Construction workers at the Idaho Cobalt Mine west of Salmon have been evacuated because of an approaching forest fire.

The Salt Fire is burning approximately 12 miles southeast of the mine site near the ghost town of Cobalt. Formation Capital, owners of the mines said the evacuations won’t delay construction much.

"Our first priority is the safety of our crews," said Preston Rufe, Formation environmental manager. "The fire is not expected to reach the project and is not considered a threat to any structures or equipment at this time.

Rufe said he was more concerned about the access roads to the project that lie at lower elevations and are more susceptible to fire exposure which could create a safety issue for workers. As an additional safeguard, heavy equipment has been moved to safe areas that a large cleared area encompassing tens of acres with no vegetation to act as fuel.