County concerned over tar sands mining; discusses possible potash mining venture

The mining industry in Grand County is slated to experience an upsurge if a proposal for a tar sands mining operation, and possible plans for a new potash mining development become reality. Officials with American Potash Company told county officials this week that a new mining operation, although not imminent, could create an economic boon for the county if that operation comes to fruition. The Grand County Council voted unanimously on Tuesday to send a letter of concerns to the Utah Division of Oil, Gas and Mining regarding a large mining operation designed to recover oil from tar sands deposits in Uintah and Grand County. That operation has been conditionally approved by UDOGM, which will require the company to make payment of a reclamation surety bond in the amount of $1.7 million in order to begin operations. Moab Times-Independent