The Mining Claim 2024

WET provides comprehensive environmental and engineering consulting and construction management to the mining industry.

Our environmental expertise spans geologic/ hydrogeologic assessments, groundwater modeling, water management, dewatering, permitting, and more. Engineering services include surveying, design, stormwater management, wastewater systems, infrastructure support and more.

We also specialize in legal estate research, mapping, and status reports for surface and mineral rights, assisting with legal opinions, due diligence, negotiations, and land use applications, ensuring accurate data for informed decision-making.

2023-24 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OFFICERS

Christian Palich | President Eagle Specialty Materials

Todd Druse | Vice President

Black Hills Bentonite

Mike McGrady | Secretary/Treasurer Sisecam

DIRECTORS

Drew Kimery Peabody

Bernard Bonifas Energy Fuels

Scott Schierman Uranium Energy Corporation

Kim Cox Bentonite Performance Minerals

Cole Anderson Wyodak Resources

Aaron Reichl Genesis Alkali

Don Crank Kemmerer Operations

Crystal Volk Mining Associates of Wyo

Keith Williams Arch Resources

Steve Williams NTEC

STAFF

Travis Deti | Executive Director

Assistant Director Heidi Peterson

Membership & Retention

ABOUT THE WYOMING

ASSOCIATION

WYOMING MINING - CONNECTING AMERICA MINING

COMMUNICATION

WMA promotes the mining industry by communicating with elected officials, regulators, educators, and the public in a credible way that encourages trust and confidence and earns respect as a reliable source of information on issues pertinent to the industry. We do this by:

• publicizing the environmental achievements and responsible processes used by the mining industry;

• discussing environmental challenges faced by the mining industry;

• promoting the value of the mining industry to the state’s economy;

• creating awareness for the importance of mining products provided to the nation;

• building understanding of the economic value and high quality of life created by mining; and

• creating awareness of the challenges and issues facing the mining industry.

LEGISLATION

WMA also influences legislative, regulatory, and education processes in a proactive and credible way so the interests of the mining industry are considered in important decisions impacting Wyoming. We do this by:

• maintaining awareness and engagement in the ongoing legislative committee process to ensure decisions are made in the best interest of the State, its citizens, and the industry;

• promoting consistent, rational, and prudent rules and regulations that encourage environmentally responsible mining based on sound science; and

• providing accurate, timely information on mining issues to educational programs.

PARTNERSHIPS

WMA promotes the mining industry by partnering with regulators, educators, and the public to build collaborative and trusting relationships. We do this by:

• educating youth about the significance of the mining industry;

• building a healthy environment that co-exists with a healthy mining industry; and

• creating economic value and a high quality of life value in an environmentally responsible manner.

June 7, 2024

Dear Members of the Wyoming Mining Community:

It is once again a privilege to welcome you to the Wyoming Mining Association Annual Meeting. As always, you have selected a great venue and a great list of topics for discussion.

As you discuss the importance of meeting the challenges of today, please know that my office and the State of Wyoming stand with you. While some of the economic factors are now tipped in your favor, significant struggles remain. However, you continue to provide energy and important minerals that benefit Wyoming and our nation’s economy. Thank you.

While it is early summer in Cody, the blizzard of Biden anti-fossil fuel regulations and policies continue unabated. I continue to stand with you. We have participated in all the relevant comment periods against these rules and management plans. We are actively litigating against these rules as well, which are often politically based, with many focused on a climate-only agenda. Don’t get me wrong, Wyoming has long been leading in environmental stewardship and I have set the goal that Wyoming will reduce its CO2 emissions, but still use all our natural resources. I firmly believe that we can and will do so. I remain committed to continue to fight against these regulations, but also support technologies like carbon capture that could extend the life of our fossil-fueled plants.

The mining industry has been a pillar of our economy since before statehood and remains so today. I look forward to working with you to see that our mineral industry is able to safely develop all of our mineral resources for years to come.

TAKING CHARGE OF THE CLATTERING TRAIN

“Who is in charge of the clattering train? The axles creak, and the couplings strain. For the pace is hot, and the points are near, And Sleep hath deadened the driver’s ear: And signals flash through the night in vain. Death is in charge of the clattering train!”

This poem from by Edwin James Milliken expresses (a bit dramatically) what many are feeling right now as our country careens down the rickety path to an uncertain future. Continued leadership failures and reckless policy decisions from the federal government are straining the Wyoming mining industry, as well as the very foundations of American society. Today, we find ourselves on unstable ground, facing significant challenges and an uncertain future.

The Biden Administration’s regulatory assault on our extraction industries is very real. As of this writing, the Environmental Protection Agency has released a suite of rules specifically designed to kill the American thermal coal industry. Through its Conservation and Landscape Health Rule and its state Resource Management Plans, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management is attempting to keep vast and valuable Wyoming mineral resources in the ground by prioritizing its warped view of conservation and unreliable wind and solar projects. These unfair actions, coupled with tough market conditions due to low natural gas prices and unseasonably warm weather, have placed some of Wyoming’s mined resources at risk. But all is not lost.

While the Wyoming coal industry faces some very real challenges, the industry remains resilient. Producers are looking to the future and making investments in Wyoming. Wyoming coal will remain a critical source to help feed America’s growing energy appetite for years to come.

The trona and soda ash industries, Wyoming’s top international exports, continue to work on expansion projects. We will see two new mines operating soon.

Wyoming bentonite miners saw a significant increase in production over the previous year while also adding employees.

Intriguing newer industry sectors are coming online in Wyoming as development in rare earths, lithium and other minerals increases. The first new gold mine in Wyoming in several decades recently received its permit to mine.

BY: TRAVIS DETI Executive Director Wyoming Mining Association

We are on the cusp of an exciting new uranium boom as producers ramp up production on solid prices. International affairs and strong federal legislation from Wyoming’s Congressional delegation have set the stage for uranium to make a strong comeback. As we meet this year in Cody, we’ll discuss the challenges and opportunities and what to expect going forward. Elections and public policy have consequences. We will hear about the importance of messaging and what we can all do to press our case to our elected officials and the public to right the course we are on. And, of course, we will address safety, the top industry value.

While the operating environment remains difficult, it helps to remember Wyoming and America remain reliant on our vital industry. We continue to meet the challenge of providing the energy and raw materials used by every citizen every day.

By continuing to persevere together, we can help to regain control and take charge of the clattering train!

FROM THE DESK OF THE WMA PRESIDENT

BY: CHRISTIAN PALICH Eagle Specialty Materials

Board President Wyoming Mining Association

It’s very easy my friends if you turn on the news for even two minutes these days, to not feel incredibly disheartened about the current state of the world, and especially for all of us who work in the mining industry. For more than half a century, the coal mined right here in the Cowboy State has powered this country, and contributed to ensuring America has held it’s place as a beacon of freedom and independence in an ever turbulent world. And in Wyoming, the mining capital of America, we also proudly have contributed so many minerals to the commerce of the nation, supplying the globe with top notch resources like Trona, Bentonite, and Uranium below our feet, mining with the most environmentally sound practices. So this begs the question why so much negativity every day from both the media and way too many policy makers in Washington DC towards our industries that have provided so much to the American experience?

