and I spoke about the revised Forest Plan desired condition and how we don’t need more wilderness and how we need an open forest. The slivers of ground, mapped as potential wilderness areas, around existing wildernesses, were examined for wilderness potential when congress approved them, initially. These areas obviously did not have wilderness characteristics, and they don’t have them now. If these are chosen for study areas, these areas will be treated as wilderness until the time they can be evaluated. Roads will be closed, no mining allowed. There are structures, mines, ditches and these areas are highly mineralized. I talked about my experience as FS GIS coordinator where I drew a line around the Baldy Unit of the NFJD Wilderness while on the phone with a congressman who told me to exclude the Lead Lode and Elk Haven Lode mines from the wilderness because they were important mines. One of the new slivers of proposed wilderness would include these mines and a lot more mineralized area. These sliver areas need to be dropped.
Ken also hit them on climate change. This is not a requirement under the 2012 Planning Rule, and if there needs to be analysis on what will happen if the climate gets warmer, there also needs to be analysis of what will happen if the climate gets colder. Best Science needs to be based on current science, not old theories.
Ken stressed that road closures must include public input. The problems must be documented, shared with the citizens and a solution about maintenance or closing should be reached together. If a road is actually causing resource damage, this must be documented and mitigated, if possible, rather than closing the road. The 1990 Forest Plan is access friendly, and it states that if a road is needed by the public, the FS must fix the problems with the road, or move the road so it no longer is causing resource damage.
I talked about the need for rangers and forest supervisors to have minerals training. They should know the Federal Mineral Policy Act is still the law, and they must facilitate the orderly development of minerals. I echoed what Don George had said about trusting the FS-it isn’t there and this would be a good area for the Forest Service to work on. Minerals personnel should be on the ground. Paul Gennet on the Umatilla is a geologist who is great to work with, understands mining, and actually gets out of the office.
POWDER RIVER MINING PROJECTS-Jan Alexander
At the meeting with the Regional Office personnel, I brought up the Powder Mining Projects EIS, which was published in the Federal Register in 2018, miners made comments, then nothing has happened since then, despite our constant inquiries as to when the EIS would be released. According to the latest information on the Forest Service website, the final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) will be available to the public on May 1, 2024. Well, that sure didn’t happen.
I told the panel we were planning to contact our Congressmen to see if we can get this EIS out to the public. I told them, that it appears to me, that the FS intentionally waited so long this season (Ray stated he would have it out before he retired in December, but that didn’t happen) so even if we can get it out, with 45 day objection period and resolving objections, and the time it takes to post bonds, the miners will not be able to work this season either.
Joyce Hamilla, Chief of Staff at the RO, told me she had seen the document about 6 months ago and thought all had been completed. She told me she would look into the status of the document and let me know.
FEEDBACK PERIOD FOR THE DRAFT ASSESSMENT ENDED MAY 26-Jan Alexander
Many miners and other citizens made comments and gave the Forest Service feedback on what we thought of the desired future condition of the forest that the BIC committee came up with. Hot topics were climate change, closing the Forest so the public would only have a few roads to travel, adding more areas to be studied for wilderness potential and adding more scenic waterways. Baker County Natural Resources Advisor, Doni Bruland, and Commissioner Christina Witham gave feedback on the need for government to government coordination. The County and Baker County citizens must be involved on an equal footing with the Forest Service. This is our forest and we are the ones who use it.
I am not sure what the FS will do with our feedback. I am kind of thinking this is just one step they are required to do so the public feels like they are involved in the process.
JAN ALEXANDER FEEDBACK
First off, I told them the maps were terrible. No Township Range or Sections, no rivers, no roads. other than the State highways. Nearly impossible to find anything on these maps.
In addition to my general comments, I submitted 7 feedback forms on the slivers around existing wildernesses that they want to study as potential new wilderness. If these areas had wilderness potential at the time the original wildernesses were approved by congress, they would have been included then. Monument Rock, North Fork John Day and Eagle Cap proposed wilderness areas are full of roads, mines, structures, ditches and other works of man. I let the Forest Service know these areas should be dropped.
KEN ALEXANDER FEEDBACK-Ken Alexander
Here is part of my comments about the Blue Mountain Plan Assessment
The forests were reserved for the purpose of the public being able to use the resources of the forest. The law passed by Congress promised, “The timber, water, pasture, mineral, and other resources of the forest reserves are for the use of the people; They may be obtained under reasonable conditions, without delay; Legitimate improvements and business enterprises will be encouraged. Forest reserves are open to all persons for all lawful purposes.”
Excessive concern over wildlife habitat, and limitations to human access, has led to unnecessary restrictions on public use of forest resources. Disproportionate prohibitions on logging, grazing, and mining have severely impacted local economies. An inventory, concentrating on areas that can be restored to practical use, must be part of the revised plan. “Reasonable conditions” and “without delay” have been badly abused, and ignored, by the current FS management policies.
