Mine Idaho 2020 by DEL Communications Inc.

mIne Idaho Official Publication of the Idaho Mining Association

24 Mine U.S. minerals donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t undermine them: A look at the U.S.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mineral wealth and how it is used

42 The benefits of partnering with an experienced firstparty consultant throughout the NEPA and permitting processes

48 Finding mining success with technology: How technology has become a necessary and critical aspect of modern mining

2020

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE 6

A message from the President of the Idaho Mining Association Alan Prouty

A message from the Executive Director of the Idaho Mining Association Benjamin Davenport

Idaho Mining Association members list

Idaho Mining Association member benefits

2020

Bringing mining back to mining communities: How Integra Resources is integrating new technologies to bring back mining to previous abandoned sites

Advertising Sales Manager Dayna Oulion Toll Free: 1.866.424.6398

An update on the Stibnite Gold project from Midas Gold Corp. Doing their best and feeding the world: The J.R. Simplot company story

A year of excitement and exploration: A review of Idaho Mining Association 2019 events

Progress of mining and exploration in Idaho: An update on the National Geological and Geophysical Data Preservation Program from the Idaho Geological Survey

In case you missed it: A look at the Idaho Mining Conference 2019

Mine U.S. minerals don’t undermine them: A look at the U.S.’s mineral wealth and how it is used

Milk and mining, always better local: How a buy-local approach could change mining in the U.S.

The Kilgore project: Idaho’s next multi-million ounce gold deposit

Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology celebrates 30 years

A golden opportunity for Revival Gold at the Beartrack-Arnett Project

President David Langstaff

Idaho Mining Association membership information

Published by DEL Communications Inc. www.delcommunications.com

Managing Editor Taryn Rittberg Toll Free: 1.855.837.0976

You have a message and a story, go tell it: How strategic communication can help your business

Idaho Mining Association principles and vision

mIne Idaho

The benefits of partnering with an experienced first-party consultant throughout the NEPA and permitting processes

Midas Gold project sets high bar for modern mining operations and seeks to restore trust among community harmed by environmentally unaware past

Innovative strategies for the management of mine-impacted waters: Site specific leachate source control and semi-passive water treatment provide cost advantages

Finding mining success with technology: How technology has become a necessary and critical aspect of modern mining

Out of the Rock educator workshop: Bringing awareness to the importance of mining and mineral resources

FlowTech Fueling: Small fueling process improvements lead to big production gains

Unlikely coalition brings new life to Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout one year after completion of habitat restoration

On the cover: Integra Resources commences 20,000 meter drill program at the Delamar Project in southwestern Idaho, USA. Beginning in 2018, more than 20,000 meters of RC and diamond hole drilling commenced at the DeLamar and Florida Mountain deposits. and Florida Mountain deposits. © Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher.

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein and the reliability of the source, the publisher in no way guarantees nor warrants the information and is not responsible for errors, omissions or statements made by advertisers. Opinions and recommendations made by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher, its directors, officers or employees.

Publications mail agreement #40934510 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: DEL Communications Inc. Suite 300, 6 Roslyn Road Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada R3L 0G5 Email: david@delcommunications.com PRINTED IN CANADA 12/2019

4 Mine Idaho

A message from the President of the Idaho Mining Association By Alan Prouty, The Simplot Company

Metals of the future

here is a lot of discussion these days about the promises of technology for our lives. Examples include, 5G technology for communication and information sharing and the expanded grid systems that can incorporate diverse sources of electricity generation. What these promising developments have in common is that minerals are vital components of the technologies being developed. And Idaho, as the Gem State, is in an unique position to be a supplier of these strategic minerals.

Idaho has considerable mineral wealth that includes rare earths and other metals that are essential to the new technologies being developed. As supported by the recent Idaho Mining Conference, there are development activities underway for cobalt, gold, antimony, copper, molybdenum, along with the continued mining of silver, lead, and phosphate. The products made from these minerals are vital to our future, whether it is cobalt for new battery systems or advanced phosphate products used with “smart” technology to grow food more efficiently.

Idaho has considerable mineral wealth that includes rare earths and other metals.

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The Idaho Mining Association (IMA) advocates on behalf of Idaho’s miners to have access to and develop these critical minerals that are needed for this technology revolution. This role includes responsible mining. The IMA initiated legislation in 2019 to update Idaho’s mining laws, which included provisions that strengthened reclamation and associated financial assurance requirements. Mining is an important part of Idaho’s history, and today’s economic and community fabric. The IMA will continue its work so that mining remains a key part of Idaho’s prosperous future. s

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A message from the Idaho Mining Association’s Executive Director By Benjamin Davenport, IMA Executive Director

Time to embrace responsible mining

e have had another tremendous year at the Idaho Mining Association. Membership

continues to grow and is more engaged with every day that passes. As we continue to work toward our policy goals and pub-

lic awareness initiatives, I am constantly reminded of the work that still needs to be done. While we had many accomplishments in 2019 on the policy front, it is clear that people not familiar with our industry still have a hard time connecting the dots between the products it provides and the

products that our society is consuming at unprecedented levels. Sadly, it isn’t just the folks who live in urban centers or the people who have never seen a mine. It is often the case with our policy makers as well. With the national election cycle in full swing we have heard many politicians

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call for renewable and green energy while in the next breath calling for mining bans across the country. These feel good promises and policies are well meaning but they fail to connect the dots on how our nation can achieve these clean energy goals without mining. In fact, a study1 conducted by Leiden University in the Netherlands concluded that the world transitioning to a “renewable energy system” will not only strain current supply chains of metals, critical minerals, and rare earths needed to manufacture solar panels and wind turbines, it would require an increase of twelve times the current production by the year 2050. At the same time these green energy policy initiatives are being discussed, China continues to threaten withholding critical and strategic minerals as trade talks between them and our nation continue. This is concerning from a national security perspective as according to the United States Geological Survey, the U.S. is 50 percent or more import-reliant for 31 of the 35 minerals on the critical mineral list and 100 percent import reliant for 14 of the 35 critical minerals. These minerals are essential to our national defense and to a predictable supply chain for the products we all consume daily. That said, rather than limiting mining, we ought to be encouraging more responsible and sustainable development of these resources domestically. With the robust environmental protections and regulatory systems we have in the United States, it doesn’t only make sense from a national security standpoint, it is also the responsible policy to take on a global front rather than continuing to source these minerals from countries with few to no environmental standards and virtually no labor protections. Mine permitting reform is necessary to accomplish these goals whether you align with a domestic supply to enhance national security or whether you would like to see the nation move toward a renewable energy future, or both. Currently, it takes anywhere from 5 to 15 years and tens if not hundreds of millions of dol-

lars to permit a mine. The current system leaves our nation vulnerable if foreign governments limited supply and it would be impossible to permit the mines needed to supply the materials to be 100 percent renewable energy by 2030 as many of the green energy plans call for. The daily demand for minerals continues to rise. According to the Minerals education Coalition, a child born today will require over three million pounds of minerals and fuels in their lifetime. As the world transitions to more renewable energy sources, this demand will go up. The massive increases we will have to see in mineral production to fill all the technological needs of making our nation 100 percent reliant on solar, wind, and battery power are astronomical. This doesn’t in1

clude the continued increase in demand for smart phones, computers, tablets, tv’s, and electric cars among other things. In short, these initiatives would be impossible without mining. Many of these minerals we have right here in Idaho. Silver, gold, copper, molybdenum, cobalt, antimony, rare earths, phosphates – the list goes on and on. Without these minerals, batteries, wind turbines, solar panels, and grid infrastructure could not be built. Why wouldn’t we want to source them in our state and nation while creating high paying, safe jobs in a place with some of the most stringent environmental standards in the world? Why wouldn’t we want to support responsible and sustainable mining? s

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IMA MEMBERS OPERATING MEMBERS

America’s Gold and Silver

Bayer

Itafos

Hecla Mining Company

J.R. Simplot AgriBusiness Group

DEVELOPING MEMBERS Endomines | Jervois Mining | Midas Gold Idaho

NONOPERATING MEMBERS Thompson Creek Mining | FMC | Solvay USA | Nutrien

™

IDAHO MINING ASSOCIATION

IMA MEMBER BENEFITS INFORMATION Stay informed on up-to-the-minute industry news that might otherwise pass you by. Becoming a member of the Idaho Mining Association (IMA) gives you access to news and developments in the industry along with the opportunity to hear and learn from peers in the industry.

IMA MEMBER BENEFITS

INFORMATION NETWORKING Stay informed on up-to-the-minute industry news thatamight pass you by. Becoming a member of the Idaho Mining Connect and create relationships. The IMA provides greatotherwise networking opportunity for members who want to strengthen ties Association (IMA) gives you access to news and developments in the industry along with the opportunity to hear and learn with clients or colleagues in their industry, hunt for jobs or make long-term connections. from peers in the industry. STRENGTH & POWER IN NUMBERS NETWORKING Influence how decision are made. Working together, our collective experience on the issues and in navigating the burdensome Connect and create relationships. Thebenefits IMA provides great networking regulatory environment are valuable all IMAamembers enjoy. opportunity for members who want to strengthen ties with clients or colleagues in their industry, hunt for jobs or make long-term connections. BEST PRACTICES STRENGTH IN NUMBERS Lead the way&inPOWER implementing industry best practices. Members of the IMA gain resources on what is happening in the industry Influence how decision are made. Working our start collective experience on issues and in navigating the burdensome to keep our practices safe and efficient and together, have a head on implementing newthepractices as they are amended or change. regulatory environment are valuable benefits all IMA members enjoy. EVENTS BEST MakePRACTICES staying engaged easy. Companies who join IMA participate in association events focused on forming valuable Lead the wayand in implementing industry best of the IMA gain resources and on what is happening in the industry connections trade shows, seminars andpractices. workshopsMembers that provide valuable connections education opportunities. to keep our practices safe and efficient and have a head start on implementing new practices as they are amended or change. SUPPORT THE CAUSE AND THE FUTURE EVENTS Amplify industry’s voice, support industry growth and act as a watchdog for mining as a whole. As a member, you will be Make staying Companies participate association focused on forming valuable supporting theengaged mission ofeasy. the IMA and the who workjoin we IMA do. Many of ourinmembers see events the value of helping promote the connections and trade shows, seminars and workshops that provide valuable connections and education opportunities. future of mining. SUPPORT THE CAUSE AND THE FUTURE Amplify industry’s voice, support industry growth and act as a watchdog for mining as a whole. As a member, you will be supporting the mission of the IMA and the work we do. Many of our members see the value of helping promote the future of mining. 2015 ECONOMIC IMPACT OF IMA MEMBER FIRMS 2,750 jobs | $283 million in payroll | $5.7 million in local property taxes | ~$1 million in Gross State Product FOR EVERY 1 DIRECT IMA JOB, AN ADDITIONAL 2.3 JOBS ARE CREATED IN IDAHO’S ECONOMY 2015 ECONOMIC IMPACT OF IMA MEMBER FIRMS 2,750 jobs | $283 million in payroll | $5.7 million in local property taxes | ~$1 million in Gross State Product FOR EVERY 1 DIRECT IMA JOB, AN ADDITIONAL 2.3 JOBS ARE CREATED IN IDAHO’S ECONOMY ™

