BLM Evaluates Proposed Bentonite Project near Glasgow

The Bureau of Land Management today opened public comment on the proposed Bent #4 Plan of Operations for the Americas Bentonite Corporation Bentonite Project located on public lands about 20 miles southwest of Glasgow. 

The proposal includes a haul corridor, stockpile area, and about 7.8 acres of surface mining. The total area of surface disturbance would be 12.8 acres over a period of less than two years. If approved, the project would develop a local, reliable source of bentonite, a clay mineral used to create stable drilling fluids essential for energy production. Supporting domestic supply of this mineral reduces dependence on foreign imports, contributes to regional economic activity, and aligns with national energy policies that will strengthen U.S. resource resilience. 

The public may comment on the draft environmental assessment comment period until Sept. 4. The proposed action documents are available on the BLM National NEPA Register. Written comments may also be mailed to the BLM Glasgow Field Office, Attn: Mike Borgreen, 5 Lasar Dr., Glasgow, MT, 59230.

A previous environmental assessment for the project was completed by BLM in 2016. Due to the prior document’s age, a new assessment is being carried out to ensure consideration of the Resource Management Plan amendment completed in December 2025.

For more information, contact the Glasgow Field Office at 406-228-3750.