Maamorilik (old spelling: MârmorilikorMaarmorilik, also Black Angel Mine) is a mining site in the Avannaata municipality in northwestern Greenland. Holding resources of zinc, iron, lead, and silver,[1][2] the mine is 5 km (3.1 mi) long,[3] with its entry level situated 750 m (2,460 ft) above the sea level.[4]
The first excavations in Maamorilik took place from 1938, possibly earlier, with operations continuing until 1945,[6] and again from 1973 to 25 July 1990[7] when the mine was closed. During seventeen years of operation, the mine yield of zinc ore amounted to 12 mln tonnes.[3]
In 2008[7] the government of Greenland decided to reinvigorate mining activities in Maamorilik, aiming to provide an economic lifeline to the communities of the Uummannaq region,[8] keeping the relatively new Qaarsut Airport open.[9] Proceeds from mineral resources exploitation will provide Greenland with a counterbalance to the lump-sum subsidies from Denmark.
The operations are carried out by Angel Mining plc, a UK-registered company.[3] As of April 2010, work continues on widening of the mine entrance to the required 300 m (980 ft).[4] The mine is due to reopen in 2013,[needs update][10] with zinc and iron ore reserves expected to last for 50 years.[11] Prospective employment is estimated at 110 people.[12]
Heavy transport including mining products was and will be transported by ship. A port exists at the fjord. An aerial tramway was used to connect to the mine at 750 m above the fjord.
