The Source
The newest coal mine in the US, built in 2009 is now loading upwards of 53,000 tons of coal a day for export. The mine is not without controversy however. Back in 2015, when the demand for coal was soft and the future of this new mine was in jeopardy, it was discovered that mine executives had embezzled over 20 million dollars. Furthermore, after building one of the most expensive houses in Montana, dubbed the Billings Castle (valued at 17 million dollars) one of the executives faked his own abduction, including telling the police that members of the Pagan motorcycle club had asked for coal train schedules because they wanted to ship methamphetamine by rail. He was found and charged along with others. With all this behind them, the mine continues to produce at a rate that is quite impressive given its size. Seen here winding around the double loop, this train is about 2/3's loaded and will soon begin the steep climb out of the mine back to civilization.
The Source
The newest coal mine in the US, built in 2009 is now loading upwards of 53,000 tons of coal a day for export. The mine is not without controversy however. Back in 2015, when the demand for coal was soft and the future of this new mine was in jeopardy, it was discovered that mine executives had embezzled over 20 million dollars. Furthermore, after building one of the most expensive houses in Montana, dubbed the Billings Castle (valued at 17 million dollars) one of the executives faked his own abduction, including telling the police that members of the Pagan motorcycle club had asked for coal train schedules because they wanted to ship methamphetamine by rail. He was found and charged along with others. With all this behind them, the mine continues to produce at a rate that is quite impressive given its size. Seen here winding around the double loop, this train is about 2/3's loaded and will soon begin the steep climb out of the mine back to civilization.