The Golden Sunlight Gold Mine near Whitehall is asking the state of Montana for permission to expand its boundaries.

The mine wants to expand by slightly more than 83 acres on its east side. Mine operators say the expansion is needed to enhance stability and increase buffer zones.

But the state says an independent review firm says a different configuration would require only 31 additional acres and would greatly increase the mine's stability and enhance its safety factor.

The DEQ is reviewing the options and is expected to rule soon.

- John Sherer reporting for KXLF in Butte