Description
The Alaska Department of Natural Resources has posted a public notice seeking comments on a Multi‑Agency Application for Permits to Mine in Alaska (APMA) for mechanical placer mining and reclamation at Sourdough Creek in the Fairbanks Mining District. The applicants (Anita Tomsha, David Dwyer Jr., Tyler Fisher, Alex Hesley) request authorization to conduct mechanical placer mining from the date of permit issuance through December 31 2028, including associated access roads, water‑use structures, temporary camp facilities, and reclamation activities. Interested parties may submit written comments, questions, or requests to view the full application packet by October 6 2026. The project involves heavy equipment (Cat D6 dozer, Cat 914 loader, wash‑plant excavators, generators, trailers) and will require management of fuel, water, and waste, with a detailed spill‑prevention plan and reclamation schedule.
• Mechanical placer mining on state lands (Section 14, T6N R6E, Fairbanks Meridian)
• Proposed activity period: issuance → Dec 31 2028 (≈2 years)
• Required public comment deadline: Oct 6 2026, 5:00 PM AST
• Contact for comments: Willow‑Crk Feighery, (907) 458‑6885, [email protected]
• Equipment list includes Cat D6 dozer, Cat 914 loader, Cat Mini‑Ex excavators, generators, trailers, ATVs, and water‑pumps.
• Water use: up to 1,000 gpm for makeup/settling ponds; storage up to ~1,200 gallons of petroleum products on‑site.
• Reclamation plan: removal of all equipment, waste, and restoration of disturbed areas by June 2028.