Mine Idaho 2022

mIne Idaho 2022

Official Publication of the Idaho Mining Association

40 Integra DeLamar: Raising the bar for modern mining

20

PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT #40934510

2021: An active year for Idaho mining and exploration and the Idaho Geological Survey minerals-related data preservation and mapping programs

26 Regulatory watch: Regulations you need to know

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

2022

6

34

Message from the President of the Idaho Mining Association, Mark Kirby

Silver takes the gold

8 Message from the Executive Director of the Idaho Mining Association, Benjamin Davenport

12 IMA members

13 IMA member benefits

14 IMA membership information

15

36 Excellon Idaho Gold: Committed to the gem state

38 Technology and the future of fleet management

40 Integra Delamar: Raising the bar for modern mining

42 Small fueling process improvements lead to big production gains

IMA membership application

44

16

Revival Gold is for responsible economic development

IMA principles

18 IMA events recap

20 2021: An active year for Idaho mining and exploration

26 Regulatory watch: Regulations you need to know

30 SVL Analytical celebrates 50 years of science, family and mining

32 In it for the long haul: Unique partnership celebrate progress in rebuilding upper Blackfoot River cutthroat trout

46 Shimmick: Mining infrastructure and support services

48 If it can’t be grown, it must be mined

50 Mining: Supporting America’s clean energy transition

52 Simplot: A proud past, a bright future

54 Idaho Mining Conference summary

58 Index to advertisers

mIne Idaho Published by

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© Copyright 2021. All rights reserved.

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4 Mine Idaho

SERVING THE

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Providing CONFIDENT DATA with VALUE and QUALITY.

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One Government Gulch | PO Box 929 | Kellogg, ID 83837-0929

A message from the President of the Idaho Mining Association

MARK KIRBY

RESILIENCY IN UNPRECENDENTED TIMES

I

daho miners have long been a resilient group. Idaho’s min-

lenges, the least of which include an ongoing global pandemic,

ing history has shaped political boundaries, created thriving

increasing regulatory pressures and environmental challenges,

communities, fed growing populations, and supplied the na-

continued cost escalation for exploration, permitting, infrastruc-

tion with minerals necessary for today’s modern lifestyle. An

ture, and competition from low-cost foreign producers.

Idaho miner is proudly displayed on our state’s flag, representing

As a nation, we have never been more reliant on mineral im-

our industry’s integral role through the more than 150 years that

ports. According to the 2021 Mineral Commodity Summaries

people have relied on mining to fuel both our state and nation’s

report by the U.S. Geological Survey, in 2020 the United States

economies.

relied entirely on imports for 17 mineral commodities, 14 of which

Since the discovery of Idaho’s vast mineral resources in the

are identified as critical minerals. In addition, another 14 critical

early 1860s, miners throughout the state have had to regularly

mineral commodities had a net import reliance of greater than

adapt to, and overcome, many challenges. Modern day mining is

50 percent. Many of these minerals have been deemed as the

no exception. We are faced with an abundance of unique chal-

greatest supply risk to our country’s manufacturing sector as

6 Mine Idaho

According to the 2021 Mineral Commodity Summaries report by the U.S. Geological Survey, in 2020 the United States relied entirely on imports for 17 mineral commodities, 14 of which are identified as critical minerals.

they represent key inputs for renewable energy generation, infra-

Belt of central Idaho, antimony and gold in the Stibnite and DeLa-

structure development, and medical and defense technologies.

mar Mining Districts of southwest Idaho, phosphate in the West-

However, with these unique challenges come unique oppor-

ern Phosphate Reserve of southeast Idaho, or one of the many

tunities. Since Idaho is home to nearly every important non-fuel

other rare earth, sand, gravel, or rock mines across the state, all of

mineral, we are well-positioned to secure a domestic supply of

our materials play a critical role in addressing supply chain gaps

many of these critical minerals. As the demand to sustain our

for nearly every economic sector.

modern lifestyle pushes toward advanced renewable energy so-

The resilient spirit of Idaho miners is again being called on to

lutions, cutting-edge medical technologies, and enough food to

deliver innovative solutions to address these challenges. I am ex-

feed a growing population, never has our industry been needed

tremely confident that the nearly 100 Idaho Mining Association

more.

