Recent Developments Underground at Butte

Progress in Butte has always been marked by changes which have not only altered the physical appearance of the city, but have also greatly affected the manner and means of mining. The innovation of the Berkeley pit is an example of the former, and the introduction of blockcaving at the Kelley mine is an example of the latter. Now the camp is on the brink of another change which won't be visible on surface but will have an important impact on future underground operations. This change is known as the Deep Level Plan and has been under study for the better part of five years. In this plan all ore from the deep level mines (Mountain Con, Steward, Leonard and Belmont) will be hauled on two haulage levels, at depth, to the Kelley mine and there hoisted to surface.