B.C.”s coal and copper star performers

The 1989 value of British Columbia’s mineral and petroleum products rose 5% from 1988 totals to reach an estimated $4.16 billion, according to figures released by Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources Minister Jack Davis. Coal and copper were the star performers, with coal contributing over $1.04 billion to the total. Copper production valued at over $1 billion provided the largest share of total metal value.

While copper prices were up, total values declined by nearly 10% as less copper was shipped in 1989. The lower volumes were the result of work stoppages at both the Highland Valley Copper and Gibraltar mines.

The value of zinc production increased by 25% as zinc prices were up on average. Lead fell in both price and volume as lower grades affected output at some mines. Molybdenum output and value rose only slightly in 1989.

Gold production was up 17% due to the opening of several new mines, but values dropped as a result of lower average prices for gold and silver. Metal shipments totalled $1.78 billion, a drop of $95 million or 5% from 1988 totals.

The value of natural gas production rose to $638 million from $477 million in 1988 and the total value of crude oil production increased 22% to $252 million.

There was a 20% increase in the value of industrial minerals bringing the total to $132 million. The value of structural materials at $265 million was slightly higher than 1988 totals.