members will step up with a determined focus and once again

Whether mining silver and lead in the Coeur d’Alene Mining District of north Idaho, tungsten and cobalt in the Idaho Cobalt

flex our muscles of resiliency and adaptability as we continue to add to the rich history of mining in Idaho. s

Now offering online, instructor-led courses: • MSHA Part 46 and 48 Training • Safety Audits • Accident Investigations

mccallumrock.com Idaho Mining Association 7

A message from the Executive Director of the Idaho Mining Association

BENJAMIN DAVENPORT

T

he pandemic, combined with the desire to push toward cleaner energy sources and E.V. revolution, have finally cast a bright light on an issue that most in our industry have been discussing for years, if not decades. It

the market, from semi-conductor production all the way down

didn’t matter how loud miners banged the drum; it wasn’t until

support our manufacturing and infrastructure needs throughout

you couldn’t buy a four-pack of toilet paper that people began

this country. Critical and otherwise, the United States must secure

to realize that even a small disruption in our supply chain can

a domestic supply of minerals to meet demands going forward.

the supply chain to computers or phones at the retail level, or pickup trucks on the dealer’s lot. It is absolutely imperative that we have access to the minerals needed to fuel our economy and

cause significant impacts to the availability of consumer goods,

Mined materials are the front end of virtually every supply chain

and on a broader scale, to our economy. We have seen firsthand

and are used in virtually every sector of our economy. Whether

the impacts that a disruption in raw material supply can have on

it is infrastructure like roads, bridges and broadband, or medical

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Idaho Mining Association 9

supplies such as pacemakers, ventilators, CAT scans and even the hospitals themselves, or consumer goods like computers and televisions, or the phosphate fertilizers used to grow our food and feed the world’s population. Historically these minerals have been the backbone of our society’s daily needs and they will be the base of electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies going into the future.

Here in Idaho we have one of the most diverse sets of mineral deposits and assets in the nation. Silver, gold, copper, phosphorous, molybdenum, and critical minerals such as cobalt, antimony, and rare earths are scattered in abundance throughout our state.

Without these minerals, the batteries, wind turbines, solar panels, and grid infrastructure could not be built. The daily demand for these and other minerals continues to rise. As the world population grows and we transition to more renewable energy sources, this demand will go up. The massive increases we will have to see in mineral production to fill all the technological needs of making our nation 100 percent reliant on solar, wind, and battery power are astronomical. This doesn’t include the continued increase in demand for smart phones, computers, tablets, TVs, electric cars, and fertilizers, among other things.

Throughout the last year, we have heard policymakers’ continued calls for renewable and green energy and rebuilding infrastructure, while in the next breath calling for mining bans across

the country. These promises and policies are well-meaning, but they fail to connect the dots on how our nation can achieve these clean energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing goals without mining. In fact, these goals will require an increase in production and supply of critical and non-critical minerals exponentially. All said, it seems as if there are now folks on both sides of the aisle starting to recognize the threat that a disrupted supply chain can mean to our economy. It is encouraging to see bi-partisan support for permitting reform and acknowledgment that securing critical minerals should be a priority. A current example of this can be seen in the infrastructure package recently passed out of the Senate. The time seems right for our industry to remind citizens and policymakers alike of the role that mining plays on their daily lives.

As policymakers continue to work toward investing in infrastructure and alternative energy sources, we must continue to help them connect the dots. Mining has always been an essential contributor to our nation’s commerce. The time is right to remind people that while providing the materials at the front of most supply chains, we are also creating high-paying, safe jobs in a place with some of the most stringent environmental and labor standards in the world. Mined materials are the foundation in which virtually everything is manufactured or built and the Idaho Mining Association members are ready to help lead in this effort. s

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IMA MEMBERS OPERATING MEMBERS

America’s Gold and Silver

Bayer

Itafos

Hecla Mining Company

J.R. Simplot AgriBusiness Group

DEVELOPING MEMBERS Endomines | Integra Resources | Jervois Mining | Perpetua Resources | Revival Gold

EXPLORATION MEMBERS Bunker Hill Mining | Excellon Resources | First Cobalt | Freeman Gold | Gold Express | Idaho Lime Idaho Champion Gold | iMinerals | Liberty Gold | Phoenix Global Mining | Sunshine Silver Mines