IDAHO MINING ASSOCIATION

™

IDAHO MINING ASSOCIATION

IMA MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES OPERATING Companies that have produced or processed minerals in Idaho for at least one year. 2020 dues are $29,300

IMA MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION

DEVELOPING Companies that have located minerals and are now in the process of contracting/permitting a mine to produce or process minerals. 2020 dues are $5,000 MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES OPERATING NONOPERATING Companies that were have operating produced members or processed minerals Idaho for atbut least Companies that of IMA for at in least 3 years, areone notyear. currently producing minerals. 2020 dues dues are are $1,400 $29,300 2020 DEVELOPING EXPLORATION Companiesthat thatare have locatedinminerals and are for now in the process contracting/permitting a mine or to processing produce or Companies engaged the exploration minerals in Idahoofbut are not currently producing process minerals. minerals. 2020dues duesare are$2,500 $5,000 2020 NONOPERATING ASSOCIATE Companiesthat thatprovide were operating of to IMA at least 3 years, but are not currently producing minerals. Companies products members or services thefor mining industry. 2020dues duesare arebased $1,400 2020 on the volume of business done with the mining industry according to the following schedule. EXPLORATION VOLUMEthat OFare BUSINESS DUES for minerals in VOLUME DUES Companies engaged in the exploration Idaho but areOF notBUSINESS currently producing or processing Less than $250,000 $300 $1,000,000 - $2,500,000 $1,400 minerals. $250,000 $500,000 $400 More than $2,500,000 $6,500 2020 dues -are $2,500 $500,000 - $1,000,000 $700 ASSOCIATE Companies that provide products or services to the mining industry. 2020 dues are based on the volume of business done with the mining industry according to the following schedule.

VOLUME OF BUSINESS Less than $250,000 $250,000 - $500,000 $500,000 - $1,000,000

DUES

$300 $400 $700

VOLUME OF BUSINESS $1,000,000 - $2,500,000 More than $2,500,000

DUES

$1,400 $6,500 ™

IDAHO MINING ASSOCIATION

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IDAHO MINING ASSOCIATION

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IMA PRINCIPLES IMA VISION THE IDAHO MINING ASSOCIATION ADVOCATES FOR A RESPONSIBLE AND SUSTAINABLE MINING INDUSTRY, BENEFITING OUR STATE AND LOCAL COMMUNITIES

OUR MISSION

IMA PRINCIPLES

TO BE RECOGNIZED AS THE TRUSTED VOICE OF IDAHO’S MINING INDUSTRY BY… 1. Promoting responsible development of Idaho’s diverse mineral resources 2. Encouraging economic growth by creating and maintaining high quality jobs IMA VISION 3. Encouraging government to support the interests of the membership 4. Counseling membership on the industry developments andAtrends THE IDAHO MINING ASSOCIATION ADVOCATES FOR RESPONSIBLE AND SUSTAINABLE MINING INDUSTRY, 5. Educating the public on the importance of theOUR mineral industry societyCOMMUNITIES BENEFITING STATE ANDtoLOCAL 6. Interacting with other organizations on matters of common interest

OUR MISSION TO BE RECOGNIZED THE TRUSTED VOICE OF IDAHO’S MINING INDUSTRY BY… OUR MEMBERAS VALUES 1. Promoting responsible development of Idaho’s diverse mineral resources •Demonstrate Safetyby creating and maintaining high quality jobs 2. EncouragingExcellence economic in growth •Operate in a Manner That Protects thethe Environment 3. Encouraging government to support interests of the membership •Communicate Openly with Stakeholders 4. Counseling membership on the industry developments and trends •Engage in Ethical Business Practices 5. Educating the public on the importance of the mineral industry to society 6. Interacting with other organizations on matters of common interest

WE BELIEVE OUR uniquely MEMBER •Idaho’s diverseVALUES mineral base is a major asset of the state and its utilization will enhance the economy •A financially healthy mining •Demonstrate Excellence in industry Safety is necessary to derive value from this asset •Mining caninbe conducted in Protects an environmentally responsible manner •Operate a Manner That the Environment •A close working relationship with government is necessary to accomplish the IMA mission •Communicate Openly with Stakeholders •Engage in Ethical Business Practices

WE BELIEVE •Idaho’s uniquely diverse mineral base is a major asset of the state and its utilization will enhance the economy •A financially healthy mining industry is necessary to derive value from this asset •Mining can be conducted in an environmentally responsible manner IDAHO MINING ASSOCIATION •A close working relationship with government is necessary to accomplish the IMA mission

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IDAHO MINING ASSOCIATION

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IMA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY OPERATING

DEVELOPER

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ASSOCIATE LEVEL

COMPANY NAME

COMPANY ADDRESS

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SIGNATURE

RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION WITH CHECK TO: Idaho Mining Association P.O. Box 1660 Boise, ID 83701

16 Mine Idaho

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IDAHO MINING ASSOCIATION

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A year of excitement and exploration

A review of Idaho Mining Association events 2019 By Dale Kerner We had another busy year at the Idaho Mining Association, with what seemed like an event always on the horizon. The year began in January highlighted by our Annual Legislative Dinner and was capped off last month by our 2019 Idaho Mining Conference in October. We had many events in between, highlighted below:

IMA led the charge in the passage of House Bill 141 which overhauled the Surface Mining Act. Pictured are member firms, legislative sponsors, and Governor Brad Little at a bill signing ceremony upon its passage. We had over 100 members and legislators join us for a beautiful evening at the Hillcrest Country Club in 2019 for our Annual Legislative Dinner. We are looking forward to another great event in early February 2020.

September took IMA members to Washington DC for hill meetings. We had a very productive and successful week meeting with leaders in the EPA, CEQ, Department of Interior, US Forest Service, and all four of our Delegation Offices. Thanks to all the member firms who made these meetings successful!

In August we were honored to once again host our Federal Congressional Delegation and their staff at our annual Delegation Reception. We had over 80 members and congressional representatives at the Simplot World Headquarters in downtown Boise, with each of the four Offices of Senator Risch, Senator Crapo, Representative Labrador, and Representative Simpson as well as our own Governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office being represented. Thank you to all those who sponsored and attended this fun annual event.

In October the Boise Riverside Hotel was the home to the second Annual Idaho Mining Conference. Substantially growing since its inauguration, this year we had over 350 industry representatives in attendance. It was a wonderful day and a success for the mining industry in Idaho. A huge thank you goes out to our sponsors and our vendors who help fund this wonderful day as well as their help to fund the great educational initiatives that both SME and IMA support. 18 Mine Idaho

The tours did not end there! We were able to partner with member firms from all over the state to get policy makers into the field to earn their site stickers and understand what responsible and sustainable mining are all about.

To read more about this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conference you can find an event summary on page 22 and 23.

In June we were excited to host a mine tour of the three phosphate mines in South East Idaho. It was a fun filled educational day with over 30 guests touring the Simplot, Bayer, and Itafos facilities. We are looking forward to another great tour in the upcoming year!

We look forward to an even bigger and better 2020 and hope to see all of you at one or all of these events next year!

Idaho Mining Association 19

Progress of mining and exploration in Idaho: An update on the National Geological and Geophysical Data Preservation Program from the Idaho Geological Survey By Virginia S. Gillerman, Claudio Berti, and Reed S. Lewis, Idaho Geological Survey

daho mining operations in 2019 improved from the previous year (2018), with several advanced exploration drilling projects, a new gold mine, and a new phosphate mine in development at year’s end. In Northern Idaho, miners from the Lucky Friday were voting on a tentative settlement for their strike against Hecla Mining Company. The Galena mine, owned by Americas Gold and Silver Corporation, was producing, and this company an-

nounced a new investment agreement to modernize the mine’s infrastructure. New Jersey’s Golden Chest mine at Murray produced gold from surface and underground, and a Finnish company, Endomines, was opening a small underground gold mine near Elk City. Open pit mining at the three large phosphate mines in Southeastern Idaho continued as usual. The Bureau of Land Management approved the new Caldwell Canyon phosphate project of Bayer, who

purchased Monsanto last year, and a Final Environmental Impact Statement for mining at Simplot’s Dairy Syncline property was released in November. In addition, Oakley stone quarries and aggregate operations had a busy year. Mineral exploration remained active, particularly in regard to precious metals, though activity at grass-roots projects was down slightly. With a decrease in cobalt prices since last year, only two projects in

Since 2007, the Idaho Geological Survey (IGS) has been involved in the National Geological and Geophysical Data Preservation Program (NGGDPP). This effort is resulting in a vast digital repository of over 13,000 documents from the IGS Mineral Property Files collection (MPF), that is serviced through an interactive web map application on the IGS website (www.idahogeology.org/webmap).

Idaho mineral exploration projects in 2019.

20 Mine Idaho

Mining at J.R. Simplot’s Smoky Canyon mine, F2 panel.

the Cobalt Belt had significant work. Jervois Mining acquired the Idaho cobalt project from eCobalt and continued pre-mine construction activity, engineering studies, and exploration drilling. First Cobalt was working on resource calculations and geological modelling at the Iron Creek Cu-Co deposit. Midas Gold’s Stibnite project was in NEPA permitting for a new Au-Sb mine in Valley County. Major drill programs were in progress by Revival Gold on the Beartrack and Arnett Creek properties in Lemhi County, by Integra Resources at the DeLamar and Florida Mountain epithermal Au-Ag deposits in Owyhee County, and by Liberty Gold at the Black Pine gold project in Cassia

County. Smaller exploration projects were scattered around the state at Murray, Mackay, Kilgore, and South Mountain, where BeMetals drilled high-grade zinc mineralization in a polymetallic skarn. Since 2007, the Idaho Geological Survey (IGS) has been involved in the National Geological and Geophysical Data Preservation Program (NGGDPP). This effort is resulting in a vast digital repository of over 13,000 documents from the IGS Mineral Property Files collection (MPF), that is serviced through an interactive web map application on the IGS website (www.idahogeology.org/webmap). To date, approximately 75 percent of the MPF has been

Mineral Property File scan progress.

