The Ketza River Mine tailings impoundment operation, decommissioning and environmental issues ...

• Main Authors: Harpley, David P., Bryan, P. J., Canamax Resources Inc.
• Format: Text
• Language: English
• Published: The University of British Columbia 2009
• Subjects: Whitehorse; Yukon
• Online Access: https://dx.doi.org/10.14288/1.0042186; https://doi.library.ubc.ca/10.14288/1.0042186

Canamax Resources Inc. operate the Ketza River Mine, a small gold mine in the Yukon Territory some 180 km north-east of Whitehorse. The mine has until now processed oxide ore only, depositing tailings in an impoundment created by the construction of two dams, and the diversion of existing watercourses around the facility. Gold recovery is by cyanidation. The resulting tailings pond water has significant concentrations of cyanide, copper and arsenic. Pond water cyanide concentrations are controlled by seasonal natural degradation and tailings treatment to destroy cyanide using the Inco SO2 - air process prior to discharge to the impoundment. Pond water is also treated to destroy cyanide using the Inco process, followed by discharge to the environment during a 6 month period per annum covering the duration of higher surface water run-offs. Seepage from the impoundment is collected and returned by strategically located sump and pump-back systems. Steffen, Robertson and Kirsten (B.C.) Inc. (SRK) was engaged by ...