NONOPERATING MEMBERS FMC | Solvay USA | Nutrien | Thompson Creek Mining

ASSOCIATED MEMBERS AECOM | ACZ Laboratories | AFFCO | Air Sciences Inc. | Albatross Environmental Processing | Arcadis US | Astralloy Steel Products Ball Ventures | Barker Rosholt & Simpson | Bilbao & Co. | Boart Longyear | Bonneville Industrial Supply Company | Brewer Exploration Brooks & Nelson | Brown & Caldwell | Carver Schwarz McNab & Bailey, LLC | Cate-Idaho Equipment | CDM Smith | Conrad & Bischoff CGS Mule | Degerstrom N.A. | Ecoanalysts, Inc. | EM Strategies | Energy Labs | Environmental Resource Management | Flow Tech Fueling Formation Environmental LLC | Geo Engineers | Geo Syntec Consultants | GHD Services | Gilmour Lime | Givens Pursley Granatus Septum, LLC | Great Ecology | Haley Aldrich, Inc. | Harmer Steel Products Co. | HDR Engineering, Inc. | Holland & Hart LLP Idaho Power Co. | Jadco Manufacturing | Kiewit Mining Group, Inc. | Klepfer Mining Services LLC | Lobby Idaho | Maul Foster & Alongi Merger Mines Corp. | Modern Machinery | MWH Americas, Inc. | National EWP | NewFields | Northwest Environmental Business Council N.W. Mine Supply | O’Kane Consultants | Olympic Engineered Sales, Inc. | Open Loop Energy, Inc. | Pace Analytical Parsons Behle & Latimer | Perkins Coie | Rain for Rent | Ramboll | Ruen | S & G Electric Motor Repair | SBS Associates Shimmick Construction | Smith Power Products | Specialty Construction Supply | Stantec | Stoel Rives LLP | SVL Analytical | Tetra Tech Tierra Group Intl. | True North Steel | Valley Science and Engineering | Varin Wardwell LLC | Westerberg and Associates Western Cultural Resource Management, Inc. | Western States Equipment Co. | Worldwide Rental Services

12 Mine Idaho

IMA MEMBER BENEFITS INFORMATION Stay informed on up-to-the-minute industry news that might otherwise pass you by. Becoming a member of the Idaho Mining Association (IMA) gives you access to news and developments in the industry along with the opportunity to hear and learn from peers in the industry.

NETWORKING Connect and create relationships. The IMA provides a great networking opportunity for members who want to strengthen ties with clients or colleagues in their industry, hunt for jobs or make long-term connections.

STRENGTH & POWER IN NUMBERS Influence how decision are made. Working together, our collective experience on the issues and in navigating the burdensome regulatory environment are valuable benefits all IMA members enjoy.

BEST PRACTICES Lead the way in implementing industry best practices. Members of the IMA gain resources on what is happening in the industry to keep our practices safe and efficient and have a head start on implementing new practices as they are amended or change.

EVENTS Make staying engaged easy. Companies who join IMA participate in association events focused on forming valuable connections and trade shows, seminars and workshops that provide valuable connections and education opportunities.

SUPPORT THE CAUSE AND THE FUTURE Amplify industry’s voice, support industry growth and act as a watchdog for mining as a whole. As a member, you will be supporting the mission of the IMA and the work we do. Many of our members see the value of helping promote the future of mining.

2019 ECONOMIC IMPACT OF IMA MEMBER FIRMS* 10,156 employees| $654 million in compensation | $93 million in taxes generated | ~$1.2 billion in Gross State Product FOR EVERY 1 DIRECT JOB, AN ADDITIONAL 1.5 ADDITIONAL JOBS ARE CREATED *Numbers include a multiplier effect

Idaho Mining Association 13

14 Mine Idaho

IMA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY OPERATING

DEVELOPER

NONOPERATOR

EXPLORER

ASSOCIATE LEVEL

COMPANY NAME

COMPANY ADDRESS

WEBSITE CONTACT PERSON PHONE # EMAIL

SIGNATURE

RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION WITH CHECK TO: Idaho Mining Association P.O. Box 1660 Boise, ID 83701

Idaho Mining Association 15

IMA PRINCIPLES IMA VISION THE IDAHO MINING ASSOCIATION ADVOCATES FOR A RESPONSIBLE AND SUSTAINABLE MINING INDUSTRY, BENEFITING OUR STATE AND LOCAL COMMUNITIES

