Mosaic seeks revisions to approved phosphate mining plans

The Manatee County Commission will vote on May 24 to determine whether the requests are approved.

MANATEE COUNTY — Mosaic Fertilizer wants to amend plans for two phosphate mines in the Myakka-Duette area. The changes involve extending deadlines for the 3,028-acre Wingate Creek Mine and the continued use of clay settling areas at the 2,508-acre Southeast Tract.

In a series of 5-0 votes Monday, Manatee County’s Planning Commission recommended the revisions to both master mining plans.

The company, which converts phosphate into an ingredient for fertilizer, will seek the County Commission’s approval on May 24.

The changes partly involve transferring requirements in previous “developments of regional impact” approvals into Mosaic’s master mine plans for the properties. In 2015, the state dismantled the DRI process of getting regional approvals of major developments that could have impacts across county lines.