To Answer that question I truly believe it is because they live way to far from the freedom we enjoy here in Wyoming. And the truth is, as mining advocates we also need to tell our story loudly and proudly, not just to our representatives in Cheyenne or DC, but to our friends, family, and acquaintances all over America. Because, the story of Wyoming mining is truly special, from the jobs our industries create, to the environmental leadership we provide, and our contributions to a vibrant community. I am personally proud everyday to tell anyone that will listen the incredible benefits a vibrant mining industry has on a state, just look all over beautiful Wyoming for a real life example.

As I said in the beginning it can certainly bring your mood down to engage in social discourse or watch the media these days, however, it is 2024 and five months from our WMA Annual Meeting here in Cody, the country will have the ability to make a much needed change in leadership. We cannot sit here and act like the current policies from Washington are in anyway good for not just the state of Wyoming but the nation as a whole, and most certainly not for our industry. The fact is that the top down, DC approach to ideologically driven policies favors big city activists over our towns like Gillette, Rock Springs, Cody, Sheridan, or Cheyenne. Our industries are incredibly proud to help drive the states economy, but we can only take so much pressure from DC before we start to crack. I am optimistic that more people see the value in what we all do in mining than don’t, but our enemies just tend to be much louder. But, this November we all can be heard, and once again chart the next Wyoming decade of the strongest most vibrant mining economy not just in America but across the globe. I’ll leave you with this, the stakes are way to high this year to be on the sidelines advocating for what we do as an industry, so if you have friends, family, or know anyone in the states of AZ, NV, GA, WI, PA, MI, or CO I would give them a call to tell them what we are fighting for this November, as soon as possible. Dare I even say let’s “Make Wyoming Mining Great Again.”

IT IS MY PLEASURE TO SERVE.....

What a group you are to represent. It makes me proud to represent the members of the Mining industry in Wyoming whenever I go on the road to yet another meeting. We are well known for our integrity and our leadership in the industry.

The issues vary and the pushback is sometimes arrogant, if not sometimes just plain silly. But when you represent something in this world as honorable and valuable as the minerals we mine, the people who mine them and the very purpose for which we produce, there is never any need to dodge or apologize.

As I said recently to the WMA Board of Directors “As I continue to represent the WMA members across the state in various meetings, I never cease to lose sight of the fact that without the mining industry, there would be an awful lot of unhappy and uncomfortable people in this world. Oddly, some of those folks in the meetings never make the connection between the contributions made to their lives by mining and the irony of their relentless commitment to shutting down or at the very least, hamstringing mining.“

Think. People!

But. Are we not still the most blessed people in the world to live in a country that will protect our right to be selfish, thoughtless and irreverent while at the same time biting the hand that feeds and educates us!

(Insert sense of humor here. It helps.)

All 32 Wyoming mines plod on every day, 24/7, to make the masses comfortable. Mining is reliable despite the challenges generously set forth by regulators, transportation partners, weather, pandemics, legislatures and politicians, financial institutions, states, and even our own federal government. And yes, some days even our own attitudes! Still over 24,000 employees working for those Wyoming mines and supply and service companies, show up every day and produce.

My favorite line to use when explaining to folks who don’t know a lot about mining is, “During covid, our mines never missed a shift.” That is quite a marker. We in Wyoming are blessed to have world class mines operating here. We have some of the largest mines in the world and we have the some of the world’s largest mining companies producing here.

Messaging and educating the public is critical in our industry. Our image at the local, state, regional, national and world level is critical to keeping that door open that allows us to work in this worthwhile industry. We especially know that in Wyoming.

BY: PAT JOYCE Assistant Director Wyoming Mining Association

To that end I have discussed with the WMA Board of Directors this year, that in my humble opinion, I continue believe that we are one big catastrophe away from losing the good will of the people of Wyoming. Right now, they know the tax revenue from mining builds their schools. Some even understand the mine’s taxes (40 per cent of the state’s revenue) pay the bills and salaries in the same schools. And in general, there is an understanding that energy in Wyoming employs a large number of people.

However, it is critical to fortify that message. It is never too soon to give back or give more. I have asked the Board to consider that WMA become a partner with the Wyoming Food Bank, and focus our efforts to make sure that people in Wyoming, (yes, even our own in the unfortunate event of a layoff) have access to food. We will be pursuing our long range plan in the next few months. I would be very happy to hear any creative ideas many of you may have that we should consider in our planning. Feel free to send me an email or call the office. Sometimes, I‘m not on the road! And I love a creative idea!

So, with that, I will say thank you all for all that you do every day to make mining in Wyoming so successful. And be sure to pack a lunch, pack a smile and most of all don’t leave home without your sense of humor!

Family Owned Business Working in Wyoming, Montana, and Canada

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2024 LEGISLATIVE UPDATE: A HOUSE PERSPECTIVE

Welcome to the 2024 WMA Annual Convention and a great deal has happened since our last meeting a short year ago. As you likely know, this year’s Legislative Session focused on its constitutional duty of getting a budget passed. Unlike the federal government, we have to pass a balanced budget which was not easy this year. Fortunately, we did achieve this obligation where the Senate passed the budget bill on a 17-14 vote and the House passed it 41-21.

In addition to the Budget, 366 bills and resolutions were numbered for introduction. The Wyoming Legislature passed a total of 126 bills. 107 pieces of legislation were introduced in the Senate, 71 of those bills passed both the House and Senate. 84 pieces of legislation were introduced in the House, 55 of those bills passed both the House and Senate. 61 percent of committee bills passed both chambers, 20 percent of the individually sponsored bills passed both bodies.

Notable bills within the mining sphere include:

BY: WYOMING HOUSE

• HB0035 - Limitation on environmental rulemaking. This act requires the environmental quality council to promulgate rules that are no more stringent than federal law, rules or regulations applicable to any federal program that the state maintains primacy over. This act does not apply if the department of environmental quality identifies the need for rules that are more stringent than federal law, rules or regulations in its statement of principal reasons that accompanies the state rulemaking process.

DISTRICT 19: REPRESENTATIVE JON CONRAD

• HB0033 - Mining operations-blasting requirements. This act requires the Environmental Quality Council (upon recommendation by the WYDEQ) to establish rules governing the use of explosives at new and existing noncoal surface mining operations. The act specifies that rules must provide for the standards for the use of explosives, recordkeeping requirements and requirements for the types of explosives and how they are used to prevent injury and damage. Additionally, requires mine operators to prepare a blasting plan for submission along with other plans and reports, including mining plans and reclamation plans.

• HB0032 - Geologic sequestration-unitization amendments. Current law provides for a unitization (or pooling) order for the geologic sequestration of carbon dioxide. This act amends those purposes and requirements. The act eliminates provisions related to the issuance of draft sequestration permits by the Department of Environmental Quality and specifies that permits can be issued that authorize the construction of an injection well and sequestration. Also specifies that one of several purposes for geologic sequestration unitization is to facilitate the utilization of pore space for sequestration. The act amends requirements for notice that must be given to adjacent landowners and pore space owners whose pore space may be included in a unit area under a unitization order. Clarifies that unitization orders cannot diminish the dominance of a mineral estate and cannot prohibit a mineral owner from developing the owner’s minerals.

• Funding of the Wyoming 988 Suicide Prevention Hotline. We worked hard to secure full funding ($40M) within a trust fund for the proven success of the 988 lifeline. The interest this value would have received would enable the program to be self-funded including the new text and chat features. Unfortunately, the amount was stripped of $30M during the various budget discussions. While we remain disappointed, we are extremely grateful for the $10M which was put towards this critical tool that is saving lives including our miners within the State of Wyoming.

