The Alaska Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comments through May 12 on a placer mining application for Cleary Creek near Chatanika in the Fairbanks Mining District.

Creighton Lapp and John Reeves applied to conduct mechanical placer mining on state lands in sections 2, 3, 10, and 11 of Township 3 North, Range 1 East. The operation would run from the date of authorization through December 31, 2030, unless extended.

The application includes requests for a plan of operations approval, reclamation plan approval, and miscellaneous land use permits. The state may also authorize cross-country travel on state lands outside the mining locations.

Written comments must be received by 5:00 p.m. Alaska Standard Time on May 12, 2026. Submit comments to the Division of Mining, Land and Water at 3700 Airport Way, Fairbanks, Alaska 99709, or email [email protected].

Michelle Corrigan at the Fairbanks Mine Permitting Office can answer questions at 907-451-2743. The full application packet is available for review by contacting the office.

After reviewing public comments, the department may issue an authorization with conditions. The proposed activity may be modified during the review process.