Can sulfide mining be done in a manner that protects the environment?
Yes! Not only can sulfide mining be done safely from a theoretical sense, Kennecott Minerals has demonstrated that it can be done. Kennecott Minerals operated the Flambeau Mine in Wisconsin from 1993 through 1997. This was a sulfide ore body with copper as the primary metal of production, parts of which produced ARD that was contained and treated. This mine operated within 140 feet of the Flambeau River. Based on monitoring results during operations, as well as monitoring in the 10 years since closure, the Flambeau River remains fully protected and the mine continues to meet all environmental permit conditions. This mine also received the first Sustainable Development Award (July 9, 2004) for a mine from the U.S. Department of the Interior.
