· 12 montana mining 2007 president’s message iwas born and raised in butte, montana, and...
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M O N T A N A M I N I N G
6 Montana Mining 2007
Governor’s Message ~ Brian Schweitzer 8
MDEQ Director’s Message ~ Richard Opper 10
MMA Signs New Statutory Provision with DEQ 11
MMA President’s Message ~ Mike Mullaney 12
MMA Past President’s Message ~ Tim Smith 13
MMA Executive Director’s Message ~ Debbie Shea 14
Member Profile ~ Mark Cole 15
Montana Bureau of Mines & Geology: Help for Miners 16
Rock Creek Mine a Boost for Both Economy & Ecosystem 18
The Reopening of Montana Tunnels 23
Holcim’s Trident Cement Plant:Building on the Past to Meet the Needs of the Future 26
A Capsule View of Montana Tech’s School of Mines & Engineering 30
The O.T. Mining CorporationTopping the “Richest Hill on Earth” 33
Golden Sunlight MineAn Environmental and Partnership Legacy 36
The Stillwater Good Neighbor Agreement:A New Business Model of Cooperation for Natural Resource Industries 40
History of Gough, Shanahan, Johnson & WatermanMirrors the History of Montana 44
Mines ManagementAdvances the Montanore Project to Next Phase 46
Montana Contractors AssociationBoard of Directors 2007 49
Geometrics Introduces Economical, Easy-To-Use 3D Seismic SystemFor Coal, Oil, Gas & Geologic Exploration 50
ArcadisPutting Innovation into Practice 52
Index to Advertisers 54
8 Montana Mining 2007
From its beginning, Montana’s rich history is steeped in mining.
From the territorial gold rush days of Virginia City, to the copper
kings of Butte, all the way to today’s strip coal mines and the western
hemisphere’s only platinum and palladium mine, mining has played,
and continues to play, an important role in Montana’s economy.
Mining provides high paying jobs for Montana families and commu-
nities.
Montana’s vast natural resources continue to offer great economic
development opportunities. I have been hosting meetings, traveling
the state and country, all the time promoting energy development as
a boon to Montana’s economy, and an important part of a national
strategy for energy independence. I have found that most Montanans
want coal mining to expand in eastern Montana, an area that has
experienced decades of economic dislocation. They want that expan-
sion to lead to the development of advanced, low emission mine
mouth clean coal power plants to the state. These plants will provide
thousands of high quality permanent jobs in both western and east-
ern Montana.
Hardrock mining is still very important to the state and still has
great growth potential. Stillwater Mining employs 1,600 workers at its
platinum/palladium mine and has given Stillwater County the high-
est per capita income in the state. The proposed Montanore and
Revett Minerals mines that are currently in permitting would develop
a world class ore body in western Montana’s Lincoln County, and
GOVERNOR’S MESSAGE
MINING IN MONTANA
Oro y Plata –Gold & Silver!
“The Treasure State”
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 9
could bring hundreds of high paying jobs to that area.As we look at natural resource development in Montana, we can-
not be driven by the political extremes. The clash between thosewho want to “build a fence around Montana,” and those who woulddo “rip and run” uncontrolled development must not stymie ourfuture development. The large majority of Montanans supportdevelopment as long as it is done right – in a manner that does notdestroy our high quality of life. New technologies, combined withnew market demands, provide an opportunity for mineral and coaldevelopment that has not been present for some time. We musttake advantage of this window of opportunity to create the growthMontanans want – and the jobs they deserve. Today’s Montana min-ing operations can operate, and are operating, in an environmental-ly responsible manner. As long as that is the case, the state will sup-port our historical resource economy.
Natural resource development is not the province of just one polit-ical party. That is revealed by the fact that over the last 50 years,Montana’s growth in coal development took place under threeDemocratic governors, as illustrated by the chart on this page. Withnearly a third of the nation’s coal reserves and eight percent of the
world’s reserves, Montana’s economy stands to gain tremendously
from this increased interest in the potential for coal. I will carry on
the long tradition of Democratic governors and continue to work to
expand coal development in Montana.
I ask you and all Montanans to join in the effort to develop mining
and energy jobs for ourselves, our children and our grandchildren.
We can still be the “Treasure State” and also the “Last Best Place,” as
long as we have the will to get the job done right.
Governor Brian Schweitzer■
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10 Montana Mining 2007
In the relatively short time I have served as the Director of the
Montana Department of Environmental Quality, I have learned a
great deal about the modern mining industry and its impacts on the
state – both the positive and otherwise. In fact, I’ve been amazed at
the number of people who have volunteered to share their thoughts
with me on the subject. I learned in short order that it’s an industry
with passionate supporters and detractors, yet it is indisputable that
mining has and continues to contribute to Montana’s economy with
its good paying jobs and valuable products.
As an extractive industry, it must address its impacts to Montana’s
air, land, and water resources. Like other mineral-rich states,
Montana has some eye-catching reclamation success stories. But
sadly, our state also bears too many scars from a time when we knew
less about acid drainage, inadequately bonded mines, or placed too
much trust in operators who had no interest in building futures for
communities as they were building personal wealth. Part of my job
it to ensure that we acquire no more such scars. The good news for
the state is that I believe the Montana Mining Association is commit-
ted to this same goal.
During this past legislative session, I had the pleasure of working
with the Montana Mining Association on HB 460. This bill addressedsome of the shortfalls in the state’s ability to collect adequate bondsto protect future taxpayers from unanticipated mining-related envi-ronmental problems. The Montana Mining Association partneredwith the Montana Department of Environmental Quality to craft apiece of legislation that met the needs of the people we both serve.I was pleased that we worked so well together, and HB 460 has nowbeen signed into law.
The future looks bright for the modern mining industry inMontana. High prices, stronger laws and better science mean goodjobs and good stewardship of Montana’s resources. I look forward toa continued productive partnership with the members of theMontana Mining Association.
Richard Opper,Director, Montana Department of Environmental Quality
■
MESSAGE
RICHARD OPPER, Director
Montana Department ofEnvironmental Quality
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Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 11
HB 460, an act revising the Montana Metal Mine Reclamation Law, was a collaborative effort of the Montana MiningAssociation and the Department of Environmental Quality.
The act provides for temporary bonding in unanticipated circumstances with a reasonable process for determina-tion of that bond.
This statutory provision is the result of months of interim work, and is the most recent in a series of efforts in whichthe mining industry has responded, in order to improve agency regulation and oversight.
LEGISLATIONANNOUNCEMENT
MMA signs newstatutory provisionwith DEQ
HB 460, an act revising the Metal Mine Reclamation Law, was signedinto law by Governor Brian Schweitzer. Seated: Governor Brian
Schweitzer and bill sponsor Representative Jim Keane. Standing:Senator Greg Lind, MMA Officers and staff President Mike Mullaney,
Former President Tim Smith, Executive Assistant Debra Pitassy,Membership Director Charles Robison, Executive Director Debbie Sheaand Director of Department of Environmental Quality Richard Opper.
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12 Montana Mining 2007
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Iwas born and raised in Butte, Montana,and received a Mining Engineering degree
from Montana Tech in 1992. Along withmost of my graduating class, I had to leave
Montana in order to get a good job in ourfield. After working seven years for UnitedStates Gypsum Company in the states ofOklahoma and Iowa, I finally found an
opportunity to come back to Montana. I canstill remember the day I called my wife onthe phone, and told her we were comingback to this Big Sky Country. She was in tearswith joy, knowing that we would be comingback to this Treasure State we love so much.
I have served on the Montana MiningAssociation Board as Vice President for thepast eight months, and I am currently work-ing as the Production Manager at the Holcimcement plant in Three Forks. I am honoredto take the responsibility as President of theMontana Mining Association. The founda-tion has been put in place for a bright futureof the association. I can tell you from per-sonal experience that the board meetingshave experienced more participation in thepast year, with great ideas being generated asa result.
Having such great leadership involved inthe management of this organization is fun-damental to making ideas become reality:We have an awesome new director and assis-tant; the web site is new and improved; wefollowed up on our commitments with theBoard of Environmental Review; and havingbeen asked to work with the DEQ in the leg-islative session, we did, and as a result, HB460 is now law.
It is a privilege to be part of the miningindustry. As Tim said, we have to earn asocial license to operate. We have to focuson the people in our communities, educat-ing and listening to them. We have to con-tinue to improve communication within theassociation. We need to increase our size,and link up with other folks impacted bymining, as well as other associations withsimilar issues related to mining. The morewe build connections with each other, themore we make big things happen.
Please let the board know how we canimprove the association. And again, thankyou for the opportunity to serve as Presidentof the Montana Mining Association.
Yours,Mike Mullaney ■
MIKE MULLANEY, PresidentMontana Mining Association
I’d like to welcome all readers to this first edition of the MontanaMining magazine. This publication comes at the perfect time as the
association is in the throes of transformation.Three years ago, the mining industry in Montana was pretty bleak
– especially after being dealt a blow with the defeat of I-147. Itappeared that the industry was rolling over to the environmentalactivists. Needless to say, this mood was reflected in the dispositionand number of members in the association.
Three years and two Executive Directors later, both the miningindustry and the association have a new lease on life (also thanks tohigher metal prices).
The Board of Directors decided that, if we wanted to get seriousabout promoting the industry, and extinguish the untruths banteredby groups unfriendly to the industry, we needed a full time ExecutiveDirector. We are all very pleased to have attracted Debbie Shea to theorganization. Debbie brings years of legislative experience, personalconnections and foresight to the table. Throughout the last legislativesession, she was “plugged in”, daily, to all issues, and between herand Debra Pitassy, her Executive Assistant, the board was keptinformed at all times.
Not only have we adopted a new professional image, but we aregetting the truth out about what the mining industry means to localand state economies, and why mining is necessary for virtually every-
thing that contributes to our quality of life. The association under-
stands that, in order to mine, the industry must go beyond obtaining
the necessary permits, it needs a social license. It must show that, not
only will it bring wealth and jobs to an area, it will provide for con-
tinued growth and economic prosperity long after the mine is
reclaimed.
For example, Golden Sunlight Mine, in preparation for its shut-
down, is actively working with a local non-profit development group
for the development of an industrial park on prime land donated by
the mine. The addition of new businesses will help ease the eco-
nomic transition once the mine closes.
The key to the success of any organization is the size, involvement,
and passion of its membership. To that end, Debbie and Debra have
identified those individuals and service organizations who will bene-
fit most from joining the association.
After 30 months as President of the Montana Mining Association,
its time to pass the torch. I will remain actively involved on the Board
as Past President, and look forward to the future of the Montana
Mining Association under Mike Mullaney’s leadership.
