Quinsam Coal belongs to Vancouver Island Coalfield (Insular Coalfield) in British Columbia. Coal mining in British Columbia dates back to the beginning of the twentieth century. Quinsam Coal is the only active mine at present near Campbell River. Its exploration continues in Tsable River deposit. As of 1995, it had proven reserve of more than 37 million tonnes and estimated reserve of 140 million tonnes. It produces bituminous coal of thermal quality for local cement plants and export.
Production commenced from 1986 using opencast method producing 11000 tonnes of washed coal annually. In 1990, it switched to underground retreat Room and Pillar mining. Production is confined to 2 operations: #2 North Mine in the #1 Seam and #4 South Mine in the #3 Seam. In 1997, its annual clean coal production reached 1 million tonnes. Currently, it employs about 150 employees.