Korea Zinc takes over local mines

By Eddie West Staff Writer

Korea Zinc is officially the new owner of Nyrstar’s Mid Tennessee assets which includes in part what is commonly known as the Gordonsville, Carthage and Elmwood mines.

An announcement of the purchase and transition of ownership was announced by Nyrstar on Thursday. The purchase took place as of Wednesday , April 1.

In addition to the Gordonsville headquarters and Carthage and Elmwood mines in Smith County, the purchased includes the East Tennessee Mine and Clarksville smelter.

This past week, Deputy Governor/TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter joined Korea Zinc officials at the company’s launch of Project Crucible, its plan to build a $6.6 billion non-ferrous metal refinery in Clarksville. The plan also includes the resuming operations at the former Nyrstar’s Gordonsville, Carthage and Elmwood mines as well the continuing operations of Nyrstar’s East Tennessee mine operation.

Resuming operations at the local mine is estimated to create more than 320 jobs in Smith County.

No specific date has been announced for the possible start-up of the local mines.

Korea Zinc officials say they have a five year plan to expand the Clarksville facility, including location of its U.S. Headquarters there and resume operations at the mines in Smith County.

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