MINING WEEK PREVIEW
Teck Photo
April 28 to May 4, 2013 Recognizing the importance of mining in our communities
COAL MINING Our heritage and our future The Sparwood Chamber of Commerce salute Teck Coal and their employees through-out
MINING WEEK - APRIL 28 - MAY 4 We recognize the on-going support that the mines provide to the community, not only by way of taxation and employment, but also by the support they give the community through donations, time and the support to our local business community.
We are doing free coal tours during the week! Please contact the Chamber to register, 250-425-2423.
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Mining Week ~ April 28 to May 4
THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, April 25, 2013
Celebrating Mining Week The importance of mining to Canada’s economy By Angela Treharne
ities to our large urban cenirst celebrated in tres. 1996, National British Columbia's minMining Week rec- ing and mineral explorao g n i z e s tion industry the importhas a rich history ance of the and a promising Canadian It is a chance future. B.C. has m i n i n g been one of the to celebrate industry to world's major the important mining regions the economic development since the midrole that of Canada. 1800s and to mining plays this day is a key It is a chance to in the lives of i n t e r n a t i o n a l celebrate player. Canadians. the importEncompassing ant role that the largest part mining plays of the Canadian in the lives of Canadians. Cordillera, a mountain belt It is hard to imagine a life rich in minerals and coal, without minerals and met- B.C. produces and exports als — every day, we all use a significant amount of and rely on products made copper, gold, silver, lead, from them. zinc, molybdenum, coal Mining takes place in and industrial minerals almost every province every year. and territory in Canada Historically, B.C.'s vast — creating jobs and busi- mineral resources have ness opportunities, and contributed extensively to supporting industries and the province's growth and workers from rural, remote development. and Aboriginal communThe Hudson's Bay
F
Company first started producing coal on Vancouver Island in the 1840s, and the discovery of gold along the Fraser River in the 1850s sparked a major gold rush, which was ultimately responsible for the settlement of many parts of that region. As B.C.'s population increased, the provincial infrastructure improved, and miners were able to explore more and more of the province's terrain, leading to many new mineral deposit discoveries.
Historically, B.C.’s vast mineral resources have contributed extensively to the province’s growth and development. Throughout the century following the Fraser
River Gold Rush, most mining activities in British Columbia took place underground. But in the early 1960s, the feasibil-
Committed to Community Teck’s five steelmaking coal operations produce more than just steelmaking coal. We support families, build infrastructure and foster economic growth. Our operations in the Elk Valley directly employ more than 4,000 people. In 2012 we spent more than $890 million on local goods and services and invested $2 million in local community groups and projects, including Fernie Search and Rescue, Fernie Trails Alliance and Fernie Heritage Library. Find out more: www.teck.com/sustainability
ity of open-pit production increased tremendously, and as a result, several huge copper mines opened, including Highland Valley
Copper—the largest openpit operation in all of North America, and, of course, the coal mines here in the Elk Valley.
THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, April 25, 2013 B3
Mining Week ~ April 28 to May 4
Acknowledging the Miner’s Code The Joseph Louie Sikora Story
By John Kinnear
E
ight years ago a woman by the name of
Agnes Fuchs brought the tragic story of her brother Joe to the Third Annual Bellevue Miner ’s Memorial in Bellevue, AB. Her purpose that day was to share the details of how he lost his life in a coal mine, talk about the miner’s code and outline an important plan she had. Agnes told the audience her brother’s story that day
about how he had lost his mother when he was just 14 and how he promptly followed in his father’s footsteps at the age of 15 and went to work underground in the McGillivray Coal Mine in the Crowsnest Pass. The profile presented to the audience was of a quiet, gentle personality who took on a major family support role and put half his paychecks into the
family account. According to Agnes, Joe was a devout Catholic, a member of the CYO, the Holy Name Society and the Knights of Columbus. Joseph carried a rosary with him always, a fact that resurfaced in Agnes’ speech later on in a most profound and moving way. She said: “November 30, 1950 a 24-year-old Joe walked the two miles to work to the Continued on page 8
Sikora Family poses in east Fernie area in 1947. Joe Sikora is top left in pinstrip suit Submitted photo
“Her purpose that day was to share the details of how he lost his life in a coal mine, talk about the miner’s code and outline an important plan she had.”
Salute to all the Mines in the Elk Valley K&K
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Steve Galbraith Phone: 250-425-7858 Toll Free: 1-800-557-3464 After Hours: 250-433-1363
A young Joe Sikora stands in front of the McGillivray mine entry. Submitted photo
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Mining Week ~ April 28 to May 4
THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, April 25, 2013
Women’s work Members of Elk Valley Women in Mining branch talk about their varied jobs in the local mining industry.
