Study Reveals That Otter Creek Coal Could Ignite Economy

In a recent study titled "The Impact of  Otter Creek Coal Development on the Montana Economy," researchers at the University of Montana's Bureau of Business and Economic Research determined that the proposed coal mine would create 1,740 new operation (long term) jobs and create 2,640 construction jobs in Montana. The project is also projected to drive nearly $91.6 million in state tax revenues during the operations stage and put $167.9 million in disposable personal income into the hands of Montana workers.

Bureau Director Patrick Barkey Discusses How Otter Creek Coal Would Effect Montana's Economy:

The study is simply a “What If” scenario, but Bureau of Business and Economic Research Director Patrick Barkey says the mine could be open by as early as 2017 if the project isn't derailed or delayed in the planning process.