The company contracted Black Diamond Energy to commence auger and surface mining at the complex with work starting April 15.

The Artemus property in total includes five surface permits and three deep mine permits.

"The Artemus permit was the crown jewel of the Evans Coal acquisition,” officials said of its recently closed transaction.

“This permit gives AENY access to more than 695 acres of permitted coal property.”

Americas said initial production from Artemus will total about 20,000 tons monthly by the end of May. Company president Chris Headrick said the contract miner will maximize coal production in the first permit area.

Americas is currently producing from the 3 Hance seams at Upland Church and the Rooster seams at Hwy 92. At Artemus, crews will pull from the Jellico seam and Lily seams as well as specialty coal from the Kentucky Blue Gem.

Based in Knoxville, Tennessee, Americas has projects operating in Kentucky and Tennessee and is evaluating other opportunities in the region.