OUR MISSION TO BE RECOGNIZED AS THE TRUSTED VOICE OF IDAHO’S MINING INDUSTRY BY… 1. Promoting responsible development of Idaho’s diverse mineral resources 2. Encouraging economic growth by creating and maintaining high quality jobs 3. Encouraging government to support the interests of the membership 4. Counseling membership on the industry developments and trends 5. Educating the public on the importance of the mineral industry to society 6. Interacting with other organizations on matters of common interest

OUR MEMBER VALUES •Demonstrate Excellence in Safety •Operate in a Manner That Protects the Environment •Communicate Openly with Stakeholders •Engage in Ethical Business Practices

WE BELIEVE •Idaho’s uniquely diverse mineral base is a major asset of the state and its utilization will enhance the economy •A financially healthy mining industry is necessary to derive value from this asset •Mining can be conducted in an environmentally responsible manner •A close working relationship with government is necessary to accomplish the IMA mission

16 Mine Idaho

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EVENTS

RECAP

18 Mine Idaho

W

e had another busy year at the Idaho Mining Association. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we once again had to be flexible with many of our scheduled events. Sadly, it also meant we were unable to hold some of our favorite gatherings, but we look forward to next year in the hopes that we can begin to add some of our events and mine tours back to our calendars.

IMA continued to be the voice of mining on the regulatory front as we helped usher H. 239 on the design and construc-

tion of phosphogypsum stacks through the process. The bill created design and construction standards where none were previously in place. It was met with overwhelming support as policymakers agreed with the importance of the environmental protections provided in the legislation.

In mid-June, we were up north for a wonderful membership reception in Hayden. We had a packed house at the Bees Knees whiskey bar and a great evening of networking. Thank you to those who helped sponsor that event and the folks at Bees Knees. It is becoming a membership favorite and a must-attend event.

In August, we were honored to, once again, host our Federal Congressional Delegation and their staff at our annual Delegation Reception. We had over 80 members and congressional representatives at the Coeur d’Alene Cellars in Coeur d’Alene. Thank you to all those who sponsored and attended this fun annual event.

We had the opportunity to sponsor the Lowe Family Farmstead mining sluice and corn maze this fall as well. They estimated that over 100,000 visitors had the opportunity to mine for gems and fossils, as well as trying to find their way through the mining themed corn maze.

Another successful day for the industry in Idaho as our event grew substantially

in year two. Over 350 industry representatives filled the Boise Centre in November for our fourth-annual Idaho Mining Conference. I want to thank Governor Little for kicking the day off, and both our outgoing and incoming presidents Luke Russell and Mark Kirby for closing the day out. A huge thank you goes out to our speakers, sponsors, and vendors who help fund a wonderful day, as well as fund the great education initiatives that IMA support.

We look forward to an even bigger and better 2022 and hope to see all of you at one or all of these events next year! s

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Idaho Mining Association 19

2021: AN ACTIVE YEAR

FOR IDAHO MINING AND EXPLORATION AND THE IDAHO GEOLOGICAL SURVEY MINERALS-RELATED DATA PRESERVATION AND MAPPING PROGRAMS

By Virginia S. Gillerman, Reed Lewis and Claudio Berti, Idaho Geological Survey

I

daho’s mining and exploration in-

Improved and relatively high precious

overall Attractiveness Index poll of 2020,

dustry successfully adjusted to new

and base metal prices fueled interest in

and the state ranked No. 1 on the Policy

challenges and protocols due to the

exploration, and Idaho’s high ranking in

Perception Index, a composite “report

coronavirus pandemic and managed

the Fraser Institute survey helped. Idaho

card” measure of multiple policy factors

to have a very productive year in 2021.

ranked No. 9 in the Fraser Investment

favorable to mining, such as regulations, legal and taxation factors, geologic database quality, socioeconomic and commu-

Figure 1: Map of Idaho mineral exploration projects in 2021.

nity development conditions, and other considerations. Information on current and historic mines and exploration can be found on the Mines and Minerals page of the Idaho Geological Survey’s (IGS) newly redesigned website: https://www. idahogeology.org/geologic-resources/ mines-minerals.

