Faro Mine Complex Remediation Project — Issues and Options for Closure

Authors: Nahir, M; Mead, S; Hockley, D Paper is not available for download Contact Us

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/852_22

Cite As:
Nahir, M, Mead, S & Hockley, D 2008, 'Faro Mine Complex Remediation Project — Issues and Options for Closure', in AB Fourie, M Tibbett, I Weiersbye & P Dye (eds), Mine Closure 2008: Proceedings of the Third International Seminar on Mine Closure, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 233-242, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/852_22



Abstract:
The Faro Mine Complex is a very large abandoned lead-zinc mine in the Yukon Territory, Canada. In 1998, all mining operations stopped at the Faro Mine Complex after the last owner, Anvil Range Mining Corporation, was placed into receivership. Due to the nature and magnitude of the contamination there will be no walk-away solution to remediating the site. The potential for acid rock drainage is widespread in the wasterock piles and tailings impoundment. Significant impact will occur in the fish bearing rivers downstream of the site if not controlled. The two governments have entered into a joint agreement with the local First Nation to work together on the development of a closure plan for the Faro Mine Complex. To ensure support for the preferred closure option, there was a need to involve a wide range of stakeholders/interested parties in the assessment. This paper describes the site closure objectives, issues and the remediation options to reduce site liability and risk to human health and the environment. Other objectives are to reduce impact to traditional land use and to support socioeconomic activity for First Nations and Yukoners. A multi-attribute analysis was developed and used with stakeholder representatives to assess closure options against objectives and a cost- benefit analysis was performed with the results.

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