Barneys Canyon Gold Mine Reclamation

Barneys Canyon Gold Mine Reclamation Project Restores Environmental Integrity and Enhances Corporate Social Responsibility

Rio Tinto

September, 2019

Salt Lake County, UT

Civil Engineering, Environmental Permitting, Environmental Reclamation, Land Surveying

Anderson Engineering Restores Barneys Canyon Gold Mine, Pioneering Sustainable Reclamation for Rio Tinto

Anderson Engineering was tasked with leading the environmental reclamation of the Barneys Canyon Gold Mine, a former mining site owned by Rio Tinto. This project required a comprehensive approach to restore the land to a stable, natural state, focusing on both environmental sustainability and compliance with regulatory standards. The scope of work included grading and drainage design, contaminated land reclamation, field engineering, and environmental cleanup. Anderson Engineering also implemented water remediation solutions to address contamination in local water systems and designed habitats to support the return of native wildlife. The replanting of indigenous vegetation further contributed to ecosystem restoration. Anderson Engineering’s expertise in environmental reclamation allowed Rio Tinto to meet its environmental goals, ensuring long-term sustainability for the land and reducing future liabilities. The project demonstrates Anderson’s ability to manage complex reclamation projects, balancing technical precision with environmental stewardship.

Objectives

Land Restoration

Return the mine site to a stable, natural landscape by reshaping and rehabilitating the land.

Zero Discharge

Ensure the site adheres to zero discharge standards, preventing contamination and managing water systems sustainably.

Long-term Site Management

Develop and implement long-term strategies for the storage and management of the reclaimed land to ensure environmental sustainability.

Wildlife Habitat Reconstruction

Rebuild ecosystems to support the return of native species and promote biodiversity.

Successes

Successful Land Reclamation

The mine site was fully restored to a natural landscape, meeting regulatory standards and environmental goals.

Zero Discharge Achieved

Water management systems were implemented to ensure zero discharge, preventing environmental contamination.

Long-term Site Sustainability

A comprehensive plan for the long-term storage and management of the site was established, securing the environmental integrity of the reclaimed land.

Reestablishment of Wildlife Habitats

Native species began to return as reconstructed habitats supported biodiversity and ecological balance.

Hands-on Expertise

Why Anderson Engineering?

With expertise in environmental reclamation, we are committed to ensuring long-term sustainability. Our proven success in contaminated land reclamation is backed by innovative solutions that prioritize environmental stewardship. We take a comprehensive approach, combining technical precision with a commitment to preserving the environment. Our strong track record speaks for itself, showcasing our ability to design efficient grading and drainage systems tailored to complex mining landscapes.

Why Choose Us

Expertise in Environmental Reclamation

Expertise in environmental reclamation ensures long-term sustainability.

Historical Success

Proven success in contaminated land reclamation with innovative solutions.

Big-Small Company

Comprehensive approach combining technical precision with environmental stewardship.

Requirement Specific Design Experience

Strong track record in designing efficient grading and drainage systems tailored to complex mining landscapes.

Project Challenges and Solutions

Barneys Canyon faces challenges due to its remote location and geological characteristics, requiring innovative solutions for safe and efficient operation.

Jhon Doe

Challenge
Significant contamination in the soil from previous mining operations required careful planning and execution for safe removal.

Solution
Anderson Engineering performed an extensive field characterization to assess the extent of contamination. They developed a comprehensive reclamation plan and led contractors in the field to safely remove contaminated material, ensuring the site was restored to meet environmental safety standards.

Jhon Doe

Challenge
Managing water on-site to meet strict zero discharge standards was complex due to legacy mining impacts.

Solution
Anderson implemented an innovative water management system that captured and treated water on-site, eliminating discharge into surrounding environments.

Jhon Doe

Challenge
Ensuring the long-term structural and environmental stability of the reclaimed site.

Solution
Anderson developed a storage and land management plan to secure the site’s sustainability, incorporating regular monitoring and maintenance.

Jhon Doe

Challenge
Reconstructing habitats to support wildlife after decades of mining activity.

Solution
Anderson designed and implemented habitat reconstruction efforts, including replanting native species and creating conducive environments for wildlife return.

