CMA Celebrates 150th Anniversary in 2026
150 Years of Mining Leadership
Next year will mark 150 years of continuous operation for the Colorado Mining Association, the oldest mining industry association in the United States and the first to celebrate this historic milestone. CMA’s 150th anniversary coincides with the 150th anniversary of Colorado, and the shared anniversary reminds us of the founding of Colorado as a mining state in 1876. Since that time, Colorado’s history has been tied to mining, which has provided great opportunity for generations of Coloradans and served as the foundation of our state economy.
A Legacy of Progress in Safety, Reclamation, and Modern Mining Practices
As we celebrate our 150th anniversary, we reflect on how far we have come as an industry, particularly with respect to improved mining practices, environmental and safety standards. Today, Colorado’s mining companies lead the way in sustainable mining practices and industry-leading safety standards, and our companies are at the forefront of voluntary reclamation of legacy mine sites. Most recently, CMA partnered with the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, and Colorado’s elected leaders in developing a first of its kind reclamation only permit program to allow for further reclamation progress in our state.
A Minerals-Based Future Is Driving Unprecedented Demand
As we celebrate the past 150 years, we also look to the future and the role of mining in our communities and the economy. CMA’s 150th anniversary coincides with a period of exponential growth in the demand for mined commodities as we rapidly shift to a minerals-based economy. Increasing demand for energy amplified by AI and driven by global energy security needs, advanced technology deployed in national defense applications, and minerals needed for carbon-free energy development and battery technologies have highlighted the need for reliable minerals sources. This increase in demand and the role of minerals in competitive markets has strained previously relied upon supply chains as geopolitical challenges further market instability.
Colorado’s Critical Role in Meeting America’s Mineral Needs
These factors clearly indicate the need for increased domestic minerals development, and Colorado is poised to play a leading role in supplying the needs of both our state and the Nation moving forward. Colorado is a leading state in the production of a broad range of commodities, with one of the most diverse minerals endowments in the court. Specifically, Colorado is a leading producer of molybdenum, gold, coal, and has some of the richest reserves of uranium and vanadium in the country. Exploration is also underway to bring new copper, silver, critical minerals and rare earth elements development online soon. In addition to Colorado’s rich mineral reserves and world class operations, Colorado is also the professional hub of mining in the United States, with multiple headquarters for major global mining companies, and professionals working in every facet of the mining industry from engineering and consulting to finance and law.
The Western Mining Summit: Celebrating CMA’s 150-Year Legacy
For generations, industry professionals from Colorado and across the West have gathered at CMA’s flagship conference to network, discuss industry issues, and celebrate achievements. Formerly known as the National Western Mining Conference and Exhibition, this historic event now carries a refreshed name, the Western Mining Summit, reflecting its long-standing role as the premier regional gathering for the mining community.
As we celebrate CMA’s 150th anniversary, the Summit continues to bring together senior executives, elected officials, suppliers, and technical experts to address the key issues shaping mining in the West. The 150th anniversary Summit will take place May 20 to 22, 2026, at the Gaylord Rockies Resort, honoring a legacy of leadership and innovation that continues to guide our industry forward.
A Community United by Commitment to Colorado Mining
CMA’s legacy in mining leadership is driven by its members and their unwavering commitment to the mining community. We are grateful for their continued support, and look forward to continuing our work with CMA’s members and the communities they serve for generations to come.