Sincerely,
Tim Smith ■
PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
A glimpse of thepast with a focuson the future
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 13
14 Montana Mining 2007
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
Born in the 1950s in Butte, Montana, I was raised in the center ofthe mining industry. My playground was a part of all of the activ-
ity that had lured so many from every corner of the earth looking fora better life.
The Gallows Frame of the Original Mine, not active since the 1940s,stood tall and proud as it cast its shadow over my neighborhood, aneighborhood whose story, like so many, typified the struggles andhopes of working families.
There was a strong work ethic that rose up in that mining campcalled Butte, laying the foundation for generations of miners to come.This work ethic would literally light up the entire nation and back theefforts of two world wars. It was a work ethic that ensued pride in ajob well done. Butte was, and still is, a great place to call home.
In 1993, I was most honored to become a state legislator from thatmining city, and during my time as a States Senator from Butte, I wasproud to sponsor legislation on behalf of mining.
Assuming the position of Executive Director of the Montana MiningAssociation in December of 2006 seemed a natural transition for this
mining city girl. I follow in the footsteps of hard working advocates like
Gary Langley, Angie Janacaro and Dustin Stewart.
This is an exciting time to be involved in the mining industry, as it
experiences a rebirth and a role of leadership. The Montana Mining
Association’s work during the 2007 Montana Legislature included part-
nering with the regulatory agency, with legislation that will insure
healthy and productive growth for both the industry and our great
state. We are proud of that effort, and look forward to our continued
work with the Department of Environmental Quality.
And so, as the global demand for metal continues, the mining
industry will continue to provide high wages and significant support
for local economies as well as for our great state. As new and innova-
tive technology replaces past practice, and high-tech reclamation proj-
ects take on life throughout Montana, the mining industry will con-
tinue in our work to be good stewards of the land.
Debbie Shea ■
DEBBIE SHEA,Executive Director
Montana MiningAssociationMMA Executive Director Debbie Shea in front of Original Mine Gallows Frame.
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Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 15
Mark Cole is a busy man. As one of theprincipals of Dick Irvin Inc. of Shelby,
Montana, he has his hands full with the diver-sified nature of trucking services the compa-ny provides. Still, he finds the time to devotehis energy to what he feels is an importantsector of the economy – the mining industry.
Cole is First Vice President of the MontanaMining Association, and has put in manyhours of work, trying to find solutions tomake the busy sector even better for every-one involved.
As well as the MMA, Cole has worked ontransportation steering committees andresearch projects in both the U.S. andCanada, bringing logistics and analysis of thetransportation industry to the economic fore-front, and he also holds the chair as presidentof the Montana Motor Carrier Association, aswell as serving on various boards and com-mittees of the construction and agricultureindustries.
Though he has been involved with DickIrvin for 34 years, Cole was by no means“there at the beginning”. Established in 1951as a single proprietorship by Dick and PatIrvin, the company began with just a singlefarm truck serving the local agriculture mar-ket. Dick Irvin became incorporated in 1967,and has since grown immensely, now operat-ing between 85 and 100 power transportunits throughout the United States and west-ern Canada. Although it still serves its origi-nal agricultural clientele, time has seen thecompany branch out to serve the oil and gasresource, mining and construction industries.
Dick Irvin made its entry into the Montanamining scene in the late 1970s, when the oiland gas market was on a decline. Today, itservices not only Montana, but also all of thewestern U.S. and Canada.
“I’ve seen a very substantial reduction in
the mining industry in this state during thelast decade, but I’m happy to say it looksmuch better today,” Cole said.
“The future looks considerably better; themarket is stronger than it has been in years.”
In his spare time, Cole and his wife Barbararaise quarter horses, and they try to visit asoften as possible with their two grown chil-dren and four grandchildren.
“We’re excited (to be grandparents),” hesaid. “Every opportunity we get, we try tospend time with them.”
Still, the pull of his work with the companycontinues, and Cole is dedicated to his pro-fession.
“Ours is a progressive company. You needto be on the cutting edge of development inthe region or area. It’s just beneficial to beaware of what’s happening, and in some wayto be able to assist in developing the eco-nomic situation, new businesses or industries
can come about, and that’s good for every-
one,” he said.
“I’m a firm believer not only in our com-
pany, but also in utilizing the resources we
have here in North America. I think that we
need to make use of the resources in a very
environmentally conscious way that will not
do harm to the environment, but provide the
basics that the industry and the economy
needs.”
So it would appear there’s no sign of slow-
ing down for Cole.
“We’ve talked about it (retiring),” he said,
“but I don’t know what I would do. You
always think about it, but if you enjoy what
you’re doing, you might as well keep on. At
this point, I’m definitely looking forward to
more years in the industry.” ■
Cole has deep beliefin mining industryBy Dawn M. Barker
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16 Montana Mining 2007
Mining has always been a thorny undertaking: risky, even dan-
gerous. But these days it’s even more complicated. How does
a would-be miner figure out where to look for placers? Which prop-
erty he’s allowed to pan or dig? Who can a miner ask to figure out
how to fill out a claim form, or an environmental impact assessment?
Answer: Rob McCulloch.
McCulloch is the sole staff member of the Montana Bureau of
Mines and Geology’s small-mines assistance program. On any given
day, McCulloch works with prospectors, hobbyists, small-scale placer
operators, archaeologists, exploration companies, and government
regulators.
“I teach miners where to look, how to interpret deposits, how to
sample and extract resources, how to permit it, and how to operate
within our environmental standards. It’s the whole deal,” said
McCulloch.
He also assists miners with the sometimes confusing documenta-
tion required by different agencies: planning documents, contracts,
and conservation easements. He keeps records of current mining
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Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 17
operations and companies (see map of 2006 mining activity), and
maps of current and past placer deposits.
And he answers lots and lots of questions.
“Ten to fifteen calls per day, and an equal amount of emails is nor-
mal. It’s not unusual to have visitors backed up into the hallway,” said
McCulloch.
In an effort to help even more would-be miners, in 2003 he pub-
lished a detailed how-to guide, Applied Gold Placer Exploration and
Evaluation Techniques. He also recommends Gold Placers of Montana,
a comprehensive guide to placer history and locations recently
reprinted by the MBMG.
To reach McCulloch, call 406-496-4171. If you’ve got a question
about mining, or need some help getting through the process, he’ll
be happy to help you.
To find out more about the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology,
or order any of our publications, see our website at
http://mbmg.mtech.edu. ■
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18 Montana Mining 2007
Usually, one hears about civilization’s infringement into the nat-
ural ecosystem as a battle of man vs. nature, with nature on the
losing end of the deal. Revett Minerals’ proposed Rock Creek Mine,
however, promises to turn that concept on its ear, with productivity
and the health of the local ecology going hand-in-hand – or should
that be “hand-in-paw”?
When the Rock Creek Mine was originally proposed in 1998, many
feared the endangered grizzlies of the Cabinet-Yaak Ecosystem (CYE)
would be harmed, or even
wiped out by the copper and
silver mining activity, even
though the mining would
take place deep under-
ground. Originally, a biologi-
cal opinion was first issued in
2000, and was revisited in
2002. Revett then revised its
plans substantially, so much so that it became clear they were com-
mitted to benefiting all wildlife as well as “the griz” in the area. This
commitment eventually won the support of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service. In fact, the Revett plan will result in more funding for the
Cabinet Yaak Ecosystem than has been spent on the Yellowstone
Ecosystem over the last 25 years (the grizzly bear population in
Yellowstone is now proposed for delisting).
Included in Revett’s plan is the provision that the company will not
disturb the 94,000 acres of wilderness adjacent to the mine’s mill site
nor the surface of the wilderness area a thousand feet above where
much of the mining activity will take place, thus affecting only 115
acres of land outside the wilderness area that is suitable for grizzly
bear habitat. To offset the 115 acre area, Revett will purchase an
additional 2,450 acres of bear habitat which will never be sold or
developed, and fund the closure of five miles of existing roads which
are currently in the protected habitat area.
The composition of the mine, located 1,000 feet below ground
level, will mean that wildlife and people on the surface won’t even be
aware that industry is happening beneath their feet.
Revett recently agreed to and is
funding three positions for the life
of the mine: two Montana Fish,
Wildlife & Parks grizzly bear spe-
cialists and one law enforcement
officer; the company will assist
Montana’s Department of Fish,
Wildlife & Parks, the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service and the United
States Forest Service in providing education, information and out-
reach programs. This will include monitoring and research efforts
centered on the CYE grizzly bear population.
Finally, Revett Minerals will purchase grizzly bear-resistant garbage
containers for employees who live in the area, for the mine, and for
Forest Service campgrounds, and convert the Sanders County garbage
transfer station and others in the area to be bear-resistant.
This suite of measures will cost Revett an estimated $18 million in
today’s dollars (approximately $30 million if escalated at 4% per
annum) during the project’s lifespan, which the company says equals
more than $1 million for each bear known to live in the area.
Rock Creek Mine a boost forboth economy and ecosystemBy Dawn M. Barker
Rock Creek Mine a boost forboth economy and ecosystemBy Dawn M. Barker
When the Rock Creek Mine was originally proposedin 1998, many feared the endangered grizzlies ofthe Cabinet-Yaak Ecosystem (CYE) would beharmed, or even wiped out by the copper andsilver mining activity, even though the miningwould take place deep underground.
20 Montana Mining 2007
Estimates are that direct bear mortality
attributable to the mine during the mine’s
35 year lifespan will be a single bear, and to
offset this, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
plans to import six female bears into the
area.
In a recent news release, Revett President
and CEO Bill Orchow stated that “No other
grizzly bear ecosystem, worldwide, has
received such an intensive, concerted and
coordinated effort to reduce conflicts
between grizzly bears and people, and to
reduce the potential for human-caused
mortality of grizzly bears.”
Revett’s commitment to the ecosystem
does not stop at bears, either. The original
biological report raised concerns that mine
construction could elevate sediment levels,
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 21
adversely affecting the area’s bull
trout population. In answer, the com-
pany has committed to pave the road,
install sediment control structures,
and provide long-term monitoring to
detect changes in water chemistry and
temperature.
The mitigation plan contains many
additional environment-friendly mea-
sures as well, such as not using salt on
the roads during winter, removal of
any animals from the roadway area,
construction of power lines to reduce
potential harm to bald eagles, and
funding electric fencing kits to sur-
round bear problem sites.
The result will be a positive net
effect to the ecosystem, and it certain-
ly will be for the local human econo-
my. When up and operating at capac-
ity, the mine is estimated to produce
10,000 tons of silver and copper per
day, and to provide 300 “quality” jobs
and 30 years of economic benefits to
the region, including taxes, local pur-
chasing and the multiplier effect
which comes from improving the local
economy.