W
omen in Mining is an international networking organization for women who are already working in any part of the mining industry or would like to work in mining in future. The Elk Valley group meets regularly for socials, presentations and skills-building workshops and is keen for new members. Find out more at www.elkvalleywim.com
The Miners’ Walk By Angela Treharne
V
isitors to Fernie with an interest in the history of mining in the Elk Valley are now able to learn from an outdoor exhibit. The Miners’ Walk is located right outside City Hall, and is a great chance for tourists to find out a little bit about the coal mining story in the Elk Valley. The highlight of the exhibition is a large sculpture created by internationally known artist Jeff de Boer. The sculpture consists of individual shapes set on pedestals. As the visitor walks round the exhibition, the shapes appear to be random, but then
when the visitor reaches the right spot, they come together to reveal a larger than life miner’s face. As well as the sculpture, there are colourful signs and information on the importance and history of coal mining in the valley. “The Miners’ Walk tells the whole story of the importance of mining and the powerful effect it has had in shaping what Fernie is today,” said Miners’ Walk committee member Mary Giuliano. “This was done by creating an outdoor exhibit that is compelling, enduring and
attractive. From this people will gain a respect for what happened in the past, is happening now and will be part of creating a positive future.” The Miners’ Walk is situated on the City Hall property, the original coal company office in the heart of Fernie’s community. “The exhibit tells the story of significant players in coal mining in the area, and describes the geology and natural and human history of the Fernie area as it relates to coal mining,” said Giuliano. “If it wasn’t for mining, Fernie wouldn’t be here.”
Join us to celebrate BC Mining Week 2013 April 29 – May 3 2013
Free mine tours. Learn about the steelmaking coal industry in the Elk Valley. April 29 - Greenhills Operations April 20 - Line Creek Operations May 1 - Coal Mountain Operations May 2 - Elkview Operations May 3 - Fording River Operations Please reserve your seat no later than April 26 by calling 250-425-2423 Buses will leave Fernie Chamber of Commerce at 9:30 am Blairmore Mall in Crowsnest Pass at 9:30 am Sparwood Chamber of Commerce at 10:30 am Elkford Visitor Centre at 11 am (April 29 and May 3 only) Please remember to pack a lunch as the tour is approximately 4 hours in length. When registering please specify the tour you wish to attend.
Name: Sharon Strom Age: 52 Role: Sustainability Coordinator with Teck’s Communities and Aboriginal Affairs team. After moving to Sparwood and making a career change from teaching, I worked as Transportation Clerk in the processing plant at Elkview Operations for six years. Then I successfully applied for the role of Community Liaison four years ago. My current role emerged naturally from extra duties I had included with my previous role as Community Liaison. My role is to assist Teck’s coal sites in the Elk Valley to achieve and maintain their short-term and long-term sustainability goals Do you have any advice for women considering a job in mining? Go for it! Mining offers an incredible variety of job opportunities, from equipment operation to working in trades or professions such as engineering How have you/your family benefited from you working in the mining industry? My family has been supported by the mining industry my entire life. My dad worked for HBM&S Co for 42 years before he retired and provided his family a comfortable living. Wages, salaries and benefits are great.
THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, April 25, 2013 B5
Mining Week ~ April 28 to May 4
Sparwood mining history and heritage Sparwood’s roots are deep and must not be forgotten. The loss of three smaller towns is how Sparwood became what it is today. By Jenna Jensen
S
parwood’s coal mining history dates back into the 1800’s. Although some of the landmarks have been lost over the years, there are still photos, records and stories passed down the years to remind today’s residents of all that came before them. Sparwood’s roots are deeply rooted in mining. Originally there were three separate towns, now long gone. Although not all of the history is reason to celebrate, it all made Sparwood the town it is today.
Michel, Natal & Middletown
These three small settlements, only separated by a kilometre, were the site of what was eventually to become the beginning of Sparwood. Many people travelled from England, Czechoslovakia and Italy among other places to start a new life in the hopes of a bright future in the booming coal mining industry.
Michel
Michel is where the coal book began and is the most wellkown and documented of the three settlements. In 1899 the Crow’s Nest Coal Company
(CNP) was ready for a huge future in mining when testing revealed that the coal in the area was perfect for coking which also meant huge profits. The first settlements consisted of 12 identical houses, the Michel Hotel (which was recently taken down) and a little store. Men went to work in the mines and the women tended house. At first, coal production was slow but a push from CPR encouraged the mines to start producing more. Life in Michel was not without misfortune. Fires for three consecutive years and explosions killed many men.
Natal
Natal was first established in 1907. Natal was also known as New Town and New Michel. Natal was a place set up to give the miners options of another place to live besides the town of Michel. Miners could build their own houses here, as many did, and later some small family businesses were set up, creating jobs for the women. Natal became a central place for families to go when they needed something.
Middletown
settlements of the three, Middletown was given its name as it was located between the two towns of Michel and Natal. Middletown was the smallest of the three settlements, consisting of three dirt roads and approximately 40 houses.
