Forest Service Approves Gold Drilling Exploration Near Custer, Opt-in to Find Gold

A map showing the general location of F3 Gold’s exploratory drilling project west of Custer. (Courtesy of U.S. Forest Service)

The U.S. Forest Service has given the go-ahead for a Minnesota company to drill holes in search of gold near Custer.

Exploratory Drilling Project Approval

Minneapolis-based F3 Gold received approval for its Newark Exploration Drilling Project in the Black Hills National Forest. The 36 drilling sites are scattered across national forest land about 4 miles west of Custer, with the exploration expected to last up to a year.

The project will utilize a diamond-tipped drill to obtain core samples from depths of up to 3,000 feet, with all drill holes required to be plugged afterward.

Public Opposition

The project has faced significant public opposition, with concerns raised at a 2023 public meeting in Custer. Residents and environmental groups have pushed for an environmental impact study (EIS) to assess potential impacts on water quality, wildlife, and cultural sites.

“Commenters are concerned that the proposed project will have significant effects on water quality, water use, recreation and tourism, wildlife, and cultural sites,” the Forest Service’s summary states. “Commenters also assert that an EIS will allow for greater tribal consultation and public involvement in the decision-making process.”

Forest Service Decision

Despite the opposition, the Forest Service concluded that no extraordinary circumstances exist to warrant further analysis through an environmental assessment or impact statement. The agency emphasized its obligation under the General Mining Law of 1872 to allow mineral exploration on federal lands unless closed to mining.

Restoration and Future Plans

The approval comes with the condition that F3 Gold must restore the drilling sites to their natural state post-exploration. The company plans to commence drilling later this year, joining other mineral exploration efforts in the Black Hills, known for its mining history dating back to the 19th century.

F3 Gold’s potential drilling near the Pactola Reservoir remains pending as the Forest Service considers a ban on new mining activities in the area to protect the watershed and water supply for Rapid City.