The new plan should allow citizens to USE resources with a minimum of permits and restrictions. Actual resource damage must be carefully considered, and verified by documentation, and reasonably mitigated when possible. before taking actions restricting activities. Comprehensive closures and restrictions of areas needs to take place only when damage to the resource is proven, and not just speculation that resource damage “may” occur. Areas that have been restricted from use, need to be comprehensively reviewed for justification on a regular basis.
The revised forest plan should require that any required permits be issued within enforceable limited timeframes. Any permits not issued within set deadlines need to be considered approved, rather than denied because of failure by the agency to take any action, as is now the current practice.
BAN ON URANIUM IMPORTS SIGNED INTO LAW-AEMA
On May 13, President Biden signed into law H.R.1042, legislation effectively banning the purchase in the United States of Russian uranium.
The legislation had cleared the House in 2023, and enjoyed strong support in the Senate but was held up in a dispute between lawmakers over unrelated issues. In recent weeks, that dispute was resolved, clearing a path for rapid advancement of H.R. 1042, which was sponsored by House Energy and Commerce (E&C) Committee chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA). The Senate approved the bill by unanimous consent on April 30, clearing the way for a gradual transition from Russian uranium, as prices move into stronger territory and U.S. producers reenter the market. Barrasso introduced the Senate companion, S. 763.
REACTION TO NEPA PHASE 2 RULEMAKING-AEMA
Last month we reported that the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) finalized its “Phase 2” rule modifying the implementing regulations under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The administration dubbed the rule “The Bipartisan Permitting Reform Implementation Rule.”
Despite its moniker, the rule increases the complexity of analysis that agencies will need to perform, which will delay decision-making and drive increased litigation. AEMA released a statement opposing the rule, and we strongly endorse a bipartisan, bicameral effort to introduce a resolution of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act, led by Senators Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Representative Garret Graves (R-LA).
RHYOLITE RIDGE-AEMA
This project has huge local impact, job creation and supplying the future for America – add your support for Rhyolite Ridge today!
Electrification is essential to the clean energy transition. The United States urgently needs reliable and domestic sources of materials like lithium and boron to meet growing demand for electric vehicles and cleaner, more reliable power.
The Rhyolite Ridge Lithium-Boron Project is seeking to produce these critical energy transition materials sustainably and cost-effectively in Nevada. This Project will create hundreds of local jobs in the construction period and during operations. Rhyolite Ridge will also generate hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenues for local communities and the State of Nevada.
The project will significantly bolster domestic supply of lithium and boron, reducing reliance on foreign production and processing of critical minerals.
Once operational in 2027, Ioneer expects to quadruple current U.S. lithium production, and provide enough material to power 370,000 EVs annually, all while seeking to set the new standard for responsible, 21st century mining in the United States.
The Bureau of Land Management published the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (Draft EIS) on April 16, 2024 and is currently seeking comments from interested parties.
The comment period ends on June 3, 2024. To learn more about the Project and how to comment, please visit: https://rhyolite-ridge.ioneer.com/take-action/
ABOUT THE SOUTH32 HERMOSA PROJECT-AEMA
Located in a historic mining district in the Patagonia Mountains of Southern Arizona, South32’s Hermosa project is currently the only advanced mine development project in the United States that could produce two federally designated critical minerals — manganese and zinc — both of which are essential minerals for powering the nation’s clean energy future. Learn more at www.south32hermosa.com .
Hermosa is a polymetallic development comprised of a zinc-lead-silver sulfide deposit, a battery-grade manganese deposit and an extensive, highly prospective land package with the potential for further polymetallic and copper mineralization.
South32 is a globally diversified mining and metals company. Our purpose is to make a difference by developing natural resources, improving people’s lives now and for generations to come. We are trusted by our owners and partners to realize the potential of their resources. We produce commodities including bauxite, alumina, aluminum, copper, silver, lead, zinc, nickel, metallurgical coal and manganese from our operations in Australia, Southern Africa and South America. We also have a portfolio of high-quality development projects and options, and exploration prospects, consistent with our strategy to reshape our portfolio toward commodities that are critical for a low-carbon future.
HOUSE PASSES BILL TARGETTING BLM CONSERVATION RULE-AEMA
On April 30, the U.S. House of Representatives approved H.R. 3397, also called the Western Economic Security Today (WEST) Act, which is a bill to require the Bureau of Land Management to withdraw its misnamed and destructive Conservation and Landscape Health Rule. H.R. 3397 was sponsored by Rep. John Curtis (R-UT), and cleared the House with a bipartisan a vote of 212 – 202. In addition to the legislative strategy to overturn the rule, AEMA and a coalition of public lands user groups are preparing to file a legal challenge.