Revett’s existing Troy Mine, just over
the hill from Rock Creek, is solid proof
that Revett can and will operate in an
environmentally friendly and eco-
nomically beneficial manner. Con-
stant monitoring has shown benign
tailings and mine water that consis-
tently meets drinking water standards.
Troy provides 150 local jobs and pro-
duces 6,500 tons of copper and silver
daily. Revett’s tradition of protecting
the environment and providing eco-
nomic benefits to the community will
continue with operations at Rock
Creek Mine.
Revett Minerals President and CEO
Bill Orchow believes the company has
developed a win-win situation with
Rock Creek.
“This is good news for the economy,
good news for Northwest Montana, and
good news for wildlife,” he said. ■
Revett Minerals President and CEO Bill Orchow believes
the company developed a win-win situation with Rock
Creek. “This is good news for the economy, good news
for Northwest Montana, and good news for wildlife.”
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 23
The headline of the January 31, 2006 HelenaIndependent Record read; “Wall
Collapse at Jefferson Co. Mine Leads toLikely Permanent Closure.” Roughlyfourteen months later, the localpress release read; “Jefferson CityMine has Bright Future.” While wecan often be cautioned againstbelieving all things negative we readin the press, the storyline of theMontana Tunnels Mine over the past yearhas been quite interesting.
Montana Tunnels Mining, Inc. is a joint venture sub-sidiary of Apollo Gold Corporation with offices in Denver, Colorado,and Calim Private Equity, LLC with offices in Aspen, Colorado. TheMontana Tunnels mine is located approximately 25 miles south ofHelena and ten miles north of Boulder, the county seat. The mine issituated in Jefferson County, Montana, within the historic “Corbin-Wickes” mining district. Montana Tunnels operations include extrac-tion of a poly-metallic bearing ore from a single open pit mine anda mill process facility that produces gold, silver, lead, and zinc con-centrates for sale into commerce. Although it is an open pit mine,Montana Tunnels takes its name from two exploratory adits thatwere driven into the ore body that is now being mined in theyear1900.
Following 25 months of environmental review, the mine beganoperations in February, 1986 under mining permit authorization bythe Montana Department of State Lands and the Bureau of LandManagement. Prior to the recent shutdown, the mine had been incontinuous operation for nearly 20 years.
Although the newspaper articles would lead the reader to believethat the highwalls at Montana Tunnels had collapsed, the reality wasthat there was no highwall collapse, but rather that the east wall ofthe open pit was experiencing slope deformation and localized haulramp instabilities. The result caused increased concern for employ-ee safety and ultimately led to the decision to stop mining in theopen pit until safe alternatives were developed. As is often the case,developing alternatives can be expensive.
Montana Tunnels commenced with a technical review involving
pit access options and safety issues affecting themine. After a number of alternatives were
developed by the Montana Tunnelsengineers, Knight Piesold
Consulting, Ltd. conducted a geot-echnical assessment of the pro-posed slope remediation alterna-tives for the the east highwall.The
overview assessment considered anumber of key objectives for improv-
ing the perfomance of the east highwallarea, including the reduction of slope defor-
mation and risk of haul ramp instability, achievingappropriate factors of safety for the overall slope, and mitigatingrockfall hazards in the east sector. The accepted plan of action calledfor the removal of five million tons of waste material along theupper east wall in order to lay back the instable area to a more sta-ble angle and allow for the reestablishment of essential catchbenches and the haul ramp system transecting the east wall.
The problem at hand was that Montana Tunnels was in the finalstages of completing a planned open pit strip and had just reachedthe primary high-grade ore body in the lower reaches of the pit.Completing the strip had significantly exhausted company funds andadditional financing would be required in order to reestablish theeast highwall.
Due to predominately higher metal prices, the mine was able totemporarily process low -grade stockpiled materials until May of2006. During this time, employment levels dropped from 208 to 95.After May 10, 2006, the mine was placed under care and mainte-nance status with a skeleton staff of only 13 employees.
During this time, Montana Tunnels was essentially down for thecount. The mine needed the necessary financing to repair the pitwalls, rebuild the haul ramps, and remove waste which was cover-ing a portion of the ore body. Dave Russell, the President and CEO ofApollo Gold, was tasked with this deed. Mr. Russell traveled through-out North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia meeting withbankers, investors, and other mining companies, looking for thefinancing necessary to get Montana Tunnels up and running.
Finally Dave Russell met with Patrick Imeson, Managing Director
Editorial by Pierre LeMieux, Environmental Scientist, Montana Tunnels Mining, Inc.
The reopening ofMontana TunnelsThe reopening ofMontana Tunnels
September 18, 2006 –Initial Layback of Upper East Highwall.
24 Montana Mining 2007
of Calim Private Equity, an investment firm which focuses on leisureand entertainment, alternative energy, and mines. In July of 2007,Mr. Russell and Mr. Imeson signed a joint venture agreement inwhich Calim would provide the funding necessary to put MontanaTunnels back on its feet. It took about $15 million to complete therepairs and re-open. However, this is just a fraction of the cost of cre-ating a new, comparable mine, which would consume on the orderof $180 million.
Completing the remediation project involved piecing together avariety of puzzle pieces ranging from refurbishing mining andmilling equipment to hiring key personnel. In fact, approximately80% of the current workforce has previously been employed by themine.
Montana Tunnels expects revenues of $87 million this year; whichcan be credited to record high metals prices. These revenues buoy
the local and state economy. The mines payroll is $15 million andoffers and average salary of $45,000. In Montana, $22 million inspent annually on goods and services. In addition, the mine pays$800,000 in county taxes and $700,000 in state taxes. The currentplan of operations calls for extraction of ore and subsequent pro-cessing through 2009.
In 2004, Montana Tunnels submitted an amendment applicationto the Department of Environmental Quality and the Bureau of LandManagement that proposes to mine and process additional oreresources located deeper within the existing open pit mine. AnEnvironmental Impact Statement is currently in process for the pro-posed changes. Approval will allow continued development of theore resource and will extend mine operations into 2013. Alterationsrequired to carry out the proposed plan include; increasing the areaand depth of the open pit mine, extending waste rock storage areas,
October 3, 2006 –Establishing catch benches on highwall and initial ramp delelopment.
November 3, 2006 –Creating switchback in ramp system.
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 25
raising the elevation of the tailings embankment, moving a por-
tion of the mine access road, realigning the course of two stream
channels, and providing new storage areas for topsoil. Ore han-
dling and processing facilities will continue to operate as current-
ly approved. A final reclamation plan will be carried out at the
conclusion of mine operations to return disturbed lands to bene-
ficial post-mining use. The outlook for approval of the proposed
mine plan is positive, and once again the future is bright for
Montana Tunnels Mining, Inc.
The accompanying photodocumentary depicts the remediation
of the east wall and haul ramp system. For additional information
on the east wall remediation project at Montana Tunnels, please
visit Apollogold.com and Calimpe.com. ■
December 4, 2006 –Second switchback established.
January 2, 2007 –Fourth switchback established.
January 22, 2007 –Layback and ramp completed.
January - February, 2007 –Removing waste material from pit base.
February 22, 2007 –Drilling Ore in Pit Base.
Black Butte Iron Mine.
Holcim’s Trident Cement Plant in Three
Forks is preparing to celebrate its cen-
tenary in 2008, but the fact that the plant
has stood at the headwaters of the Missouri
River for nearly 100 years doesn’t begin to
tell the real story of its connection to the
area. A century before the construction of
the plant, Lewis and Clark’s epic journey
brought the explorers to the Headwaters
Corridor, an event mentioned in William
Clark’s journal, where he also commented
on the massive limestone formations in the
area. In the years since, those limestone
deposits have provided the raw material for
the millions of metric tons of cement the
plant has produced over its history. That
cement product, in turn, has gone into the
development of much of Montana’s infra-
structure, providing the basic material for
many of the region’s roads, bridges, build-
ings and other structures.
Trident Plant
Starting out as the Three Forks Portland
Cement Company, the plant has gone
through several name changes and owner-
ships throughout its history. The most
recent change in ownership occurred in
1990 when the plant, then owned by Ideal
Basic Industries, was purchased by
Holderbank Financiere Glaris Ltd., of
Switzerland to become part of the Holnam,
Inc., system in North America. In 2001, the
name was changed again to Holcim (US)
Inc.
However, the name changes are the least
significant of the transformations the plant
has undergone. Over the years, technologi-
cal developments have helped the plant
evolve continually, in order to meet the
needs of a growing region while providing
livelihoods to generations of employees (the
average Trident Cement Plant employee has
been on the job at the plant for more than
20 years). The current plant configuration,
with a single large kiln and modern dust
collection system, began operation in 1973.
As the plant has upgraded and improved its
equipment and operations, it has also con-
tributed significantly to the Gallatin County
economy, as well as maintained a commit-
ment to a safe work environment and a phi-
losophy of sustainable development.
Today, the Trident plant produces
approximately 320,000 metric tons of
cement per year (enough to create 1.5 mil-
lion cubic yards of concrete), supplying con-
struction projects in Montana, where the
state’s growing population will increase the
HOLCIM’S TRIDENT CEMENT PLANT:Building on the past tomeet the needs of the future
HOLCIM’S TRIDENT CEMENT PLANT:Building on the past tomeet the needs of the future
26 Montana Mining 2007
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 27
demand for cement by 27 percent in the
next 25 years. The plant is Gallatin
County’s fifth largest taxpayer, generating
$550,000 in property and mining taxes
annually for the county. Some of the more
well-known area projects for which Trident
products have been used include: the
Tongue River Reservoir; the Montana State
University Chemistry Building; the Bennett
Bay Bridge; the Big Sky Aerial Tram; vari-
ous Montana Department of Highways
pavements and concrete structures around
the state; and, various FAA airfield run-
ways and aprons.
Trident Mine.
28 Montana Mining 2007
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3650 Grant Creek RoadMissoula Montana 59808
Phone: (406) 542-1400 Fax: (406) 542-0958www.klshydraulics.com
Black Butte Iron Mine.
Trident products are highly regarded for
consistency and quality. The plant pro-
duces traditional ASTM C-150 cements, but
is actively developing new products, includ-
ing the Envirocore family of products which
require less energy to produce, yet meet the
high demands of the construction industry.
In addition to Montana, Trident cement
is marketed in Wyoming and Idaho, as well
as in Alberta and portions of Saskatchewan.
The plant’s products are marketed directly
from the plant, as well as through a system
of distribution terminals stretching from
Twin Falls, Idaho, to Edmonton, Alberta.
