The U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has recognized the conservation efforts of Itafos Conda Phosphate Operations near Soda Springs, Idaho, by awarding Conda a leadership partner award during the 87th North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference.
The award was given March 10 to the Southeast Idaho Habitat Mitigation Fund developed and financed by Conda. It recognizes external organizations or individuals representing a conservation organization for outstanding partnership in developing and implementing conservation programs and activities that directly benefit fish, wildlife, and/or native plants on public lands.
In 2017, Conda gave $1.2 million to the fund to mitigate impacts of its Rasmussen Valley phosphate mine. Its contribution led to an additional investment of $3.5 million in federal, state, and private funds for a total of $4.7 million to further enhance wildlife habitat projects.
In January 2018, Itafos acquired the Conda Phosphate Operations in Southeast Idaho’s Caribou County for $100 million from Agrium Inc., which now is part of Nutrien Ltd., Saskatoon. Phosphate mines in the region generate 22 percent of the nation’s phosphate supply and 2 percent of the world’s supply.