I look forward to visiting with you and answering any questions. Thank you sincerely for your attendance and support at this annual WMA meeting.

STANDING UP FOR WYOMING MINERS

Energy and mining are the lifeblood of our economy. Wyoming’s tremendous natural resources create good paying jobs and support entire communities. Thanks to the members of the Wyoming Mining Association, we are America’s leading producer of coal, uranium, trona, and bentonite. Your hard work powers America’s economy and provides abundant, affordable, and secure energy to American families.

The policies coming out of Washington have a big impact on the energy industry and communities across Wyoming. Our state is blessed with abundant natural resources. We must not leave that energy buried in the ground. That’s exactly what the Biden administration is trying to do. They’re doing this through endless regulations and executive actions.

Just this spring, the Biden administration’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released an onslaught of overreaching climate rules that will shut down power plants and increase energy costs for families across the country. They will also handcuff America’s coal and natural gas production – two of our most affordable and reliable sources of electricity. Wyoming energy jobs will be threatened, electricity bills will rise, and the country will be at risk for rolling blackouts.

Americans deserve clean air, clear rules and reliable electricity. Punishing regulations make this impossible. I will work to stop them and fight for solutions that protect our air and water and allow our economy to grow.

BY: U.S. SENATOR JOHN BARRASSO (R-WYO.)

Overregulation doesn’t end with the EPA. President Biden’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) rolled out several rules and plans aimed at turning Wyoming’s federal lands from “multiple-use” to “non-use.”

With BLM’s final Public Lands Rule, as well as the proposed Rock Springs Resource Management Plan, the Biden administration is doing all it can to shut down access to federal lands. The people of Wyoming depend on access to these lands for our livelihoods – including energy and mineral production, grazing, and recreation. I’ve introduced legislation to stop this attack on our Wyoming way of life.

In Wyoming, we know firsthand how important coal is to keeping the lights on across the country. Instead of embracing this reliable and affordable source of electricity, President Biden continues to wage war on Wyoming’s coal communities and families.

In its recently finalized Buffalo Field Office land use plan, the BLM bans coal leasing in the Powder River Basin – the most energy-rich area in the country. This short-sighted plan will kill jobs and could cost Wyoming hundreds of millions of dollars used to pay for public schools, roads, and other essential services in our communities. The entire Wyoming delegation will do everything we can to keep this disastrous plan from being implemented.

Lastly, I want to end on a positive note. In the last year, Congress passed two of my bills to jumpstart our nuclear fuel supply chain and support Wyoming’s uranium miners.

Last December, we passed the bipartisan Nuclear Fuel Security Act. It will help the Department of Energy and our commercial sector make a supply of American high-assay, low-enriched uranium available. This supply will be used to power advanced nuclear reactors across the country.

On May 13, 2024, my bipartisan legislation to ban Russian uranium imports into the United States was signed into law. Banning imports of Russian uranium will further defund Russia’s war machine and help revive American uranium production for decades to come.

As our nation’s leading uranium producer, Wyoming is ready to do our part to power American reactors with American nuclear fuel. Russia’s dominance of the world’s nuclear fuel supply chain is coming to an end.

I look forward to continuing to work with members of the Wyoming Mining Association and standing up for Wyoming’s miners and their families. Wyoming and our entire nation are grateful for everything you do to keep our country running strong.

Since 2015, Ramaco has supported a culture of innovation in Wyoming. We have pioneered the use of coal for higher value products, such as a feedstock for materials like carbon fiber, graphite, and graphene.

T Together with the U.S . Department of Energy’s top laboratory for fossil fuel research, we are exploring production of rare earth elements at our Brook Mine, located outside Sheridan. Researchers believe it could represent the nation’s largest u unconventional deposit of these elements, and a potential domestic source for critical minerals needed for electric vehicle motors, advanced military technology, medical devices, and much more.

Partnered with the nation’s l leading research laboratories and universities, we’re forging a bright future for Wyoming’s economy.

www.ramacoresources.com

WMA BENEFITS

WORKING FOR YOU ALL YEAR LONG

Member Benefits

Federal & State Agency Communications

Annual Convention and MAW Golf Tournament

Safety Conference and Trade Show

Lobbying – State Legislature, Congress

Mineral Work Groups – DEQ Communications

Education – CTE Outreach

Public Outreach

UW Energy Day

Promote/Produce Industry Forums to Support Mining

Partner with and Support Industry Allies

Election Candidate Forums

REGULATORY AFFAIRS

Subcommittees:

Sage Grouse Intervention Team

Migration Corridor Monitoring

Legislative Affairs

Water Quality

Bonding

Wildlife

Archeology

Air Quality

Wyoming Coal

Information Committee

Legislative Affairs

Safety Committee

Workforce-Education

Nelson Brothers is Dedicated to Serving and Taking Care of Our Employees, Our Customers, and Our Relationships. We are Committed to the Mission-Critical Focus of Safety for Our Customers, Team Members, and Communities.

www.nelsonbrothers.com or download our app!

2024 CONVENION SPEAKERS

“CONVENTION OPENING"

The Honorable Dave Freudenthal

Former Governor of Wyoming

Dave Freudenthal, a Wyoming native, served two terms as Wyoming’s 31st governor, 20022011. Wyoming was the first state to adopt meaningful regulation of hydraulic fracturing. It is also the leader in establishing a legal framework for carbon capture and sequestration. The State remains a leader in the funding of research and demonstration in this area. At the same time, under Freudenthal, significant effort was devoted to the Wyoming Pipeline Authority and the Wyoming Infrastructure Authority whose missions are to increase the pipeline capacity and electric transmission infrastructure to move Wyoming’s energy to national markets. Wyoming’s natural gas pipeline capacity was doubled during Freudenthal’s term of office. Freudenthal’s leadership on natural resource development issues led to his service as Chairman of the Western Governors Association and Chairman of the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission.

Freudenthal was born and raised in Wyoming. He graduated from Amherst College in 1973 and returned to Wyoming to take a position as an economist with the State. Governor Ed Herschler appointed him State Planning Coordinator in 1975. After graduating from the University of Wyoming College of Law in 1980, Freudenthal opened his own one-person law firm in Cheyenne. The firm grew into a general practice firm representing individuals and business. In 1994, he was appointed U.S. Attorney for the District of Wyoming. Following his two terms as Governor, Freudenthal taught part time at the University of Wyoming, then practiced with Crowell & Moring until January 2017 when he opened Freudenthal Law Office, LLC in Cheyenne. In 2014 Freudenthal received the University of Wyoming Distinguished Alumni Award. Dave and his wife, Nancy, have four children, eight grandchildren and live in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

“

STEMMING EPA’S TIDAL WAVE: UPDATE ON LATEST FLOOD OF EPA GRID-IMPACTING REGULATIONS AND STATUS OF LITIGATION TO STOP THEM.”

Mr. Michael J. Nasi Partner, Jackson Walker

Mike Nasi is a partner with Jackson Walker LLP where he practices environmental and energy law. Mike has been practicing before state and federal environmental and energy agencies and appellate courts for 25 years and active in multi-state carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) projects for 15 years.

