David Steed, Director of Mining at KC Harvey Environmental, LLC recently traveled to Washington DC to advocate for essential minerals development in the United States. He attended the Essential Minerals Association (EMA) 2023 Fall Conference & Fly-In which provided an opportunity to engage with Capitol leadership on the needs for developing essential minerals domestically. These minerals play a critical role in the ongoing shifts toward renewable energy and transportation electrification.

A key focus of the trip was meeting with the Wyoming Senate and House delegation, including Senators Barrasso and Lummis and Representative Hageman. David represented the Pacific Soda Project, a proposed $5 billion trona mine and soda ash production facility currently in the permitting and approval stage in southwest Wyoming. The project would significantly expand US production of natural soda ash, an essential mineral used in making glass, detergents, baking soda and other vital products.

The meetings focused on federal permitting of the Pacific Soda Project, the implications of land management policies, and the importance of partner collaboration. KC Harvey is committed to managing ongoing and frequent communication and coordination with the delegation as the Pacific Soda Project advances through the federal permitting and Bureau of Land Management NEPA process, and State of Wyoming and local government approvals.  David also met with the Department of Interior's Deputy Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management, Dr. Steve Feldgus. He provided an update on the Pacific Soda Project and discussed its importance and impact across southwest Wyoming.

KC Harvey will continue to advocate at the national level for domestic essential minerals production. Expanding US sources of minerals like trona supports national interests in energy security, environmental stewardship and economic growth. KC Harvey also remains deeply engaged in development of the Pacific Soda Project and in broader efforts to streamline permitting for responsible mining in the U.S.