Previously, RES had a 5 acre disturbance permit. This expanded permit for 200 acres allows for Newmont to go in will a multi-rig Phase II progame where they plan to drill the bejesus until winter weather sets in.

Vancouver, BC - Rare Element Resources Ltd (TSX-V: RES) announces that
the Sundance gold exploration venture, which is a joint venture between
Paso Rico (USA) Inc, a subsidiary of Rare Element Resources, and
Newmont North America Exploration Limited, a subsidiary of Newmont
Mining Corporation (Newmont), has received the exploration permit
allowing for an expanded drilling program on the Bear Lodge property,
Wyoming. Both Newmont and Rare Element Resources have prepared detailed
drill plans for their respective 2009 exploration programs.

The Sundance Draft Environment Assessment (EA) was released to the
public on November 5, 2008. Two different comment and appeal periods
took place over an eight month period following its release. This EA
will allow Newmont to fully explore the Sundance Venture claims on up
to 200 acres of disturbance.

Approval of the permit will also allow Rare Element Resources to
continue with its exploration and evaluation of the Bull Hill area
rare-earth targets.