Jhon Doe

Challenge
Meeting stringent environmental regulations while managing project complexities.

Solution
Anderson’s in-depth knowledge of environmental laws ensured the project met all regulatory requirements, while also aligning with Rio Tinto’s sustainability goals.

Scope of Work

Anderson Engineering was contracted by Rio Tinto to oversee the environmental reclamation of the Barneys Canyon Gold Mine. The project’s scope included restoring the landscape to its natural state, ensuring zero discharge water management, and addressing long-term sustainability for the site. Anderson’s role encompassed planning, executing, and supervising all aspects of the reclamation process, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and sustainability goals.

Anderson conducted a detailed field characterization to assess soil contamination, developed a comprehensive reclamation plan, and led contractors in the removal of hazardous materials. Additionally, Anderson designed grading and drainage systems, restored wildlife habitats, and implemented long-term monitoring solutions. The project’s success hinged on a balance between technical precision and environmental stewardship, with Anderson ensuring all work met regulatory standards.

Key Services Provided

Grading and Drainage Design

Contaminated soil field characterization and removal

Zero discharge water management system design

Wildlife habitat reconstruction

Long-term site monitoring and management

Environmental cleanup and regulatory compliance

From Design, to Field Engineering, to Closure.

The reclamation of the Barneys Canyon Gold Mine followed a structured and methodical process led by Anderson Engineering, beginning with compliance and permitting. Anderson worked closely with regulatory agencies to secure the necessary permits for site reclamation and mine closure, ensuring all environmental and safety standards were fully addressed. This crucial step laid the foundation for the project’s success.

Once permits were obtained, Anderson conducted an in-depth site analysis, including field characterization to assess the extent of soil contamination and environmental impacts from the mine’s operation. With this data, Anderson developed a detailed reclamation plan that prioritized environmental sustainability, long-term land management, and regulatory compliance.

Field operations commenced with Anderson overseeing contractors in the removal of contaminated soil and the installation of essential infrastructure, such as grading and drainage systems. A zero discharge water management system was implemented to prevent any environmental contamination.

In accordance with typical mine closure procedures, Anderson ensured that the landscape was restored to a safe, stable condition that would support future land use. The project also included the reestablishment of wildlife habitats, with the reintroduction of native species and the careful monitoring of the ecosystem’s recovery.

Throughout the process, Anderson Engineering ensured ongoing communication with regulatory bodies and stakeholders, maintaining compliance at every stage. Ongoing site monitoring and long-term management strategies were established to guarantee the site’s future stability and sustainability, aligning with both Rio Tinto’s and environmental regulations for mine closures.

A Successful Closing of the Mine

This is where the outcomes for the project will go.

Complete Site Restoration

The landscape was fully rehabilitated, with contaminated soil removed and the site stabilized for long-term sustainability.

Zero Discharge Water Management

Anderson implemented a system that ensured no water contamination, meeting stringent environmental standards.

Wildlife Habitat Reconstruction

Native species were reintroduced, and habitats were rebuilt to support biodiversity and ecological recovery.

Regulatory Compliance and Long-term Management

All work met or exceeded environmental regulations, with a comprehensive long-term management plan established for the site’s future stability.

Hear From Those Directly Involved

To provide a comprehensive overview, it's essential to hear from those directly involved in the project.

Brandon Anderson

New York

Anderson Engineering provided exceptional expertise, professionalism, and dedication on our recent infrastructure project. Their proactive problem-solving and commitment to quality set them apart. I highly recommend them for their reliable and top-notch engineering services.

Corey Anderson

New York

I recently had the pleasure of working with Anderson Engineering on a construction project, and I couldn't be more pleased with the experience. The team at Anderson Engineering was professional, knowledgeable, and efficient. They provided top-notch engineering services and were always available to answer any questions or concerns that arose during the project. I was impressed by their attention to detail and their commitment to delivering high-quality work. I would highly recommend Anderson Engineering to anyone in need of reliable and expert engineering services.

