A small-scale, independently operated mine that employs only a handful of miners. Because of their small workforce, these operations historically fell under the threshold for stringent federal safety regulations. They are typically characterized by low overhead, minimal mechanization, and cramped working conditions.
Heard on the job
He got tired of the big corporate pits and went to work at a doghole up the hollow.
Insider tip
The term carries a mixed connotation, sometimes implying dangerous, unregulated conditions, and other times denoting fierce independence.
Also heard as
- doghole mine