The Makings of Sparwood
Sparwood was developed in 1939 by Crow’s Nest Coal Company for a place to house mine managers. Sparwood was clean and quiet, being built upwind from the bellowing smoke and debris from the coke ovens. In 1960 oil and gas were in much more demand than coal and the effects on the settlements had already been taken. Many people were left in dismay as they had put all their life savings into the homes they had built in the towns. A lot of folks were angry and did not want to leave, but in the end they were left no choice as their homes were demolished. What little money they did receive for them was surely not enough to build a new one, but people made do. Sparwood may not have had the brightest beginning, but a look at it now, what a wonderful place to live.
One of the least known
Village of Michel.
Submitted photo
Proud supporters of Mining in the Elk Valley Chad Bowen: Owner 1201 Valley View Dr. Sparwood, B.C. V0B 2G2
Cell # (250) 433-6902 Email: catwelder@shaw.ca
In Honour of
National Mining Week We would like to thank Teck Coal and all of our other loyal customers for their patronage. We look forward to serving you now and in the future
125 Industrial Rd. #3 Sparwood, BC Phone: 250-425-0060 Michel-Natal hospital.
Submitted photo
Downtown Natal.
Submitted photo
Proudly serving the mining industry since 1994
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Mining Week ~ April 28 to May 4
THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, April 25, 2013
Women’s work Members of Elk Valley Women in Mining branch talk about their varied jobs in the local mining industry.
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Name: Valery MacDonald Age: 38 Role: Plant Clerk at Line Creek Operations I started February 18 2013, and I applied through email. It involves A lot of production data entry, balance trains, silos, plant run reports, etc. How do you manage work and family life? I have lived in the valley for ten years now, but I had to wait for the right time to apply to work up here. Between waiting for the boys to be big enough for me to go to work because of lack of daycare in the valley, and waiting for a position to open up that could use my background in administration, it has been a
long worthwhile wait. What is the most important skill for success in mining? I think the most important skill is to be able to work safe, and think about safety. It is, to me, everything. Working safe gets you home to your family, able to be there to watch your kids grow up. Working safely saves others from potential time off due to injury or equipment loss and damage, which again affects your bottom line, when looking at the big picture, and your livelihood. I know that Teck, takes safety as seriously as I do, and that is something I love and respect about this company.
Women’s work Members of Elk Valley Women in Mining branch talk about their varied jobs in the local mining industry.
Proudly supplying our local area mines
We are proud to have served the Mining Industry in the Elk Valley since 1985.
From the staff and management at
Shaw’s Enterprises Ltd. in Sparwood, B.C.
WITH LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU IN: • Sparwood • Cranbrook • Kamloops • Nisku • Calgary
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250-423-7719 Fernie BC
Name: Erin Morrow Age: 29 Employee Role: at Intermountain Specialties Ltd in Sparwood How and when did you get into this role? My friend had this position before me and she encouraged me to bring a resume in; that was over two years ago now! My role involves many different things. I work in the office, I work and distribute parts out of our warehouse for numerous companies, and I also store many different components for our local mines. What is your favourite part of your job? I would say my favourite part of my job would be operating our 40,000 lb forklift! It can be a little nerve racking lifting a 28,000 lb wheel motor! What is the best thing about having a career in mining? The constant change! There is always so much going on all around you whether it be the ups of mining or the downs of mining. Every day is different! Even including meeting so many different, unique people within our mining community.
THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, April 25, 2013 B7
Mining Week ~ April 28 to May 4
Day of Mourning keeps memories alive The Day of Mourning was established in 1984 as a day to remember those injured or killed in the mines. By Angela Treharne
A
cross Canada, April 28 has been designated the Day of Mourning, a time when workers, families, employers, and others come together to remember those who have lost their lives to work-related incidents or occupational diseases. The United Steelworkers Local 9436, representing the Teck, Elkview Operations, hold a special public Elk Valley service to recognize workplace injury and death and to honour
the 142 workers in British Columbia who have lost their lives to workplace accidents last year. In British Columbia, an average of three workers die each week, and 17 workers are permanently disabled every day. The Day of Mourning was officially recognized by the federal government in 1991, eight years after the day of remembrance was launched by the Canadian Labour Congress. The Day of Mourning has since spread to about 80 countries
around the world and has been adopted by the AFL-CIO and the International Confederation of Free Trade. The Canadian flag on Parliament Hill will fly at half-mast and workers will light candles, don ribbons and black armbands and observe moments of silence. Businesses are asked to participate by declaring April 28 a Day of Mourning and to strive to prevent workplace deaths, illnesses and injuries.
Women’s work
Members of Elk Valley Women in Mining branch talk about their varied jobs in the local mining industry.
