Community Corner

Highlands Withdraws All Rocky Flats Permits

After community uproar in Westminster and Superior, Highlands Natural Resources withdraws all permits in the area.

BOULDER, CO -- In a press release issued this afternoon, Highland Natural Resources has announced that they will be withdrawing all Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission spacing and permit applications associated with Rocky Flats, Standley Lake and the dog park on 5,200 acres of leasehold in Jefferson County.

The decision came after community meetings about the plans drew hundreds of residents in Superior and Westminster to protest the proposed drilling sites for being too close to their communities, water sources, and the former nuclear weapon facility at Rocky Flats.

According to Highland's statement, the decision to withdraw the permits was based on conversations with people who live in the project area, mineral owners, county, state and federal representatives, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, COGCC and others.

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The announcement concluded by stating that "[Highland] is taking the conscious step back from its development plans to affirm its commitment to being a responsible and transparent operator within the state of Colorado."

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