It is inevitable that large-scale, cyanide-leach mining will have issues and problems. The Buckhorn Mine is no exception. How a mining company and regulators address the need for change can either limit the problem or cause long-term problems that are difficult to remediate.

Over the years, OHA has raised concerns regarding mining on Buckhorn Mountain with the various incarnations of the open-pit as well as the underground proposals. Once construction and mining commenced, many of OHA’s concerns were realized and became on-the-ground issues that had or still have to be addressed. As the mining project commenced, additional problems and issues have emerged. 

This section contains information about ongoing issues with updates on what is currently happening in each area:

Adaptive Management Background

Exploration Proposal

Water Quality

Following the Water (How Water is Used) 

Surface Water

Mitigation Plan