The Saskatchewan mine has nearly doubled its capacity from a previous 3 Mt/y. Staff numbers have also doubled to about 750 individuals.

The expansion, which carried a price tag of C$3 billion (US$2.4 billion) expansion, involved the first new mine shaft built in the province since 1979. It also received a new 500,000t storage facility, a new mill and new rail and loadout equipment.

Officials said a conversion of the property’s existing service shaft to a second production shaft was completed under the project, which will allow ore to be brought out of the mine.

“We have a strong team at Rocanville that is committed to optimising our production capability here,” said PCS Potash president Mark Fracchia. “As we strive to achieve our business goals at this operation, it’s a priority for us to ensure the safety of our employees and contractors and to continue to grow our strong relationships with the communities in this region.”

A celebration of the news was marked at the office of the new Scissors Creek site and was attended by more than 300 people.