This strip mining project involved excavation of 1.5 million cubic yards of alluvium and rhyolite overburden. The overburden was removed utilizing a drill and blast technique while maintaining the integrity of a 200 foot high wall. Work also included the construction and maintenance of haul roads, ramps, and dumps. Equipment used for excavation consisted of CAT 773 Trucks being loaded, with a Hitatchi 1200 and CAT 385 Excavators for rhyolite Removal.