Idaho

Idaho Antimony Mining Project Moves A Step Closer To Reality

Published

1 year ago

September 8, 2024

Idaho Antimony Mining Project Moves A Step Closer To Reality

Stibnite specimen from mining and quarrying industries. Stibnite is a sulfide mineral with the … [+] formula Sb2S3 and it is the most important source for the metalloid antimony.

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In what could come to be seen as a landmark development for U.S. efforts to secure domestic supply chains for critical energy minerals, the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) issued a draft record of decision (ROD) Friday authorizing Perpetua Resources to restart operations at the Stibnite Mine in Central Idaho. The draft ROD opens a 45-day comment period required by the Administrative Procedures Act, which would then be followed by a 45-day resolution period. If all goes to schedule, the ROD could become final by the end of 2024.

Friday’s draft decision signals the possible end to a long and complex process of securing local, state, and federal permits required for Perpetua to restart operations at Stibnite, which first began gold and antimony mining operations in 1927. Initial mining operations were shut down in 1958, but a second generation of miners recovered additional resources from 1978 through 1996, when operations were again shut down. The site has remained idle since that time.

In its release, USFS spokesman Kevin Knesek, deputy forest supervisor for the Payette National Forest, said the mine is “ complex, and the impacts were rigorously analyzed over the past seven years,” Knesek continued. “Projects of this scale and type present unique challenges, and that is particularly true as it relates to tribal interests, whether those interests be treaty-related or connected to cultural use and identity. Only through meaningful consultation can the Forest Service seek to understand these concerns and be responsive to them, and I am grateful for the tribal input we’ve received.”

Supporting documentation for the draft ROD estimates the Stibnite mine contains “Proven and Probable Mineral Reserve (the economically mineable part of the measured mineral resource) of 115.3 million tons of ore containing 4.8 million ounces of gold, 6.4 million ounces of silver, and 149 million pounds of antimony.” The overall mining site covers 3,200 acres of land including 3 pit mining sites. Perpetua estimates the Stibnite mine could provide up to 35% of U.S antimony needs in the coming decades.

Perpetua Resources president and CEO Jon Cherry said his company believes “the Stibnite Gold Project is a win-win-win,” adding, “It’s a win for Idaho, it’s a win for the environment, and it’s a win for America’s national security.”

Map showing the location of the Stibnite Gold Project in central Idaho.

Perpetua Resources

As I noted here in 2021, antimony is a strategic critical mineral that is used in all manner of military applications, including the manufacture of armor piercing bullets, night vision goggles, infrared sensors, precision optics, laser sighting, explosive formulations, hardened lead for bullets and shrapnel, ammunition primers, tracer ammunition, nuclear weapons and production, tritium production, flares, military clothing, and communication equipment. It is the key element in the creation of tungsten steel and the hardening of lead bullets, two of its most crucial applications during WWII. The Stibnite mine provided as much as 90% of U.S. antimony needs throughout World War II.

Today, in addition to the needs of the military, antimony is a critical ingredient in most modern technologies, including those critical to the success of electric vehicles and wind and solar power development. From a national security standpoint, it is problematic that the U.S. is reliant on supply chains dominated by China for the vast majority of its antimony needs.

The Bottom Line

The permitting of any mining operation in the U.S. is an incredibly difficult achievement. The successful restart of the Stibnite mine would ultimately serve to enhance U.S. energy security by lessening the country’s reliance on a country, China, increasingly seen as a potential adversary. If the process does proceed to a final conclusion in the coming months, the reopening of the Stibnite mine would demonstrate that America is still capable of doing big things.

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Idaho

Idaho lawmakers consider removing Women’s Commission from state law

Published

19 minutes ago

February 17, 2026

Press Room

Idaho lawmakers consider removing Women’s Commission from state law

A long-dormant section of Idaho law is drawing renewed attention at the Statehouse.

Lawmakers are considering Senate Bill 1236, which would remove the Idaho Women’s Commission from state code. Supporters say the commission has not been funded or active for 17 years and that eliminating it is simply a matter of cleaning up obsolete law. Opponents argue removing it sends a broader message and eliminates the option to revive it in the future.

WATCH | Lawmakers debate a bill that would remove the Idaho Women’s Commission from state law—

Idaho lawmakers consider removing Women’s Commission from state law

Dr. Mary Mosley, president of the American Association of University Women of Idaho, testified against the bill and says the debate is about more than code.

“First time I went to get a credit card, they said, oh, we always put it in the husband’s name,” Mosley said.

Mosley recalled that experience as an example of how recently women lacked basic financial independence.

“In 1975, I got my first credit card of my own… and that felt pretty good,” she said.

Mosley says Senate Bill 1236 would abolish the Idaho Women’s Commission, which was created in the 1960s to study the status of women and encourage participation in public policy.

“It was a bill to abolish the Women’s Commission… and we’re saying it sends a bad message to the women of Idaho,” Mosley said.

Supporters of the bill say the commission has not existed in practice for nearly two decades.

“This just deals with getting rid of old obsolete code,” said Sen. Brian Lenney, the bill’s sponsor.

Mosley argues keeping the commission in law costs the state nothing and preserves the possibility of reactivating it.

“It’s not costing the state a thing to leave it alone. Could at some point reactivate it,” she said.

She also pointed to issues she believes still warrant study, including incarceration.

“We are the highest number of incarcerated women per capita in the nation… and that should be studied,” Mosley said.

Others echoed that concern during public testimony.

“I believe there is a need and actually a desire on the part of several groups representing Idaho women to reestablish a women’s commission in Idaho, and I don’t want to lose this opportunity,” said Kathy Dawes, who testified in opposition to the bill.

