Our people are our greatest asset
Montana Resources is part of a modern generation of mine operators. We strive to innovate processes and utilize more efficient technologies that lessen the impact of mining on the environment.
Learn MoreEnvironmental Stewardship
Montana Resources is part of a modern generation of mine operators. We strive to innovate processes and utilize more efficient technologies that lessen the impact of mining on the environment.
Water Quality
All water used in the mine and concentrator is recycled through the closed circuit water system, with zero discharge.
Air Quality
Water trucks constantly wet down haul roads in never-ending circuits to minimize dust.
Non-Ore Rock
All of Montana Resources’ non-ore rock repositories are designed to prevent the generation of acid mine drainage.
Reclamation
Montana Resources practices concurrent reclamation, reclaiming as soon as possible while mining operations continue.
A Proud and Skilled Workforce
Montana Resources employs approximately 390 employees – a proud and skilled workforce, heirs to a tradition of mining in Butte dating back to the 1870’s. Butte grew as an early urban industrial center in the Rocky Mountain West to become legend as The Mining City. Montana Resources, one of The Washington Companies, has operated in Butte since 1985, continuing the mining heritage here. We are proud to be a Montana company and accordingly value our beautiful environment and our friendly communities.
Committed to Safety
The safety of our employees is our highest concern. We pride ourselves on our safety record, recognized as one of the best in the industry. This is achieved through a rigorous program of training and examinations, and employee empowerment, creating a productive and healthy workforce. Montana Resources has consistently stayed well below the industry average accident rate.
A Culture of Giving Back to the Community
Montana Resources contributes significantly to the local and state economy through wages and taxes paid, purchases made locally, and philanthropic donations. We take seriously our corporate responsibility to give back to the communities in which we live.
The Mining Process
Montana Resources operates an open pit copper and molybdenum mine in Butte, Montana. The operation comprises the Continental mine, crushers, and a concentrator facility where tons of raw ore are processed into high-quality metal concentrates. We serve an international market for these important metals.
Uses of Molybdenum and Copper
Infrastructure
The strength of molybdenum alloy metals are ideal for large structures like skycrapers and bridges.
National Security
The strength of molybdenum alloy metals are ideal for producing armor plating for the nation's armored vehicles, missiles and aircraft parts.
Technology
Molybdenum acts as the basis of ultra-thin, energy efficient televisions, chemical sensors, portable smart computers and hybrid cars.
Coins
Copper is used in the making of coins for a number of countries due to its workability and resistance to impact and wear.
Medical Technology
Imaging tools, X-rays, CT scans and MRIs are some of the medical technologies that utilize copper.
Energy
With its resistance to corrosion and stress, molybdenum is used in wind turbines and can be found in solar panels.