Drilling near the RAM deposit at Jervois Mining’s Idaho cobalt operation.

Drilling a stope at Endomines’ new Friday mine at Orogrande near Elk City.

digitally acquired and made available to the public. The newly updated version of the database is also available for download at no cost (publication DD-1 Database of the Mines and Prospects of Idaho - version 1.2018.1) (www.idahogeology.org/product/ dd-1). Recent efforts have been focused in including into the digital archive material from the IGS videotape collection and the creation of a You Tube channel to host clip for streaming. s

Drill pad at Integra’s DeLamar project, Owyhee County. Idaho Mining Association 21

In case you missed it: A look at the Idaho Mining Conference 2019 By Dale Kerner, P.G. - SME Boise section chair and conference planning committee chair

On October 23, 2019, more than 350

spaces were filled to capacity. Title spon-

representatives from all walks of the Ida-

sor Western States Cat proved too big for

ho mining world assembled at the River-

the venue entirely, showcasing their mo-

side Hotel in Boise to engage in technical

bile remote operations mine equipment

sophomore effort, most would agree to

presentations, thought-provoking panel

trailer parked outside. Attendees were af-

the metaphor of a rising tide. The strong

discussions, and to hear from those who

forded the opportunity to test drive heavy

turnout at this year’s IMC carried an equal-

represent and advocate for the industry

equipment at a test facility in Nevada and

ly powerful message; mining in Idaho is

on a national scale. This year’s headcount

gain a new appreciation for the skill of op-

alive and well, and the operators, regula-

eclipsed last year’s numbers by 40 per-

erators. Perhaps next year we’ll see work-

tors, scientists and engineers that form the

cent and IMA members, event sponsors

ing core rig in the parking lot!

foundation of the industry aim to continue

and dozens of vendors answered the call

A jam-packed program of presenta-

to collaborate and communicate to carry

in-kind. From water treatment to core box-

tions provided updates on exploration

it forward.

es, from phosphate to zeolites, the booth

activities from across the state, news from

or those who participated in the Idaho Mining Association’s inaugural 2018 Idaho Mining Conference and then attended 2019’s

22 Mine Idaho

the operations front, and the latest from the regulatory world. Talks on promising results coming out of greenfield projects demonstrated that Idaho still has plenty of mineral resources to be discovered, and new looks at historic properties illustrated the potential for re-invigorating legacy districts. Resource modelers and crosssection enthusiasts were well-rewarded for their attendance! Technical sessions were bookended by in-depth panel discussions that took a deeper diver on the issues facing mining today. The morning’s panel examined the ever-changing legislative and regulatory landscape and recognized the importance of advocacy on the part of all those in the mineral resource industry to take an active and responsible role in the crafting of policy. To cap the conference, representatives from southeast Idaho’s phosphate district shared examples of the great success that can be achieved when regulators, operators and private interest groups come together to find solutions. Figures from the national stage high-

lighted the day, providing insights and a look into our collective future. Mark Compton, the recently appointed executive director of the American Exploration and Mining Association (AEMA) gave a call to attention on legislative issues that have the potential to threaten the framework for domestic mineral production. Grand plans for advancing our national economy in a global context must recognize the importance of mineral production here at home, and that translates to robust engagement in policymaking. This message was complemented by the mid-day keynote address by noted geologist and mining industry advocate, Dr. Ned Mamula, author of, Groundbreaking: America’s Quest for Mineral Independence. Dr. Mamula’s message could not have been clearer; the United States is endowed with “an embarrassment of riches”, yet the trend toward dependence on foreign mineral sources, including numerous critical minerals with military applications, marches on and urgent action is no less than a national security issue.

As a poignant example, Dr. Mamula hearkened back to 1943 and World War II, citing General Eisenhower’s words of praise for the working men and women of the Stibnite Idaho Mining District who provided much of the nation’s tungsten and antimony for the war effort: “(We) have driven the enemy out of Northern Africa. In this victory, the munitions made by American industry, labor and management played a very important role. There is glory for us all in the achievement”. (Dwight D. Eisenhower, telegram to Stibnite, Idaho, May 17, 1943). Words like these emanating from history remind us all that what we do matters and underline the importance of unity, safety, and responsibility in our industry. A sincere thanks to all of the IMA members, SME members, sponsors, volunteers, and attendees that helped make the 2019 Idaho Mining Conference a rousing success. The IMC planning committee is already hard at work on the 2020 IMC and we look forward to your continued support and participation. s

Idaho Mining Association 23

Mine U.S. minerals, don’t undermine them By Dr. Ned Mamula, economic geologist Leonardo Technologies, Inc.

ver the past 50 years, the United States has ignored and even shunned the importance of its mineral wealth like no other country in the industrial world. Australia, Canada, Sweden, Russia, China, and most other industrialized economies value their mineral resources and use them to their defense and economic benefit, and even for geopolitical advantage. Not so the United States. Indeed, our nation “boasts” a growing list of groups that are openly hostile to extractive industries, especially mining. Yet, the one economic sector that meets the American appetite for raw

materials, gadgets, high-tech equipment, cars, jetliners, and “renewable” energy technologies that we take for granted — all of which are made from minerals and metals — is mining. The most recent example of the total disconnect between the anti-mining agenda of some in Congress and the importance of American mineral wealth to our economy and national defense is the proposed Mining Law Reform legislation recently introduced in the House. The substance and timing of this proposed bill to “reform” (that is, tax, restrict, over-regulate, and ultimately shut down) hardrock mining could not be worse.

Dr. Ned Mamula is an economic geologist with Leonardo Technologies, Inc. working on the DOE Rare Earth/Critical Minerals Program. He is the author of: Groundbreaking! America’s New Quest for Mineral Independence.

On substance, the proposed reform legislation is loaded with painful and unnecessary elements. Two in particular need to be called out. First, the proposed legislation would impose a whopping 12.5 percent royalty on new production from federal lands. That’s extremely punitive for an indus-

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24 Mine Idaho

try that already exists on the margins of profitability and pays over 45 percent of its earnings to federal, state ,and local governments, in the form of taxes, fees, royalties, and other assessments. Second, the bill includes language allowing mining claims to be abruptly cancelled after a 20-year period. That’s a disincentive on steroids. Mining is a long-term investment process and, although two decades is a long time, some hardrock mines now take 10 years or more just to get approved. What company would be willing to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in a new mine only to see its mining claims suddenly revoked? Remarkably, the timing of this “reform” is just as bad as the substance. U.S. demand for minerals is climbing steadily: for hundreds of defense, aerospace, electronic, energy, medical, computing, transportation, and other applications. Yet, our dependence on China for minerals is at an all-time high and growing, despite increasingly tense diplomatic relations. Moreover, Chinese owned and controlled mining companies — in China, Africa and elsewhere — operate under virtually no environmental, worker safety, fair wage, child labor, or human rights regulations. With China trade talks ongoing and uncertain, this is precisely the wrong time to be “reforming” what is left of the U.S. hardrock mining industry. However, the authors and backers of this legislation are clearly not concerned about our dangerous over-reliance on imported critical minerals, the leverage China is amassing, or its horrendous environmental, human rights or corporate social responsibility record. The goal of this legislation is not to reform U.S. mining. It appears to be to cripple or even exterminate it. Instead of trying to bury the domestic hardrock mining industry under punitive royalties and a tangle of unworkable provisions, we should be trying to incentivize exploration and production — and attract, not repel, mining investment. We need to increase access to mineralized lands, especially in our western states and Alaska, and streamline our duplicative mine permitting process to

reverse the 20-year slump in hardrock mining. That is especially true for the rare and exotic metals that are essential for modern technologies — but have never been hunted for on federally managed lands, mostly because almost no one has been permitted to do so. Decreasing America’s critical mineral import vulnerability and rebuilding its industrial base should be national priorities. The economic health and national security of our nation now depend in large part on increasing hardrock mining, to

increase our domestic critical minerals supplies — to reduce our troubling and growing reliance on China, Russia and third world dictatorships, many of which are allied with or dependent on China and Russia. Simply stated, we need to use the Mining Law as it is now written to reduce burgeoning imports and restart a program of strong domestic exploration and mining. Opponents of mining might chafe at the old saying “if it can’t be grown it has to be mined.” But it is absolutely true. s

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Milk and mining, always better local

very Tuesday morning, a local business delivers milk and eggs to our home. At first, it was a matter of convenience for a growing family continually running to the store for more milk. But when I had questions and concerns about the dairy industry, buying local took on a new meaning. With one phone call, I was speaking with the owner of the dairy who gave me his personal assurance that he shared my values – he even offered me a tour of his operations so I could see the conditions firsthand. Quickly, my concerns were eased and I knew I was supporting a company who was committed to doing the right thing. Two years ago, I started working for Midas Gold, and since then I’ve learned milk and mining have a lot in common. The first time I saw a mining operation was in 2010. Up until that point, I didn’t

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know anyone who worked for a mining company and had the misconception that the industry was inherently against my values. Yet, I still happily purchased a new iPhone and a vehicle for our growing family and applauded my neighbors for investing in rooftop solar. Not once did I question how these goods were made or where the minerals needed for their production came from. In a globalized economy, it is easy to push the uncomfortable or unsightly elements of producing the goods we want out-of-sight and off-shore. But in this process, we lose sight of how the things we want are made. But more importantly, we forfeit having influence over the labor conditions, environmental practices, the ethical considerations of how these goods are produced and we send American jobs overseas.

Just like when I spoke with the dairy farmer, when I finally met an Idaho miner I realized we share similar values. We were equally committed to protecting Idaho. We wanted to see our communities thrive and, most importantly, we both believed the industry could continue to do better and be better. It was with these realizations that I went to work for a mining company. When I learned about the regulations and oversight that goes into permitting and operating a modern mine in the United States, I felt confident the right checks and balances were in place to ensure the environment and communities are protected. Before any project goes into production, companies are required to obtain dozens of permits, incorporate feedback from the community, and set aside all of the funds to restore the environment once

mining is complete. These are not the standards mining companies are held to in other countries. The buy-local movement shouldn't end with our milk. Ethical sourcing extends to the products we use in our everyday lives. We should be able to pick up the phone and talk to someone about their practices â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and, if we want, go and see the operations for ourselves. The only way we can ensure we are protecting our planet and that things are done right is if we do it at home. s

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The Kilgore Project: Idaho’s next multi-million ounce gold deposit Submitted by Otis Gold Corp.

