Absaloka Mine

The Absaloka Mine was established in 1972 as a joint venture between Morrison Knudson Company, Kewanee Oil Company, and Penn Virginia Corporation to develop coal reserves and a portion of the surface owned by the Crow Nation. In September 2007, Westmoreland acquired the mine from Washington Group International (formerly Morrison Knudson Corporation). Coal production peaked that same year, with more than seven million tons sold. Since its inception, the mine has produced more than 200 million tons of coal.

Located in Big Horn County, Montana, approximately 30 miles west of Hardin, the Absaloka Mine produces subbituminous coal. The mine is unique because a portion of its operations is located within the Crow Nation Reservation, making it the only coal mine in the United States that operates both on and adjacent to Tribal lands. As a result, the mine is subject to a unique regulatory framework that includes Tribal, federal, and Montana state laws.

Environmental stewardship is a key focus of the operation. To date, approximately 4,500 acres have been reclaimed, reseeded, and restored to closely resemble the area's natural pre-mining topography. Native grasses, shrubs, and trees have been planted throughout the reclaimed land, creating a landscape that blends naturally with the surrounding environment. Reclamation work is performed by a Crow workforce using equipment ranging from draglines to bulldozers. The restored habitat now supports abundant wildlife, including healthy populations of deer and elk.