KRM, my gut feeling is that this is all dependent upon if/when the ironwood monument is either scaled back or done away with completely.  I definitely get the sense that Mr. Briscoe is chomping at the bit with some plans that have basically been sitting on the shelf for years collecting dust.  I think he is understandably anticipating positive action from Sec. Zinke and Pres. Trump, and is setting things in motion accordingly. 

The next question I would have is this:  Would it be easier to secure financing or some sort of partnership on Silverbell as opposed to Hay Mountain?  If so, why?