Building access road to PLNR-034_A drill pad.

tis Gold Corp. (TSX.V: OOO OTC: OGLDF) is focused on the discovery, exploration, and development of gold and silver deposits in Idaho. Its flagship enterprise, the Kilgore Project (past producing mine), is located in Clark County, Idaho with its earlier stage project, the Oakley Project, is located in Cassia County. Kilgore is a 12,150-acre (49.2 km2) land package that is seen to have district scale potential for both gold and silver while its deposit only sits in a one km2 portion of the property. Kilgore is an advanced-stage, low sulphidation, caldera-hosted epithermal gold deposit containing mineralized volcanic and sedimentary rock that would be amenable to open-pit mining and heap leach processing. Kilgore has an N.I. 43-101 indicated resource estimate of 825,000 oz Au @ 0.58 g/t and inferred resource estimate of 136,000 oz Au @ 0.45 g/t. In July 2019, Otis unveiled a maiden Kilgore Preliminary Economic Assessment (or “PEA”) for the current gold resource. It demonstrates robust economics at a gold price of US $1,300 including an NPV of US$110.4 million at a discount rate

of 5 percent, an IRR of 34 percent, a three-year payback of capital, a low strip ratio of 1.1:1, and a mine life of five years. Otis President and CEO, Craig Lindsay, stated: "This PEA marks an important milestone in Kilgore's development and we are encouraged by the enhancements in the project's economics. We have outlined where the deposit stands from an economic perspective and we expect to see continuous improvement as the deposit evolves. Indeed, the most exciting feature of Kilgore is what lies ahead in terms of the potential to grow the deposit, find new deposits and significantly enhance the life of the project. Otis is committed to conducting exploration activities at all our projects utilizing industry best practices, and that minimizing our environmental footprint has, and always will be, a critical foundation of our exploration programs.” To begin the process of tapping the district-scale potential of Kilgore, Otis plans a significant drill program in excess of 20,000 metres in 2020. Otis Gold’s exploration activities are led by VP of Exploration, Alan Roberts, a certified professional geologist with the American

Kilgore is an advanced-stage, low sulphidation, caldera-hosted epithermal gold deposit containing mineralized volcanic and sedimentary rock.

28 Mine Idaho

Drill set up to drill hole OKR19-380.

Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG). Mr. Roberts has over 25 years of experience at various exploration and resource development projects throughout North America, Central America and South America, China and Africa. He was most recently the exploration project manager at the Castle Mountain epithermal gold project, in California, USA. His experience includes drill program design and implementation, resource and geologic model development and technical reporting, pre-feasibility study project supervision, geologic mapping and sampling, site logistics and management, and program budgeting. Alan’s experience with quartz-adularia epithermal gold systems will be critical to Otis as it continues to expand the resource potential at Kilgore. Otis will also be advancing exploration at Oakley, a 5,120-acre gold and silver project located in Cassia County, Idaho. Oakley hosts low-sulphidation gold-silver mineralization at a number of prospects that share many characteristics with Carlin-type gold deposits. Oakley lies along the western flank of the Albion Mountains and is approximately 60 kms west of Liberty Gold’s Black Pine Mine and is seven kms north, and on trend, of the past producing highgrade silver Vipont Mine. Exploration plans in 2020 include further ground-based geochemical work and an airborne LiDAR survey to assist with drill target definition, throughout an 11 km mineralized zone stretching between Cold Creek, at the northern end of the property, to Blue Hill Creek at the southern end. This will lead to an extensive exploration drill program at Cold Creek, followed by drilling at the other exploration prospects, and will continue down toward the southern border of the property. Since its inception in 2008, Otis has been implementing industryleading best management practises with respect to the exploration and development of its projects. Otis is acutely aware of the sensitive nature of resource extraction, and is focused on both reducing its environmental footprint and working with the community to

Highly silicified and mineralized Aspen Sandstone at OKC-357.

address issues at an early stage. Balancing the economic benefits of resource extraction while minimizing environmental impacts is of paramount importance to Otis. On a parallel basis, and in effort to support the local economy, Otis has implemented a “Buy Idaho” procurement program designed to expend the majority of its exploration dollars locally, and 100 percent of its exploration dollars within the United States. For further information, please visit www.otisgold.com and sign up to be on our mailing list for all future developments. s

Developing Idaho’s next multi-million ounce gold deposits Otis Gold Corp. is developing open-pit, heap leach gold projects in Idaho. An early participant in the resurgence of gold exploration and development in the state, Otis is focused on the advanced-stage Kilgore Project and exploration-stage Oakley Project. Tony Perri – Corp. Development/Investor Relations

TSX.V: OOO OTC: OGLDF

604-683-2507 tony@otisgold.com www.otisgold.com Idaho Mining Association 29

Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology

celebrates 30 years Submitted by the Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology

ncorporated in 1989, The Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology (IMMG) is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Having occupied the Trusty Dormitory building at the Old Idaho Penitentiary since 1995, we are completing our 25th season exhibiting at this site. We are a fully volunteer run organization with a 10-member board of directors, each of whom has an operational responsibility. We have 130 dues-paying members for the year of 2019 and a contact mailing list of about 550 individuals. The IMMG prides itself on being free to the public; though we do welcome donations from our attendees. Historically, the museum has between 9,000 to 10,000 visitors annually, generally two thirds adults and one third children. We host approximately 1,300 primary grade students annually for our school tour program, and our Rock Party in September has had up to 350 children and 300 adults in attendance. We consider all our exhibits as educational experiences. They include the incredible Helicoprion shark fossil from the phosphate beds of southeast Idaho, important minerals and ores from around the state, an interactive touch screen map of Idaho mining regions, an interactive touch screen map of interesting geologic sites across the state, an exhibit describing ancient Lake Idaho with its own touch screen, a world-class meteorite exhibit that has specimens from Mars and the Moon, a seismology display with our in-house seismograph that records earthquakes from around the globe, an old mining camp with artifacts from the historic Idaho gold rush days, a video presentation on Women in Idaho Mining, exhibits that explain both placer mining (in streams) and lode mining (underground), basic geology of the three rock types that make up the earth and the Rock Cycle, the wonderful Fujii Collection of Idaho and Oregon gemstones and a black light fluo-

Idaho Museum Mining

of and

Geology

The mission of the IMMG is to promote the education and understanding of the importance of mining and geological sciences to the development of Idaho. 2455 Old Penitentiary Road, Boise www.idahomuseum.org 30 Mine Idaho

rescent minerals display. We have also completed renovation of our Leaning Center as a venue for classes and lectures. New permanent exhibits planned for the 2020 season include â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chinese Miners in Idaho,â&#x20AC;? assisted by Dr. Pei-Lin Yu of BSU and Dr. Nicole Herzog of the University of Denver, and the Eastern Snake River Plain/Yellowstone Hot Spot, also with its own touch screen The Museum also conducts field trips to interesting geologic sites throughout southwestern Idaho and eastern Oregon, holds monthly lectures, and conducts girl scout workshops for earning a geology badge As we focus IMMG as a teaching facility for both adults and children, we serve within our Museum and in the community. We envision IMMG as a resource for primary grade educators across the state. Our Education and Outreach Director attends many STEM nights at schools throughout the Treasure Valley and is seeking ways to extend the role of IMMG to bring more earth science resources to primary grade teachers in order to meet Idaho curriculum standards. s

A golden opportunity for Revival Gold at the Beartrack-Arnett project By Taryn Rittberg

n September of 2017 Revival Gold acquired 100 percent interest in Meridian Beartrack Co., owner of the Beartrack Gold Project located

alized areas within a greater than five-

tion drill hole core logging and storage

kilometer strike length along the Pan-

for both the Beartrack Gold Project as

ther Creek Fault, is located northwest of

well as the Arnett Gold Project.

Salmon Idaho, an area which has seen

Neighbouring Beartrack Gold Proj-

in Lemhi County, Idaho. The Beartrack

renewed exploration activity recently,

ect is Revivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Arnett Gold Project, an

Gold Project, which encompasses 2,720

most notably in 2012 and 2013. It cur-

advanced stage exploration project en-

hectares, and hosts five known miner-

rently acts as Revivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s base for explora-

compassing 2,380 hectares. Together, Idaho Mining Association 31

Figure 1 - Arnett Gold Project Preliminary Soil Sampling Results (2019)

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The position expansion of Revival’s Beartrack-Arnett Gold Project added an additional 350 hectares, bringing the total land position to 5,440 hectares in size. the combined land position amounts to

In addition to these areas of inter-

over 5,000 hectares and is the source

est the results also indicated potential

for production and discovery to-date of

areas for expansion to the north and

more than 3.5 million ounces of gold.

east of the Haidee target the Roman’s

Recently, in November 2019, Revival

Trench area. This area is known as the

Gold announced soil sampling results

Midlands. A November 21 statement

in addition to the expansion of the land

from Revival Gold indicated that, “these

position at the Beartrack-Arnett Gold

anomalies trend to the northwest and

Project. Consisting of 971 samples col-

are either along strike from the Haidee

lected on a 150-meters by 100-meter

mineralization or parallel to it.”

grid over 12 square kilometres, a partial

The position expansion of Revival’s

leach was used to determine and identi-

Beartrack-Arnett Gold Project added

fy potential anomalies under post -min-

an additional 350 hectares, bringing the

eral cover. The results highlighted sev-

total land position to 5,440 hectares in

eral areas of interest that can be seen

size. New claims were staked along the

in figure 1, Gold Project Preliminary Soil

southwestern extension of the Panther

Sampling Results.

Creek Shear Zone as well as surround-

Figure 2 - Beartrack-Arnett Gold Project Land Position (November 2019)

ing the Moose target to the north, details of which are shown in figure 2, Beartrack-Arnett Gold Project Land Position. In terms of further interest by Revival in terms of gold exploration, per a resent statement, Revival Gold will be looking to attain “other gold exploration and

development opportunities and [currently] holds a 51 per cent interest in the Diamond Mountain Phosphate Project located in Uintah County, Utah.” “Revival Gold Inc. is a growth-focused gold exploration and development company. The Company has the

right to acquire a 100 per cent interest in Meridian Beartrack Co., owner of the former producing Beartrack Gold Project located in Lemhi County, Idaho. Revival Gold also owns rights to a 100 percent interest in the neighbouring Arnett Gold Project.” s

Idaho Mining Association 33

Bringing mining back to mining communities By Justin Corr, Bilbao & Co.

t’s a brisk but sunny day in the Owyhee Mountains. At the DeLamar Project, the drill is running, the future is bright, and Tom Jordan is showing me around, “You can see the old abandoned mine workings right over there, and they probably found only half of the gold and silver here.” Jordan is the Project Operations Manager at Integra Resources. Their DeLamar Project includes land dotted with historic mines from more than a century ago, the ‘Golden Age’ of Idaho mining. In the mid-to-late 1800’s, Silver City, which sits just a few miles to the east, was home to 4,000 people. Ruby City, Fairview, Booneville, and of course, DeLamar, were also thriving communities in the area. “There’s a reason we’re called the ‘Gem State’. Mining was the backbone of Idaho through the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. You can see the evidence of that all around us in these old mine workings,” said Jordan. All of those cities, which were once the epicenter of Idaho’s economy, are now ghost towns or completely gone. In fact, only 11,600 people live in all the 7,700 square miles of Owyhee County. But, Integra would like to see that Golden Age come back, and there’s reason to be optimistic it will. The DeLamar Project includes the historic DeLamar and Florida Mountain Mines which produced 1.6 million ounces of gold and 100 million ounces of silver over 100 years, thanks in part to making a comeback in the 1970s as an open pit operation. The mine closed most recently in 1998 due to low precious metal prices, during a time when many mines shut down across North America. But now, those prices are spiking, and Integra is studying how much more the mine has to offer. Right now, Integra is in the middle of more than 20,000 m of drilling at the DeLamar deposit, Florida Mountain, and other regional targets. That’s allowed them to update their resource estimate, which shows more than 1.8 million ounces of gold. There’s

There’s a reason we’re called the ‘Gem State’. Mining was the backbone of Idaho through the late 1800’s and early 1900’s.

