Anschutz Exploration Halts Preparation for an Exploratory Well
near Red Blanket Butte

Contact: Brent Temmer
303.299.1415

March 8, 2012 — Anschutz Exploration Corporation today suspended an environmental assessment to drill an oil and gas well near Red Blanket Butte northwest of Browning, Mont.

As part of the preparation process, Anschutz was notified by regulatory agencies overseeing the environmental assessment of potential impacts to cultural resources associated with the proposed well, known as Red Blanket 1-13.

Residents submitted comments to the Bureau of Indian Affairs about the potential impact of the proposed well on sacred and historic ground on nearby Red Blanket Butte. The butte is considered a significant ceremonial and spiritual site to the Blackfeet people.

“We work closely with regulators, the tribe, and the community to address these issues when they arise,” said Margot Timbel, Anschutz senior vice president. “The environmental assessment process worked as it was intended. It identified a critical issue to be addressed by the agencies and Anschutz.”

Anschutz, in consultation with the Tribal Historic Preservation Office and the BIA Blackfeet Agency, is investigating other options to fulfill its mission of evaluating the mineral interests in the area.

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