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Case Study

Dublin Gulch License Application

In 1997, New Millenium Mining Ltd. applied for a water license to develop and operate a gold mine at Dublin Gulch in the Yukon Territory. Concerned that the proposed mine would impact its traditional lands, the Nacho Nyak Dun (NND) First Nation retained Microbial Technologies to assess and evaluate the potential environmental impacts of discharges from the mine.

New impacts from the proposed mine were distinguished from previous disturbances at the site.

Our assessment quickly identified deficiencies in the initial Environmental Impact Statement and distinguished contaminants of concern. We stressed the need to properly document existing disturbances from previous activities by collecting adequate data of baseline conditions. The unusual sensitivity of arctic grayling was noted and water management strategies for mitigating potential impacts were identified. A realistic and defensible methodology for analysis of cyanide in spent heap residues was developed and incorporated into the proposed closure plan for the mine.

Our familiarity with treatment systems allowed us to identify environmentally-acceptable solutions to some of the problems associated with the proposed mine site. Altogether, our evaluation and recommendations allowed our client to focus on realistic concerns while giving the mine proponent realistic options for addressing them.