34 Mine Idaho

also more than 106 million ounces of silver. “We will use techniques and technology they didn’t have, even 20 years ago, to explore for high-grade underground targets beneath this large low-grade resource,” said Jordan. Those resource numbers are helping build excitement, not just at Integra, and not just in the mining community, but also in the nearby towns. Jordan says, “We’re working with folks in Jordan Valley, Murphy, Homedale, and Marsing all the time. They would love to see the mine re-open just up the road.” If you combine the populations of those four towns, they would barely add up to Silver City’s population during its heyday. But, the DeLamar Mine

could bring hundreds of jobs, and new life to those communities. The Idaho Mining Association estimates that for every mining job, two more supplemental jobs are needed. That will be a big boost to Owyhee County, and the states of Idaho and Oregon as a whole. While Integra is still a few years from potentially opening the mine, the future continues to look brighter and brighter, and people in the nearby communities are excited. Jordan says, “Mining made Idaho. We are working on bringing this mine back to life and providing opportunities for the families in this part of Idaho and Oregon.”s

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Focussed Focussed on on resource resource growth growth and and robust robust economics economics at at the the DeLamar DeLamar Project Project in in Owyhee Owyhee County. County. NPV (5%) NPV (5%) $ $

358 358 million million After-Tax After-Tax IRR IRR of of 43% 43% AISC: AISC: $742 $742 oz oz AuEq AuEq Idaho Mining Association 35

An update on

the Stibnite Gold Project Submitted by Midas Gold Corp.

idas Gold’s Stibnite Gold Project is expected to pass another hurdle in the permitting process when the U.S. Forest Service releases its draft Environmental Impact Statement (dEIS) at the end of 2019. The dEIS gives Idahoans a chance to weigh in on the proposed gold, silver, and antimony mine located 14 miles east of Yellow Pine in Valley County. Midas Gold submitted its Plan of Restoration and Operations (PRO) for the Stibnite Gold Project in September 2016. The plan filed with the U.S. Forest Service prioritizes restoration activities and outlines how Midas Gold will reconnect salmon to their native spawning grounds for the first time in 80 years, rehabilitate 13 miles of stream channel and improve water quality, as well as safely reprocess and store historical tailings and reuse spent ore that are a likely source of metals leaching into surface and groundwater. 36 Mine Idaho

Midas Gold has continued to study the region and, in May, submitted a modified version of the PRO (known to us as the Mod PRO) to regulators that further reduces the project footprint and improves environmental outcomes. We anticipate the Mod PRO will be included as an alternative, along with other alternatives, to our original plan in the dEIS. A look at some of the changes we’ve made: Development rock We estimate we will need to safely store approximately 350 million tons of development rock on our site. In the Mod PRO, we’ve made updates to how and where we store development rock in order to reduce our impacts to water quality, shorten the distance we are moving rock on site and preserve more length of stream.

Surface water management Our plans have always included reconstructing the Meadow Creek stream channel to create more sustainable habitat for fish. In the PRO, we committed to installing a liner under sections of the enhanced Meadow Creek to minimize the stream losing water as it travels past the Hangar Flats pit. This would allow Meadow Creek to be a fully functional stream channel that will provide valuable spawning and rearing habitat during mine operations. In the Mod

PRO, we now plan to extend the liner by approximately 1,000 feet to further ensure Meadow Creek flows without infiltrating into groundwater east of the pit. Public access Originally, we did not plan to have public access through the site because of safety concerns. However, we heard from the community of Yellow Pine how important it was to have direct access to the Thunder Mountain area so, in the Mod PRO, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve proposed a solution to route traffic around the Yellow Pine pit while still prioritizing safety. Idahoans can learn more about these and other changes when the dEIS is released by the Forest Service and made available for comment. s

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For example, we were able to eliminate the need for the West End Development Rock Storage Facility by adjusting the timing and sequence of mining. By mining the Yellow Pine pit first and then moving to the West End pit, instead of mining these areas concurrently, we can reduce our surface impacts to West End Creek and reduce our footprint. After further study, we now plan on adding impermeable cover layers to our development rock storage areas to minimize the potential for metal leaching in the future by substantially reducing the ability for water to interact with the development rock. Finally, we now plan to backfill the Midnight pit (a small satellite pit that is part of the West End pit) and partially backfill the Hangar Flats pit, preventing the formation of a lake in the Midnight pit and significantly reducing the depth of the lake that will form in the Hangar Flats pit.

Idaho Mining Association 37

Doing their best and contributing to feeding the world

The J.R. Simplot Company story

Submitted by the J.R. Simplot Company J.R. Simplot had the inherent ability to see possibilities nobody else could see, and the resolve to act on them—helping him turn a one-man farming operation into a global food and agribusiness enterprise. This foresight has driven the J.R. Simplot Company for 90 years and helped create a Company culture where new ideas have a chance to grow and flourish. The Simplot brand began to take shape in the farm fields of southern Idaho in the late 1920s. Young J.R. struck out on his own at age 14, set on entering the agriculture business. While he had just an eighth-grade education, he was armed with keen entrepreneurial instincts, constant curiosity, boundless energy and an irrepressible drive. J.R. grew and diversified his business as he matured, but the essence of the Company remained the same, drawing purpose and strength from the unique character, history and motivation of its founder. There remains an unbreakable link between the Company’s success and our roots in farming and food. We still share many qualities with farmers: independence, fairness, resilience and a deep respect for the land. Perhaps most of all, we share a dedication to the fundamental principle of cultivation, we imagine a better future and set goals to reach it. Today, fueled by J.R.’s irrepressible belief in the promise of the possible the Simplot Company’s diverse portfolio spans from soil to dinner table and everything in-between. We’re still a privately held company headquartered in Boise, Idaho but have grown into an international agribusiness company. Our 12,000 employees run operations around the globe and distribute products to more than 60 countries worldwide. Our integrated portfolio includes phosphate mining, fertilizer manu38 Mine Idaho

“I just do the best I can from morning to night and that’s about the size of it.” – Simplot founder J.R. “Jack” Simplot

Reclamation work at our Smokey Canyon mine.

J.R. Simplot HQ aerial view from July, 2019.

facturing, farming, ranching, food processing, food brands, and other agriculture-related interests. We begin our journey of bringing earth’s resources to life underground where our mining operations carefully harvest phosphate ore with an eye to minimizing our impact on the surrounding area. We turn that ore into nutrients that help grow thriving crops and landscapes around the world. Our innovative products and services create optimal conditions to ensure customers and partners have a path to success. From turf seed and fertilizer to farm products and feedlots. From the latest in plant and animal sciences to innovative agronomic advancements, we help customers find the most efficient, safe and modern methods to maximize their yield. We provide products that benefit people around the world

– from tuna in Australia, to guacamole in Mexico, from North American beef, to french fries at restaurants across the globe, we feed a growing population with a diverse array of products. Simplot’s commitment to philanthropy, innovation and sustainability ensures our focus remains not only on our needs today, but on a healthy planet for generations to come. Our processing plants use the latest technology in water reuse and energy savings and we’re an industry leader in land remediation at our mines. This commitment extends into technology where we’re always looking for the next solutions to improve our practices, products and services. Our J.R. Simplot Company Foundation as well as employees at all locations are also heavily involved in their communities, donating money and countless hours to enrich the places we call home. s

Our mission is to be the leader in safe, productive, and innovative mining solutions.

Building and Operating America’s Underground Mines For more information, visit our website at

www.undergroundmining.com

NV License #0048016

Idaho Mining Association 39

You have a message and a story, go tell it By Ysabel Bilbao, Bilbao & Co.

t’s a regular Tuesday for reporter Rebecca who works at the local TV station KORE. She is fresh out of journalism school, just a few months into the real world and she is ready to tell the news. She is ambitious and talented, and she got into the business to ensure she was sharing stories that would affect her community. As she roles into the newsroom, she is racking her mind about what story she is going to pitch in the afternoon meeting. The pressure is on her to know what’s happening and after scouring the arrest reports from the night before and looking at every social media out there, she has nothing. She is panicked because despite the slow story day, the evening news is inevitable. What will she do? It hits her, call a contact on a communications team, maybe they have an idea she hasn’t thought of. Over the past decade communications teams both internal and on contract have become a vital part of sharing a businesses’ story. For many companies, much like the one you work for, their plates are packed with the day-to-day. Whether that’s running a shift crew, filling out HR documents or pulling ore out of a deposit, the last thing you want to think about is the story you need to be telling. With the 24-hour news cycle and the inundation of social media and news on demand, knowing your story, how to tell it and when to share it, is vital to a businesses’ advancement – so it’s time to be strategic. Strategic communications has a number of definitions and it takes each one to be effective. Whether it’s telling a great story

Proven results helping clients navigate government and create content for effective story telling.

• State Lobbying • Legislative Affairs • Regulatory Affairs • Coalition Building • Advocacy • Outreach and Education • Content Creation • Media Relations • Social Media • Crisis Communications

Martin Bilbao, Government Affairs

Ysabel Bilbao, Strategic Communications

208-989-6417 martin@bilbaoco.com

208-989-8855 ysabel@bilbaoco.com

40 Mine Idaho

idea to Rebecca or sharing the latest updates with your stakeholders, an effective communications team is ready to take on the questions that need answered. So, what specifically does strategic communications mean to mining? That question is as big as the need for your mined materials. Strategic comms means outreach during a comment period. Strategic comms means identifying your values, mission and future plans, and then telling that story to the media, elected officials, government agencies, stakeholders, vendors and the public. Strategic comms means support materials for your government affairs team and the issues you face. Strategic comms means crisis communications, because let’s face it, it’s inevitable in every industry. Simply stated, you cannot tell your message enough and having the right team will get you to where you need to be. Make sure your story is shared, not only in the company newsletter but also by Rebecca on the 10 p.m. news. s

So, what specifically does strategic communications mean to mining? That question is as big as the need for your mined materials.