Mr. Nasi’s compliance counseling, permitting, and enforcement defense work spans the following federal (and related state) programs: Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Solid Waste Disposal Act, Endangered Species Act, and National Environmental Policy Act. He is often asked to play a strategic planning role on behalf of his clients in the midst of large, complex project developments. Mike is counsel for parties in ongoing EPA regulatory proceedings relating to carbon dioxide, interstate air quality, regional haze, and coal combustion residuals, including appeals pending before the United States Courts of Appeals for the Fifth, Eighth, Tenth, and D.C. Circuits, as well as the Supreme Court of the United States. Mike helps coordinate multi-state outreach efforts regarding these and other regulations impacting the electric power and mining sectors, appears at hearings and energy policy events across the country, and is published in several trade, law, and business journals on environmental law and energy policy topics.

Mr. Nasi is a Past Chairman of the State Bar of Texas Environmental and Natural Resources Law Section and serves as a guest lecturer in the “Energy Law & Policy” course at the University of Texas Law School and contributed to Rice University’s “Leadership & Decision Making in the Energy Industry” course. Mike is consistently recognized on several “Who’s Who” and “Best Lawyer” lists and was awarded the Law 360 “Energy and Environmental Trailblazer Award.” Mike is on the Central Texas Salvation Army Advisory Board and is a Board Member for the West Austin Youth Association (WAYA).

2024 CONVENION SPEAKERS

“COMMUNICATING COAL"

Mr. Brian Osborne

Executive Vice President of The Strategy Group Co.

Brian Osborne, Executive Vice President of The Strategy Group Co., brings over 15 years of experience as a seasoned Republican political strategist focusing on political and public affairs campaigns across the United States and Canada.

Before joining The Strategy Group, Osborne distinguished himself as a political operative and congressional aide, servicing clients at all levels of politics. He also served as a Partner at the Republican voter contact firm Front Porch Strategies after graduating from The Ohio State University.

Specializing in public opinion research, voter contact, and constituent communications, Osborne has helped earn the Strategy Group dozens of national awards for work on hundreds of political campaigns, private companies, advocacy organizations, and governmental bodies.

Brian Osborne and his wife, Colleen, reside in Powell, Ohio.

“NOT SO FAST: A CAMPAIGN FOR COAL"

Mr. Matt Mackowiak Manager of Government Affairs, CONSOL Energy

Matt Mackowiak is Manager of Government Affairs at CONSOL Energy, a producer and exporter of high-Btu thermal and metallurgical coal based in the eastern United States. Together, CONSOL’s purpose-driven team works daily to fuel the world for a better tomorrow.

In his current role, Matt has leadership of the Company’s federal and state government affairs, including both legislative and regulatory issues across multiple states in which CONSOL operates. With CONSOL’s emphasis on innovation and investment in the areas of advanced carbon materials, waste coal utilization, and greenhouse gas emission reduction technologies, Matt regularly lobbies on issues such as energy reliability, national security, the mining industry, carbon products, and carbon capture technology development.

Matt earned a B.A. from the University of Dayton, MBA from Robert Morris University, and serves on the CONSOL Cares Foundation Board of Directors.

“MINERALS MAKE IT HAPPEN: CHANGING THE FACE OF THE MINERAL INDUSTRY"

Ms. Jenny Martin

Associate VP of

Communications & External Affairs, Essential Minerals Association

Jenny Martin is the Associate Vice President of Communications and External Affairs at the Essential Minerals Association, where she plays an integral role in the development and implementation of the association’s communications strategy. For the past 19 years, she has worked in various roles in agricultural communications. She has led industry communications efforts at the Sugar Association, The Fertilizer Institute, and the International Food Information Council. Additionally, Jenny served in federal government roles at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, communicating the benefits of federally funded agricultural research. She earned a BA in Journalism from Iowa State University and a master’s degree in Public Relations and Corporate Communications from Georgetown University. She grew up on a small farm in Iowa and is still very loyal to her Iowa State Cyclones. She currently lives in Washington, DC, with her crazy, but charming dog Cooper.

“MINING POLICY IN AN ELECTION YEAR ENVIRONMENT"

Mr. Mark Compton Executive Director, American Exploration & Mining Asso.

Mark Compton is the executive director of the American Exploration & Mining Association (AEMA), based in Spokane Valley, Washington. Mark rejoined AEMA in 2019 after serving seven years as president of the Utah Mining Association. Mark previously spent four years at AEMA (then known as the Northwest Mining Association) as government affairs manager, and he has nearly thirty years of government affairs experience. Prior to joining the mining industry, he served on the congressional and gubernatorial staff of C.L. “Butch” Otter of Idaho, and he also has worked as a

forester and public affairs specialist in the forest products industry in Montana, Idaho and Washington. He resides with his wife Kelley on the outskirts of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

“PRESIDENT’S LUNCH GUEST SPEAKER"

Mr. Rich Nolan President and CEO, National Mining Association

Rich Nolan is president and chief executive officer of the National Mining Association (NMA).

With more than 20 years of experience advocating on many natural resources sector issues, Mr. Nolan most recently served the NMA for 13 years as Senior Vice President of Government and Political Affairs. In his first three years leading the NMA, Mr. Nolan led a resurgence in new members, growing membership in both traditional and emerging minerals commodities; established the association’s first Environment, Social and Governance Task Force; created the association’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion program; and spearheaded the association’s first rebrand in more than two decades.

His three decades in government affairs and political advocacy have spanned a number of industries including mining, forestry, paper, chemicals and agriculture. His career began on Capitol Hill, where he served as an aide to several members of Congress and worked as an advisor on multiple campaign committees. After his time on the Hill, he held leadership roles at associations and firms focusing on natural resources and environmental issues, including the American Forest & Paper Association, CropLife America and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, among others.

Mr. Nolan is a member of the Board of the U.S. Energy Association. He is a frequent contributor and commentator on cable news and is featured in print and online outlets across the country.

“FEDERAL POLICY UPDATE: DOMESTIC URANIUM PRODUCTION AND US NUCLEAR FUEL SECURITY"

Mr.

Landon Stropko

Chair of Energy and Environment Practice Group, Invariant Government Relations

Landon Stropko is the Chair of Energy and Environment Practice Group at Invariant. He is a federal policy counsel with over a decade of service in the U.S.

House and Senate. He chairs Invariant’s energy practice, focusing on energy, environment, natural resources, appropriations, and energy tax issues. Landon most recently served as legislative director for Senate Budget Committee Chairman Mike Enzi (R-WY), overseeing the Senator’s work on the Senate Finance and Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committees. He previously ran the Congressional Western Caucus and was chief of staff to Representative Cynthia Lummis (R-WY). Prior to that, Landon served as legislative assistant for Representative Barbara Cubin (R-WY). Landon holds a Juris Doctorate from the Georgetown University Law Center and graduated from the University of Wyoming.

“WYOMING

BENTONITE: SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY TODAY AND TOMORROW"

Mr. Jamey Tippets Vice President for Production, Wyo-Ben

Jamey Tippetts is the VP of Operations for Wyo-Ben, Inc., a second generation privately held bentonite mining and processing company headquartered in Billings, MT with operations in south central Montana and the Big Horn Basin of Wyoming. Jamey’s responsibilities encompass the mining, manufacturing, quality, and safety aspects of the business. Various leadership roles throughout his 13-year tenure at Wyo-Ben have shaped his success in this role. His leadership and knowledge of mining and processes were beneficial in Wyo-Ben’s recent acquisition of M-I Swaco, a division of Schlumberger. This acquisition has doubled Wyo-Ben production capacities. In addition, Jamey plays a key role in the development and growth of the Wyo-Ben Pet manufacturing division, offering a complete vertical integration of clumping cat litter. His expertise in process design and integration led to the construction and most recent poly bag packaging integration of the pet litter packaging facility in Billings, MT.

