The Jim Walter Resources No. 4 mine, near Tuscaloosa, Alabama, will reportedly downsize 129 miners. Walter Energy spokesperson Bill Stanhouse told the Tuscaloosa News that the furloughs were effective the evening of September 14. While weak coal demand was cited for the decision, he noted that the mine “is not completely idle” and will keep running at a reduced production rate. “We will continue to monitor the market conditions,” he added.
Sister mine JWR No. 7 laid off 194 earlier this year when it, too, ramped down its production. Walter Energy filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization earlier this year.