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Idaho Mining Association 41

The benefits of partnering with an experienced first-party consultant throughout the NEPA and permitting processes Submitted by Brown and Caldwell

ecent federal directives, including the Trump administration’s efforts to streamline the environmental review and approval

to and during the permitting process max-

experts and specialized consultants. The

imize their opportunity to cooperatively

first-party consultant can bring a culture

navigate these permitting challenges.

of collaboration, establish effective in-

In the context of NEPA approval and

ternal and external communication, and

process for infrastructure projects (EO

permitting, a first-party consultant is an

develop a change and risk management

13807) and promote critical minerals de-

owner’s advisor with expertise in planning,

process.

velopment (EO 13817), are improving the

procuring, and managing collaborative

An experienced first-party consultant

mining industry’s ability to navigate the

delivery projects. A first-party consultant

also brings technical expertise with a local

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)

can provide essential guidance, strategy,

presence, deep bench, collaborative work-

process in a more timely and efficient

direction, execution, and advice to an or-

ing relationships with federal and state

manner. Yet, much uncertainty remains for

ganization on regulatory, technical, and

agencies and stakeholders, and effective

mining companies embarking on a pro-

communications processes. This approach

technical support and client advocacy on

tracted federal and state permitting pro-

enhances continuity and standardizes

key issues. By partnering with the mining

cess where costs are increasing dramati-

project management. It enables mining

company’s technical team, the first-party

cally. Mining companies that partner with

companies to establish a project support

consultant can begin baseline resource

an experienced first-party consultant prior

team that may include subject matter

surveys and effectively address techni-

42 Mine Idaho

An experienced firstparty consultant who understands the potential schedule pitfalls in the NEPA process, and how to avoid them, enables mining companies to meet schedule milestones and minimize the potential for successful challenges.

cal challenges that are likely to develop during the permitting process – surveys such as water quality (e.g., advanced water modeling, water management design) and ecosystem resources (e.g., fisheries, vegetation, wildlife) – as well as provide permitting support beyond the NEPA process. If there is certainty in permitting, it is that change will occur on the project – whether it be personnel changes at the federal and state agencies, third-party consultant management structure, scope of work, or regulatory environment. Proper planning and implementation activities to manage this change are critical to meeting the project schedule. The mining industry must also engage with stakeholders – non-governmental organizations (NGOs), indigenous tribes, and private citizens who can be cautious of the mining industry’s vision – to supply the necessary minerals to support the world’s demand. Today, these stakeholders are more organized, have increased access to data, have stronger technical capabilities, and can delay projects if they are successful in their challenges. However, an experienced first-party consultant who understands the potential schedule pitfalls in the NEPA process, and how to avoid them, enables mining companies to meet schedule milestones and minimize the potential for successful challenges.

To effectively drive schedules, ancillary permitting tasks must be performed concurrently with the NEPA process. Dozens of federal, state, and local permits are often required and may take a year or more to secure. Examples of federal regulations include NEPA, Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, Section 106 National Preservation Act, and Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act. In addition to federal regulations, there are numerous state and local regulations, including the Idaho Pollution Discharge Elimination System, cyanidation,

air, water rights, and financial assurances. A first-party consultant with proven experience in securing these permits for previous Idaho mining projects can reduce the time involved in meeting project schedule milestones and avoid surprises, delays, and challenges. Through an effective partnership with a first-party consultant, mining companies can achieve a scalable, streamlined, and focused approach to developing and implementing a successful mine permitting strategy.s

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Larry Johnson (406) 549-1071

Idaho Mining Association 43

Midas Gold project sets high bar for modern mining operations and seeks to restore trust among community harmed by environmentally unaware past By Mandy Gunasekara

ecades ago, environmentally conscious mining may have been considered an oxymoron. For one company, it has become the bedrock of its modern existence and stands to be a groundbreaking

model for others to follow. Mining natural resources in this country has not always been environmentally aware. Before “environmental protection” or “sustainable practices” was a part of the industrial vernacular, mining operations caused a range of environmental degradation that negatively impacted our nation’s air, land and water. As scientific understand-

are also number one in terms of access to clean drinking water and lead the world in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Despite this unparalleled progress, there remains a significant amount of work, especially when it comes to cleaning up contaminated lands that are a stubborn, and in some cases, harmful reminder of our environmentally unaware past. Congress sought to seriously address contaminated lands around the country in the 1980s with the passage of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act. This law includes a range of programs aimed at funding and enhancing the

ing, consumer awareness, community engagement and extraction technologies have all evolved, so too has the process by which we extract the natural resources that enable our modern way of life. Today the United States is home to the gold standard of environmental protection. We are breathing the cleanest air since modern records began measuring the presence of six key air pollutants. We 44 Mine Idaho

Recognizing the government’s own limits on both resources and effectiveness, the law includes a provision that allows private companies to step in and help with clean up.

cleanup of hazardous and nonhazardous waste around the county. Recognizing the government’s own limits on both resources and effectiveness, the law includes a provision that allows private companies to step in and help with clean up. Most companies would avoid investing in an area that comes with a million to billion-dollar upfront liability. Understanding this, CERCLA includes a provision that exempts companies from being held responsible for the failures of the past while allowing them to assess and eventually build new operations so long as they are consistent with today’s evolved standards. Midas Gold is taking this concept to a new level for an area in Idaho that has long endured the environmental consequences of min-

ing from local residents about their priorities and their longstanding disappointments. Many of the ideas presented and discussed have since been incorporated into the project’s short and long-term plans. This is a key part of project’s success, but more importantly, a testament to the company’s overarching goal, which is to set the broader community and its largely tribal residents up for positive long-term success. Beyond the environmental benefits, the mining project will breathe new life into the local economy. It’s projected to create more than 1,000 well-paying jobs that are estimated to pay wages that are two times the local and state average. Additionally, the project will generate over $500 million in federal taxes and $200 million in state and local taxes. These additional revenues can be used to support local infrastructure, education, healthcare or other economic development and community enhancement projects. Midas Gold is providing a lifeline to the local community in ways that seemed impossible for decades. It is also proving out a template for success in solving legacy environmental problems by employing collaborative engagement between private companies, the federal government and local communities. Mandy Gunasekara is a former Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator at the US Environmental Protection Agency and Majority Counsel to the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. She is the Founder of Energy 45 Fund, which is dedicated to creating a productive dialogue around our country’s greatest energy and environmental issues. s

ing’s past. Since 2009, Midas Gold has been in the process of studying the site to build a modern mining operation while also assessing how to clean it up. After many years of water sampling, extensive local engagement, development of a reclamation plan and expenditure of significant resources, the company is moving forward with making this a reality. The company has produced a first of its kind approach captured in its Plan of Restoration and Operations. Important to note is that the company’s standard of reclamation is a step beyond simply cleaning a contaminated site up. It’s a commitment to restore the area to its original, pristine state. For the Stibnite Mining District, this would mean restoring the land and waters to its pre-1920’s status, which is a level of cleanliness most residents have never seen. The truly innovative element of this project is that it is built on meaningful engagement with the local community. The company’s founding principles for the project were developed after first learnIdaho Mining Association 45

Innovative strategies for the management of mine-impacted waters

Site specific leachate source control and semi-passive water treatment provide cost advantages Submitted by Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.

ining has the potential to impact waters in several ways that can threaten the viability of the mine

and the mine ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social license to operate. A focused approach to planning for the management of mine-impacted waters (MIW) from initial mine planning through reclamation can help avoid compliance problems and more costly solutions. Of concern is the presence of selenium in the waters of Idaho and Idaho DEQâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recent adoption of site-specific criteria for selenium. Since first identified as an issue in 1996, selenium leach-

46 Mine Idaho

ing from waste rock has been a challenge for certain Idaho mines. Now, with the adopted changes to the chronic aquatic life criterion for selenium, a variety of site water management strategies will be necessary to achieve the low standards proposed by the criterion. Geosyntec has partnered with several Idaho mining clients to develop source control strategies and designs using capping alternatives. Caps may consist of topsoil, clay, evaportranspirative (ET), or geosynthetic cover systems with cap designs tailored to site-specific conditions and available materials. Topsoil caps can be the least expensive

approach to capping, if sufficient materials are available. At mines with readily available clay sources, caps incorporating a low-permeability clay layer to minimize infiltration of water may be designed with considerations given to manage clay performance and veneer stability. Evaportranspirative covers take advantage of the natural soil-water balance which utilizes the soil matrix to absorb water during wet periods and subsequently release water through evaporation and transpiration, through vegetative root uptake, during dry periods. Geosynthetic covers are a solution for sites lacking sufficient and appro-

priate earthen cover materials and/or where modeling indicates the need for reduced percolation to achieve compliance and stakeholder goals. Consideration should be given to stakeholder goals, compliance goals, soil hydraulic conductivity and modeling, cap internal drainage and surface water drainage design, and veneer stability. Another example of an innovative MIW management strategy is Geosyntecâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design, construction, and operation of an alternative water treatment technology called a Gravel Bed Reactor (GBRâ&#x201E;˘). GBR technology is proving to be effective in treating selenium and nitrate, and GBRs have also been shown to be capable of treating problematic metals such as arsenic, zinc, chromium, uranium, cadmium, manganese and lead. In comparison to active biological water treatment plants which are dependent on significant infrastructure, and power-consumptive operation and maintenance controls, the GBR technol-

ogy provides several cost and design advantages. A GBR consists of an engineered bed of gravel/media through which water containing constituents of concern is passed and treated. For anaerobic biological treatment, amendments such as electron donors and nutrients are added to the water at the inlet of the GBR to promote the growth and activity of natural microbes that can reduce inorganics and immobilize constituents of concern in the gravel bed. GBRs are generally constructed within a natural depression or constructed cell near the water requiring treatment. Geosyntec has successfully treated selenium and nitrate in GBRs to concentrations below target treatment levels using anaerobic biological reduction. Selenium is removed from water by reducing the soluble forms of selenate, Se(VI), or selenite, Se(IV), to elemental selenium, Se(0), which can then be sorbed onto solid phases, precipitated

or incorporated into the biomass within the GBR. Geosyntec is conducting additional research using a microbial culture of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) that has shown promise for biogeochemical transformation of acidity and metals that are elevated in MIW through processes of acid-mine drainage (AMD). Geosyntecâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s use of adaptive, sitespecific management strategies such as innovative cover systems and water treatment technologies provides important advancements in the mitigation of MIW, with the potential to meet stringent regulatory requirements and provide cost-effective solutions to mining challenges in Western North America. About Geosyntec Consultants, Inc. Geosyntec Consultants, Inc. is an employee-owned environmental engineering and technical science services company that specializes in mine site permitting, design, compliance, and remediation. Offices throughout the western U.S. and Canada. s