Jamey earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at Utah State University with a minor in Spanish in 2003. He has worked closely with the Navy and ships force in the overhaul/refuel activities of Los Angeles Class submarines while employed at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard before switching gears and working first as a test engineer and finally a commercial launch vehicle project engineer for ATK at their Promontory, UT facility. His love and passion for his home state of Wyoming led hm home in 2011 where he currently resides with his wife and two remaining children at home (yes there are a total of nine!).

Jamey most recently served as the board chairperson for the Essential Minerals Association, a trade association focused on issues at the national level and is a 2023 graduate of Leadership Wyoming.

“TRONA 101: NATIONAL SODA ASH - RELIABILITY, DELIVERED COSTS, SUSTAINABILITY"

Mr. Jon Conrad Environmental & Governmental Affairs Manager, Tata Chemicals North America

Jon Conrad is the Director of Governmental Affairs for Tata Chemicals Soda Ash Partners LLC, in Green River Wyoming. He has 28 years in various leadership positions within the Soda Ash industry. Rep. Conrad (HD19) also serves in the State of Wyoming Legislature with multiple assignments including House Minerals, Business & Economic Development Committee and Select Water Committee. He also serves as the Chairman of the WMA Regulatory Affairs Committee, Chairman of the Essential Minerals Association –North America Environmental Affairs Committee, Board member of the Wyoming Economic Development Association, Uinta County Economic Development Commission and appointed by the Governor as a Commissioner with the Wyoming Veterans Committee.

Jon is also a Veteran for Foreign Wars and a retired Master Sergeant with 21 years of service. He resides in Mountain View with his wife Lorie and are parents of five children. He holds degrees in Aircraft Avionics, Mechanical Engineering and Masters in Business Administration. Jon is a past recipient of the WMA Peck Award.

“WYOMING DEQ 2024 AGENCY UPDATES"

Mr. Alan Edwards Deputy Director, Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality

Alan Edwards serves as the Deputy Director for the Agency. His duties as Deputy include providing day to day assistance to the Director and coordinating agency wide activities.

Alan has both Bachelors and Masters degrees in civil engineering. Alan’s experience includes about 22 years of service with the State of Wyoming in a variety of capacities. Most of his tenure with the State has been with the Department of Environmental Quality. Most recently, he served as the Abandoned Mine Land Administrator and then served in a dual role as Deputy Director and the Industrial Siting Division Administrator prior to assuming the singular role as Deputy Director.

“MORE IS MORE: ADVANCING WYOMING ENERGY"

Mr. Rob Creager Executive Director, Wyoming Energy Authority

Rob Creager is the Executive Director of the WEA. He previously served as Senior Policy Advisor to Governor Mark Gordon, where he strongly emphasized Wyoming’s economic portfolio and public policy. In that role, he led multiple efforts, including implementing multiple pieces of federal legislation and the successful execution of five pandemic-related business relief programs. He led the Governor’s budget transparency promise by creating the Wyoming Sense initiative. Creager has also presided over several of Wyoming’s state agencies and served as the Governor’s liaison to the White House. He is a native of Casper, Wyoming and a graduate of the University of Wyoming.

“DANGEROUS DRUG TRENDS IN THE WORKPLACE"

Mr. Mark Ashby President and CEO, LEAD Impairment Training

Mark Ashby, a highly respected and distinguished expert regarding drug and alcohol impairment, is the President and Chief Instructor of LEAD Impairment Training. Since its inception in 2007, LEAD has become a leading provider of science-backed and research-driven training programs tailored for modern safety leaders across multiple sectors. Mark’s extensive and seasoned background built beyond 24 years in law enforcement specializing in drug impairment identification and his passion for promoting safety and wellness for all communities have made him a sought-after speaker and trainer. As a seasoned professional, Mark’s presentations are designed to inspire confidence in his audience, demonstrating his unrivaled breadth and depth of expertise in the field.

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5, 2024

9:00 WMA Board of Directors Meeting (Cody Holiday Inn)

Noon MAW Board of Directors Meeting (Olive Glenn Golf Course)

1:00 Annual WMA Golf Tournament – Olive Glenn Golf Course (Box Lunch Provided)

5:00 Mining Associates of Wyoming Annual Function (Drinks and Heavy Hors d’oeuvres)

(Olive Glenn Golf Course)

THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 2024

7:00 Breakfast (Cody Holiday Inn)

7:30 – 1:00 Registration

“Wyoming Mining - Connecting America” (Cody Holiday Inn)

7:45 to 8:00 Welcome

The Honorable Matt Hall - Mayor of Cody, Wy

8:00 to 8:30 Convention Opening

The Honorable Dave Freudenthal - Former Governor of Wyoming

8:30 to 9:00 “Stemming EPA’s Tidal Wave: Update on Latest Flood of EPA Grid-Impacting Regulations and Status of Litigation to Stop Them.”

9:00 to 9:30 “Communicating Coal”

JUNE 5-7, 2024 | CODY HOLIDAY WYOMING MINING - CONNECTING

Mr. Mike Nasi - Partner, Jackson Walker

Mr. Brian Osborne - Executive Vice President, The Strategy Group Co.

9:30 to 10:00 Coffee Break - (Cody Holiday Inn) - Insights from National Partners

10:00 to 10:30 “Not So Fast: A Campaign for Coal”

Mr. Matt Mackowiak, MBA - Manager of Government Affairs, CONSOL Energy

10:30 to 11:00 “Minerals Make It Happen: Changing the Face of the Minerals Industry”

Ms. Jenny Martin - Associate VP of Communications and External Affairs, Essential Minerals Association

11:00 to 11:30 “Mining Policy in an Election Year Environment”

Mr. Mark Compton - Executive Director, American Exploration & Mining Association

12:00 WMA Presidents Lunch – (Cody Holiday Inn)

Mr. Rich Nolan - President and CEO, National Mining Association

HOLIDAY INN | CODY, WYOMING

CONNECTING AMERICA

5:00 No Host Cocktail Hour & PAC Silent Auction (The Cody Cattle Company)

5:30 Dinner Bell Rings - Buffet Style Dinner

6:30 Cody Cattle Company Musical

7:30 Annual WMA Awards Presentation

Salesman of the Year Awards

WMA Peck Community Achievement Award

WMA PAC Silent Auction remains open throughout the evening.

FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024

7:30 Breakfast (Cody Holiday Inn)

“Wyoming Mining - Connecting America” (Cody Holiday Inn)

8:00 to 8:30 “Federal Policy Update — Domestic Uranium Production and U.S. Nuclear Fuel Security”

Mr. Landon Stropko - Chair of Energy and Environment Practice Group, Invariant Government Relations

8:30 to 9:00 “Wyoming Bentonite: Sustainable Supply Today and Tomorrow”

Mr. Jamey Tippetts - Vice President for Production, Wyo-Ben

9:00 to 9:30 “Trona 101: Natural Soda Ash - Reliability, Delivered Costs, Sustainability”

Mr. Jon Conrad - Environmental and Governmental Affairs Manager, Tata Chemicals North America

9:30 to 10:00 Coffee Break - (Cody Holiday Inn)

10:00 to 10:30 “Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality 2024 Agency Updates”

Mr. Alan Edwards - Deputy Director, Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality

10:30 to 11:00 “More is More: Advancing Wyoming Energy”

Mr. Rob Creager - Executive Director, Wyoming Energy Authority

11:00 to 11:30 “Dangerous Drug Trends in the Workplace”

Mr. Mark Ashby - President and CEO, LEAD Impairment Training

12:00 Safety and Reclamation Awards Luncheon (Cody Holiday Inn)

Guest Speaker: The Honorable Mark Gordon, Governor of Wyoming

WMA Safety Awards | WMA Safe Sam Award | MAW Safety Awards | State of Wyoming Reclamation Awards

1:30 to 2:30 “Congressional Panel Discussion”

United State Senator John Barrasso, MD (Invited)

United States Senator Cynthia Lummis (Invited)

United States Representative Harriet Hageman (Invited)

WYOMING IS THE LEADER IN RECLAMATION

Wyoming has been a leader in reclamation across the United States for several decades with nearly 70 National or Regional Reclamation Awards won between the American Society of Reclamation Sciences and the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement from the 1980s through today. Since 2002, Wyoming has won six Reclamationist of the Year awards from the American Society of Reclamation Sciences, doubling the amount of the next closest state. This is extraordinary considering Wyoming has some of the harshest climatic conditions and most challenging soils in America. While the Wyoming Mining Association paved the way with national honors dating back nearly 40 years, Wyoming is home to the first oil and gas Reclamationist of the Year (2021) and Distinction in Reclamation (2024) awards from ASRS. These accolades demonstrate excellent land stewardship by Wyoming operators. Recently, a number of Sage-grouse Local Working Groups in Wyoming have funded Abnova Ecological Solutions to conduct a state-wide reclamation and restoration survey and literature review to consolidate best management practices in Wyoming. This effort will not only highlight Wyoming as a leader in reclamation, but also improve future reclamation efforts across the state by building upon an already strong foundation and extensive knowledge base.

BY: DR. MICHAEL CURRAN, ABNOVA ECOLOGY

CTE: A PIECE OF THE PUZZLE

I am the Dean of the College of Education at the University of Wyoming. Although I have recently started serving in this position, I have been a part of the University of Wyoming for the past 15 years. During this time, I have developed a deep connection to both the University of Wyoming and the state of Wyoming. While I am not originally from Wyoming, I now proudly consider it my home. The warm embrace and support I have received from this remarkable community have left an indelible mark on me, and I am profoundly thankful for it.

My core commitment on behalf of the College of Education, as part of a land grant university, is to serve the state of Wyoming in ways that continue to improve the lives of both children and adults through education. This includes meeting Wyoming’s workforce needs. Career and Technical Education (CTE) isn’t just a piece of the puzzle; it’s the key to driving the economic development of Wyoming and our entire nation. It serves as the cornerstone for equipping individuals with the precise skills and knowledge essential for thriving in the ever-evolving 21st-century workforce while simultaneously addressing the pressing demands of the labor market.

I have been fortunate to work with Pat Joyce, Assistant Director of the Wyoming Mining Association, for the past year, and I am incredibly excited about collaborating with the mining industry to create CTE jobs and enhance the CTE teacher pipeline through our program. I believe the mining industry is critically important for several reasons: energy production, employment, economic contribution and stability, global supply chain, and technological and infrastructure development, just to name a few.

CTE is not only about offering career opportunities to individuals; it’s also about fostering a climate of sustained economic growth and prosperity for our communities and our nation as a whole.

I look forward to meeting more partners in mining industry in Wyoming! Thank you!

BY: DR. JENNA MIN SHIM, UNIVERSITY OF WY, CTE

2024 REGULATORY AFFAIRS UPDATE

There is no shortage of events that continue to unfold in the Regulatory Affairs arena.

BLM Rock Springs Resource Management Plan (RMP) - we anxiously await the BLM’s decision regarding their chosen ‘Alternative.’ Once the plan is communicated, the industry will determine the next steps. We anticipate more information Q2 or Q3 of 2024. Status - Work in Progress (WIP)

BLM Proposed Greater Sage-Grouse Range wide Resource Management PlanThe Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is announced a draft plan to strengthen greater sage-grouse conservation and management on public lands, informed by the best-available science and input from local, state, federal, and Tribal partners. The draft EIS and plan amendments opened for public comment on March 15, 2024. The comment period will end on June 13, 2024. The BLM’s Preferred Alternative would close all GRSG habitat designated as Priority Habitat Management Areas to new leases of nonenergy leasable minerals, subject to some exceptions for specific states. Status - WIP

BY: WYOMING HOUSE

DISTRICT

19:

REPRESENTATIVE JON CONRAD

BLM Conservation and Landscape Health Rule - This rule advances the BLM’s multiple use and sustained yield mission by prioritizing the health and resilience of ecosystems across public lands. The rule also provides an overarching framework for multiple BLM programs to facilitate ecosystem resilience on public lands. The rule’s publication sets the date that the rule will go into effect, which will be June 10th. Status - WIP

National Environmental Policy Act Implementing Regulations Revisions Phase 2 - The final rules will require information about a registrant’s climate-related risks that have materially impacted or are reasonably likely to have a material impact on, its business strategy, results of operations, or financial condition. Certain disclosures related to severe weather events and other natural conditions will be required in a registrant’s audited financial statements. The law will go into effect on May 28th. There was a court decision halting the rule from going into effect, but that decision was overturned by another court and the rule can go into effect while the litigation against it continues. Status - WIP

Reconsideration of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Particulate Matter - The EPA is revising the primary annual PM2.5 standard by lowering the level from 12.0 µg/m3 to 9.0 µg/m3 . The Agency is retaining the current primary 24-hour PM2.5 standard and the primary 24-hour PM10 standard. The Agency also is not changing the secondary 24-hour PM2.5 standard, secondary annual PM2.5 standard, and secondary 24-hour PM10 standard at this time. Status - Educating industry on inevitable impacts

Rocky Mountain Power Rate Increase - RMP recently filed an annual Energy Cost Adjustment Mechanism request in Wyoming that would result in an average 12.3% customer bill increase. This rate hike will have to be approved by the Wyoming Public Service Commission before being implemented in July. There’s also a federal tax utility credit as part of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act of 2017 that’s running out this summer. This will be the second year in a row Rocky Mountain Power has requested rate hikes. Last year, the company requested two, amounting to a historically large almost 30 percent increase. After much public backlash, many meetings and some miscalculations on the company’s part, the Wyoming Public Service Commission approved a much smaller 8.3 percent rate hike that went into effect Jan. 1 this year. Status - WIP

BENTONITE MINING FORECAST BY THE

“The business outlook for the Wyoming sodium bentonite industry in North America and Globally is promising. Growth opportunities are supported by technological advancements and a focus on sustainable environmental practices. The North American market for sodium bentonite is influenced by the availability of high-quality raw materials of just a few producers. Companies in this region are focusing on expanding their production capacities and enhancing distribution networks to meet the rising demand. Economic conditions and investment in key industries such as construction, oil and gas, and environmental management will significantly influence the market dynamics for sodium bentonite. Industry challenges include competition from other types of clay and synthetic alternatives, stringent environmental regulations which could affect mining operations and increase compliance costs, labor which continues to be a limitation to growth primarily due to low population density and geographic location, rising fuel and operational costs for our shipping logistics partners, both truck and rail, along with labor problems continue to cause concern especially with inconsistent support.”