This year, the IGS updated total historic production for the famous Coeur d’Alene district (Figure 1). From 1884 to 2020, the Silver Valley mines are credited with 1,256,612,343 troy ounces (39,085 metric tons) of silver metal along with 7.8 million metric tons of lead, three million metric tons of zinc, 191,000 metric tons of copper, and significant antimony. Two deep underground mines were active. Hecla’s Lucky Friday mine at Mullan recovered from its two-and-a-half year labor strike and was at full production mining the Gold Hunter vein system from their new No. 4 shaft. The mine implemented new mining techniques and longhole blasting methods and expected to produce about 3.5 million ounces of silver in 2021.

At Americas Gold and Silver Corporation’s Galena mine the emphasis was on exploration, funded by last year’s investment by Eric Sprott. Phase 1 ended after

20 Mine Idaho

Figure 2: Above: East Fork Ninemile Creek Cleanup by IDEQ, mine waste removal.

Figure 3: Right: Itafos’ Rasmussen Valley phosphate mine.

a 120,000-foot drill program, plus ongoing rehabilitation and drift development work. The effort added over 35 percent to the resource and fully replaced reserves.

Numerous high-grade intercepts were drilled, with several exploring the productive tetrahedrite-rich Silver Vein below the 5,500-level of the mine. For example, drill hole 55-175A intersected nine feet of 215 oz/ton Ag and 6.4 percent Cu. Legacy mine waste issues in the Silver Valley continue to be addressed through state and federal efforts overseen by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (Figure 2). At Murray, New Jersey Mining was drilling additional gold-quartz veins at the Golden Chest mine and planning to increase production. They were also permitting to drill rare earth properties

Figure 4: Revival Gold, Beartrack project: Joss zone core of sheared, altered Yellowjacket Formation with interval of 6.84 g/t Au over 3.9 meter drilled width.

in Lemhi Country next year. Near Elk City, Endomines reopened the small Friday

REVETT METALS ASSOCIATES & INTRASTATE MINING ASSOCIATES

gold mine.

Idaho’s phosphate industry in southeast Idaho maintained full production

MISSOULA, MONTANA

with three large mines in operation to supply the three processing plants. Phosphate continued to be the largest seg-

GOLD, SILVER, BASE METALS, INDUSTRIAL MINERALS

ment of Idaho’s mineral industry, and

Identifying, Exploring and Advancing Mineral Properties of Merit Since 2004

direct employment is over 1,200 persons.

Ore is from the Permian-age Phosphoria Formation, a black phosphatic shale. The

Bruce Cox (406) 321-0506

Ted Antonioli (406) 251-5148

Larry Johnson (406) 549-1071

Idaho Mining Association 21

Figure 5: First Cobalt drilling IC21-02 at Iron Creek.

Figure 6: Integra Resources: Loading pipe for drilling in Stone Cabin pit at Florida Mountain.

open-pit mines practice concurrent recla-

synthetic covers. They plan to transition

and Lanes Creek mines, as well as seeking

mation and backfilling, with engineered

to their larger, approved Caldwell Canyon

comments for the Husky 1/N. Dry Ridge

covers placed over external overburden

property in a couple of years and were

Draft EIS that was released in October.

piles. There were no major changes at

constructing initial haul roads and stock-

Simplot and Itafos produce phosphoric

J.R. Simplot’s Smoky Canyon mine, other

pile areas for Caldwell. In April, a lawsuit

acid fertilizer at their plants in Pocatello

than incorporating new high-tech ad-

was filed by three NGOs against the

and Conda, respectively, while Bayer op-

vances such as drone surveying. Mining

BLM’s approval of the mine plan and EIS,

erates the only elemental phosphorus

switched to the F3 and G pits. Bayer tran-

but no stay was issued. Itafos was mining

plant in North America at Soda Springs.

sitioned production at Blackfoot Bridge

the new Rasmussen Valley mine (Figure

Other industrial mineral and aggregate

to their South pit and was installing geo-

3) and reclaiming the Rasmussen Ridge

operations continued.

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Figure 7: Extent of the airborne magnetics and radiometrics survey over the Idaho Cobalt Belt.