Idaho Mining Association 47

Finding Mining Success with Technology By Tyler Simmons, Industry Solutions Manager at Western States Cat

ith new and exciting mining projects on the horizon within Idaho, there is a growing need to mine safely and efficiently, minimizing the impact to the environment as well as making sure all employees make it home to their loved ones. Mine operators, who already have many tasks on their plates, feel the additional pressure of needing to do more with fewer resources and often turn to technology to help bridge the gap. Increasingly, this technology has become every bit as critical in helping mines succeed as the highest quality machines and availability. Western States Cat understands just how critical technology is, and we specialize in products that support and supplement the industry knowledge and experience that already exists within a mining operation. We focus on ways to provide organizations with data that they might not previously have been able to capture, with the goal of bringing insight and clarity to the decision making process. Some of these technologies include equipment grade control, operator fatigue management systems, remotely operated equipment, production tracking, and site surveying. We select and validate each product to ensure it adds value to our clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; businesses and meets their needs. One specific technology that has been invaluable to our clients is MineStar Edge. MineStar Edge is a cloud-based production tracking solution. It does not require operator input, thus freeing up operators to focus entirely on the task at hand. MineStar Edge provides surface mining operations new insight into daily load counts, shift change 48 Mine Idaho

duration, hauling equipment payloads, machine idle time and fleet utilization. These data points are focused on supplementing the knowledge and experience of mine operators. Our goal is to provide data that leads to more informed decisions and lowers the overall cost-per-ton for the entire mining organization. In fact, several of our current Idaho mining clients have found that MineStar Edge paid for itself in as little as six months after implementation. Near real-time reporting is one of the most powerful features of MineStar Edge. Mining operations have found the most success when shift supervisors have near real-time information on load counts, hauling tool payloads, material load and dump location, idle equipment, break time durations and physical equipment location within the mine. The shift supervisors use this information to make immediate adjustments to ensure that production goals are met, rather than waiting until the end of the shift to determine if goals were realized. Additionally, mining operations have seen boosted productivity by aligning equipment payloads and asset capacities, increased teamwork due to better operational visibility, and safe reductions in shift change duration. MineStar Edge is internet browser-based, meaning that shift supervisors can access the data from a computer or tablet anywhere on the site with an internet connection. Western States Cat is a team of people passionate about the mining industry. We are focused on increasing the safety and efficiency of mining operations by introducing new technologies that supplement the experience and knowledge of mine operators. s

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Idaho Mining Association 49

Out of the Rock educator workshop

Bringing awareness to the importance of mining and mineral resources Submitted by the National Energy Foundation

teachers and educators. This popular teacher workshop has been sponsored by IMA for the last 24 years. In 2019 both elementary and secondary school participants enjoyed two days of rich workshop experiences. They participated in mining simulation lessons using birdseed and cookies. They learned and practiced identification skills on the rock and mineral samples they received. Educators created their own mineral toothpaste in a STEM rich lesson. The rock cycle was brought to life when they formed a human earth model. Geology was made delicious for teachers with a lesson called Candy Bar Cross Section.

daho is proudly known as the “Gem State”, stemming from the fact that the only other location on the planet which has a greater variety of gems is in Africa. Mining has been important in Idaho for decades and ranks high among the states in silver, antimony, lead, cobalt, garnet, phosphate rock, vanadium, zinc and mercury mining, as well as local mineral resources. Because of this important history, the Idaho Mining Association (IMA) has sponsored the Out of the Rock workshop to bring awareness of the importance of mining and mineral resources to

50 Mine Idaho

Educators created their own mineral toothpaste in a STEM rich lesson.

Last year the workshop included field experiences, and due to popular demand, the field experience was once again integrated into our popular workshop, in 2019. Teachers panned for gold in Granite Creek, visited area mining museums, and experienced a tour of the historical Idaho City. This experience exposed teachers to a variety of field trip options that they could later share with their students. The IMA provided the National Energy Foundation’s Out of the Rock curriculum, educational posters and “Rock Music”. Again, this year, a portion of the lessons were revised and updated in color format to be included on the new Out of the Rock website (http://thinkenergy.org/ima/). Also provided were science supplies such as mineral samples, mineral testing supplies, and gold panning kits. In addition, IMA donated educator stipends to fur-

ther enable successful teaching of Earth Science concepts in the Idaho Content Standards. Idaho educators were appreciative to have these resources for their students. “I loved all the lesson plan ideas that I was given at the workshop and I am so excited to complete them with my students.“ “The direct access to all the resources and activities was great! I was able to leave the workshop with my own rock collection kit that I will be able to share with my students.” “This was a workshop where I was able to get out and personally experience things, gather resources for teaching and gain professional development. Continue doing the workshop for others! ” The reach of the 2019 Out of the Rock workshop is considerable. If participants of the 2019 workshop use their workshop learning, obtained resources and provided curriculum which they obtained in this year’s workshop, for the next three years, 4,290 teachers and students will be impacted. To expand that reach, the Out of the Rock website (http://thinkenergy.org/ima/) encourages students to share mining lessons, mining and natural resource FAQs, and mining games with their families. Idaho educators deeply value Idaho Mining Association’s engagement with rock, mineral, and mining education. Their commitment to provide professional opportunities and high-quality curriculum resources is invaluable. When paired with science supplies, teachers are able to facilitate awareness of mineral resources and the mining industry to students. This will have a far-reaching effect in Idaho communities for years to come. s

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Idaho Mining Association 51

FlowTech Fueling:

Small Fueling Process Improvements Lead to Big Production Gains /Ŷ ƚŚĞ ůĂƐƚ ĚĞĐĂĚĞ͕ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ĨŽƌĐĞƐ ŚĂǀĞ ĚĞŵĂŶĚĞĚ ƚŚĂƚ ƚŚĞ ŵŝŶŝŶŐ ŝŶĚƵƐƚƌǇ ůĞĂƌŶ ƚŽ ĚŽ ŵŽƌĞ ǁŝƚŚ ůĞƐƐ͘ &ŝŶĚŝŶŐ ǁĂǇƐ ƚŽ ĐŽŶƐƚĂŶƚůǇ ŝŶĐƌĞĂƐĞ ƉƌŽĚƵĐƚŝǀŝƚǇ ǁŚŝůĞ ĂĚŚĞƌŝŶŐ ƚŽ ƐƚƌŝĐƚ ƐĂĨĞƚǇ ĂŶĚ ĞŶǀŝƌŽŶŵĞŶƚ ƐƚĂŶĚĂƌĚƐ ĐĂŶ ďĞ ĐŚĂůůĞŶŐŝŶŐ ďƵƚ ĨƵĞůŝŶŐ ƉƌŽĐĞƐƐ ŝŵƉƌŽǀĞŵĞŶƚƐ ŝƐ ĂŶ ĞĂƐǇ ǁĂǇ ƚŽ ďŽŽƐƚ ĞĨĨŝĐŝĞŶĐǇ ǁŝƚŚŽƵƚ Ă ŚƵŐĞ ĐĂƉŝƚĂů ĞǆƉĞŶĚŝƚƵƌĞ͘ ƐƚĂďůŝƐŚĞĚ ŝŶ ϮϬϬϭ͕ &ůŽǁdĞĐŚ &ƵĞůŝŶŐ ŚĂƐ ďĞĐŽŵĞ ƚŚĞ ůĞĂĚĞƌ ŝŶ ĨƵĞůŝŶŐ ƉƌŽĐĞƐƐ ŝŵƉƌŽǀĞŵĞŶƚ͘ dŚĞŝƌ ƉĂƚĞŶƚĞĚ ŶŽŶͲƉƌĞƐƐƵƌĞ ĨƵĞůŝŶŐ ƐǇƐƚĞŵƐ ĂŶĚ ůĂƌŐĞ ƐĐĂůĞ ŵŽďŝůĞ ĨƵĞůŝŶŐ ĚĞƉŽƚƐ ĂƌĞ ƐƉĞĐŝĨŝĐĂůůǇ ĚĞƐŝŐŶĞĚ ƚŽ ŵĞĞƚ ƚŚĞ ĐŚĂůůĞŶŐĞƐ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ŚĂƌƐŚ͕ Ϯϰͬϳ ŵŝŶŝŶŐ ĞŶǀŝƌŽŶŵĞŶƚ͘ tŝƚŚ ŽǀĞƌ ϴϬ ǇĞĂƌƐ ŽĨ ĐŽŵďŝŶĞĚ mining experience, FlowTech’s experience and ĐŽŵŵŝƚŵĞŶƚ ƚŽ ĐƵƐƚŽŵĞƌ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ŝƐ ƐĞĐŽŶĚ ƚŽ ŶŽŶĞ͘ Installing FlowTech’s nonͲƉƌĞƐƐƵƌĞ͕ ŽǀĞƌĨŝůů ƉƌĞǀĞŶƚŝŽŶ ƐǇƐƚĞŵƐ ŽŶ ǇŽƵƌ ŵŽďŝůĞ ĞƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚ ǁŝůů ŝŶƐƚĂŶƚůǇ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞ ŵƵůƚŝͲĚŝŵĞŶƐŝŽŶĂů ƐĂǀŝŶŐƐ ďǇ ĞůŝŵŝŶĂƚŝŶŐ ĨƵĞů ƐƉŝůůĂŐĞ͕ ŝŵƉƌŽǀŝŶŐ ƉĞƌƐŽŶŶĞů ƐĂĨĞƚǇ͕ ƌĞĚƵĐŝŶŐ ƚĂŶŬ ŵĂŝŶƚĞŶĂŶĐĞ͕ ĂŶĚ ŵŝŶŝŵŝǌŝŶŐ ĞŶǀŝƌŽŶŵĞŶƚĂů ŝŵƉĂĐƚƐ͘ dŚĞ &ůŽǁdĞĐŚ DŽďŝůĞ &ƵĞůŝŶŐ ĞƉŽƚ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƐ ĐƵƐƚŽŵĞƌƐ ƚŚĞ ĞĨĨŝĐŝĞŶĐǇ ĂŶĚ ĨůĞǆŝďŝůŝƚǇ ŽĨ Ă ŚŝŐŚͲ ĨůŽǁ͕ ŵƵůƚŝͲƐƚĂƚŝŽŶ ĨƵĞůŝŶŐ ĨĂĐŝůŝƚǇ ǁŝƚŚ ƚŚĞ ĂĚĚĞĚ ďĞŶĞĨŝƚ ŽĨ ĞĂƐŝůǇ ŵŽǀŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ ĨĂĐŝůŝƚǇ ĂƐ ƚŚĞ ŵŝŶĞ ƉůĂŶ ƌĞƋƵŝƌĞƐ͘ dŚŽƵŐŚ ĨƵĞů ŝƐ ŽĨƚĞŶ Ă ŵŝŶŝŶŐ ĐŽŵƉĂŶŝĞƐ ƐĞĐŽŶĚ ůĂƌŐĞƐƚ ŽƉĞƌĂƚŝŶŐ ĞǆƉĞŶƐĞ͕ ǀĞƌǇ ůŝƚƚůĞ ĨŽĐƵƐ ŝƐ ƉůĂĐĞĚ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ĨƵĞůŝŶŐ ƉƌŽĐĞƐƐ͘ &ůŽǁdĞĐŚ ǁŽƌŬƐ ǁŝƚŚ it’s ĐƵƐƚŽŵĞƌƐ ƚŽ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉ Ă ĐƵƐƚŽŵŝǌĞĚ ƉůĂŶ ƚŽ ŝŵƉƌŽǀĞ ĨƵĞůŝŶŐ ƉƌŽĐĞƐƐĞƐ ĨƌŽŵ ĚĞůŝǀĞƌǇ͕ ƚŽ ďƵůŬ ƐƚŽƌĂŐĞ ĂŶĚ ĞƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚ ƌĞĨƵĞůŝŶŐ͘ &ƵĞůŝŶŐ ƉƌŽĐĞƐƐ ŝŵƉƌŽǀĞŵĞŶƚ ŽĨĨĞƌƐ ŵŝŶŝŶŐ ŽƉĞƌĂƚŝŽŶƐ Ă ƵŶŝƋƵĞ ŽƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƚǇ ƚŽ ĞĂƐŝůǇ ĞůŝŵŝŶĂƚĞ ĨƵĞů ǁĂƐƚĞ ĂŶĚ ŵĂǆŝŵŝǌĞ ĨƵĞůŝŶŐ ĞĨĨŝĐŝĞŶĐǇ͘ &ůŽǁdĞĐŚ ĐĂŶ ŚĞůƉ ǇŽƵ ĂĐŚŝĞǀĞ Ă ĨĂƐƚĞƌ Ĩŝůů ǁŝƚŚŽƵƚ ƚŚĞ ƐƉŝůů ƐŽ ǇŽƵƌ ŽƉĞƌĂƚŝŽŶ ĐĂŶ ĚŽ ŵŽƌĞ ǁŝƚŚ ůĞƐƐ͘

