Mining News: News Nuggets: Pogo celebrates 3-millionth ounce of gold

Sumitomo Metal Mining Pogo LLC Sept. 30 reported production of 3 million ounces of gold at its Pogo Mine in Interior Alaska. To mark the occasion, 25 mine employees were selected by drawing to view the historic gold pour. This production milestone comes just over a month after the mine reached a significant safety milestone, working more than two years without a lost-time injury. “The journey to three million ounces has taken 10 years of planning and permitting and more than nine years of operation. Producing 3 million ounces is a huge accomplishment, and I am proud of the team at Pogo,” said Chris Kennedy, the mine’s general manager. “Even more important is the strong safety culture we’ve developed. All 320 employees on site are looking out for their own safety and that of their fellow miner. There’s a lot to celebrate!” Located near the community of Delta Junction, Pogo is the largest underground mine in Alaska, and is the state’s largest gold producer. The mine is operated by Sumitomo Metal Mining Pogo LLC – a joint venture between Japanese firms Sumitomo Metal Mining Co. (85 percent) and Sumitomo Corp. (15 percent).

- Shane Lasley