| Ore stockpiles, waste rock dumps, and tailings are mining components capable of producing toxic metal-laden acidic runoff long after the life expectancy of the mine. The Keno Hill Mine is an abandoned mine site with the potential to produce such environmentally negative attributes. To determine the likelihood of such an event, a technical review and chemical analysis have been completed at the tailings component of the mine site. Limited mineralogical, standard acid base accounting, sequential extraction, and metal scan information have been obtained from selected locations within the tailings area. This data is used to describe the extent of mineral degradation of the tailings. In addition, conditions that may influence or effect mineralogical degradation rates are identified to provide an overview of the environmental state of the tailings area. Long-term sustainable site closure management objectives are also reviewed. |