HOUSE PASSES BILL TARGETTING SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST WITHDRAWAL-AEMA
Also on April 30, the House approved H.R. 3195, Rep. Pete Stauber’s (R-MN) legislation to overturn the withdrawal of 225,000 acres of the Superior National Forest in Minnesota from mineral entry. The bill would also restore the leases of Twin Metals, allowing the company to continue the permitting process.
H.R. 3397 and H.R. 3195 were part of House Republican Leadership’s “Lands Week,” in which they brought a number of bills to the floor that had bipartisan support and outsized importance for federal lands in the West. AEMA was on Capitol Hill that week making your voices heard on these and other issues.
DO YOU WANT YOUR NEWSLETTER DELIVERED BY MAIL OR BY E-MAIL?
With the cost of postage going up, we are looking at options for mailing the newsletter. If you would rather have your newsletter delivered in the mail box that is fine. If you want to receive the newsletter by e-mail, send a message to alxk@ortelco.net
EOMA ADVERTISING AND SALE LISTINGS
WANTED MINING PROPERTY (16)
I would like to rent/lease/lease with option to buy property that may be productive for metal detecting and mining. Especially areas with tailings like the Powder River near Sumpter, or other local areas. Thanks, Johnny West. Email: jwestboise@gmail.com
WANTED-GOLD
Gold Specimens and Gold nuggets, mostly from Oregon mines. Fair prices paid. Also selling Gold nugget jewelry, specimens, nuggets and more. For an interesting and informative experience explore www.northernnevadagold.com . Call Robert 775-455-6470
PRICE REDUCED-SIMPSON AND LUCKY PLACER CLAIMS FOR SALE
The Simpson is an 80-acre association placer and must be quit-claimed to a group of four miners. The Lucky group is composed of three 20-acre claims. These can be purchased by one miner. Both claim groups are covered by approved Plans of Operation and both are located on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest.
My health is forcing me to sell these claims. Give me a call if you are interested and please make me an offer. Call Dave at 810-523-7313.
MINING EQUIPMENT FOR SALE
Equipment located in Baker City:
Small trommel, feeder/grizzly, infeed conveyor, Honda pump, 20KW generator, 3” flat hose, sluice
Commercial Sized trommel, feeder, stacker, pump (has cracked housing) sluice
Also, scraper, Conex boxes, clean-up table, road runner screen, screen, diesel tank and pump, army trailer, two slurry pumps, a Honda pump, clean-up room equipment, and additional flat hose.
Equipment located on Connor Creek:
Feeder
Additional flat hose
I can send pictures and can provide details on this equipment. I am willing to discuss offers. Call Bill at 503-781-4393. E-mail me at dei@teleport.com.
TEST TROMMEL FOR SALE-$1500
This unit is mounted on a trailer and can easily be moved into a site for testing the deposit. Contact Bob at firebasebob@hotmail.com. My phone number is 541-473-2880
I can e-mail you pictures.
CAPITOL PROSPECTING-METAL DETECTING AND MINING SUPPLIES
We are located in Baker City at 2801 Broadway Street. We buy used equipment and sell both new and used equipment. Come in and see what we have, or call me at 503-269-8640. My e-mail is CapitolProspecting@hotmail.com.
We appreciate your business. Gary and Christina Earle
ACTION MINING SERVICES, INC.(ca)
AMS is selling assay supplies, screens, chemicals and labware! Call for a quote and mention this ad for 10% off! Assay supplies, concentrators, impact mills, technical books (for the beginner to the advanced mill man), & more! Call for our free catalog or visit us online! Check out our website for information on Wave tables. We are located in Plains, Montana. Please call 406.826.9330 to place your order. This way our staff can have it pulled and ready for pick up. Otherwise, we can always ship your order! sales@actionmining.com • www.actionmining.com
AMERICAN EXPLORATION & MINING ASSOCIATION
EOMA is a member of American Exploration & Mining Association, and many of our members are also individual members. American Exploration & Mining Association is a 128-year-old, 1,400-member, national association representing the minerals industry. With members in 46 states, AEMA is the recognized national voice for exploration, the junior mining sector, maintaining access to public lands, and represents the entire mining life cycle, from exploration through production to reclamation and closure.
You can become a member of AEMA by going to their website at https://www.miningamerica.org
SUBSCRIBE TO MINING JOURNAL FOR UP TO DATE NEWS (ca)
ICMJ’s Prospecting and Mining Journal is your monthly source for news, legislation, how-to articles and more. Josh and Sherrie Lynn Reinke are the new owners of the Mining Journal, same great news source! A full year is still only $29.95; or get a print and an online subscription for just $44.95, and get access to our last 16 years of articles online too. Published monthly since 1931. Visit us at www.icmj.com or call at (831) 479-1500 to get your subscription.