We’re pleased to announce that Stephanie Gurr, Senior Data Manager at VERTEX, was featured in the article “Industrial Minerals Review” in the July 2024 issue of SME Mining Engineering Magazine. This marks the second consecutive year that Stephanie has been featured in this publication. (You can read last year’s article here). Stephanie co-authored the “Phosphate Rock” section with T.M. “Mike” Gurr, Gurr Professional Services, Inc., which covers several key topics:
Production and Consumption: In 2023, five companies mined phosphate ore at nine mines across four states, producing an estimated 19.5 Mt of marketable product, representing 63 percent of the domestic production capacity. The United States contributed 9.1 percent to the global production of 220 Mt. Although production levels were similar to 2022, U.S. phosphate rock consumption increased due to favorable weather during the planting season.
Imports and Exports: There were no U.S. exports of phosphate rock in 2023, continuing the trend since 2004. Instead, U.S. producers exported higher-value fertilizer products such as MAP, DAP, and TSP, with approximately 25 percent of these products exported. Phosphate rock imports were estimated at 2.59 Mt, primarily from Peru.
Uses: Over 95 percent of phosphate rock consumption is for manufacturing fertilizers and animal feed supplements, with the remainder used in products like vitamins, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. The continued growth of the global population emphasizes the need for phosphate fertilizers, as there is no substitute for phosphorus, essential for all living things.
Prices: The average price of phosphate at the mine increased to $147.32/t in 2023, an 8.3 percent rise from 2022. Similarly, the price of imported phosphate rose. Phosphate prices in Morocco peaked at $347.50/t in late 2023 but dropped significantly by December.
Industry News: The report highlights major phosphate rock producers in Florida, North Carolina, Idaho, and Utah, with companies like Mosaic, Nutrien Ltd., Bayer, Itafos, and J.R. Simplot leading the industry. It also discusses China’s transition from a major importer to the largest exporter of phosphate, and the current production levels in Saudi Arabia and Peru.
Environmental, Regulatory, and Reclamation Issues: The article details ongoing mining activities and expansions in Florida, as well as regulatory updates affecting phosphate mining in Western states. It mentions the Federal District Court of Idaho’s decision to vacate the BLM’s approval of the Caldwell Canyon Mine, with a new decision anticipated in early 2025.
Trends and Outlook: Domestic production and consumption of phosphate in 2023 remained stable compared to 2022, aided by favorable weather conditions. Global production of phosphate rock decreased slightly, but an increase in phosphorus pentoxide production is expected by 2027. Near-term production increases are anticipated in countries like Brazil, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Morocco, and Russia, with new mining projects planned in Australia, Canada, and other regions.
We are proud of Stephanie’s contributions and her continued recognition in the industry.
For a comprehensive read, please download the full featured section of the article below or visit the magazine’s website for additional information.
SME Mining Engineering Magazine
To learn more about VERTEX’s Environmental Consulting services or to speak with an Environmental Expert, call 888.298.5162 or submit an inquiry.