Customer market segments for Holcim
cement products include: ready mix compa-
nies; paving contractors; block and precast
producers; energy (oil) development; and
mining operations.
Holcim’s Trident plant has sustained this
level of productivity with a focus on safety
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 29
and respect for the environment. The Trident plant is registered
as an ISO 14001 facility, with an environmental management sys-
tem to help ensure that it operates efficiently and in compliance
with all applicable federal, state, local and company regulations
and standards. As a testament to its commitment to worker safe-
ty, the plant has operated more than five years without a lost time
accident.
While the Holcim Trident plant has a long history of contribut-
ing to Montana’s growth, and the region’s development overall,
the company’s vision is to continue to provide foundations for
society’s future, while reducing its emissions and its ecological
footprint. It seeks to achieve this goal by ensuring a more efficient
and sustainable use of its products. One example of this com-
mitment to sustainable development is the company’s worldwide
goal of reducing CO2 emissions by 20 percent by 2010 compared
to 1990 level emissions. The Trident plant’s parent company,
Holcim Ltd., is active in several prestigious environmental organ-
izations, including: chair of the Energy and Climate Working
Group of the World Business Council on Sustainable
Development; chair of the Climate Change Taskforce, Cement
Sustainability Initiative; member of the Pew Center on Global
Climate Change; and charter member of the EPA’s Climate
Leaders Program. ■
30 Montana Mining 2007
The Montana State School of Mines wasestablished in 1895, opened in 1900,
and its first graduating class was in 1903. In1900, Butte was the premier mining camp inthe US, and the Montana School of Mineswas focused on hardrock underground min-ing. The last century has brought namechanges, growth and expansion of MontanaTech’s mission. Whereas in 1900, only onedegree was offered, today Montana Techoffers degrees in 23 different areas at the BSlevel and 12 masters’ level degrees.
One thing that hasn’t changed is MontanaTech’s service to the mining industry. TheSchool of Mines and Engineering at MontanaTech continues to supply geological engi-neers, mining engineers, and metallurgicalengineers to industry. The School of Minesalso supplies the mining industry with grad-uates in occupational safety and health,industrial hygiene, and environmental engi-neers. The School of Mines and Engineeringat Montana Tech is the only school in the USoffering this full suite of programs gearedtowards the minerals industry.
The School of Mines and Engineering iscomposed of the following departments;
Environmental EngineeringGeneral EngineeringGeological EngineeringGeophysical Engineering
Metallurgical and Materials EngineeringMining EngineeringPetroleum EngineeringSafety Health and Industrial HygieneThe School of Mines and Engineering cur-
rently has 912 students and awarded 144 BSdegrees and 31 MS degrees in 2006. Theschool has 50 faculty and 7 support staff.
Mining EngineeringThe mining program trains mining engi-
neers in all facets of mining. The objective isto provide a quality education that blendstheory and practice in order to produce amining engineer who can enter and pursue asuccessful career in the field of MiningEngineering, and who is prepared to meetthe vigorous demands of natural resourcedevelopment throughout the world. Tech isthe place where ‘theory meets practice”.
Currently, there are over 800 living miningalumni working all over the world. Over 170of them (21%) live and work in Montana. Thestates of Washington, Nevada, and Wyominghave over 50 mining alums each, and 63% ofmining alumni live and work in the WesternUS.
Five faculty teach in the mining program:
• Dr. John Brower teaches the mineral eco-
nomics and mine valuation courses for
the program. Dr. Brower has taught at
Montana Tech since 1982 and is retiring
this year.
• Dr. Richard McNearny teaches the rock
mechanics courses, underground con-
struction and unit operations courses.
• Dr. Paul Conrad teaches surface mine
design, mine permitting, and the mining
methods classes.
• Dr. Phillip Dirige is brand new to the pro-
gram. He will be teaching surveying,
underground mine design, and rock frag-
mentation courses.
• Mr. David Armstrong is also new this year,
and will be teaching computer aided
mine design course, mine management
and engineering economics.
Metallurgical and Materials Engineering The Metallurgical & Materials Engineering
program dates back to 1922, when the firstmetallurgy degrees were offered. At thattime, the program was extremely strong inmineral processing and extractive metallur-gy. Over the decades, the program hasexpanded and evolved to encompass physi-cal metallurgy, materials and welding, but itis the only program in the US that has kept astrong mineral processing and extractivemetallurgy emphasis. Montana Tech hasmore faculty expertise in mineral processing
A Capsule view ofMontana Tech’sSchool of Minesand Engineering
A Capsule view ofMontana Tech’sSchool of Minesand Engineering
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 31
LEADERSHIP
Department Head – Geological EngineeringDr. Diane Wolfgram leads the Geological Engineering Program and is the interim Department Head for theMining Engineering program. Dr. Wolfgram has taught at Montana Tech since 1996. Dr. Wolfgramreceived her BS degree in geological engineering from the South Dakota School of Mines in 1962. Sheobtained her MA and PhD in Geology from the University of California, Berkeley. Dr. Wolfgram has 30years of industry experience.
DeanDr. Peter Knudsen has been Dean of the School of Mines and Engineering since 1994, and has taught atMontana Tech since 1981. Dr. Knudsen graduated from Montana Tech in 1968 with a degree in geologicalengineering. His MS and PhD in mining engineering are from the University of Arizona. Dr. Knudsen’sspecialization is in the area of computer aided mine design and geostatistics.
Department Head – Metallurgical EngineeringDr. Courtney Young is Department Head of the Metallurgical & Materials Engineering Department. Heobtained his BS in Mineral Processing Engineering Montana Tech in 1984, his MS in Mining and MineralsEngineering from Virginia Tech and his PhD in Metallurgical Engineering from the University of Utah. Hehas taught at Montana Tech since 1993. Dr. Young’s expertise is in surface chemistry, electrochemistry, flota-tion, physical separations, and sulfide electrochemistry.
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32 Montana Mining 2007
andextractive met-
allurgy than any otheruniversity.
The metallurgy program has sixfaculty members and four research faculty.Dr. Courtney Young, a mineral processingengineer, leads the program; Dr. LarryTwidwell, Dr. Hsin Huang, and Dr. JerryDowney are extractive metallurgists; Mr.William Huestis is a mineral processor andDr. Kevin Jaansalu is a physical metallurgist.
The Center for Advanced Mineral Pro-cessing (CAMP) employs four research facultywith expertise in mineral processing and
extractive metallurgy. CAMP is directed byDr. Corby Anderson; Dr. Anderson is anextractive metallurgist; Mr. John Krustilich isa process engineer; Dr. Paul Miranda is anextractive metallurgist and Mr. FrancisDakubo is a mineral processor.
Geological Engineering
Also dating back to 1922, the Geological
Engineering program trains engineers in the
four fundamental areas of geological engi-
neering;mining geology, hydrogeology, geo-
mechanics and engineering geology.
The Geological Engineering program has
five faculty members:
• Dr. Diane Wolfgram is
Department Head and teaches
courses in economic geology, mining
geology, exploration an structural geology.
• Dr. Chris Gammons teaches courses in
geochemistry and hydrogeology.
• Dr. Willis Weight teaches classes in hydro-
geology and statistics.
• Dr. Mary MacLaughlin teaches classes in
engineering geology, geomechanics, and
slope design. Dr. Mark Sholes teaches
classes in physical geology, coal geology,
petrology and geomorphology.
■
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 33
Many have referred to Montana over the years as “the South
America of U.S. mining”. Having gone through some indus-
try valleys, the state is once again seeing a revival of interest in
mining due to numerous elements including government support
and increased environmental awareness on the industry’s behalf.
Yet, a major catalyst of this renewed attention has been one com-
pany’s significant mining discovery.
The O.T. Mining Corporation, based out of Montreal, Quebec, is
uniquely positioned to deliver a potentially significant source of
raw materials to the marketplace with their North Anomaly por-
phyry copper-molybdenum
system and high-grade pre-
cious metals targets on the
company’s Ruby property.
Some say that this area alone
may return Montana to its pre-
dominance of base and pre-
cious metal wealth in the U.S.
Uncovering Potential
The O.T. Mining Corporation
was incorporated in Montana
in 1980 as Ruby Resources of
Montana Inc., but changed their name in 1987 when they began
trading publicly. At that time the company’s property consisted of
five patented and 22 unpatented mining claims, which equalled
480 acres in the Lowland Mining District of Jefferson County,
Montana.
Today, O.T. Mining has 13 patented and 681 unpatented claims
covering 21.3 square miles at the Ruby Property. The Ruby prop-
erty is 14 miles from Butte, an area that once laid claim to being
the “Richest Hill on Earth” in terms of its production of copper,
zinc, manganese, molybdenum, gold and silver. The Ruby project
is the site of the discovery of an extremely large porphyry copper-
molybdenum mineralized zone that has the potential to exceed
the “Richest Hill on Earth.” Additional targets on the property
include high-grade gold-silver mineralization at the Ruby gold-sil-
ver mine, and epithermal style gold-silver at the Kit Carson target
area.
“Without question, the discovery of the porphyry copper-
molybdenum deposit known as the North Anomaly has been the
most significant for O.T.,” says Dr. Mark Fedikow Ph.D. P.Eng. P.Geo.
C.P.G., Vice President
Exploration for The O.T.
Mining Corporation. “This
deposit has east-west dimen-
sions of 15,000 feet and
north-south dimensions of
8,000 feet, with a vertical
extent of at least 3,200 feet. It
is open in all directions and at
depth.”
The parallels between the
North Anomaly and Butte are
of extreme importance in this
system. According to Dr. Fedikow, similarities in host rocks, struc-
tural style, alteration, mineralization and the recent discovery of
east-west-trending geophysical anomalies thought to be represen-
tative of Main Stage veins are all exciting developments that could
signify long-term production. Main Stage veins were responsible
for the bulk of base and precious metal production at Butte.
“Butte has been producing since the 1860s with only minor
interruptions in mining, and this underscores the significance of
O.T.’s potential at the North Anomaly,” he says. “In addition to the
Topping the“Richest Hill on Earth”The O.T. Mining Corporation’s Ruby propertyis bolstering mining in Montana
Topping the“Richest Hill on Earth”The O.T. Mining Corporation’s Ruby propertyis bolstering mining in Montana
By Carly Peters
The road to 05C-6 immediately after full reclamation; one year from now this site will be covered with grass.
“Butte has been producing since the 1860s with
only minor interuptions in mining, and this
underscores the significance of O.T.’s potential at
the North Anomaly. In addition to the porphyry
copper-molybdenum system, O.T. has intersected
high-grade base and precious metal mineralization
while exploring in the past-producing Ruby gold-
silver mine environment.”
