Gordon applauds opening of Brook Mine rare earths project

CHEYENNE (WNE) — Gov. Mark Gordon issued a statement after Friday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony commemorating the opening of the Brook Mine Carbon Ore Rare Earth Project near Ranchester in Sheridan County.

“Wyoming continues to be a leader in energy innovation, including the expansion of our critical mineral industries and energy technologies,” he said. “Today, we celebrate this project and the exciting potential for Wyoming coal and rare earth minerals, with their role in expanding Wyoming’s energy economy and strengthening national security.

“The President’s policies to Unleash American Energy are working in Wyoming. Statewide, we also have other sites being explored for rare earth minerals, and we have coal plants with extended life,” the governor said. “Wyoming is moving to meet growing energy demands here at home and internationally — with the recognition that coal — Wyoming coal — is essential to healthy energy portfolios.

“Our recent trade mission to Taiwan and Japan reinforced the Cowboy State’s energy industry’s importance in foreign markets,” he added. “Interest in Wyoming’s products, including rare earth elements, coal, oil, gas, trona and uranium, is strong. I applaud the fact that our congressional delegation, Secretary Wright, and our presidential administration see Wyoming’s strength in the energy space.”

This story was published on July 12, 2025.