RIVERTON, Wyo.—A Wyoming company that wants to mine molybdenum (ma-LIB’-de-nem) on a mountain in western Colorado says its partner in the project has decided to pull out.
Riverton-based U.S. Energy Corp. said Monday that Thompson Creek Metals Co. Inc. has terminated its option agreement to mine the mineral on Mount Emmons near Crested Butte. U.S. Energy and Thompson Creek said in a joint statement that Thompson Creek is planning more immediate projects.
U.S. Energy said it’s still committed to the development and might reach out to the Chinese, who have expressed interest in the past.
Area residents and conservation groups oppose mining on Mount Emmons, nicknamed the Red Lady for its reddish soils. Opponents have unsuccessfully sued and appealed state approval of the company’s plans. Federal approval is also required.
