Project 1 of 4
Successful Permitting of Expansion to the 2nd Tallest Centerline-Construction Tailings Dam in the World
Custer County, Idaho, USA
| Client | Thompson Creek Mining Company |
| Industries | Mining |
| Services | Tailings Management, Geotechnical Engineering, Permitting & Stakeholder Engagement, Seismic Analysis; Detailed Design |
Assignment
To design a 100-million-ton expansion to the existing Bruno Creek Tailings Impoundment at a molybdenum mine located in seismically active Custer County, Idaho. At the start of the Phase 8 expansion project, the existing tailings dam height of 550 feet made it the second tallest centerline-raise cycloned sand dam in the world. It will reach nearly 750 feet following the Phase 8 expansion.
Our Role
The results of the alternatives evaluation required partial realignment of the dam crest at the left abutment, resulting in a short length of the dam being constructed over an existing tailings beach. Further, the Phase 8 design incorporated steepening of the downstream dam slope from 3H:1V to 2.75H:1V, as well as construction of a 40-foot raise on the existing Rock Toe Dam. The project met regulatory requirements, achieving a permit from the Idaho Department of Water Resources (IDWR) in early 2008.
Associated Services
Geotechnical Engineering
Providing solutions to our clients’ ground engineering challenges around the world for 50 years – our team brings a wealth of...
Permitting and Stakeholder Engagement
We pride ourselves at Golder in being able to advise clients on the critical requirements for seeking their environmental permits. We are...
Tailings Management
On a daily basis, Golder Associates works with our clients on mines around the world to permit, develop, design, build, operate and close...