Hecla Mining Co. expects to suspend production at its Lucky Friday Mine for the rest of the year as it makes modifications following a mine-shaft fire.
At this time, the Coeur d’Alene-based mining company doesn’t expect the setback at the mine near Mullan, Idaho, to affect its silver-production guidance materially next year. Also, Hecla expects its insurance to cover the bulk of the property damage and business interruption.
Through July, Hecla had produced 3 million ounces of silver at Lucky Friday, according to a company release. Through the first half of the year, the company’s overall silver production was up 13% compared with the first six months of 2022.
Hecla first reported the fire and a subsequent “fall of ground” at the mine in an Aug. 21 release. In its most recent update, the company said normal ventilation has been restored in the mine, and a project is underway to develop a new egress to bypass the damaged portion of the shaft. About 320 people work at Lucky Friday, and the company reports workers have been recalled.
No one was in the mine at the time of the fire.