Mayor Lois Halko expressed the meaning of Mourning Day and about the importance of being committed to safety.
Name: Gina Kapustinsky Age: 27 Role: Process Engineer at Teck Coal - Line Creek Operations While I was earning my Chemical Engineering degree, I worked for eight months at Teck Coal’s Cardinal River Operations inAlberta in 2010 as an intern, and was later offered a position at Line Creek Operations as a Process Engineer. I track and report our plant’s production and coal quality, and I schedule trains with CP. I am also involved in projects which are focused on
improving quality and optimizing the chemical systems we have in place. What is your favorite part of your job? I enjoy the diverse work environment of desk and field work, as well as working with people in the mining community. Do you have any advice for women considering a job in mining? Do it, and encourage others to as well. The mining community is full of resourceful and fun people. The challenges of mining are diverse and the rewards go beyond the paycheck.
240 Industrial Road 1 Sparwood, BC 250-425-2519 www.nohels.com
Nohels Group is a full service supplier of heavy equipment concentrating on infrastructure development and earth moving with a strong emphasis on mining.
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Mining Week ~ April 28 to May 4
THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, April 25, 2013
Acknowledging the Miner’s Code
The Joseph Louie Sikora Story Continued from page 3
always-treacherous McGillivray Mine and went to work on afternoon shift in Room 75, Level 5 with his partner George Riapos. Level Five was yet another two mile walk underground
and so far down below the surface that the amount of cover over the workings had exceeded 2,000 feet and the pressure on any development was horrendous. About 8 PM a gas “bump” occurred that buried
his face partner Riapos. Joe immediately ran to others to get help and then back to the face to rescue his partner. It was then a second bump occurred that hopelessly trapped and entombed Joe only 15 feet from George.
Realizing he was trapped Joe pulled out his rosary and began to pray. Rescuers knew this because when they finally dug him out two days later they found Joe kneeling, leaning against a timber with his beloved rosary in
Replica of the CIM Medal and Joe Sikora.
his hands. Joe was buried in the Catholic Cemetery in Coleman and that is how the story stayed until 2004 when Agnes Fuchs who, while doing research on Joe, discovered an article in the Lethbridge Herald
Submitted photo
from Dec. 6, 1950 that talked of his death. In it the then mine manager Andrew Wilson had stated that Joe died while attempting to save his partner's life and in doing so he gave his own life. Mr. Wilson went on to say that Joe should be in line for the Medal for Bravery from the Canadian Institute of Mining (CIM). This medal recognizes great valour displayed by men of the mineral industries who knowingly risk their lives in attempting to rescue a fellow worker. The CIM has always shown concern for the miner's safety and acknowledged their contributions and has awarded this medal to no less than 155 Canadian miners since 1935. As an aside, the medal for bravery was awarded to John Chester of Fernie for his heroic efforts at Coal Creek in 1938. It was also given to all 105 draegerman who participated in the unbelievably treacherous rescue attempt in Westray, Nova Scotia in 1992. Having read the manager’s statement Agnes felt strongly that Joe should have
“Realizing he was trapped Joe pulled out his rosary and began to pray. Rescuers knew this because when they finally dug him out two days later they found Joe kneeling, leaning against a timber with his beloved rosary in his hands.”
been given this medal and set about making application to the CIM awards committee to get Joe the acknowledgement he so richly deserved. Award protocols dictate that the application be made within one year of the incident but Fuchs was undeterred in her mission and pressed her case for two long years with letters of support from government officials, local CIM branches and mining historians like myself. She would not be swayed in her Continued on page 10
Don’t miss this years Aaron Jensen 250-919-4063 Sparwood, BC Sparwood, BC
June 6th - 9th, 2013 Parade Bed Races Street Market Ball Hockey Tournament Slo-Pitch Tournament
Soap Box Derby Bocce Horseshoes Tug of War Kids Fest
For more information on all the exciting events, visit www.coalminerdays.co. You can also become our friend on Facebook and be kept up to date on all things Coal Miner Days! Just search for Coal Miner Days.
Industrial, commercial and residential pressure washing services Steam rodding De-icing Full steam services Fully licensed and insured
Proudly supporting our local area mines 24/7
THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, April 25, 2013 B9
Mining Week ~ April 28 to May 4
Mine rescue competitors in action
Fabrication • Cranes • Repairs • Metal Buildings
The Free Press file photos
By Angela Treharne
F
ernie will once again be hosting the National Western Mine Rescue Competition in September this year. The competition, which promotes safety and celebrates the work and dedication of those involved in emergency response in the mining industry, is the eleventh biennial. It will be held at the Fernie Memorial Arena and Max Turyk school on September 6 and 7. Twenty championship teams from across Western Canada
and the Northwestern United States will showcase their skills, training and the dedication required of those involved in mine rescue. This event allows Fernie to showcase its proud mining heritage and is the largest mine rescue competition in Canada. The six person teams will compete in either underground or surface mine rescue tasks. The tasks are all timed, and will consist of simulated smoke, fire first aid, obstacle and recovery problem, as well as bench and written tasks. Simulated victims add a sense
of reality to the competition, and provide entertaining drama to the tasks. The City of Fernie is host every two years to the two-day competition. The purpose of the competition is to promote safety, awareness and celebrate the work and dedication of those involved in emergency response in the mining industry. In 2011, a local team from the Greenhills mine won the surface mine rescue competition and Diavik Diamond Mines Inc, Yellowknife was the winner of the underground competition.
