From Earlier, Hecla Reports Temporary Care and Maintenance at Lucky Friday Mine

Hecla Mining Company HL reports that the Mine Safety and Health Administration has ordered the Silver Shaft at the Lucky Friday mine in Mullan, Idaho closed for removal of built-up material in the shaft. This order is pursuant to the investigation following the December 14, 2011 rock burst. Compliance with the order is expected to take through year-end. Hecla's 2012 silver production is now estimated to be approximately 7 million ounces. “While we are disappointed with this order and are considering what action we might take, work has already begun to resume production as quickly as possible,” said Phil Baker, Hecla's President and Chief Executive Officer. “The Lucky Friday mine is a world-class mine that we see producing silver for decades to come. Hecla and the Lucky Friday mine have faced challenges in the past and we will once again overcome them.” The Silver Shaft is a one-mile deep shaft from surface and the primary access to the Lucky Friday mine. The sand and concrete material to be removed from the shaft has built up over a number of years and is expected to be removed primarily by power washing. All other significant activities at the mine including construction of the #4 Shaft and bypass around the rock burst are on hold. Care and maintenance of the underground will be focused on the 4900 level where the #4 Shaft infrastructure is located. Production is expected to resume in early 2013.