Core Natural Resources (CNR) is taking steps to temporarily seal the Leer South mine’s active longwall panel in order to extinguish isolated combustion-related activity there. Based on its ongoing discussions with regulatory authorities, Core believes Leer South will be able to resume development work with continuous miners within the next three months, and to resume longwall mining mid-year. CEO Paul Lang said, “While we are disappointed that we may be losing around two quarters of longwall production at Leer South, we are confident we are taking the right steps to protect the mine, mining equipment, and infrastructure. We have a good understanding of where the combustion-related activity is occurring and are confident that this limited activity does not currently present a threat to the longwall equipment. Working closely and cooperatively with federal and state officials, we plan to temporarily seal the active longwall panel and apply water and nitrogen to extinguish this combustion-related activity, which should lead to the most expeditious resumption of mining.” The company expects to advance development work on future longwall panels, which should enable the longwall system to operate efficiently in the year’s second half.