Salute to all the mines in the Elk Valley.
Classes Work Space Paper Crafting Mini Albums Home Decor Construction and Mining Surveys www.alignsurveys.com
250-423-0681
PHONE: (250)423-5805 9839 ELK STREET
SPARWOOD • 250-425-7738
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Mining Week ~ April 28 to May 4
THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, April 25, 2013
Acknowledging the Miner’s Code The Joseph Louie Sikora Story Cont. from page 8
cause and after two disheartening years of rejections the wonderful news came just before the Fifth Annual Miner’s Memorial that the CIM had reconsidered and that Joe was to get his medal.
Local CIM branch chairman Chris Ryan of Teck Coal was there at the memorial to notify the family officially. Members of the Sikora family were then invited to the 2007 annual general meeting of the CIM in Montreal where they graciously
received the medal and an embossed citation on Joe’s behalf some 57 years after he died. CIM indicated that the medal was to stand not only for Joe’s heroic efforts but as a symbolic acknowledgement of the miners code, a code that binds
miners together as brothers, committed to each other’s safety and well being. A year after the award Agnes contacted me with a request to steam clean off Joe’s lichen encrusted marker as they were planning to add a special
Sikora Family poses with Joe’s medal at 2007 AGM of the CIM in Montreal. Submitted photo
We are proud to support and serve the mining industry and the Elk Valley!
1492 HWY #3 Fernie, BC www.fernieford.com
(250) 423-9211 (888)423-9211
new pedestal under it. Joe’s grave lies on a hillside next to his mother’s and around the white marble crosses on both there are beautiful beaded rosaries draped. Below Joe’s marker the new pedestal reads: “Joe Sikora – Awarded the CIM Medal for BraveryFor attempting to save his partner George Riapos in the McGillivray Coal Mine” Author’s Note: Long time Fernie resident Rose Watson informed me some time after the medal was awarded, that her husband Bob was working in Room 75, Level 5 just days before they moved Joe there. He had refused to work in that area as the conditions were so very dangerous, a refusal that cost him his job and probably saved his life.
Joseph Louis Sikora’s marker in Coleman Catholic Cemetery with a rosary on the cross. Submitted photo
THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, April 25, 2013 B11
Mining Week ~ April 28 to May 4
About Elk Valley area coal mines
Source: Teck Coal
Elkview
Fording River
Coal Mountain Our Coal Mountain operation is located 30 kilometres southeast of Sparwood in southeastern British Columbia. Coal Mountain is comprised of 3,836 hectares of coal lands of which approximately 1,016 hectares are currently being mined or are scheduled for mining. Coal Mountain produces both steelmaking and thermal coal. The current annual production capacities of the mine and preparation plant are approximately 2.5 and 3.5 million tonnes of clean coal, respectively. Proven and probable reserves at Coal Mountain are projected to support mining at 2011 production rates for a further 6 years.
Greenhills
Our Fording River operation is located 29 kilometres northeast of the community of Elkford, in southeastern British Columbia. Fording River is comprised of 20,304 hectares of coal lands of which 4,263 hectares have been mined or are scheduled for mining. Coal mined at Fording River is primarily steelmaking coal, although a small amount of thermal coal is also produced. The current annual production capacities of the mine and preparation plant are approximately 8.7 million and 9.5 million tonnes of clean coal, respectively. Proven and probable reserves at Fording River are projected to support mining at 2011 production rates for a further 75 years.
Line Creek
Our Greenhills operation is located 8 kilometres northeast of the community of Elkford, in southeastern British Columbia. Greenhills is comprised of 11,806 hectares of coal lands of which approximately 2,265 hectares have been mined or are scheduled for mining. Greenhills is operated under a joint venture agreement among Teck, POSCO Canada Limited (“POSCAN”) and POSCAN’s parent, POSCO. Pursuant to the agreement, Teck has an 80% interest in the joint venture while POSCAN has a 20% interest. Coal mined at Greenhills is primarily steelmaking coal, although a small amount of thermal coal is also produced. The current annual production capacities of the mine and preparation plant (on a 100% basis) are 5.0 and 5.0 million tonnes of clean coal, respectively. Proven and probable reserves at Greenhills are projected to support mining at 2011 production rates for a further 17 years.
