Wedoany.com Report-Jul. 13, The US Department of the Interior (DOI) has granted permission to Hurricane Creek Mining to initiate coal mining operations on Bryson Mountain in Claiborne County, Tennessee. The approval, announced on July 11, 2025, allows the project to extract up to 1.8 million tonnes of coal through 2034, supporting industries such as steelmaking and power generation.

The coal extracted from Bryson Mountain will bolster critical industries such as steelmaking and power generation.

Hurricane Creek Mining will utilize surface mining techniques, including auger, highwall, and contour methods, across 635 acres. The project underwent an expedited environmental review process, aligning with procedures designed to streamline energy project evaluations under a national energy emergency framework.

Adam Suess, Acting Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management, stated: “This project reflects a broader shift, one where American resources are being put to work for American strength. We’re not just issuing permits — we’re supporting communities, securing supply chains for critical industries and making sure the US stays competitive in a changing global energy landscape.”

The approval supports efforts to enhance domestic coal production, contributing to reliable energy and industrial supply chains. It aligns with initiatives to bolster the coal sector, including reduced royalty rates for federal coal mining and expanded leasing opportunities.

In a related development, the DOI also approved an expansion of the Bull Mountains coal mine in Montana, operated by Signal Peak Energy. This expansion permits the extraction of an additional 22.8 million tonnes of federal coal and 34.5 million tonnes of non-federal coal, potentially extending the mine’s operations by up to nine years.

The Bryson Mountain project underscores a commitment to leveraging local resources to meet industrial and energy needs while fostering economic growth in Claiborne County. By employing efficient mining techniques and adhering to environmental review processes, Hurricane Creek Mining aims to contribute to a stable and sustainable energy framework.