34 Montana Mining 2007
porphyry copper-molybdenum system,
O.T. has intersected high-grade base and
precious metal mineralization while
exploring in the past-producing Ruby
gold-silver mine environment. These drill
intersections were of a style of mineraliza-
tion not discovered in the past when the
Ruby Mine produced 2.44 ounces per ton
and 38.66 ounces per ton silver. The new
mineralization is comprised of lead-zinc
and silver, has not been drilled off, and is
a deposit type that O.T. plans to pursue.”
According to Dr. Fedikow, this is the
only property that O.T. has in its Montana
portfolio, and will continue to focus the
majority of its technical expertise on it.
Utilizing cutting edge technology is top
priority for O.T. Mining’s President James
Hess, whose area of specialization is natu-
ral resources and emerging technologies,
and who has spearheaded many of the
techniques used on this project. Evidence
of the presence of the unknown mineral-
ization was recognized using advanced
forms of geochemical and geophysical sur-
veys, such as Mobile Metal Ions (MMI)
technology. While the use of MMI on the
Ruby property is only one of the geotech-
nical tools available to O.T. Mining’s team,
it has been critical in the exploration of
the area where there is a lack of outcrop
or, as in the case of the North Anomaly
porphyry system, the target mineraliza-
tion is buried beneath thick layers of vol-
canic rock. The application of this technol-
ogy has permitted the group to “see
through” these rocks at mineralized
sources so that they can be drill-tested.
People Powered
Yet, cutting edge technology is only suc-
cessful when applied properly. O.T.
Mining’s exploration success is due in part
to its group of professionals, each of
which have more than 30 years of mining
experience and many technical and com-
mercial successes to their credits.
“The building of the ‘human resource’
side of O.T.’s forward momentum has
been significant with the addition of qual-
ity staff to our team,” states Dr. Fedikow.
This includes Dr. Fess Foster, a 30-year
Montana exploration veteran, who brings
a wealth of technical expertise to O.T. and
is responsible for environmental permit-
ting, public relations and government liai-
son. The second is Tom Weitz, O.T.’s proj-
ect manager. Tom has 30 years of global
experience in the exploration, discovery,
opening and closure of mines and has
multiple responsibilities including man-
agement of O.T.’s field programs, drill con-
tracts, core facilities, budgeting and liai-
son with State and local officials.
The technical team is anchored by 50-
plus year exploration veteran Oliver Maki,
whose expertise is global in all aspects of
the mining exploration and development
business. His ability to assess mineral
prospects in light of this experience is key
to O.T.’s success.
Not to mention Dr. Fedikow, who has 30
years of industry and government experi-
ence as an exploration geochemist and
mineral deposits geologist. In this capaci-
ty, he has published numerous articles on
mineral deposits and their geochemical
expressions in rock, soil and vegetation
sample media, and in 2001 was the recip-
ient of the Provincial Geologists Medal, a
Canadian national award for outstanding
geoscientific achievement.
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Photo 1: Steps of the Reclamation Process: First, the road or drill site is “recontoured”, during which all fill material is replaced so that the disturbance is at theoriginal natural slope. Topsoil is placed on the top of this. Then, “slash” (dead trees, roots ,etc.) is placed on top of the topsoil, in order to hold in soil moisture,prevent the straw mulch and grass seed from blowing away, preclude access by motorized vehicles, and provide nutrients to the soil when it decays. Next the
1 2 3
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 35
area is seeded with a certified weed-free seed mix that includes natural grasses. Lastly, area is covered with certified weed-free straw as a last step in the recla-mation process. Photo 2: Fully reclaimed road to NA04-6, with less than 1 season’s growth (with Tom Weitz for scale). Photo 3: Fully reclaimed drill site KC04-3after 1 year of growth; it looks just like the surrounding native ground. Photo 4: The USFS inspecting reclamation in the Kit Carson Area. Photo 5: August 2006,Close up of bull moose along Lowland Creek near Buffalo Gulch (FESS). Photo 6: View looking east from North Anomaly Ridge toward Lowland Creek.
Gleaming Future
Further exploration of the North
Anomaly porphyry copper system
through an aggressive drill program
will continue in 2007, with addi-
tional geophysical and MMI surveys
to help delineate drill targets. O.T.
will also drill test high-grade coinci-
dent geophysical and geochemical
targets at their Kit Carson area.
“O.T. believes the Kit Carson area
has excellent potential to host a
high-grade epithermal system of
gold and silver mineralization simi-
lar to that found at the past-pro-
ducing Kit Carson Mine,” claims Dr.
Fedikow. “This mine is not on O.T.’s
property but is adjacent to it, and
was characterized by very high-
grade precious and base metal
grades.”
The Ruby property, if proven to
be economic to mine, will not only
provide a significant number of
jobs and economic benefits to asso-
ciated industries in local and state
economies, but will also again help
put Montana on the mining map -
something that ’s welcomed by
State officials and the industry
alike.
“Montana is open for business,”
he exclaims. “It is O.T.’s intent to
capitalize on this mining-friendly
business climate.” ■
4 5 6
The Jefferson River valley in southwest
Montana is home to more than the
small rural communities and ranches seen
throughout the area. There is abundant
wildlife, world class outdoor recreation, agri-
culture, and breathtaking views. And there is
something else, which many may considerout of place … a gold mine.
The Golden Sunlight Mine (GSM) beganoperation with a strong commitment to envi-ronmental stewardship and the local com-munity, and this commitment has continuedto date. This commitment will ensure thelong-term physical, chemical and ecologicalstability of the mine site and an active part-nership with local stakeholders. The GSM isan open pit gold mine located near the townof Whitehall, in southwestern Montana, andis owned by Barrick Gold Corporation. GSMhas been in operation since 1982, and hasproduced over 2.4 million ounces of gold.Today, the current workforce consists ofapproximately 150 employees and a smallcontract underground mine operation ofaround 35 miners and additional contrac-tors. Over the past few years, mining activityat the GSM site has been winding down, withan anticipated closure scheduled for 2008.
The GSM and Barrick sustainability pro-
gram continues to evolve and consists of fourpillars, including ethics, employees, commu-nity, and environment, health and safety.The Barrick vision is, “To be the world’s bestgold company by finding, acquiring, devel-oping and producing quality reserves in asafe, profitable and socially responsiblemanner.” The GSM has implemented its sus-tainability strategy by focusing on these pri-mary issues.
Environmental stewardship and highquality land reclamation have been prioritiesfor GSM since it began operation. The minesite is adjacent to a major interstate and ishighly visible to the public. GSM has theopportunity to have a tremendous impact onforming the ideas and standards expected bythe public of the mining industry and whattheir expectations are for reclamation. Itssuperior reclamation efforts, combined withits ongoing innovative research, are indica-tive of its environmental leadership in themining community.
GOLDEN SUNLIGHT MINE
An environmentaland partnership
legacy
By Shannon Dunlap, GSM Environmental Superintendent
GOLDEN SUNLIGHT MINE
An environmentaland partnership
legacy
By Shannon Dunlap, GSM Environmental Superintendent
36 Montana Mining 2007
Brenntag Pacific, Inc.1353 Taylor Place, Billings, MT 59101
Telephone: (406) 248-3131 | Toll Free: (888) 391-3131Fax: (406) 248-1237 | Cell Phone: (406) 671-4105
E-Maiil: mredfern@brenntag.com
Moore Oil, Inc.Wholesale Distributing
Moore Transportation, Inc.Bulk Fuel Transport
Bary MooreP.O. Box 1057
Thompson Falls, MT 59873(406) 827-4314
FAX: (406) 827-4791
Reclamation on the east side of the mine.Mule deer graze near the top of thereclaimed west waste rock dump.
Mine land reclamation is a key element of the GSM operation.Reclamation plans are fully engineered and implemented as soon asareas become available. These plans are routinely reviewed andupdated to incorporate the latest in technologies and GSM experience,and are backed up with reclamation and post-mine managementsurety in the amount of approximately $54 million.
During the 22 years of operation, mining has disturbed about 2,236acres. The GSM has reclaimed 1,066 acres or 47% of its total distur-bance, and 58% of its permitted reclamation obligation of remainingdisturbed areas. To date, the GSM has spent over $17 million on recla-mation, of which approximately $13 million was spent in the period2000 through 2001. The balance is made of active facilities such asthe open pit, waste rock complex, tailing impoundment, plant siteand attendant haul and access roads, all essential to the ongoing min-ing operation.
The Golden Sunlight Mine has been an integral part of the com-munity and local area for many years. Employees and family membersalso are a good testimony to the mining industry. Their networkingwith others outside the mining community contributes to educatingthe public on mining opportunities, practices, and challenges. Thetraits of the local miners coupled with the legacy they have estab-lished of partnership, cooperation, and teamwork set the stage wellfor future area economic development and prosperity.
The GSM has had a tremendous effect on the social environmentand culture of the local area since its inception. The employees of theGSM are an active part of the local area and have had a significant rolein shaping the local culture. Their involvement throughout the com-munity has a major impact on setting the community values andideals. The safety record at GSM has been outstanding and isingrained into the culture. It translates into the daily lives of the localresidents, as GSM employees become involved in various communityorganizations and activities. GSM’s support for education is an on-going activity.
The Community Transition Advisory Committee (CTAC) was formedin the spring of 2000 through the vision of GSM General Manager DougBailey. He felt that involving the community in closure planning wasnecessary to generate trust. The CTAC works on a comprehensive plan-ning process to focus on how to mitigate the negative economicimpact the local area will encounter with the pending closure of theGSM. While actively engaged in sustaining existing mining operations,the CTAC also focuses its efforts on the development of a working out-line that will result in a comprehensive, yet directed, approach toplanning for the post-mining sustainable uses of the mine site.
This process resulted in a formal study and report being conductedby an outside engineering firm, which analyzed the available assets atthe GSM, and the potential for future re-utilization. The results indi-cated strong support for development of a well-plannedIndustrial/Business Park and a wind energy facility at the site. TheBusiness Park Project planning and development process has beenongoing for several years. A major factor that influenced the pursuitof this project was the availability of a tract of GSM-owned land alonga main frontage road with excellent interstate access. The lease toassign this land to the Jefferson Local Development Corporation wassigned on January 31, 2007.
The mine site is a world-class wind resource, and when coupledwith existing infrastructure of high capacity transmission lines, a 70-megawatt substation, and an excellent road system, it makes the fea-sibility of developing a commercial wind energy farm attractive. GSMhas worked collaboratively with CTAC to further the wind park projecton various activities.
