Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Geological Survey Testholes topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Oliver County staff briefed on State Geological Survey request to drill short test holes for mineral sampling
Summary
The State Geological Survey requested permission for short test holes across Oliver County to check for coal and rare-earth minerals; board members emphasized landowner permission and reclamation guarantees and asked staff to consult Mercer County practice and county commissioners.
The Oliver County Planning and Zoning Board received a staff briefing about a recent request from the State Geological Survey to drill short test holes at multiple locations to sample for coal and rare-earth critical minerals.
Staff described the typical procedure: "They dig the hole, they test it, and they fill it right back up again," and said the survey did not specify how many holes it planned to drill. Board members noted that other counties have taken different approaches: Mercer County requires permits for similar work while others do not.
Members pressed on two points: ensuring survey teams secure landowner permission before entry and obtaining written assurances that any test holes would be reclaimed promptly. Staff said she would bring the issue and suggested permitting language to county commissioners and would check Mercer County’s requirements for possible guidance.
No permit program or ordinance change was adopted at the meeting; the board asked staff to return with recommendations and legal input from the county attorney.
