Minerals PROGRAM

The minerals program regulates non-coal mining operations in the state of Utah with a few exceptions, as noted in Utah Administrative Code R647.

The minerals program staff works to ensure reclamation standards can be achieved after mining has been completed. The staff oversees the many large mining operations, including the Bingham Canyon copper mine and the unique Topaz beryllium mine, and many small mine and exploration operations.

Staff verifies that mine operators follow their plans for mining and reclamation, including mining within permit boundaries and protecting public safety and the environment. The Division holds reclamation bonds to ensure the future reclamation of mine sites.

There are over 200 different minerals mined in Utah, which include the base and precious metals of copper, magnesium, gold, silver and beryllium. Utah also produces many industrial minerals, such as potash, crushed stone, salt, lime, phosphate, gilsonite and gypsum, and unconventional fuels including oil shale and oil sand. Currently there are approximately 600 permitted mineral operations statewide.