Industrial park planning withCommunity Transistion Advisory Committee (CTAC) group.
38 Montana Mining 2007
Above: Industrial Park lease signing in Whitehall.Barrick North American CEO, Greg Lang, looks on asJoe Calnan (JLDC President) signs lease.Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer lookson from the back of the room.
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 39
Barrick wants the legacy of the Golden Sunlight Mine to be one ofenvironmental stewardship and community awareness. Throughoutthe life of the mine, projects aimed to improve wildlife habitat andrecreational opportunities in the Jefferson Valley have been ongoing.So such is a story of a successful relationship between a modern min-ing operation and a progressive community. The Golden SunlightMine sustainability program is an outstanding working model of cor-porate citizenship and sustainability planning. The GSM sustainabili-ty programs are an excellent example of how to develop relationshipsand instill a culture that will last long after mine closure.
For further information, please contact:
Sam Graham, Human Resources Superintendent
Barrick Golden Sunlight Mine
453 MT Hwy #2 East, Whitehall, Montana 59759
Telephone: 406-287-2015
■
Reclamation on Tailings Impoundment No.1.
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At left: turkey introduction programon GSM-owned property.
Below: mule deer on reclaimed slope.PHOTO BY JENA POLK
While the concept of a Good Neighbor Agreement isn’t new, it is an
anomaly within the natural resource industry. A tradition of con-
flict and distrust between natural resource companies and local envi-
ronmental groups is an ingrained culture that has perpetuated an “us
vs. them” mindset and a stalemate in achieving common objectives.
Even rarer is the success of such an agreement, seven years after itsimplementation. The first of its kind, the Good Neighbor Agreementbetween Stillwater Mining Company (SMC) and the Northern PlainsResources Council (NPRC) and its affiliates is a testament to the posi-tive impact of cooperation. The legally binding Agreement accommo-dates the interests of both the mining company and citizen groups,through forums of discussion, debate and resolution.
Among the Agreement’s provisions, independent consultants caninspect SMC mines, collect samples and interview employees. NPRCand its affiliates, in turn, gave up its right to litigate against the mine.Two committees, with equal representation from both sides, reviewplan implementation requirements, waste reduction measures andnew technologies and responsible mining practices. If the committeesare in deadlock, the issue goes to binding arbitration.
The practical implementation and ensuing benefits of the GoodNeighbor Agreement have fully convinced Bruce Gilbert, SMC’sDirector of Environmental and Governmental Affairs, that theAgreement fosters positive goal-setting for all interested parties. “Atfirst, I was very skeptical about the Agreement, but now know that thisis the way to do business,” he says. “Trying to settle disputes in courtis a culture of conflict that doesn’t work for either side. The GoodNeighbor Agreement forces everyone to sit at the table and identifycommon ground, as a starting point in resolving an issue.”
Negotiating a fair and equitable Agreement was challenging forboth sides and took more than a year to finalize. Fifth generationranchers have been environmental watchdogs of the Stillwater andBoulder Rivers for almost three decades and, as members of theStillwater Protective Association and the Cottonwood ResourceCouncil, promote environmental responsibility. With the StillwaterMine operating near Nye, Montana and the East Boulder Mine indevelopment near Big Timber, Montana, the socio-economic, as wellas the potential environmental impact, became a cause for concernamong citizen groups.
THE STILLWATER GOOD NEIGHBOR AGREEMENT:
A new business modelof cooperation fornatural resource industries
THE STILLWATER GOOD NEIGHBOR AGREEMENT:
A new business modelof cooperation fornatural resource industriesBy Lisa Fattori
Stillwater Mine overview.
40 Montana Mining 2007
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 41
“We were primarily interested in water rights and quality, which are
so important in a ranching community,” says Paul Hawks, past Chair
of NPRC and a representative of the Good Neighbor Agreement’s
Eastern Boulder Oversight Committee. “Also, this is a small communi-
ty, and the huge influx of people affected the local infrastructure and
created traffic congestion.”
With each side pumping money into a legal system that promised
no timely results or a favorable outcome, the Good Neighbor
Agreement was a risk worth pursuing. “One of the hurdles that both
sides had to overcome was the concept that this Agreement was legal-
ly binding,” Gilbert says. “Ironically, these legal obligations are what
make the relationship so successful. No one can throw up his hands
and threaten legal action on the way out the door. Instead, we’re
bound by the Agreement to work together towards a resolution.”
Hawks concurs that the Agreement, in practice, has ushered in a
culture of respect and trust. “Over time, you get to know one another
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East Boulder Mine overview.
42 Montana Mining 2007
as individuals, and this establishes trust,” he says. “You also get to seethe other side’s position and discover that you share common inter-ests. A strong working relationship means that you can be up-frontand get down to business on the issue at hand.”
SMC’s corporate culture of environmental responsibility, even priorto the Good Neighbor Agreement, is conducive to the Agreement’s suc-cess. As North America’s largest producer of palladium, used in cat-alytic converters, SMC is intrinsically committed to minimize its envi-ronmental footprint. A long tradition of community involvement, phi-lanthropy and best practices that exceed industry regulations honedSMC’s willingness to partner with citizen groups, and to innovate newprocesses that ensure environmental sustainability.
“As producers of pollution-control metals, it would be disingenuous
to degrade the environment in the process,” Gilbert says. “StillwaterMining Company has always been environmentally responsible, whichmakes the Good Neighbor Agreement the ideal alliance. TheAgreement is in the spirit of operating responsibly to protect the envi-ronment for future generations.”
Several of SMC’s green initiatives include a biological treatment sys-tem to reduce nitrogen in the mine water. Nitrogen levels in the treat-ed water are close to zero, as opposed to an allowable 10 ppm limit,required by drinking water standards. In addition, at SMC’s smelter,the company has removed sulphur dioxide by 99.8 per cent. The sul-phur dioxide is scrubbed to produce gypsum (calcium sulfate), a by-product that is sold as a soil amendment for sodium impacted soils.
“We’ve demonstrated that we’re willing to put our money where
Rams on Stillwater Mine propertyGood Neighbor Agreement sampling.
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 43
Serving theMining Industry forover 50 Years in theUSA & Canada.
Graymont Western US, Inc.4 1/2 Miles West of TownsendP.O. Box 550Townsend, MT 59644Phone: (406) 266-5221Fax: (406) 266-3079www.graymont.com
our mouth is, and that our environmentalcommitment is not just a façade,” Gilbertsays. “We’ve spent millions to implement thebest possible programs, including a LandApplication Center Pivot system that removesany residual nitrogen after treatment byagronomic uptake. This system alsoimproves ranch land forage that supportswildlife and cattle grazing on a company-owned ranch, and furthers the treatment ofmine water so that nitrogen concentrationsin groundwater are non-detectable. “
In 2005, SMC and NPRC re-negotiated theGood Neighbor Agreement, to trim irrelevan-cies within the document, and to focus onissues that became more apparent after fiveyears of practice. SMC agreed to continuebusing employees to and from the mine,which improves road safety through reducedcongestion, and minimizes vehicular pollu-tion.
“There were over 1,000 miners and sup-port staff going to the mines every day,which created a lot of traffic on our rural,winding roads,” Hawk says. “After five yearsof busing employees, the mine could seethat it was money well spent. Absenteeism
went down and employees appreciated nothaving to drive at the end of their shifts.”
Today, out of 1,700 employees, companywide, approximately half are area residentsthat enjoy economic opportunity because ofemployment at Stillwater Mining Company.Equally important are the pristine naturalsurroundings and the continued health ofthe county’s waterways. The Good NeighborAgreement does not compromise either;rather, it creates one side - a common side
that marries economic prosperity with envi-
ronmental responsibility.
“With this Agreement, we’re not debating
philosophical truths and going nowhere,”
Gilbert says. “We’re looking at where the rub-
ber hits the road in our own community, and
are addressing local issues and concerns.
When everyone shares the same values and
goals, it’s not about compromise; it’s about
creating a win-win scenario.” ■
East Boulder Mine – Water Treatment Plant.
Montana’s present face to the worldrests on its “Big Sky” slogan denoting
its overhead grandeur and abundance ofnatural assets, but it was the resourcesburied underfoot that precipitated the terri-tory’s tumultuous rush to statehood in 1889.
The importance of mining resources wasunderscored by Montana’s flag and statemotto, “oro y plata”, Spanish for ‘gold and sil-ver’; hence the state’s being referred to, inthose formative years, as the “TreasureState.” Precious metals were the glittering
prizes that attracted a flood of fortune seek-ers looking to stake their claims in this partof the north western United States, and thatsudden influx of people was to irrevocablyalter the course of Montana’s history.
The pursuit of gold, silver, and later, cop-per, gave rise to the need for a means to set-tle the inevitable clashes of disputed owner-ship among the claim seekers, in a part ofthe northwest that was still deemed territori-al within the existing United States.
The present day law firm of Gough,
Shanahan, Johnson and Waterman, thenknown as Toole and Toole, was an activeentity in those heady days prior to Montana’sstatehood, and has continued its deep con-nectedness within the state’s historical fabricever since.
Toole and Toole, founded by brothersEdwin and Joseph, first hung out its shinglein 1879 in Helena, Montana, at a time whenthe mining business generated an assort-ment of legal disputes in terms in resolvingdisagreements, claims, and contractsbetween suppliers, miners and other stake-holders.
Present day attorney with Gough,Shanahan, Johnson and Waterman, AlanJoscelyn says, “We presume that the businessthat brought lawyers to Helena was a directresult of the discovery of gold.”
Gold was the initial lure back then, but avariety of other ores in abundant quantitiessealed the territory’s future as a provider ofmetals including silver, copper, and plat-inum.
Says Mr. Joscelyn, “All kinds of resourceissues faced by cattlemen, ranchers, andbusiness people emerged, followed quicklyby the railroads. The railroads turned intoone of the biggest clients of the firm overtime. Basically, the law firm has evolved toaddress whatever the legal needs are of thecommunity.”
The early days of Toole and Toole revolvedaround issues having to do with the pioneergold camp that existed at that time, but itevolved rapidly to encompass everythingthat was going on in the territory andMontana’s eventual emergence to early daystatehood.
