Patriot Coal Corporation announced that mine rationalizations to bring 2009 production in line with anticipated sales volumes. These actions further the Company's Management Action Plan initiated earlier in the quarter in response to the weakened coal markets. As part of today's actions, the Company plans to further reduce 2009 production by approximately 2.0 million tonnes.

Regarding metallurgical production, the Company plans to idle two contract mines serving the Wells complex. Thermal production will be reduced through the elimination of Saturday workdays at the Hobet complex. Additionally, production start up at the newly developed Blue Creek complex will be deferred until a point when the markets recover.

Mr Richard M Whiting CEO of Patriot said that "In the near term, coal markets remain weak. As a result, we have taken actions to further reduce our 2009 production, essentially eliminating uncommitted tonnes from our production plans."

Mr Whiting said that "Long term, coal remains a vital resource in the world's energy footprint. When coal markets rebound, we will be well positioned to reopen idled facilities, particularly our low cost Blue Creek complex."