#9– Emerald Mine in Waynesburg to close
Alpha Natural Resources announced in August it will close its Emerald Mine in Waynesburg by the end of 2015 because of weak market conditions and the mine’s uncertain geological conditions.
The mine, which has been in operation for 37 years, employed about 500 workers. Employees were aware of the closing as the mine progressed in mining what was left of its mineable reserves, a spokesman said.
The company said some of the workers will probably retire while others will transfer to the company’s Cumberland Mine. In its earnings report, the company said it plans to increase production at Cumberland, which should make up some of the production loss resulting from the closing of Emerald. The United Mine Workers, which represents both mines, said it didn’t expect any layoffs as a result of the closing.