Back then, the firm reflected the partner-ship between brothers, Edwin Warren Tooleand Joseph Kemp Toole. The dynamism ofthe territorial days drew Joseph into politics,where among numerous other appoint-ments, he served two terms as delegate tothe 49th and 50th Congress of the UnitedStates. In so doing, he championed the causefor Montana statehood that was realized
33 S.Last Chance GulchP.O. Box 1715Helena, Montana 59624-1715Tel. 406 442-8560Fax 406 442-8783email: gsjw@gsjw.comwebsite: www.gsjw.com
SSeerrvviinngg MMoonnttaannaa’’ss NNaattuurraall RReessoouurrccee IInndduussttrriieessSSiinnccee 11887799
History of Gough, Shanahan,Johnson & Waterman mirrors the history of MontanaBy Margaret Anne Fehr
HISTORICAL
44 Montana Mining 2007
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 45
through the Enabling Act of 1889, which gavebirth to the official State of Montana. JosephToole’s place in Montana history was sealedwhen he was elected the new state’s first gov-ernor in the same year.
As Montana grew, so, too, did the fortunesof Toole and Toole, and by 1884 the firmbecame Toole, Toole & Wallace. WilliamWallace Jr., considered to be another firmfounder, contributed to the firm’s continuinggrowth and also went on to become FirstAssistant Attorney General of the UnitedStates in 1913.
The rise of the ‘copper kings’ era inMontana represented another chapter in thefirm’s history from the latter part of the 1800sto the early decades of the 20th century.
“This era,” says Mr. Joscelyn, “certainlydominated the business landscape in thestate for a long time and the law firm wasdirectly involved with legal disputes that weregenerated by competition among the copperkings in Butte.”
As the 20th century progressed, manage-ment issues pertaining to Montana’s rich andvaried resource base became the subject ofthe resource conflicts of the 1990s, and wereto act as a bellwether for the developing con-cern and attention that the nation shares forthe wise stewardship of the environment, ingeneral.
Over the course of its professional history,the original Toole and Toole founded in 1879has undergone sixteen name changes toreflect the individuals who have practiced lawin its corridors over the years. In 1978, thepresent name of Gough, Shanahan, Johnsonand Waterman was initiated. Today, the firmis made up of 22 attorneys who specialize indiversified areas of the law including naturalresources affecting energy law, timber andmining law that deal with base, precious met-als, and industrial minerals.
In a state that is so endowed with a rich-ness of resources, the firm has reflected thatdiversity with a practice that also includesadministrative, environmental, insuranceand employment and general practice capa-bilities. Specialty areas like banking, intellec-tual property, international business andschool law are other areas of legal expertisethat the firm offers, which are in step with theincreasing complexity of evolving contempo-rary issues.
Montana’s richness of resources, bothabove and below ground, continue to upholdits original name as the ‘Treasure State’ andone that Gough, Shanahan, Johnson &Waterman will continue to represent and pro-tect. ■
46 Montana Mining 2007
D R I L L I N G P R O D U C T S S P E C I A L I S T S845 S. Montana Street, Butte, Montana 59701
Fax: 406.782.9605
Te l : 4 0 6 . 7 8 2 . 9 6 0 4
The Montanore Project is an advancedexploration stage project located in
northwestern Montana in Lincoln County,near the town of Libby. The Company hascommenced the process of re-permitting theProject, and plans to commence an advancedexploration and delineation drilling programin 2007, which would assist us in determiningits feasibility for development.
In May, the Company acquired early per-mits from the previous operator that allowsthe company to conduct an undergrounddrill program designed to provide data tosupport the project’s final detailed engineer-ing and design, and a bankable feasibilitystudy.
To fund this project, the Company com-pleted a $30 million equity financing in April,2007. With the financing complete, heavyequipment to support the project is expectedfor delivery on site starting in June.
Advanced Exploration andDelineation Drilling Program
In 2006, Mines Management, Inc. acquiredthe property providing access to the 14,000foot Libby adit from the previous operator.With additional development, the Libby aditwill provide access to the Montanore deposit.Additionally, two permits acquired related tothe Libby adit that, with the approval ofminor revisions, allow us to reopen, dewaterand rehabilitate the adit, and to conduct anadvanced exploration and delineationdrilling program.
In 2007, the Company plans to commencethe underground drill program, which is ex-pected to take up to 24 months. The adit will
undergo dewatering and rehabilitation, andthe adit will be advanced approximately 3,000feet towards the middle zone of the deposit.An additional 10,000 feet of developmentdrifting will be necessary to provide drillaccess. Once the drifting is underway, weexpect to undertake delineation diamond coredrilling of approximately 50 holes totalingapproximately 45,000 feet. The objectives ofour underground evaluation program are to:• Expand the known higher grade intercepts
of the Montanore deposit; • Develop additional information about the
deposit; • Further assess and define the mineralized
zone; and • Provide additional geotechnical, hydrologi-
cal and other data.
Stage 1 – Dewatering andAdit Rehabilitation
With the exception of the first 600 feet, thelength of the Libby adit contains water.During the first stage of the advanced explo-ration and delineation drilling program, weplan to dewater the adit, and treat the dis-charged water using ultra-filtration and possi-bly chemical pre-treatment so that dis-charged water, both during the dewatering
MINES MANAGEMENT
Mines Management advancesthe Montanore Projectto next phase
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 47
process as well as during development of the adit anddrilling program, meets Montana’s water quality stan-dards. We completed the pilot scale tests of the watertreatment method in February 2007. We estimate thatwe will spend approximately $7.3 million of the netproceeds of this offering on Stage 1 activities.
As dewatering takes place, we plan to rehabilitatethe adit, which we anticipate to involve, among otheractivities, scaling the walls, installing new roof boltsand extending electricity, ventilation and dewateringinfrastructure into the adit.
Stage 2 – Advancement of Adit,Drifting and Establishment of Drill Stations
Once rehabilitation is complete, expected by thethird quarter of 2007, we plan to advance the aditapproximately 3,000 feet towards the middle of thedeposit. Following the advancement of the adit, weexpect to commence 10,000 feet of development drift-ing, which will be necessary to provide drill access.Once drifting is underway, we will also begin to estab-lish drill stations. The process of drifting and theestablishment of drill stations will continue through-out the remainder of the program. We anticipatespending $7.5 million of the net proceeds of this offer-ing on Stage 2 activities.
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48 Montana Mining 2007
Stage 3 – Phase I Delineation DrillingIn Stage 3 of the advanced exploration
and delineation drilling program, we expectto commence approximately 20,000 feet ofdelineation diamond core drilling. We esti-mate that we will spend approximately $0.5million of the proceeds of this financing onStage 3 activities and expect to completeStage 3 in late 2008.
During the first three stages of the pro-gram, we anticipate spending approximately$12.7 million of the net proceeds of thisoffering on site operational costs, capitalequipment, project contingencies, optimiza-tion studies and corporate support.
Stage 4 – Phase II Drilling andBankable Feasibility Study
We expect to require additional financingof approximately $10.0 million to completeStage 4 of the advanced exploration and de-lineation drilling program and for additionalsite capital and operating costs. During thisstage we anticipate completing an additional25,000 feet of diamond core drilling, under-taking additional metallurgical and geotech-nical testing and analysis and, if the results ofour exploration are successful, preparing forand completing a bankable feasibility study.
Montanore Project Advancement
As the project advances, local jobs will be
created to complete certain tasks. During the
drilling phase, the company anticipates hir-
ing up to 20-30 workers, which, if the project
is successfully developed, could create an
additional approximately 300 more posi-
tions. The company has appreciated the sup-
port of the local community, and looks for-
ward to the possibility of a long term collab-
oration as the project advances toward
development.
SOURCE: Information for this article was
taken from Mines Management’s public
filings with the Securities and Exchange
Commission, including a prospectus filed as
part of a public offering of securities. ■
MINES MANAGEMENT
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 49
Mike Mullaney, President ..............................O (406) 285-4970Holcim (US) Inc.4070 Trident Road, Three Forks, Montana 59752mike.mullaney@holcim.com
Doug Miller, Vice President .................O (406) 295-5882 x 222Troy Mine – Revett GenesisP.O. Box 1660, Troy, MT 59935millerd@troymine.com
Mark Redfern, 1st Vice President.................C (406) 671-4105Brenntag Pacific123 West Boulevard, Lewistown, Montana 59457mredfern@brenntag.com
John Junnila, 2nd Vice President..................O (406) 373-6010Westate Machinery CompanyP.O. Box 50370, Billings, MT 59105junnilaj@westate.com
Tim Smith, Past President ............................O (406) 495-2803Montana Tunnels Mining Inc.P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MT 59638tgsmith@mttunnels.com
Matt Wolfe, Secretary / Treasurer .................O (406) 322-8700Stillwater Mining Company536 East Pike AvenueP.O. Box 1330, Columbus, MT 59019mwolfe@stillwatermining.com
Elton Chorney, Director .................................O (406) 266-5221Graymont Western U.S. Inc.P.O. Box 550, Townsend, MT 59644echorney@graymont.com
Mark Cole, Director........................................O (406) 434-5583Dick Irvin Inc.P.O. Box 950, Shelby, MT 59474mcole@3rivers.net
Tim Dimock, Director ....................................O (406) 287-2046Barrick - Golden Sunlight Mine453 MT Highway 2 East, Whitehall, MT 59759tdimock@barrick.com
John Fitzpatrick, Director..............................O (406) 442-5032
Fess Foster, Director.......................................O (406) 287-3261Geological & Environmental Consultant21 Paul Gulch Road, Whitehall, MT 59759fessfoster@earthlink.net
Bruce Gilbert, Director ..................................O (406) 322-8700Stillwater Mining Company536 East Pike AvenueP.O. Box 1330, Columbus, MT 59019bgilbert@stillwatermining.com
Jim Liebetrau, Director ..................................C (425) 210-3653AFFCO.......................................................O (406) 563-8494 x 111015 East Sixth Street, Anaconda, MT 59711jim.liebetrau@affcomfg.com
Robin McCulloch, Director ............................O (406) 496-4171Montana TechW. 1300 Park Street, Butte, MT 59701rmcculloch@mtech.edu
Gene Nelson, Director....................................O (406) 549-8856Yellow Band Gold Inc.3926 Bellecrest Drive, Missoula, MT. 59801Geolnelson@aol.com
Roger W. Rohr, Director ................................C (406) 698-1563Tractor and Equipment Co.Major Accounts Managerrrohr@tractorandequipment.com
Scott Sturm, Director .....................................O (406) 683-3326Barretts Minerals8625 Highway 91 South, Dillon, MT 59725scott.sturm@mineralstech.com
Jim Volberding, Director ...............................O (406) 538-2501Canyon Resources CorporationP.O. Box 79, Hilger, MT 59451crkendal@wb.midrivers.com
Debbie Shea, Executive Director ...................O (406) 495-1444Montana Mining Association1820 North Last Chance GulchP.O. Box 5567, Helena, MT 59604dshea@montanamining.org
Debra Pitassy, Executive Assistant ................O (406) 495-1444Montana Mining Association1820 North Last Chance GulchP.O. Box 5567, Helena, MT 59604dpitassy@montanamining.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Montana Mining AssociationBoard of Directors 2007
www.montanamining.org
DISTRIBUTED SYSTEM IS FIRST TO INCLUDE CONTINUOUSMONITORING FOR ALL 2D, 3D, 3C, OR 4C SURFACE SURVEYSSAN JOSE, CA -FEBRUARY 23, 2007 — Geometrics Inc. todayannounced the Geode DZ, a 24 bit, portable 3D distributed seis-mic acquisition system that brings ease-of-use, economy, andGPS synchronized continuous monitoring to high resolution min-ing, petroleum, and research surveys.
