Image courtesy: Clint Fleury
Musselwhite mine is an underground mine located at Opapamiskan Lake, Ontario, approximately 500 kilometers north of Thunder Bay, Canada. The mine is owned 100 % by Newmont Corporation.
Musselwhite’s ore is mined from two main zones below Lake Opapimiskan. Ore is processed onsite using a circuit that includes crushing, grinding, leaching by cyanidation, carbon in pulp recovery and electrowinning. Gold recoveries are 96%.
In 2016, work began on a $90-million materials handling project to improve the movement of ore to the mill.
Musselwhite is in a remote location, so a trained and effective team is critical for ensuring worker safety. The operation has successfully integrated a team of mining contractors into its safety culture. For community concern, the company has a formal agreement with First Nation communities and councils in the vicinity of the mine: North Caribou Lake First Nation, Cat Lake First Nation, Kingfisher Lake First Nation, Wunnumin Lake First Nation, Shibogama First Nations Council, Windigo First Nations Council. In addition to revenue sharing, the agreement includes targets for employment, training and business development opportunities.
The ore body is under Opapimiskan Lake, so there is a comprehensive water management plan that emphasizes water recycling. Our team works closely with First Nations and their consultants to monitor the waterways beside and downstream the mine, a collaboration that’s been mutually beneficial.
