Noble Excavating, Inc., has filed an application with the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for an operating permit under the Metal Mine Reclamation Act.

The operating permit would authorize the quarrying of rock at the Nickelback Quarry located on private land approximately 2.5 miles northwest of Libby.

“All we’re doing is expanding the operating permit,” said owner Chris Noble. “It’s a one-time deal that will provide expansion. We’re doing it this way instead of doing it a little each year.”

The operating permit would cover a total of 165 acres. About 85 acres would be disturbed during the next 20 years, with about 150 acres to be disturbed during the life of mine, which is estimated to be about 80 years.

According to the DEQ, ground disturbance would range up to approximately 150 feet in depth.

Noble would use heavy equipment to remove the granitic rock and gravel. Blasting would be required about twice a year. The rock is used to produce gravel, asphalt, fill, and riprap.    

Noble is currently operating at the site under a Small Miner Exclusion Statement.

Noble must obtain an operating permit because Noble proposes to expand more than the five acres it is allowed under the Small Miner’s Exclusion Statement.

Copies of the application can be reviewed at DEQ offices at 1520 E. 6th Ave., in Helena.