The Alaska Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comments through May 11 on an amended placer mining application for Fish Creek near Central. R & M Mining LLC, operated by Michael Lester and Ray Lester, has applied to modify its existing mechanical placer mining operation in the Circle Mining District.

The amendment would authorize mining activities on state lands in sections 18 and 19 of Township 7 North, Range 11 East, Fairbanks Meridian. The proposed authorization would run through December 31, 2027. The application also requests approval for cross-country travel on state lands outside the mining locations.

The department is reviewing the application for a Miscellaneous Land Use Permit amendment and reclamation approval under state regulations. Other state land uses outside the mining locations, if any, will be reviewed separately.

Written comments must be received by 5:00 PM Alaska Standard Time on May 11, 2026. Submit comments to the Division of Mining, Land and Water at the Fairbanks Mine Permitting Office, 3700 Airport Way, Fairbanks, Alaska 99709. Comments can also be emailed to [email protected].

Questions about the application or requests to view the full application packet should be directed to Michelle Corrigan at (907) 451-2743. The department may issue an authorization with conditions after reviewing public comments and completing its evaluation.