The year was extremely active for exploration of both precious and base metals as well as critical metals, notably cobalt (Figure 1). The gold price hovered around $1,800 per troy ounce and silver was at $24 per troy ounce for most of the year. There was renewed interest in underground mining and new generative areas and models, as well as processing options. In the Silver Valley, Bunker Hill Mining Corporation evaluated a rapid restart plan for the historic Pb-Zn-Ag mine and conducted a 16-hole drill program along with IP/resistivity surveys. A new entry, Silver Valley Metals, acquired the Ranger-Page project just west of the Bunker Hill, and Silver Hammer Mining Corporation conducted underground drilling at the Silver Strand Au-Ag vein mine near Coeur d’Alene in October. The Stibnite Gold Project in Valley County advanced in the permitting queue, which was extended to allow a supplemental EIS, expected to be out in early 2022. Midas Gold, the owner, changed their name to Perpetua Resources and moved the corporate headquarters to Boise. The Stibnite reserve includes 4.8 million ounces of Au and 148 million pounds of antimony, a critical mineral. Revival Gold drilled 20 diamond

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Idaho Mining Association 23

Figure 8: Left: Map showing IGS Mineral Property file scan progress. Figure 9: Right: Example Mineral Property file showing geochemical analysis of uranium in samples from the Golden Sceptre mine included in correspondence between Sunshine Mining Company and the United States Atomic Energy Commission on thorium.

core holes on their Arnett Creek and

Idaho Cobalt Belt. Jervois Mining’s Board

funded metallurgy work. South-central

Beartrack mine project in Lemhi County,

announced a “go-ahead” decision to fund

Idaho had two polymetallic projects:

hitting notable high-grade intercepts

mine development of the RAM orebody

Idaho Champion’s drilling at the Cham-

deep along the Joss zone southwest of

at the Idaho Cobalt Operation. They con-

pagne property and Phoenix Copper at

the Beartrack mine (Figure 4). Freeman

tinued to build infrastructure on site and

the Empire mine at Mackay. Liberty Gold

Gold released a 43-101 and did surface

had the first blast of the west portal in

was drilling most of the year at their large

sampling, which found anomalous gold in

mid-October. To the southeast, First Co-

project at the former Black Pine mine, and

soils at the Lemhi Gold project near North

balt started an 8,500-foot diamond drill

in July announced an initial resource of 1.7

Fork. Ophir Gold drilled and did geophys-

program in September to test geophysi-

million ounces of gold at the Carlin-type

ics at the Breccia property near Musgrove

cal anomalies and extensions of the Iron

deposit. Later drilling discovered new min-

Creek. Two large projects advanced in the

Creek Cu-Co zones (Figure 5). They also

eralized zones at the Rangefront target. In

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Owyhee County, Integra Resources also

says, geologic and mine reports, images,

from the mining industry, particularly

drilled most of the year with three centers

and drill-hole maps, amounting to over

with exploration efforts. Other users of

of epithermal Au-Ag mineralization at De

20,000 documents and digitized video

IGS Data Preservation products include

Lamar, Florida Mountain, and War Eagle. In

files available for download at no cost to

students, academics, historians, anthro-

addition to the near-surface oxide ore at

the public (Figure 8). Data preservation

pologists, genealogists, hobby miners,

Florida Mountain, they hit multiple, deep

efforts at IGS have resulted in millions of

gem collectors, and state and federal

high-grade intercepts on the historic vein

dollars of investment in the state of Idaho

agencies.

structures (Figure 6), and in October Integra announced an expanded tonnage for a mill scenario with a Prefeasibility Study expected out at the end of 2021.

For information and data from past and ongoing IGS Data Preservation efforts please visit our webpage at https://www.idahogeology.org/maps-pubs-data/data-preservation. s

The IGS released a new geologic map at 1:24,000 scale of the DeLamar and Swisher Mountain quadrangles in

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going exploration both for cobalt-copper and gold deposits.

