Environmental

Environmental Review (DEIS)

This page is dedicated to the Federal and State processes, as well as the Federal Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) - a gateway to accessing the report, understanding its findings, and submitting public comments.

Here you can find the DEIS document, learn how the project may affect the environment and community, and find instructions for submitting a public comment.

What is a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS)?

A Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) is a comprehensive document prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). It evaluates how a proposed project may affect the environment, including land, water, air, wildlife, cultural sites, and local communities.

For the Grassy Mountain Gold Project, the DEIS was prepared by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in cooperation with state and federal agencies, Tribal governments, and other stakeholders.

The DEIS is an opportunity for public input before approvals are granted.

What is in the DEIS?

The DEIS evaluates the potential environmental impacts of the proposed Grassy Mountain Gold Project and explores various project alternatives. It includes:

  • A summary of the proposed project and alternatives
  • Maps and diagrams showing the project location and key infrastructure
  • Scientific studies on topics like water, wildlife, noise, air, traffic, and cultural heritage
  • Potential environmental impacts and how they would be managed or mitigated
  • How the project was shaped by Tribal and community input

The DEIS includes studies on:

  • Water quality and groundwater management
  • Wildlife and habitat protection
  • Air quality and emissions
  • Cultural and historic resources
  • Socioeconomic and community impacts
  • Reclamation and closure planning

This assessment helps Federal and State agencies, and the public, make informed decisions about project development.

Click here to read the DEIS.

How to Submit a Comment

Step 1

Read DEIS/Executive Summary

Step 2

Go to BLM Public Comment Portal

Step 3

Write Comment
 

Step 4

Submit Comment
 



Submit Comment

When reviewing the DEIS, comments can be:

  • Constructive – Recommending alternatives, mitigation measures, or enhancements to reduce potential impacts or improve project outcomes.
  • Experiential – Describing how the project may intersect with your work, land, or community interests
  • Informational – Contributing relevant knowledge about local conditions, land use, or environmental factors.
  • Analytical – Referencing specific sections of the DEIS to express agreement, concerns, or identify gaps.

What Happens Next?

Following the closure of the public comment period , the BLM will consider feedback and prepare the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) and Record of Decision (ROD) - expected in December 2025.

Who is Involved?

Who is leading this process?

This process is being led by the Oregon Bureau of Land Management (Vale District Office), in coordination with:

  • Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI)
  • U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
  • Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
  • Tribes, local counties, and community stakeholders

Resources & Links