AP reported that 21 employees of the Wyodak coal mine near Gillette have been laid off as the mine cuts back on its hours of operation.

Additionally, about 13 temporary employees who were working for the mine have been let go in the past month.

Officials say the changes result from an expiring contract the mine had to supply coal to the Dave Johnston Power Station in Glenrock.

The Wyodak mine is operated by Black Hills Corp.

Mr Greg Hager of Black Hills told the Gillette News Record that about 92 people now work for the mine.

(Sourced from AP & gillettenewsrecord.com)