BLM wants more input on proposed coal mine expansion near Bryce Canyon

The Bureau of Land Management announced Tuesday that a controversial proposal to expand Utah's only strip mining operation deserves another look.

Alton Coal Development is proposing to lease a tract of coal reserves outside of Alton, Kane County, that would preserve the life of its operation by up to 25 years. The BLM has estimated the area holds at least 50 million tons of recoverable coal — all owned by the federal government.

In its decision to conduct a supplemental study to its initial analysis, the agency said issues such as wetlands and air quality and increased protective measures for Greater sage-grouse habitat would be among those addressed.

In this added layer of analysis the BLM intends to provide, another round of public comments will be accepted once that document is finished, most likely in early 2013.