In-pit tailings disposal management facility, Fosterville Gold Project, Australia: A case study

摘要

The issue of permanent disposal of mine tailings is a contentious one, raising concerns from both mining companies and their environmental counterparts. The Fosterville Operation, owned and operated by Perseverance Exploration Australia Pty Ltd., is currently tackling the problem of tailings disposal in relation to its proposed expansion of the Fosterville Sulphide Project. Following extensive research and consultation, it was decided that the most suitable method of disposal in this case, was in-pit disposal. Subsequently, the Fosterville Pit, which was successfully mined out in 1993, has become the focus of a substantial backfilling and reclamation process. This paper intends to provide a case study, detailing the chosen methods of deposition and rehabilitation, suitable for the application of the Fosterville Operation.