Ramaco Inc. and Ramaco Rare Earth, LLC will hold a historic ribbon-cutting and groundbreaking ceremony on Friday to commemorate the start of the Brook Mine Carbon Ore Rare Earth project. It will be the first new rare earth mine in the United States in over 70 years, as well as Wyoming’s first coal mine in over 50 years.
This is happening in Ranchester, Wyoming, a small northeastern town about nine miles south of the Montana border. It is an aptly named small ranch town nestled in the foothills of the Big Horn Mountains, known for its friendly community. Its population is around 1,000 people.
Ramaco operates and develops coal mines in Virginia and, most recently, Wyoming. Its executive headquarters are in Lexington, Kentucky, with operational offices in Charleston, West Virginia, and Sheridan, Wyoming. The Company currently operates four active metallurgical coal mining complexes in Central Appalachia, including the one being honored on Friday in Wyoming.
“This is more than a ribbon cutting—it’s a declaration of America’s resolve to reclaim its leadership in critical minerals and energy independence,” said Randall W. Atkins, Chairman and CEO of Ramaco Resources. “We are proud that Ramaco will be developing the first new mine to lead the United States in creating a viable domestic supply line of strategic rare earths and critical minerals.”
Senator John Barrasso stated, “For generations, the people of Wyoming have used their coal resources to benefit America. We now know that this coal is a new source of critical rare-earth minerals, thanks to pioneering research in Wyoming.
This exciting development will enable Ramaco to launch the first rare earths mine in the United States in decades. Mining our own minerals will help to safely and securely power the advanced technologies that drive our economy and national defense. Wyoming’s energy resources are once again leading the way.
Senator Cynthia Lummis stated, “Wyoming doesn’t follow energy trends; it creates them. Ramaco’s decision to open Wyoming’s first rare earths mine in decades marks a new chapter in the state’s rich mining heritage, producing resources necessary for energy independence and economic growth.
Wyoming continues to drive American progress while providing high-paying jobs for our communities, and I appreciate Ramaco’s investment in Wyoming.”
Governor Mark Gordon stated, “Wyoming remains a leader in energy innovation, including the growth of our critical mineral industries. We are celebrating the exciting potential of Wyoming coal and rare earth minerals, as well as their role in the expansion of our state’s energy economy, thanks to the Energy Matching Funds Program.