Our Line Creek operation is located approximately 25 kilometres north of Sparwood in southeastern British Columbia. Line Creek supplies steelmaking and thermal coal to a variety of international and domestic customers. Line Creek consists of 8,183 hectares of coal lands of which approximately 2,267 hectares have been mined or are scheduled for mining. The current annual production capacities of the mine and preparation plant are approximately 3.2 and 3.5 million tonnes of clean coal, respectively. At 2011 production rates Line Creek has an estimated remaining reserve life of approximately 23 years.
✔
Did You Know? Mining Facts
✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
CELEBRATING OUR MINING HERITAGE
The City of Fernie
23.2 million Number of tonnes of coal sold in 2010 We are the world’s second largest exporter of seaborne steelmaking coal, with five mines in British Columbia and one in Alberta. We wholly own the Coal Mountain, Cardinal River, Fording River and Line Creek mines, and have a 95% partnership interest in the Elkview mine and an 80% joint venture interest in the Greenhills mine.
Worksafe B.C. statistics show that the mining industry is the safest heavy industry in BC Coal represents a third of the industrial traffic at the Port of Vancouver, the largest port in Canada. Mining is one of the highest paid industrial sectors nationwide The coal stocks of southern British Columbia and Alberta are among the richest in Canada The Terex Titan, displayed in downtown Sparwood has a gross vehicle weight of 1, 209, 000 lbs. The Terex Titan became a public monument in Sparwood in 1993 Major minerals produced in BC (as a % of Canada’s production): Coal (66%); Copper (40%); Silver (50%); Gold, Lead, Molybdenum & Zinc Canada is one of the world’s leading mining countries
Proud supporters of Mining in the Elk Valley
We recognize the support that the mines provide to our Elk Valley communities.
From the mayor, council and staff
Our Elkview operation is located approximately 3 kilometres east of Sparwood in southeastern British Columbia. Teck has a 95% partnership interest in Elkview. The remaining 5% is held equally by Nippon Steel Corporation, a Japanese steel producer, and POSCO, a Korean steel producer, each of which acquired a 2.5% interest in 2005 for US$25 million. Elkview is comprised of 27,054 hectares of coal lands of which 3,599 hectares have been mined or are scheduled for mining. Elkview produces primarily high quality steelmaking coal, although a small amount of thermal coal is also produced. The current annual production capacities of the mine and preparation plant (on a 100% basis) are approximately 6.0 million and 6.5 milllion tonnes of clean coal, respectively. At 2011 production rates, Elkview is estimated to have a remaining reserve life of approximately 52 years.
1622 7 Ave, Fernie 250-423-5500 bestwesternfernie.com
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Mining Week ~ April 28 to May 4
THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, April 25, 2013
Teck Coal employees .................1,110 T ...............1,275
Elkview Operations:
Fording River Operations: Line Creek Operations:
.....................539
Coal Mountain Operations: Greenhills Operations:
.................348
......................673
.......................157 Total: ........................4,102
Sparwood offices:
No. 2 Manitou Rd • 250-423-4627
We support mining in the Elk Valley
eck aims to source goods and services from local businesses as much as possible. In 2012 Teck’s coal business unit spent more than $890 million with businesses in the Elk Valley and Crowsnest Pass. In 2012 Teck’s coal business unit invested $2 million in local community organizations, including Fernie
Search and Rescue, Sparwood Seniors Centre and Elkford’s Mountain Meadows Golf Course. In 2012 the five Elk Valley mines produced 24 million tonnes of steelmaking coal – around 80% of Canada’s steelmaking coal production, and a vital part of making steel which is used in everything from playgrounds to automobiles.
Proud to support the mining community!
Marian B. Gravelle Notary Public 1-800-668-7729
Women’s work Members of Elk Valley Women in Mining branch talk about their varied jobs in the local mining industry. Name: Karin Greenlees Role: Safety Lead, Teck I have been working with Teck Coal since January of 2012. I came on board after working with Teck as a committee member of the BC Children’s Hospital’s Charity - Mining for Miracles. My role involves working with the sites to align and build best practices when comes to safety. I am tasked with facilitating and leading program reviews and updates as required, mentoring our safety team members, and promoting leading practices established on one site with each of our sites. Additionally I work directly with our contractors to help promote that same level of expectation and accomplishment with our contractors. What is your favourite part of your job? Working with personnel across the sites and our contractors to develop systems in an effort to maintain a safe workplace and develop leading practices we can promote proudly. It is very
rewarding being a part of a team as we reach our goals and continue to strive. What is the best thing about a career in mining? The mining industry is extremely supportive and proactive when it comes to safety. This has allowed me to develop my skills and knowledge, and learn from mentors that continue to inspire me. Not to mention, it has brought my husband and me to one of the most amazing places in the world. Do you have any advice for women considering a job in mining? Go for it!!!! It’s a very rewarding industry.
