In 2011, Ecosphere prepared an Environmental Assessment (EA) for mining and reclamation activities in Area IV North of the BHP Navajo Coal Company (BNCC) operated Navajo Mine (BNCC). The EA assessed impacts associated with implementing the Area IV North Mine Plan Revision. The revision consisted of mining and reclamation of approximately 675 acres to enable BNCC to meet coal delivery volumes to the Arizona Public Service Company operated Four Corners Power Plant into 2016.
Ecosphere prepared a socioeconomic baseline and impact analysis for BHP Billiton’s New Mexico Coal operations at San Juan and Navajo Coal mines in northern New Mexico. This analysis was used to develop a community development management plan to identify programs and funding strategies for increasing BHP’s positive impact on the local communities.
Sensitive Species Surveys - Bat Habitat and Closure Plan Project—As part of closure plans for the Continental Mine District, near Silver City, New Mexico, Ecosphere conducted surveys for sensitive species, including bats, at abandoned mine features. Surveys include identifying suitable habitat for sensitive plant and animal species, locating and cataloguing over 150 abandoned mine features over an 18-square mile area, and completing external and internal bat surveys.