BY: JAMEY TIPPETTS V.P. OF OPERATIONS WYO-BEN

COAL

Despite significant political headwinds from Washington D.C., Wyoming coal is poised to have a long-term future powering America for decades to come. With energy demand increasing across the nation, especially with the future of AI technology requiring even more generation, the tons of coal produced in the Powder River Basin will remain in demand as well. Of course, the challenges for the coal industry cannot be understated, as our opponents seek to further decrease demand for PRB coal over the next several years, but many of these Executive rules are on shaky legal grounds that we expect to be overturned by the courts, and a change in Federal Administration could bring significant help to the industry. Wyoming coal may never return to the production levels of the mid 2000’s, but there is no doubt that hundreds of millions of tons from the Cowboy State will be required to fuel the country’s electricity appetite well into the future.

BY: CHRISTIAN R. PALICH V. P. GOVERNMENT & EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

FORECAST 2024

MINERAL

According to the report by Expert Market Research (EMR), the United States soda ash market size reached a value of USD 6.87 billion in 2023. Aided by the robust demand from the glass manufacturing sector and various industrial applications, the market is projected to further grow at a CAGR of 6.9% between 2024 and 2032 to reach a value of USD 12.65 billion by 2032.

As per the United States soda ash market analysis, the glass manufacturing sector remains the largest consumer of soda ash in the United States, utilizing it as a flux to lower melting temperatures, which in turn reduces energy costs and improves production efficiency. The growing demand for flat glass and container glass, driven by the construction and packaging industries, respectively, significantly fuels the demand for soda ash.

https://takeitcool.com/united-states-soda-ash-market/

URANIUM TRONA

BY: JON CONRAD DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS

TATA CHEMICALS SODA ASH PARTNERS, LLC

Wyoming’s uranium mining industry is experiencing an exciting revitalization with robust growth plans underway in 2024. The combination of favorable supply and demand fundamentals, the green energy transition favoring nuclear power, supportive (bipartisan) public policy, and turbulent global geopolitics are all driving demand for uranium, and stable, pro-mining jurisdictions, like Wyoming, are early beneficiaries. The Uranium Producers of America (UPA) currently has five member companies that have restarted mines, or are in the process of resuming production. Three of those companies, Uranium Energy Corp, Ur Energy, and Peninsula Energy, are Wyoming operators, all of which are hiring tradespeople, plant operators and wellfield technicians. Drilling contractors, the key to production growth in In-situ recovery (ISR) mining, are coming back to the state and are investing in new rigs. Spot market uranium prices approaching $100 per pound are certainly supportive of this growth, but recent legislative successes have also provided a policy framework which is incentivizing investment and is revitalizing the American nuclear fuel cycle. Bipartisan passage of both the Nuclear Fuel Security Act (and its $2.7 billion in funding) coupled with the Russian Uranium Ban, recently signed into law, are exactly what is needed in terms of policy support. Wyoming producers have already benefitted from the first tranche of U.S. Department of Energy purchases to establish the Strategic Uranium Reserve early last year. The UPA is grateful to Senators Barrasso and Lummis, and Representative Hageman for their key roles in these legislative successes.

BY: SCOTT MELBYE EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT URANIUM ENERGY CORP

www.encoreuranium.com

INVESTING IN THE COMMUNITY

Since beginning the active project development phase in 2020, US Gold Corp. has spent approximately $7 million with Wyoming companies on exploration and development activities, and in support of community events and non-profit organizations important to the

Cheyenne Frontier Days Laramie Soup Kitchen

Cheyenne Boys & Girls Club

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

Wyoming Arts Council

Wyoming Congressional Awards Foundation

WMA AWARDS

2023 WMA ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

2023 SALESMAN OF THE YEAR

EQUIPMENT SALESMAN

CORY WASSON (LIEBHERR)

MATERIALS & SUPPLIES SALESMAN

BARRY THOMAS (L&H INDUSTRIAL)

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

BETH WILSON (WWC ENGINEERING)

NORM HARGIS (WWC ENGINEERING)

A SAFETY THOUGHT

When most of the world thinks about mining and the industry, they see a dangerous occupation, with tough men and women who work long hours in extreme conditions and environments. When we in the mining industry view our world, we see a dynamic environment, that while hazards exist, are controlled through strong positive decision making to mitigate the hazards and keep teammates safe.

In 2023 the mining community experienced the highest number of worker deaths since 2014. This resulted in 42 co-workers, teammates, fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, brothers and sisters not returning to their families at the end of the shift. A sobering reminder of the hazards associated with our industry.

As leaders we understand that safety is not just a priority, it’s a way of life in our mines, and we strive to build that culture. Each day our teams embark on a task of extracting resources that power industries and communities, and we support that the most valuable part of any decision or task is the safety of our miners.

We throw the term Safety Culture around, so what does it mean? Simply stated, a Safety Culture is the beliefs, perceptions, and values that employees share in relation to risks within an organization. Throughout the Wyoming mining industry, we set the tone of safety being a value, not just a priority. Safety in Wyoming mines is not just about compliance or avoiding accidents, it is about fostering a culture where every worker feels valued, protected, and empowered.

BY: NEIL MALICOAT, DIRECTOR OF SAFETY & HEALTH SISECAM WYOMING, LLC

How do we continue to foster and build this culture of safety? This culture is built by empowering our miners through education, knowledge, and support. One of the aspects of the Wyoming Mining Association is the safety committee. The committee is comprised of volunteers from the acting members of the WMA. Every fall, the safety committee hosts a conference where we work to provide education and knowledge to help empower our miners. We need volunteers to help grow and maintain this valuable commitment.

Join us in our commitment to ensuring every miner returns home safely. We invite individuals enthusiastic about safety to join our Safety Committee. Let’s work hand in hand to continue to empower our most important asset, our miners. Join the WMA Safety Committee today and let’s mine safer together.

Safety is a Value determined by Behavior and driven by Mindset and Attitude. All of these need to be in alignment so our teams can continue to be empowered to make strong positive decisions in respect to their safety and the safety of others.

MAW 2023 AWARDS

LARGE CATEGORY CONTRACTORS with greater than 75,000 hours reported in 2023.

• 1st Place - GK Construction

4 consecutive years without an LTA | 912,169 accumulated hours

• 2nd Place – Wyoming Machinery

3 consecutive years without an LTA | 352,368 accumulated hours

• 3rd Place – Nelson Brothers Mining Services, LLC

2 consecutive year without an LTA | 339,240 accumulated hours

MEDIUM CATEGORY CONTRACTORS with 25,000 to 75,000 reported hours in 2023.

• 1st Place - L&H Industrial Inc

14 consecutive years without an LTA | 965,323 accumulated hours

• 2nd Place – Arnold Machinery Company

6 consecutive years without an LTA | 156,261 accumulated hours

• 3rd Place – Buckley Powder

2 consecutive years without an LTA | 71,881 accumulated hours

SMALL CATEGORY CONTRACTORS with less than 25,000 reported hours in 2023.