5 Front Street, Elkford, BC 250-865-4445
We are Proud to Support the Mining Industry
We’ve got good news.
(Celebrating 115 years of serving the Elk Valley.)
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From the day we printed our very first paper — back in 1898, The Free Press has reported on events, stories and legends of the Elk Valley for over 115 years. We are one of the oldest newspapers in Canada. We have followed stories from the spectacular to the every day, we’ve printed it all, each week: our politicians’ plans, the public’s questions, main street businesses on their way up and local careers on their way down, the hottest days of summer and deepest snows of winter. We’ve followed crimes and punishments, performances and players, our hometown teams’ victories, overseas wars, Canadian news, and B.C. views. We’ve celebrated community underdogs who’ve won and mourned lost loved ones.
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After more than a century we’re still doing our very best to be the Elk Valley’s newspaper.
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Est. 1898
No Job is Too Big or Too Small!
THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, April 25, 2013 B13
Mining Week ~ April 28 to May 4
Not just any truck
Proudly supports mining week.
111 Aspen Sparwood
Sparwood
Proud supporters of the local area mining industry!
By Angela Treharne
A
n y o n e driving past Sparwood on Highway 3 would struggle to miss the town’s biggest tourist attraction. It might not be the world’s largest truck anymore, but the Terex Titan in Sparwood is still drawing curious tourists off Highway 3 to have their photo taken next to it. Although now it is just a reason for motorists to pull over, the “big green truck” was once a fully working mine truck. The 3,000hp Terex Titan (at that time Terex was part of GM) first appeared in 1974. It was built in GM's London, Ontario plant, and could haul a load of 320 tonnes within a 550-tonne GVW. Not only was it somewhat unusual being a sixwheeler it was also the biggest dump truck ever built. However, that accolade is now being fought over by Komatsu, Liebherr and of course Caterpillar. It had a diesel electric drivetrain more commonly found in freight trains ands powering electric traction motors at each rear wheel. It had The Terex 40.00x57 tires, was 20m and 7.0m tall. The Titan first started work for Kaiser Steel in its Eagle Mountain iron mine in late 1974. At this mine the
Titan suffered from downtime problems but eventually hauled some three-and-a-half million tons of earth until 1978. In late 1978 it was then brought to Kaiser Steel's Sparwood mine in Canada. The truck was too large to be moved by road, so it arrived by train on eight flatbed cars. It was re-assembled and driven to the mine. In 1983 the mine was again renamed to Westar Mining, and the Titan also changed colours from lime green to Westar's blue and yellow. Shortly after, Westar directly purchased the Titan from General Motors, for US$200 thousand and $1 million in spare parts. In the following six years the Titan had an uptime rate of over 70 per cent as it hauled loads of over 360 tonnes during this time. Westar finally retired the Titan in 1991. It was then put on public display in Sparwood in 1993. The Sparwood Chamber of Commerce subsequently established a fundraising effort for the restoration of the Titan. The engine has since been removed. 24/7 images of the truck are available at titancam.com
*Hotel * Restaurant * Lounge *Banquet & Meeting Facilities * Contractors Welcome!
Specifications: The Terex Titan is powered a 16 cylinder locomotive engine, and delivers 3300 horsepower. It was combined with a huge generator to deliver power to 4 traction engines located on the rear wheels. The generator alone has enough power to supply 250 homes with electricity.
102 Red Cedar Dr Sparwood 250-425-2003
Specifications: Height: 6.9 m (22.5 ft) With Box Raised: 17.1 m (56 ft) Length: 20.1 m (66 ft) Width: 7.6 m (25 ft) Weight: 260 tonnes Payload: 350 tons Max Weight: 610 tonnes Horse Power: 3300 The tires are 11.5 ft in diameter, and weigh 4 tonnes each. Two Greyhound buses and two pick-up trucks would fit inside its dumper.
