The Colorado Mineland Reclamation Board (MLRB) held a significant meeting on July 16, 2025, addressing critical environmental concerns, particularly regarding the protection of Bald and Golden Eagles amid ongoing mining operations. The discussions highlighted the monitoring and compliance measures in place to safeguard these protected species.

During the meeting, representatives from the Front Range Infrastructure Company (FRICO) detailed their commitment to environmental stewardship through a disturbance take permit issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This permit mandates monthly monitoring of eagle nests, which is currently being conducted by Environmental Resource Consultants (ERC). The monitoring will continue until 2029, ensuring that any potential impacts from mining activities are closely observed and reported.

A key point of discussion was the timeline of the permit process. It was revealed that while mining operations began in 2021, the necessary permits were not finalized until 2024 due to the lengthy consultation process with federal wildlife authorities. This raised concerns among board members and community members about the potential risks to eagle populations during the interim period.

Community member Kim Coleman, who lives near the Milton Reservoir dredging operations, expressed her concerns about the impact of these activities on local wildlife. She emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in monitoring efforts, particularly given that two out of four eagle nests in the area are currently active, while another nest has been reported as abandoned.

The meeting also touched on the broader implications of mining activities on local ecosystems and the need for ongoing dialogue between mining companies and wildlife agencies. The board's discussions underscored the delicate balance between resource extraction and environmental protection, a topic that resonates deeply with residents concerned about the health of their local environment.

As the MLRB continues its work, the outcomes of this meeting will play a crucial role in shaping future policies and practices related to mining and wildlife conservation in Colorado. The board plans to reconvene to further address these issues and ensure that community voices are heard in the decision-making process.