Featuring unmatched 20 kHz, 24-bit bandwidth (allows sur-veys in hard rock), and a modern, intuitive & easy-to-use soft-ware interface, the Geode DZ system uses, rugged, lightweightA/D & Line Tap modules that are connected by Ethernet to astandard Windows® computer. The overall result isfaster, lower cost high resolution 3D surveys.
The DZ’s intuitive graphical software eases thetransition to 3D surveys. User friendly linked mod-ules include; wizard-based OMNI Tools for quicklyplanning, modeling and simulating all aspects ofa survey, and the Geometrics Seismic AcquisitionSuite of tools for efficient data collection, exten-sive QC testing (including state-of-the-art line andgeophone testing), and graphically monitoring &controlling the features and operation of the DZhardware. The Geode DZ is backed by a 3 year parts andlabor warranty. The architecture is backwardscompatible with existing Geode hardware whichcan be simply incorporated into a new 3-D sys-tem. A wide variety of sources can be used,including; environment-friendly weight-drops,vibrators and pseudo-random (Mini-Sosie) sourcesas well as explosives.
Geometrics is an established world leader (since1968) in the design and manufacture of high performance,rugged, and reliable geophysical instruments including land andmarine seismographs, geoelectrical instruments, and magne-tometer systems for land, marine and airborne use.
Contact Geometrics at (408) 954-0522 or atsales@geometrics.com.
■
Geode DZ 3D A/D modules (yellow) and line tap unit (orange).
The compact, rugged Geode DZ 3D system is easy to transport and deploy.
3D SEISMIC SYSTEM
Geometrics introduces economical,easy-to-use 3D Seismic System forcoal, oil, gas & geologic exploration
50 Montana Mining 2007
GEOMETRICS
Lower Cost Land Mineral Surveys
With the rugged Geometrics G-859 MineralMag™
Make a high-resolution walking survey and easily generate a magnetic anomaly map of your minerals.
The G-859 MineralMag™ was designed to operate in the harshest conditions you will encounter, from scorching sandstorms to arctic blizzards. The rugged and field proven console and cesium sensor never need factory recalibration or adjustment. More uptime and ease of use yields lower cost surveys. Geometrics, a world leader in Geophysical instruments for 35 years, is so confident in the G-859’s reliability, it is backed with a full 2 year parts & labor warranty and unlimited technical support.
The G-859 is the affordable integrated man-portable cesium magnetometer system with integrated GPS and non-magnetic backpack. Even the batteries are magnetically compensated. This minimizes noise caused by platform motion and results in more detailed data sets which save money in drilling costs.
The G-859 is compact, easy to set up and use, and is ideal for rapid high-resolution mining, petroleum, and geologic exploration surveys, also for academic research, education and local environmental studies including the mapping of waste sites and underground utilities.
It features high speed, low noise and high sensitivity (the best in the industry at 0.008nT/Sq-rt-Hz RMS). It incorporates a WAAS/EGNOS enabled Novatel™ GPS for accurate survey position, operates world wide. The system includes free processing software providing data profiling or contouring for in-field or laboratory analysis.
With its 8-12 hour data storage capacity and daylight readable graphical interface, the G-859 data acquisition offers either continuous (automatic) or discrete station recording. The high sampling rate in continuous mode allows an operator to survey a large area at a fast pace. Both magnetometer and GPS data are simultaneously logged at up to 5 samples per second for economical surveys at high sample density.
www.geometrics.com
The assembled G-859 and GPS in its durable padded shipping case with transport wheels. No assembly is required, just power
up and use.
Console with graphical daylight readable display, large buttons for gloved hand operation, and weatherproof cesium sensor
1-408-954-0522
ARCADIS is the U.S.-based operations arm of
ARCADIS NV (Arnhem, The Netherlands), a
12,500-person multi-national company. We
offer our clients access to the resources and
problem-solving capabilities of a truly global
organization. In the United States and
Canada, ARCADIS employs over 3,500 people
and operates over 147 offices strategically
located throughout the country to best serve
our clients.
Mining and metals is one of the core indus-
try sectors served by ARCADIS. By specializing
in mining and metals, we offer clients a
focused understanding of the economic and
regulatory factors that drive the industry, and
unique environmental and business solutions
for reclamation. Beginning with exploration
and permitting activities, through mine devel-
opment and operation, and ending with closure, ARCADIS offers
unique services tailored to the mining industry.
Mine Life Cycle concerns are more important than ever with
today’s emphasis on sustainability issues. ARCADIS’ approach to
environmental issues at mine sites is designed to facilitate future
use, and to maximize land sale and redevelopment opportunities.
Our mining staff, partnered with our renowned land development
department, provides our clients with unparalleled reuse options.
Economic cycles of volatile costs and commodity prices are char-
acteristic of the mining and metals industry. Our breadth of expert-
ise assures that our client’s needs will be met regardless of the eco-
nomic environment. We are equally prepared to address permitting
and expansion issues during growth markets, as well as closure and
optimization issues during the down times. Our services include:
The Opti-leach Program: a business solution coupled with cutting
edge technology to enhance metal extraction from heap leach facil-
ities.
Risk Assessment: an accurate and thorough assessment of both
human health and ecological risk, allowing determination of site
appropriate regulatory levels and providing for practical yet effective
remedial options.
Accelerated Environmental Permitting: leading the industry in an
efficient and practical approach to NEPA and mine develop-
ment/permitting.
Putting innovationinto practice
ARCADIS
52 Montana Mining 2007
NRDA Assessments: experienced in both
small, quick-settling cases and some of the
largest, most important NRDA cases in the
United States.
Innovative Remediation Technologies:
technologies designed to treat the cause of
environmental issues, not just the symp-
toms.
Selected ARCADIS’ advantages include:
• MINE PIT LAKE TREATMENT_ARCADIS has
successfully applied in-situ technology to
treat a 27 million gallon pit lake with ele-
vated metals in a matter of months.
• ACID ROCK DRAINAGE PREVENTION –
ARCADIS has successfully applied acid
mine/acid rock prevention technology to
effectively prevent future acid rock
drainage to surface and groundwater
sources.
• IN-SITU REACTIVE WALL AND REACTIVE
ZONES – ARCADIS has successfully applied
the specialized expertise of our interna-
tionally recognized experts who pio-
neered the use of reactive wall and reac-
tive zone technologies to remediate
groundwater at over 130 sites.
• IN-SITU BIOREMEDIATION AND INTRINSIC
BIOATTENUATION – ARCADIS is a leader in
enhancing the naturally occurring in-situ
biogeochemical processes, having treated
impacted water in over 110 intrinsic
bioattenuation projects.
ARCADIS’ approach has application in pit
lakes, smelter ponds, and flooded mines
and underground workings where the water
quality would otherwise require pumping
and treating the water ex-situ. In-situ treat-
ment also can be used to avoid backfilling
pits with waste and overburden materials,
reducing the cost of closure by reducing the
volume of earth materials moved at clo-
sure. A variation of this approach has also
been used to reduce groundwater impacts
and management costs from backfilled pits.
Our approach to acid rock drainage (ARD)
avoids the typical approach of effluent-col-
lection and treatment that drives the per-
ception of perpetually-required operations
and maintenance (O&M). This approach
actually prevents the ARD process from
occurring. By creating reducing conditions
within the waste rock or underground
mine, the driving forces creating ARD are
removed and the mobility of hazardous
metals is reduced. Utilizing this ARD pre-
vention technology avoids the perpetual
treatment costs typically associated with
large waste dumps and underground mine
workings in sulfide ore bodies. This
approach can be applied at historic proper-
ties, during closure, and especially early in
the life cycle of planned and operating sites,
using our “design for closure” approach.
With ARCADIS on your team, mine opera-
tors can focus on the business of mining.
ARCADIS... Imagine the Result. ■
Montana Mining Association www.montanamining.org 53
54 Montana Mining 2007
A.L. Lee Corporation 31, 39
American Mine Research, Inc. 12
Arcadis US Inc. 53
Atlas Copco CMT USA LLC 22
Billings Clinic 10
Bison Engineering, Inc. 24
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Montana 38
Brenntag Pacific, Inc. 36
Bucyrus International, Inc. IBC
Chemical Montana Company 34
Chevron / Fickler Oil Company Inc. 8
Cross Petroleum Service 16
Damascus Corporation 20
Delhur Industries, Inc. 14
Dick Irvin, Inc. Transportation 9
Dyno Nobel 32
Dywidag-Systems International 48
Energy Laboratories 11
ES&S Company 47
Ezzie’s Wholesale, Inc. 17
F&H Mine Supply, Inc. 47
Fickler Oil Company, Inc. 17
Geometrics Inc. 51
Golden Sunlight 37
Gough, Shanahan, Johnson & Waterman 44
Granite Seed 41
Graymont Western US, Inc. 43
H&E Equipment Services 42
Hardsteel Inc. 15
Holland & Hart, LLP 27
Hoss Equipment Company 5
Industrial Equipment Manufacturing Ltd. 25
ITT Flygt 4
KLS Hydraulics Machine Works 28
Midway Gold Corporation 28
Mines Management, Inc. OBC
Montana Seals And Packing CAD, Inc. 11
Moore Oil, Inc. 36
Nelson Brothers Mining Services, LLC 10
Northwest Pipe Fittings, Inc. 16
Okeefe Drilling Company 44
P&H Minepro Services 3
Pipeline Systems Incorporated 29
Power Service of Montana, Inc. 9
Rahnmet 45
Revett Minerals 19
Richwood 26
Ruen Drilling Incorporated 45
Stillwater Mining Company 40
Stone Raven Resources LLC 14
Techline Services 46
Terex Mining 7
The O.T. Mining Corporation 35
Tractor & Equipment Co. 21
Tri-State Truck & Equipment 41
Westate Machinery Company 9
Westate Machinery / Columbia Steel 29
Western Wyoming Community College 24
Wholesale Mine Supply, LLP IFC
WWC Engineering 13
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