#United States #NTEC #Cordero Rojo #Mine Reclamation #Campbell County, Wyoming

NTEC's Cordero Rojo Mine: A Beacon of Environmental Responsibility

In a significant recognition of its commitment to environmental stewardship, the Cordero Rojo Mine, managed by the Navajo Transitional Energy Company (NTEC), has been awarded prestigious accolades for its outstanding mine reclamation practices. The awards, presented by the United States Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) and the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), highlight the mine's dedication to restoring mined lands and collaborating with surrounding communities.

Awards and Recognition

The Cordero Rojo Mine has proudly received the 2025 Excellence in Surface Coal Mining Reclamation National Award and the OSMRE Good Neighbor Award. These honors come as a testament to the mine's exceptional reclamation efforts and strong relationships with local landowners and communities. The national award is bestowed upon coal mining companies that exemplify the highest standards of mine reclamation across the United States. In contrast, the Good Neighbor Award celebrates operators who actively engage with the community throughout the mining and reclamation processes.

The mine's accomplishments were further recognized with the 2026 Excellence in Mining Reclamation Award from the Wyoming DEQ, which acknowledges coal and noncoal mine operators in Wyoming who showcase remarkable achievements in reclamation performance.

Commitment to Restoration

NTEC's awards are a reflection of its long-term commitment to restoring mined lands. In 2024 alone, the dedicated workforce at Cordero Rojo successfully completed reclamation activities on an impressive scale, including 1,145 acres of regraded backfill, 1,114 acres of topsoil laydown, and 528 acres of permanent seeding. These efforts were consolidated into five major areas, effectively linking separate reclamation parcels into larger, contiguous reclaimed landscapes. Notably, four of these areas now exceed 1,000 acres each, demonstrating the comprehensive strategy behind NTEC's reclamation work.

Gretchen Anderson, Environmental Manager at NTEC, emphasized the workforce’s role in these achievements, stating, "What these awards really recognize is the workforce behind them. We take pride in building land that supports grazing, wildlife, and long-term use for the community."

CEO Vern Lund echoed this sentiment, recognizing the team's dedication and innovative approaches to responsible mining practices and environmental stewardship. "We are honored to be recognized by both state and federal regulators for our work that demonstrates our commitment to responsible mining, environmental stewardship, and creating lasting value for the communities where we operate."

Innovative Practices and Community Collaboration

The Good Neighbor Award specifically highlights the mine's innovative partnerships with academic institutions, such as the University of Wyoming. Mine staff collaborated with researchers to develop test plots that assess the use of coal char as a soil amendment, aiming to explore its viability as a sustainable resource that enhances reclamation efforts.

The DEQ's award particularly acknowledges the mine's success in establishing native and adaptable tree species on reclaimed lands, showcasing the positive impact of science-based reclamation strategies in fostering healthy and sustainable vegetation growth.

By implementing these practices, Cordero Rojo is not merely focusing on compliance but is actively contributing to the creation of diverse ecosystems, reinforcing their commitment to environmentally responsible mining.

The Path Forward

The accomplishments of the Cordero Rojo Mine underline the importance of collaborative efforts among industry players, regulators, and local communities to achieve successful reclamation outcomes. NTEC remains dedicated to advancing its reclamation practices, striving to restore productive landscapes that not only enhance wildlife habitats but also provide long-term benefits for surrounding communities.

With a focus on continuous improvement and community engagement, NTEC is primed to lead by example in the mining industry, advocating for practices that ensure sustainable development while upholding its responsibilities to the environments and communities it serves. This commitment is not only vital for the future of mining but also for the preservation of the natural world.

About NTEC

Navajo Transitional Energy Company, LLC is a Navajo Nation-owned energy company dedicated to supporting the Navajo Nation through employment, community investment, and educational opportunities. With mining operations across Arizona, Montana, New Mexico, and Wyoming, NTEC is also a co-owner of the Four Corners Power Plant located within the Navajo Nation. For more information, visit navenergy.com.