Buick Mine (Amax Buick Mine; Moloc Mine)

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Bixby, Iron County, Missouri, USA

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Key Information

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  • The Buick Mine is located in Bixby, Iron County, Missouri, USA, in the southeastern part of the state, known for its Ozarks scenery.

  • It produces lead, zinc, silver, copper, cobalt, nickel, and cadmium, with unique minerals like anilite and carrollite.

  • The mine is in Cambrian Bonneterre dolomite, formed by hydrothermal activity, typical of Mississippi Valley deposits.

  • Discovered in 1960, it started production in 1969 and is still active, owned by the Doe Run Company.

  • The area hosts the Arcadia Valley Mountain Music Festival and is rich in outdoor activities due to its natural beauty.

Location and Geography

The Buick Mine sits near Bixby in Iron County, Missouri, part of the southeastern Lead Belt region. This area is nestled within the Ozarks Plateau, surrounded by the St. Francois Mountains, and includes Missouri's highest point, Taum Sauk Mountain. Nearby, you’ll find state parks like Taum Sauk Mountain State Park (Wikipedia) and Elephant Rocks State Park, making it a scenic spot for mineral enthusiasts to explore. Close by, the Magmont Mine and Magmont West Mine are other notable mineral localities, just a few miles away.

Minerals and Geology

This mine is a treasure trove for collectors, producing lead, zinc, silver, copper, cobalt, nickel, and cadmium. It’s particularly exciting for its rarer finds like anilite, carrollite, and siegenite, adding to its appeal. Geologically, it’s set in the Cambrian Bonneterre dolomite, a sedimentary rock, with ore bodies formed through hydrothermal activity, characteristic of Mississippi Valley type deposits. This setting, part of the Viburnum Trend-New Lead Belt Mining District, offers a fascinating look at how these minerals were created.

Mining History and Operations

Discovered in 1960 and producing since 1969, the Buick Mine has a robust history. It was once operated by Homestake Mining Company and AMAX Lead Company, and now the Doe Run Company runs it, continuing to extract high-quality metal concentrates. It’s still active, with a strong safety record, including multiple Sentinels of Safety Awards, making it a key player in the region’s mining industry.

Culture and Local Life

Bixby, though small, is part of Iron County, which thrives on its mining heritage and outdoor culture. The area is famous for the Arcadia Valley Mountain Music Festival (Arcadia Valley Mountain Music Festival), held in May and October, celebrating local music and community. The Ozarks’ natural beauty also supports hiking, camping, and other outdoor pursuits, enriching the local experience.

Climate and Ecology

Iron County enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild to cold winters, ideal for year-round outdoor activities. The ecology is diverse, featuring forests, mountains, and rivers, part of the Mark Twain National Forest and various state parks. This environment not only supports local wildlife but also enhances the mining area’s appeal for nature-loving enthusiasts.

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