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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2001

Zuni Pueblo officials are challenging the state of New Mexico's approval of a strip mine operation near a sacred salt lake.

The Pueblo believes the operation will deplete waters in Zuni Salt Lake. The lake is on the tribe's reservation and is about 12 miles away from the coal mine.

The company that wants to operate the mine -- the Salt River Project -- has also appealed the approval because the state is requiring a pump test to be done before the five-year extension can be finalized.

The company also wants federal approval to keep the mine running for 40 years.

Get the Story:
Zuni Pueblo Appeals Strip-Mine Ruling (AP 8/29)

Relevant Links:
Mining and Minerals Division, New Mexico - http://www.emnrd.state.nm.us/Mining

Related Stories:
Mine developer hopes for approval (6/26)
Pueblo promises lawsuit against mine (6/25)
Mine near sacred lake debated (6/22)
Zuni Pueblo battling coal mine (6/11)