REDUCE costs and INCREASE productivity with safer, cleaner, more reliable fueling processes

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ĐŽŶƚĂĐƚ &ƌŝƚǌ <ƌƵŐĞƌ ͮ ϯϬϳ͘ϲϵϲ͘ϵϳϱϰ ͮ ĨƌŝƚǌŬΛĨůŽǁƚĞĐŚĨƵĞůŝŶŐ͘ĐŽŵ Idaho Mining Association 53

ǁ ǁ ǁ͘ Ĩ ů Ž ǁ ƚ Ğ Đ Ś Ĩ Ƶ Ğ ů ŝ Ŷ Ő ͘ Đ Ž ŵ

Unlikely coalition brings new life to Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout

one year after completion of habitat restoration By Taryn Rittberg and Trent Clark

he Upper Blackfoot Confluence (UBC) is a coalition made up of the J.R. Simplot Company, Bayer, and Itafos,

itated by Keith Allred, formerly of Midas

years, the number of Cutthroats in the

Gold Corp in 2012, and has since grown

Upper Blackfoot River has diminished

substantially.

rapidly to around only 20 fish, partly

In May 2018, a hover of Yellowstone

due to an influx of pelicans in the area,

three phosphate mining companies

Cutthroat Trout found a new spawning

which are one of this speciesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; main

working with Trout Unlimited and the

home thanks to this unlikely partner-

predators, as well as due to recreational

Idaho Conservation League to protect

ship of mining companies and conser-

fishing, as Cutthroat are a popular fish

native species in southeast Idaho. This

vation groups. The Cutthroat is a threat-

to catch in the Upper Blackfoot River.

innovative collaboration between min-

ened species according to various state

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have that recreational compo-

ers and environmental groups was facil-

and federal wildlife agencies. In the past

nent, people want to come catch Cut-

54 Mine Idaho

throat Trout. But we also have a native fish responsibility to ensure that these Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout persist through time,â&#x20AC;? said David Teuscher, manager of Idaho Fish and Game. One year after a hover of Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout found a new spawning home due to an unlikely partnership between mining companies and conservation groups, the hover has, in no uncertain terms, began to thrive. Throughout the year many tours were run in order to demonstrate the success of this collaboration, and give people the opportunity to see first-hand the great work being done by the Upper Blackfoot Confluence (UBC). On August 2, 2019 the Upper Blackfoot Confluence hosted a tour, including important members of the community and political figures, of Idahoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Blackfoot River providing an overview of this Idaho Mining Association 55

Today, Idaho Fish and Game considers the Upper Lanes Creek an ideal spawning habitat as a result of the UBC project. project as well as many other habitat restoration projects being worked on in Idaho. The UBC continues to work with the Caribou Cattle Company and other landowners to restore more productive spawning areas for the Cutthroat Trout. "It increases the production dramatically of the fry going downhill if they can spawn here,” said Troy Browning from the Caribou Cattle Company. The Upper Lanes Creek tributary flows directly into the Upper Blackfoot River where the Cutthroat trout will migrate back to when they are done spawning, but not without specialized monitoring tags. “We have these monitoring locations where it’s kind of like a scanner at the grocery store—they scan your item and it tells you how much it costs. Well these tags, when they swim by one of those scanners, it’s recorded what time of day, what day they went by,” said Teuscher. Through monitoring of the Cutthroat, the UBC has been able to observe how many fish survive predation periods, how many spawn, and how many migrate back to their new spawning habi56 Mine Idaho

tat. In conjunction with the transplant of spawning female Cutthroats into the restored headwater areas, these projects have been able to help increase the Cutthroat population in the UBC, in hopes of returning it to a more natural number of Cutthroat Trout. “By bringing projects like this alive, we hope to bring the fish numbers back so that people can enjoy them,” said Matt Woodard from Trout Unlimited. The project began in 2013 and took a lot of work to restore the three-anda-half-mile spawning site, but that work has rewarded in 2018, as the Idaho Fish and Game transplanted dozens of spawning female Cutthroats into the recently restored streams. Today, Idaho Fish and Game considers the Upper Lanes Creek an ideal spawning habitat as a result of the UBC project. Careful reconstruction of the bank with stones helps to prevent soil erosion from damaging water quality. A major factor in this erosion has become the vicinity of grazing land to small rivers and streams. As the grass lands are uprooted, the ground erodes more quickly, widening riverbanks and less-

ening the depth and flow of the water. These recent erosion events are a major influence on why the UBC instituted this, as well as other similar projects. In

2019,

the

UBC

announced

$235,000 in grants that are aimed be aid a number of cooperative efforts to continue to improve the habitat of the Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout, restore stream-side landscapes, and improve water quality for humans and wildlife. Since 2011, the UBC has invested $1.7 million in habitat restoration funds. Key to the success of these upcoming developments, is maintaining a positive relationship and continuing to foster trust amongst the ranching and grazing interests in the area, as they are who own much of the private land along the Blackfoot. Teuscher works hard on this collaboration, pitching the benefits of stream protection to local ranchers. The hope is that with the aid of the UBC, mining companies, ranchers, and grazing interests, the native species of southeast Idaho will continue to recover and thrive. s

DEL Communications Inc.

is working for you.

mIne Idaho n of the Official Publicatio

ciation Idaho Mining Asso

Renewed interest and excitement in mining o and minerals in Idah

2018-2019

MONTANA 2017-2018 mining

Bringing tomorrow’s technology to Montana Women’s Mining Coalition honored for mining advocacy and education MMA recognizes outstanding safety performance

t The Upper Blackfoo l Confluence, an unusua collaboration

www.montanamining.org

The Women’s Mining for Coalition: Advocating ity the mining commun since 1993

2018

MEMBER

DIRECTO S RY

Suite 300 - 6 Roslyn Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3L 0G5

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INDEX TO ADVERTISERS Aecom.................................................................................................................. 51

J.R. Simplot Company.....................................................................................3

Affco....................................................................................................................26

Kiewit Mining Group.................................................................................... IFC

Americas Gold and Silver Corp.................................................................41

McCallum Rock Drilling................................................................................ 27

Bilbao & Co....................................................................................................... 40

Midas Gold Inc.............................................................................................OBC

Brewer Exploration & Geological Surveyors.......................................26

Modern Machinery.........................................................................................26

Brown and Caldwell...................................................................................... 37

Northwest Mine Supply...............................................................................45

Cate Equipment Company.......................................................................... 15

Olympic Engineered Sales Inc.................................................................. 32

Coastline Equipment.......................................................................................8

Otis Gold Corp.................................................................................................29

Coeur Products.............................................................................................. 40

Purcell Tire......................................................................................................... 25

Eljay Oil................................................................................................................. 6

Revival Gold Inc............................................................................................... 33

Em Strategies....................................................................................................41

Rimex Inc............................................................................................................ 17

Flowtech Fueling............................................................................................ 53

Rma Prospectors Ima..................................................................................43

Geosyntec......................................................................................................... 47

Rock Tech Usa.................................................................................................. 6

Great Basin Seed...............................................................................................5

Rockmore International................................................................................41

Hecla Mining Company..............................................................................IBC

Ruen Drilling Incorporated.......................................................................... 15

High Country Fusion....................................................................................... 9

Small Mine Development Llc...................................................................39

Holland & Hart.................................................................................................. 17

Specialty Construction Supply.................................................................. 17

Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology.................................................30

Svl Analytical, Inc.............................................................................................7

Integra Resources.......................................................................................... 35

Swca Environmental Consultants.........................................................24

J.h. Fletcher & Co............................................................................................ 13

Western States Equipment Co.................................................................49

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Articles inside

The Kilgore Project: Idaho’s next multi-million ounce gold deposit

Progress of mining and exploration in Idaho: An update on the National Geological and Geophysical Data Preservation Program from the Idaho Geological Survey