Not in my front yard

Hot Springs County resident Pete Weisbeck owns property off of Highway 120 and lives in close proximity to where the Wyo-Ben 108T pit mine is located and even closer to where the new access road will be located.

Weisbeck is concerned about what a ten year extension and expansion of the mine will do to the natural beauty of the area.

“I see a basic conflict of interest between the land owners, residents, and tourism efforts in Hot Springs County and the Wyo-Ben business owners in Billings who have no real vested interest in what impacts us in Thermopolis,” said Weisbeck.

Weisbeck stated he believes this particular pit mine would be the closest yet to a main highway and in such close proximity to two residences, not just here in tourist country, but anywhere in the state. He believes that sets a new precedent for use of scenic highways.

“Wyo-Ben has other mining claims they could develop in Hot Springs County without trashing the scenic value of our main tourist connection to Cody and Yellowstone,” said Weisbeck.

He acknowledged that mining right along the highway is easier and more profitable.

“The owners of Wyo-Ben are naturally more interested in their bottom line than our welfare here in Thermopolis and that is human nature, but I think we need to stand up to the BLM for our own best interests,” said Weisbeck.

Weisbeck stated he believes it is in Wyo-Ben’s own interest not to take this shortcut to

profit which he says will lead to negative attitudes towards their company for years to come. “I envision tourists writing their representatives asking why this would be allowed on a scenic highway,” said Weisbeck.

Weisbeck said that when his family moved here 15 years ago, that like so many others, they were attracted to the natural beauty of Hot Springs County. 

“Now we will see that quality diminished by an out of state company. If there was a strip mine right down the road when we bought our place, our land would probably still be for sale,” said Weisbeck.

Weisbeck stated that two years ago the Hot Springs County Commissioners signed the Hot Springs County Land Use Plan, which he said states, “Precaution must be taken to maintain the beauty of Hot Springs County. Development along all public roads leading to or crossing public lands deserves special attention to assure that the views are not degraded or compromised. Tourists rely on public land management to assure a positive experience, and residents rely on public land management to maintain their quality of life.”

“I think if we follow the guidelines set by the county then there is not much of an argument to permit this mine. Maybe it’s time for the county

commissioners to get involved in seeing the land use plan is implemented,” said Weisbeck.

Other residents of Hot Springs County have voiced concerns about the environment, wildlife and damage to the area if the mine is extended and expanded. Safety concerns have been brought up about trucks entering directly onto Highway 120. A petition against the mine has been started and is located at Nature’s Corner.