RockTalk: Coal in Colorado

This edition of RockTalk covers the production, economics, and hazards associated with coal production in the state. Digital PDF download. RT-01-03D

Excerpt from this RockTalk:

Colorado’s mineral wealth includes coal

Colorado is renowned for its mineral wealth. Since 1858, when placer gold was discovered near Denver in Cherry Creek, Colorado has produced more than $5 billion worth of metals – gold, silver, molybdenum, lead, zinc, and copper. They are found in the Colorado Mineral Belt – a zone 15-35 miles wide and some 200 miles long in the mountainous middle of the state. Coal is perhaps a less glamorous commodity, but its economic importance rivals that of gold and silver. 1997 production alone is valued at an estimated $356 million.