Backers of the legislation pushed back, arguing women do not need a state commission to succeed.

“I am not convinced that any one of these beautiful, strong women in my life need a government-established commission in order to live successful, empowered lives,” said Sen. Glenneda Shippey.

Mosley says her concern is about awareness of how policy decisions affect everyday life.

“If you think what the legislature does doesn’t affect your personal life, you’re wrong,” she said.

The bill is scheduled for a third reading on Tuesday, Feb. 17. If it passes, the Idaho Women’s Commission would be removed from state law.

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Idaho

Idaho Lottery results: See winning numbers for Pick 3, Pick 4 on Feb. 15, 2026

Published

1 day ago

February 16, 2026

Press Room

The results are in for the Idaho Lottery’s draw games on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026.

Here’s a look at winning numbers for each game on Feb. 15.

Winning Pick 3 numbers from Feb. 15 drawing

Day: 8-5-8

Night: 7-3-1

Check Pick 3 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Pick 4 numbers from Feb. 15 drawing

Day: 9-7-1-9

Night: 2-2-8-3

Check Pick 4 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Lucky For Life numbers from Feb. 15 drawing

18-25-30-33-35, Lucky Ball: 06

Check Lucky For Life payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Idaho Cash numbers from Feb. 15 drawing

05-13-31-32-44

Check Idaho Cash payouts and previous drawings here.

Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results

When are the Idaho Lottery drawings held ?

Powerball: 8:59 p.m. MT Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
Mega Millions: 9 p.m. MT on Tuesday and Friday.
Pick 3: 1:59 p.m. (Day) and 7:59 p.m. (Night) MT daily.
Pick 4: 1:59 p.m. (Day) and 7:59 p.m. (Night) MT daily.
Lucky For Life: 8:35 p.m. MT Monday and Thursday.
Lotto America: 9 p.m. MT on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
5 Star Draw: 8 p.m. MT on Tuesday and Friday.
Idaho Cash: 8 p.m. MT daily.

Winning lottery numbers are sponsored by Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network.

Where can you buy lottery tickets?

Tickets can be purchased in person at gas stations, convenience stores and grocery stores. Some airport terminals may also sell lottery tickets.

You can also order tickets online through Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network, in these U.S. states and territories: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington D.C., and West Virginia. The Jackpocket app allows you to pick your lottery game and numbers, place your order, see your ticket and collect your winnings all using your phone or home computer.

Jackpocket is the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. Gannett may earn revenue for audience referrals to Jackpocket services. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). 18+ (19+ in NE, 21+ in AZ). Physically present where Jackpocket operates. Jackpocket is not affiliated with any State Lottery. Eligibility Restrictions apply. Void where prohibited. Terms: jackpocket.com/tos.

This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a USA Today editor. You can send feedback using this form.

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Idaho

Pocatello community invited to celebrate 125 years of Idaho State University – The Bengal

Published

2 days ago

February 15, 2026

Press Room

Pocatello community invited to celebrate 125 years of Idaho State University – The Bengal

Various signs are posted throughout campus in honor of Idaho State University’s 125th anniversary this year. PHOTO CREDIT: Kaili Tucker/Photo Editor.

By Austen Hunzeker

News Editor

Idaho State University is turning 125 years old on March 11, and students, faculty and the Pocatello community at large are invited to celebrate the milestone all year long.

“Like a grand oak, Idaho State University was planted with purpose, and over generations its roots have stretched wide and deep, strengthening our foundation and sustaining our growth,” said ISU President Robert Wagner in a university statement. “In 2026, we proudly honor those who established and nurtured this institution, while continuing the heritage and adding to the growth that will support future generations for the next century and beyond.”

Year-long festivities are to occur, including Bengal Giving Day March 10-11, a day of service on March 11 and a Bengal Street Party slated for a date yet to be determined in September. More events and details will be shared with the public as they’re revealed by the university.

Additionally, a traveling history display highlighting various impactful moments and people to the institution will be accessible at multiple locations throughout 2026.

An online memory board was also launched in January for students, staff, alumni and community members to post their favorite memories from ISU. Over 40 memories have been posted so far and can be accessed at https://isu.kudoboard.com/boards/KnjNykxw#view.

“In May 2020 the commencement ceremony was canceled due to COVID,” Patty Tryon posted on the memory board. “Although our children were not able to cross that stage to get their diplomas, my husband, Tom, and I were bursting with pride as all three of our children, Chad, Brooke and Mariya, graduated from ISU with doctorate, master and bachelor degrees. Tom and I are also ISU alumni. ISU has provided a great experience and education for my family. We are proud to be ISU Bengals”

Mustafa Mashal, civil engineering professor at ISU, posted that he was proud to serve as the advising structural engineer for the student-led redesign and construction of the 71-foot Red Hill “I” that was installed in 2019.

“The project exemplified hands-on learning, collaboration and service to the university and community,” he said. “Seeing students translate classroom knowledge into a lasting campus landmark was especially rewarding.”

Governor Frank W. Hunt signed Senate Bill 53 into law on March 11, 1901, creating the Academy of Idaho — known today as Idaho State University. Former Pocatello mayor and Idaho state senator Theodore F. Turner drafted the bill and is now considered the “father” of ISU.

“From 1901 to today, education and impact have been what drives us,” Wagner said. “We may have started small, but as we celebrate 125 years, one thing is clear: Idaho State University is on a bold path forward.”

For more information on ISU’s 125th anniversary, visit https://www.isu.edu/125years/.

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