INAP Mine Rock Stockpile Source Control Project

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Background

Since 2018, Okane has collaborated with International Network for Acid Prevention (INAP) to develop Rock Placement Strategies to Enhance Operational and Closure Performance of Mine Rock Stockpiles (MRS) – Phase 1. The collaboration has since focused on optimizing mine rock placement with an emphasis on source control to mitigate water quality risks from operations through to post-closure by evaluating the question: “How does constructing an MRS with a focus on source control help reduce asset liability to an acceptable level of residual risk?”

Approach

Okane leveraged data from two case studies to review the design framework and develop a conceptual model considering site-specific factors such as materials, climate, hydrogeological, and physical setting. This approach supported the development of decision-making tools to demonstrate the benefits of incorporating source control in MRS design and construction across varying climates and physical settings.

Client Benefit

Our most recent work is summarized in an industry report on ARD/AMD Source Control for Mine Rock Stockpiles – Phase 3. The report outlines how these decision-making tools can be used to optimize mine lifecycle value by incorporating MRS source control, ultimately reducing asset liability to an acceptable level of residual risk.

International Network for Acid Prevention (INAP). (2024). Comparison of conventional MRS construction (top) and MRS with source control measures incorporated (bottom) [Illustration].

A framework designed to evaluate and set realistic expectations from the outset regarding the benefits of incorporating MRS source control measures to achieve required closure outcomes.