 |
| Brook Rare Earth Mine |
Wyoming Mine Gains Approval to Advance Domestic Rare Earth Production
Ramaco Resources has secured a crucial five-year permit for the Brook Rare Earth Mine in Sheridan, Wyoming. The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality authorized continued coal mining and reclamation across 4,549 acres. The Brook site holds the largest known U.S. deposit of unconventional rare earth elements (REEs) extracted from carbonaceous ore and coal seams.
Strategic Significance Amid China's Rare Earth Dominance
The Brook Rare Earth Mine represents a rare opportunity to strengthen U.S. control over critical mineral supply chains. Currently, China dominates 91% of refining, 87% of oxide separation, and 94% of magnet production. In contrast, the only active U.S. mine for magnetic REEs is California’s Mountain Pass. As a result, Brook’s development marks a vital step toward reducing foreign dependency for defense, EV, and renewable energy applications.
Economic Potential Backed by State Investment and Federal Priorities
In July, state leaders and industry officials celebrated the Brook mine as the first new rare earth project in the U.S. in over 70 years. Ramaco’s preliminary economic assessment projects $134 million in adjusted EBITDA by 2028, based on an annual coal output of 2 million tons. Meanwhile, Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon approved a $6.1 million grant for a pilot REE processing facility at the site. Construction will begin later this year, further advancing the strategic role of Brook Rare Earth Mine in domestic clean energy and national security.
ScrapInsight Commentary
Brook Mine's permitting confirms its role as a future linchpin in U.S. rare earth self-sufficiency. For recyclers and non-ferrous traders, rising REE localization could recalibrate long-term pricing and sourcing. The carbon ore-based recovery method signals a transformative step for circular mineral strategies.
Tags
RAREMETAL