• 1st Place - FireMaster

11 consecutive years without an LTA | 270,458 accumulated hours

• 2nd Place – Epiroc USA, LLC

6 consecutive years without an LTA | 123,648 accumulated hours

• 3rd Place – Liebherr Mining Equipment

3 year without an LTA | 20,600 accumulated hours

SAFETY AWARDS WYOMING MINING ASSOCIATION AND

AWARDS 2023 AND MINING ASSOCIATES OF WYOMING

WMA 2023 AWARDS

SURFACE MINE – LARGE CATEGORY

1st Place – Eagle Specialty Materials, LLC – Eagle Butte Mine

2nd Place – Buckskin Mining Company – Buckskin Mine

3rd Place – Pacific Minerals – Bridger Coal Surface Mine

SURFACE MINE – SMALL CATEGORY

1st Place – Black Butte Coal Company – Black Butte Mine

2nd Place – Western Fuels Wyoming, Inc. – Dry Fork Mine

3rd Place – Thunder Basin Coal Co., LLC – Coal Creek Mine

SURFACE MINE – NON-COAL LARGE CATEGORY

1st Place - Bentonite Performance Minerals, LLC – BPM Colony Mill

2nd Place – Bentonite Performance Minerals, LLC – BPM Colony Mine

3rd Place – Bentonite Performance Minerals, LLC – BPM Lovell Mill

SURFACE MINE – NON-COAL SMALL CATEGORY

1st Place - Wyo-Ben, Inc. – Sage Creek Mill

2nd Place - Black Hills Bentonite – Kaycee Mine

3rd Place – American Colloid Company – Yellow Tail Mine

UNDERGROUND MINE – LARGE CATEGORY

1st Place – Sisecam Wyoming, LLC – Big Island Mine & Refinery

2nd Place –American Soda, LLC – Solvay Chemicals Mine

3rd Place – Not awarded due to elevated number of LTA’s

URANIUM

CAMECO RESOURCES – 1ST PLACE

2023 Hours worked without a lost time accident = 109,802.5

STRATA ENERGY –2ND PLACE

2023 Hours worked without a lost time accident = 70,460

2023

URANIUM ENERGY CORPORATION – 3RD PLACE

2023 hours worked without a lost time accident = 50,890

• Nationally Recognized Safety Speakers from NIOSH, MSHA, OSHA, DEA, FBI and others!

• 7th Annual Miner’s Dinner – Sept. 17

OF WYOMING A Division of the Wyoming Mining Association 2022-2023

OFFICERS

Crystal Volk | President SLS West

Randy Quig | Vice President Wyoming Machinery

Ellis Day | Treasurer

Interstate Power Systems

Eric Borchers | Secretary

Komatsu Mining Corp. Group

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Travis Deti

Wyoming Mining Association

Cory Wasson Liebherr USA

Dale Brown

WWC Engineering

Dean Stephenson Brake Supply

Tony Trouchon

Nelson Brothers

Randy Hartley Epiroc

Baron Fidler

Dyno Nobel Inc.

Jeff Pope

Holland & Hart LLP

Mike Leibrich

L&H Industrial

LETTER FROM THE MAW PRESIDENT

BY: CRYSTAL VO.K MAW Board President SLS West

It has been my privilege to serve on the Mining Associates of Wyoming (MAW) Board of Directors for the past eleven years and as an Officer for six years. With the current attitude and regulations against mining in our nation, it is paramount that MAW continues to focus on supporting current members and encouraging new members to join. When you become a MAW member whether working as a small, medium, or large contractor in the state of Wyoming, your voice has an equal impact when it comes to supporting the mining industry in our state. It is important to remember that as MAW members 2/3 of our membership dues go to the Wyoming Mining Association to assist in the continued education of the citizens of Wyoming regarding the importance of the mining industry.

There are many opportunities to serve on WMA committees whether focused on education, recruitment and hiring, safety or suicide prevention. Consider joining MAW or becoming a more involved member to be part of the solution for so many issues affecting our mining communities and families in the state.

Thank you for allowing me to serve as your President this past year.

Stay safe and be well.

MINING ASSOCIATES

ASSOCIATES OF WYOMING

We’ve been the strong right arm of the Wyoming mining industry for over 30 years! We, the service & supply companies, support the Wyoming Mining Association. Thanks to the skilled, dedicated people, equipped with the best machines, tools and techniques on earth, Wyoming mining continues to be safe, strong and vital.

THANKS TO THE SUPPORT OF OUR MEMBERS, WE’RE HELPING TO KEEP IT THAT WAY!

MEMBERS

Accord Resource Solutions LLC

Armature Advocacy, LLC

Austin Engineering B

Barr Engineering Co

Big D Construction

Big Horn Tire

BKS Environmetal Associates, Inc

Blakeman Propane

Blue Cross Blue Shield

Bodell Construction

Brake Supply Company

Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck

Buckley Powder S

Burron Firm PC

Campbell County Economic

Development Corp

Crowley Fleck

Dyno Nobel

Energy Labs

Energy Policy Network

Environmental Engineering & Measurements

EpiRoc

Equitable Oil Purchasing

Ferguson

FireMaster

FTE Drilling USA INC.

Fuchs Lubricants Co.

GK Construction Inc.

Great Plains Wildlife Consulting

GTI Energy Ltd

HDR Engineering, Inc

HGI Harnish Group, Inc

Holland and Hart

Honnen Equipment

Hydro Engineering, LLC

Industrial Lubricant

Industrial Supply Company

Infineum USA LP

Inter-Mountain Pipe and Threading

Interstate Power Systems

K&P Sales Engineers

KC Harvey Environmental

Komatsu

L&H Industrial

L&M Radiator

Land View Inc.

Liebherr

MG Oil Company

Morrison Maierle, Inc.

Nelson Brothers Mining Services LLC

North Star LLC

Northern Engine and Supply Inc

Northwest Pipe Fittings Inc

Oftedal Construction Inc

Philippi-Hagenbuch Inc

Powder River Energy Corp

RAD PROS

Rangefront Mining Service

Rapid Fire Protection Inc

Riverton Ranger Inc

Rocky Mtn Brake

Rocky Mtn Recycling

Rolfson Oil

SKV LLC

SLS West Inc

Spencer Fluid Power

State Fire

SWCA

tandard Labratories

TriState

Turner Mining Group

United Central Industrial Supply

University of Wyoming

Water & Environmental Technologies

WEARPRO INC

Whitmore

Wollam Construction Company

WWC Engineering

Wyoming Analytical Laboratories

Wyoming Energy Authority

Wyoming Machinery Company

Wyoming Miners Hospital Board

Wyoming Taxpayers Association

Xylem

IMPROVING THE BIGGEST MACHINES ON EARTH

QUALITY. SAFETY. SERVICE. INNOVATION. At L&H, we do a lot more than just keep your machines up and running. We make them better machines and make it easier -and safer- to service them faster. There’s no part or assembly too big, too small, or too complicated for L&H to handle. We have veteran in-house technicians, designers and engineers specialized in mechanical systems

and heavy equipment. With our unmatched expertise and state-of-the-art facilities and equipment technology, we can repair, rebuild, or newly manufacture critical components for your equipment and operations. If it’s a massive machine doing high-demand work, we can maintain it, fix it, rebuild it, improve it, or make it safer.