US Opens First Rare Earth Mine in 70 Years in Wyoming

The Brook Mine in Wyoming, the first rare earth elements mine to open in the U.S. in over 70 years, represents a significant step toward reducing America's dependence on China for critical minerals. These rare earth elements, found in coal deposits at the mine, are essential for manufacturing technologies such as smartphones, electric vehicles, wind turbines, and military hardware, including components for the F-35 stealth fighter. Developed by Ramaco Resources, the mine is expected to supply the U.S. with rare earth materials for the next 100 to 150 years and includes plans for an on-site processing plant funded in part by a $6.1 million grant from Wyoming. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright has called the mine a "landmark moment" for American energy independence, aligning with President Donald Trump's economic plan to boost domestic energy production and secure supply chains. The mine's strategic importance is underscored by China's control of over 85% of the world's refined rare earth supply and its use of this leverage against the U.S. Ramaco aims to supply these minerals primarily to domestic customers, including the government, helping to break the U.S.'s critical mineral reliance on China.