The Harmer Ridge occurrence is located approximately 5 kilometres east northeast from Sparwood, British Columbia. The general area can be subdivided into Westar Balmer/Elkview (082GNE017), Baldy Complex (082GNE016), Natal Ridge (082GNE013), Balmer (082GNE015), and the J-Area (082GNE014).

Approximately 14 mineable coal seams, which are medium to high volatile bituminous in rank, occur in the Jurassic-Cretaceous Mist Mountain Formation (Kootenay Group) in the Westar Balmer area. The strata consist of interbedded sandstone, siltstone and shale. The area generally overlies the east limb of the north trending, south plunging Sparwood syncline. The strata are cut by numerous north and north-northwest trending normal and west dipping thrust faults.

Production at the Harmer Pit began in 1969/1970 as part of the Michel Colliery (MINFILE 082GNE012) (Geology, Exploration and Mining in BC 1969; 1970). The Michel Colliery was demolished in 1980 and ongoing production in the area is operated by Elkview Operations (MINFILE 082GNE017).