We are proud to provide services to help benefit and support the mining industry in the Elk Valley
Servicing the Elk Valley
#2-2200 Balmer Drive Elkford, BC (250) 865-2327
Proudly Suppling Local Area Mines
Mike Palmer 250-425-2713 (Shop) 250-423-7366 (Home)
our way of life
Labour Concrete Janitorial Commercial
250-425-2718 (Fax) Box 1917 Sparwood, BC V0B 2G0
Safety is our way of life
Mining Week May to 14 Mining Week ~ April~ 28 to8May 4
6 THETHE FREE PRESS, Thursday, MayApril 12, 2011 B14 FREE PRESS, Thursday, 25, 2013
1898 1898
Coal Coal The Early Years The Early Years
1907 1907 1899 1899
1912 1912 1919 1919
1910 1910
1910 1910
1962 1962
1940 1940 1962 1962
Photos courtesy courtesy of of the the Fernie Fernie and and District District Historical Historical Society. Society Photos For at For information information visit visit the the museum museum at 362B Victoria Victoria Avenue (2nd Avenue), Avenue), Fernie, Fernie 362B Avenue (2nd www.ferniemuseum.com ~ email history@ferniemuseum.com www.ferniemuseum.com ~ email history@ferniemuseum.com or call call 250-423-7016 250-423-7016 or
THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, April 25, 2013 B15
Mining Week ~ April 28 to May 4
See the Elk Valley mines up close By Curt Derbyshire
C
oal mining is the Elk Valley and Crowsnest Pass’ major industry, employing the majority of residents and contributing an estimated $1 billion to the local economy each year. However, for those who don’t work at the mine, interaction with the process may be limited to the sights and sounds of the frequent trains that rumble through the valley. Teck Coal is giving everyone the opportunity to become a little more acquainted with their facilities. They will be offering free mine tours during B.C. Mining Week, from April 29 through May 3. Each day, a different one of the Teck mines will open its doors to the public for a guided tour. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about the steelmaking coal industry and get an up-close-andpersonal view of the mines in action. The methods used to extract and process coal have changed immensely
since the industry began in the area around the turn of the last century. As technology and the understanding of the environment continue to progress at rapid rates, so does the ability to mine coal in a more efficient and friendly fashion. The technological advances in machinery, processing and transportation are every bit as spectacular as the World’s Largest Truck that graces the entrance to Sparwood and was used in the mines at one time. Tours will feature a wealth of information, including a history of the area, safety practices, equipment and facilities, environmental controls and reclamation, blasting techniques, and of course, the coal extraction, separation, cleaning and shipping. In order to complete such an exhaustive demonstration the showcase will last around four hours and Teck recommends that everyone bring a lunch or snacks to tide them over.
Mining Tour schedule Monday, April 29: Greenhills Operations, near Elkford Tuesday, April 30: Line Creek Operations, near Elkford Wednesday, May 1: Coal Mountain Operations
Thursday May 2: Elkview Operations Friday May 3: Fording River Operations
To book your seat on one of the tours, contact the Sparwood Chamber of Commerce, no later than April 26, at 250-425-2423 or toll free at 1-877-922-2423 and indicate which tour you’d like to attend. Buses will be transporting guests from the Fernie Chamber of Commerce at 9:30 a.m., Blairmore Mall in Crowsnest Pass at 9:30 a.m. and the Sparwood Chamber of Commerce at 10:30 a.m. On Monday and Friday you will also be able to get the bus from the Elkford Visitor Centre at 11 a.m.
Women’s work Members of Elk Valley Women in Mining branch talk about their varied jobs in the local mining industry. Name: Anne Keery Age: 27 Role: Cost Analyst at Line Creek Operations I joined in March 2012, after working in other roles within Teck. My role involves working on accuracy in our costing, as well as identifying savings and efficiency improvements. I also develop reporting and assist departments with financial information. What is your favourite part of your job? Presenting information clearly and understandably to others, as well as analyzing things. Do you have any advice for women considering a job in mining? The more practical experience you can show, the better. Get out there and network, talk to people currently working in mining, come to Women in Mining and
We were there.
(Celebrating 115 years of serving the Elk Valley.)
115 years of recognizing the importance of mining in our communities and honouring Mining Week April 28 - May 4, 2013
Canadian Institute of Mining events, find out what you can about the various roles and the skills and attributes that are best for those positions. How have you/your family benefited from you working in the mining industry? Strong financial position, tight-knit global labour market allowing us to cross paths with friends, What is the most important skill for success in mining? Communication is always important assoft skills are important in every industry. Hard skills are also important and will go a long way to getting your foot in the door; things like first aid, experience operating equipment and trades tickets, or related degrees such as engineering, accounting, computing, human resources, environmental sciences and technician programs.
We are proud to serve the mining communities of Elkford, Sparwood, Fernie, Crowsnest Pass and area
Est. 1898
B16
THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, April 25, 2013
Mining Week ~ April 28 to May 4
College of the Rockies is proud to support the Mining Industry.
Haul Truck Simulator
Open House Friday, May 3rd, 2013
9am – 12pm & 1pm – 4pm College of the Rockies – Fernie Campus 342 3rd Ave., Fernie BC Take a test drive in one of our Haul Truck Simulators to see if this is a career you are interested in. First Haul Truck Operator Training Program starts June 10th, 2013 in Fernie. Monthly intakes starting in September in both the Fernie & Cranbrook campuses.
Visit our website: www.cotr.bc.ca/haul-truck For more info contact Erin at emcdonald@cotr.bc.ca or call 250.489.2751 ext. 3442
facebook.com/pages/Cotr-Fernie-Campus/295833657137968
www.cotr.bc.ca/fernie