Western Canadian Coal currently produces over 3 million tonnes per year of high quality metallurgical coal from three mines located in the Northeast of British Columbia.
The properties have over 15 years of coal reserves. The coal is sold to the top steelmakers around the world.
Western’s three producing mines are located on two properties:
Perry Creek Mine on the Wolverine property is currently producing 1.45 million tonnes per year (Mt/a) of hard-coking coal and 0.15 Mt/a of mid-vol PCI coal. The Wovlerine property has the potential to produce 3.5 Mt/a of hard coking coal by 2012.
Brule Mine on the Brazion property is currently producing 1.3 Mt/a of low-vol PCI coal. The Brule mine has the potential to produce 2.0 Mt/a by 2012.
Willow Creek Mine – acquired in April 2008 – will be producing 0.6 Mt/a of low-vol PCI coal commencing early 2009. The Willow Creek Mine has the potential to produce 0.9 Mt/a of low-vol PCI and 0.6 Mt/a of hard coking coal by 2012.
Western’s goal is to produce 7.0 Mt/a of metallurgical coal by 2012.
Western’s also has a 50% joint venture interest in the Belcourt-Saxon properties. Feasibility studies are underway. The property has the potential to produce up to 5 Mt/a by 2013.
Western employs over 600 people directly or through contractors at its mines.
The Company’s objectives are:
- By 2012 produce over 7 million tonnes per year of coal
- Allocate resources prudently and efficiently for the development of its coal properties, to achieve maximum value for the Company's shareholders
- Demonstrate to regulators, First Nations, local communities and other stakeholders that the Company will conduct its operations in an environmentally and socially responsible manner
