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 Congressman Steve Daines today applauded the signing of an agreement between the Crow Tribe, Big Metal Company and Cloud Peak Energy allowing for the development of coal reserves located within the borders of the Crow Reservation.

The agreement would open up access to more than 1.4 billion tons of coal in the North Powder River Basin, injecting millions of dollars into the Crow Reservation economy.

“Today is a great day for the Crow Tribe, a great day for Montana businesses, and a great day for Montana coal,” Daines stated. “This project has taken an important step forward today and I am committed to supporting this project as it makes its way through the approval process at the Department of Interior.  I am proud that the Crow tribal leadership is leading the way in this effort and working together to promote major economic development for the Crow Reservation, our state and our country.”

In a letter to the Crow Tribe, Big Metal Company and Cloud Peak Energy, Daines noted that this agreement is an integral piece to expanding the production and use of Montana coal worldwide.  The high quality of North Powder River Basin coal makes it a valuable resource in domestic and international markets, yielding substantial benefits for Montana’s economy.

Daines also expressed his commitment to working with the Crow Tribe and assisting tribal leadership with efforts to develop their resources and grow the Crow Reservation economy. 

“Just this week I met with Chief Old Coyote in Washington, D.C.,” Daines added. “I am eager to continue a strong relationship with our tribal leaders to help create more jobs in Montana’s tribal communities.  This agreement marks an ideal beginning to that effort.”