Ramaco eyes REE stockpile at Wyoming mine

Core Viewpoint - Ramaco Resources plans to establish a strategic stockpile of rare earth elements (REE) and critical minerals at its Brook mine in Wyoming to ensure secure access to these vital resources [1][2]. Company Developments - The stockpile aims to meet both private and public demands for reliable access to REE and critical minerals [2]. - Ramaco's board has authorized a plan to increase Brook's projected output of rare earth and critical mineral oxides to approximately 3,400 short tons annually, up from a previous target of 1,240 tons [4]. - The company intends to apply for necessary permits to expand mining operations on remaining land and has recently acquired additional land for future development [8]. Industry Context - The initiative comes as the U.S. seeks to reduce reliance on China, which currently dominates about 90% of rare earth refining and permanent magnet production [5]. - Brook mine could become the second new REE mine in the U.S. in 70 years, following the Mountain Pass mine in California [6]. Resource Potential - Brook is recognized as having the largest unconventional rare earth deposit in North America and is believed to be a primary source for scandium, gallium, and germanium [3][9]. - The site contains significant quantities of heavy REEs, including dysprosium and terbium, essential for advanced technologies [9]. Economic Assessment - A proposed REE processing facility at Brook is estimated to cost about $533.1 million, with a projected unlevered pre-tax internal rate of return of 38% and a payback period of five years [11]. - Scandium is expected to contribute 59% of the facility's total revenue [12]. Strategic Partnerships - Ramaco has partnered with a nationally recognized commodity structuring and financial advisor to support its capital expenditures and financing through off-take contracts [12].