Comprehensive Engineering Solutions

Full List of Services Provided

Zoning and Regulatory Consulting

Geotechnical Engineering

Construction Management and Oversight

Subdivision Platting

ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys

Topographic Surveys

Hazardous Materials Handling

ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys

Construction Staking

EPA CERCLA (Superfund) Process Consulting

Environmental Permitting

3D Scanning and Modeling

Land Use Planning Support

In-Depth Project Narrative

From here on, the project narrative has primarily been generated to optimize search engine visibility and discoverability.

Project Overview:
Barney’s Gold Mine, located in the rugged terrain of western Utah, was once a bustling hub of mineral extraction, but after decades of operations, it was abandoned, leaving behind a significant environmental and safety liability. The mine had become a source of erosion, contamination, and habitat disruption, posing risks to both the surrounding ecosystem and local communities. The reclamation of Barney’s Gold Mine was undertaken to not only restore environmental balance but also to ensure compliance with state and federal environmental regulations. Anderson Engineering was brought in to lead the project’s engineering and environmental efforts, playing a pivotal role in transforming the site into a safe, sustainable, and ecologically sound environment.

Anderson Engineering’s Role:
Anderson Engineering was tasked with managing the complex and multifaceted reclamation process, drawing on their extensive experience in site remediation, environmental permitting, and civil engineering. The firm was responsible for addressing key challenges such as mitigating environmental hazards, restoring the landscape, and ensuring the site met stringent regulatory requirements. Their involvement spanned several critical areas:

Environmental Impact Assessments and Site Analysis:
Anderson Engineering conducted comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) to evaluate the scope of damage caused by decades of mining operations. This included detailed studies on soil contamination, water quality degradation, and erosion control needs. Their team of environmental engineers and geotechnical specialists mapped the site’s topography and identified potential hazards to design effective remediation strategies.
Regulatory Compliance and Permitting:
One of the most significant hurdles in the reclamation project was navigating the complex web of local, state, and federal regulations, particularly under the Utah Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and the Environmental Protection Agency’s CERCLA (Superfund) guidelines. Anderson Engineering’s intimate knowledge of regulatory processes and strong relationships with governmental agencies ensured that all necessary permits were secured swiftly, preventing costly delays and avoiding regulatory penalties.
Soil Remediation and Erosion Control:
The reclamation effort involved extensive soil remediation to remove contaminants and restore soil health. Anderson Engineering deployed advanced geotechnical engineering techniques to stabilize slopes, prevent further erosion, and ensure long-term site stability. The firm’s engineers worked closely with environmental scientists to create erosion control measures, including the construction of retention ponds, regrading the landscape, and reestablishing vegetation to prevent runoff and soil degradation.
Water Resource Management and Waste Containment:
With water contamination being a significant concern, Anderson Engineering designed and implemented innovative water management systems that addressed surface and groundwater pollution. The team developed filtration systems to treat contaminated water and designed sustainable drainage solutions to prevent future contamination. Waste from the mine’s operations was also carefully handled and contained in a manner that complied with both environmental safety and regulatory standards.
Sustainable Land Reclamation and Habitat Restoration:
Anderson Engineering’s holistic approach extended beyond mere compliance, focusing on restoring the area to a thriving natural habitat. The team collaborated with ecological experts to plant native vegetation and rehabilitate natural habitats for wildlife, transforming the former industrial site into a viable ecosystem. This not only enhanced the aesthetic value of the area but also fostered biodiversity and promoted long-term environmental sustainability.

Project Outcome:
The Barney’s Gold Mine reclamation project, under the leadership of Anderson Engineering, stands as a testament to the firm’s expertise in environmental remediation and their commitment to excellence in the details. Through innovative engineering solutions, Anderson Engineering was able to mitigate environmental hazards, restore natural landscapes, and ensure that the site complied with all regulatory standards. The successful reclamation has turned a derelict and hazardous mine into a revitalized and ecologically balanced area, demonstrating Anderson Engineering’s ability to tackle complex environmental challenges with precision and professionalism.

As a result, the Barney’s Gold Mine reclamation project not only mitigated the environmental risks but also restored the area for potential future land uses, ensuring that the legacy of the mine is one of sustainability and environmental stewardship.