USGS and IGS co-led the effort to conduct an airborne magnetics and radiometrics survey over approximately 1,160 square miles of the Salmon National Forest west of Salmon, Idaho, including the majority of the Idaho cobalt belt and surrounding areas. The Idaho Geological Survey partnered with the Idaho Cobalt

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For over 15 years, the IGS, in conjunction with the Idaho Department of Lands and U.S. Geological Survey, has been involved with digital data preservation activities. These efforts have resulted in

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the scanning of historic mine maps, asIdaho Mining Association 25

REGULATORY WATCH: REGULATIONS YOU NEED TO KNOW Submitted by Todd Glindeman, Brown and Caldwell

T

he regulatory environment con-

This article spotlights several changes

sible Human Health criteria can be com-

tinues to change and evolve

to state regulations and federal laws that

plex, and at various times between 1992

both at the federal level and

will affect the Idaho mining community.

and the present, Idaho has had arsenic

here in the State of Idaho. At the

IDAHO REGULATIONS

criteria ranging from 0.018 to 50 μg/L.

federal level, the current administration has been reviewing the previous administration’s executive orders and putting their stamp on environmental regulations, many of which affect the mining industry.

Here at home, in the past year, we have seen the continuation of some rulemaking, rulemaking that has been vacated and rulemaking that may be on the horizon.

Arsenic Water Quality Negotiated Rulemaking Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (IDEQ) initiated rulemaking to update its Human Health criteria for arsenic and thus prevent the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from promulgating and imposing new criteria for Idaho.

The Idaho Mining Association, led by Ex-

The impetus for the update was EPA’s

ecutive Director Ben Davenport, continues

disapproval of the current criteria of 10

to be actively engaged in representing the

micrograms per liter (μg/L), which has

mining industry’s interests as an active

been in place since 2010 (and was previ-

stakeholder.

ously approved by EPA). Deriving defen-

In addition, many areas of Idaho have elevated levels of arsenic that occur naturally in the geology, which makes the promulgation of reasonable and enforceable arsenic criteria challenging.

At the time of this publication, rulemaking is still underway, with a final deadline for EPA to approve or promulgate criteria

by November 2023. IDEQ has introduced proposed draft criteria during recent public meetings. One of the proposed Human Health criteria values would continue the 10 μg/L criterion for Water and Fish Consumption, while the other would comprise an inorganic arsenic criterion of eight micrograms per kilogram (μg/kg) in fish tissue limit for Fish Only Consumption, with an associated water column value of 4.3 μg/L when fish tissue data are not available. IDEQ continues to receive stakeholder input, including questions and comments from EPA. Design and Construction of Phosphogypsum Stacks

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systems was vacated by IDEQ when the

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islative session, HB367 directed IDEQ to

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legislature removed the requirement to do the rulemaking. During the 2020 legconduct rulemaking for the design and

construction of phosphogypsum stacks.

Clean Water Act (CWA) by not promptly

sion process that started with extending

In the 2021 legislative session, HB239 add-

promulgating mercury water quality stan-

the one-year deadline that federal agen-

ed design and construction requirements

dards after disapproving them. Chief U.S.

cies had to adopt procedures to imple-

for phosphogypsum stack systems that

District Judge David Nye found that EPA

ment the final rule to 2023. For example,

were being discussed through the negoti-

violated its duty. Briefs on appropriate re-

the Department of Interior is applying the

ated rulemaking process and added a fee

lief were due on August 9, 2021.

2020 regulations to NEPA reviews started

structure for IDEQ review and approval of

In instances when state-specific water

after September 2020, but are using the

plans. Finally, it removed the directive for

quality standards have not been approved

pre-2020 regulations for reviews started

IDEQ to conduct rulemaking.

by EPA, the Agency will propose and/

prior to that. Other federal agencies have

Setting a New Mercury Water

or promulgate standards for a state until

established their own method of imple-

Quality Standard

such time as the state submits and EPA

menting the 2020 changes.

approves their own standards. Whether

The second step was published as a no-

water quality standard has been the

the EPA or Idaho moves first, there will be

tice of proposed rulemaking in the Federal

same since 1996: 0.012 μg/L chronic and

opportunity to be involved in and com-

Register on October 7, 2021. The proposed

2.1 μg/L acute. In 2005, the Idaho legis-

ment on mercury water quality standards

rulemaking would change definitions of

lature adopted the narrative toxics stan-

that are proposed.

effects, and reasonable alternatives and

The mercury freshwater aquatic life

dard for mercury. The EPA disapproved this change in 2008 which effectively

FEDERAL REGULATIONS

would reinstate cumulative impacts. The third step, expected to be comprehensive

kept the 1996 numeric criteria in place.

National Environmental Policy Act

Neither EPA nor Idaho has proposed or

The 2020 National Environmental Pol-

published revised aquatic life mercury

icy (NEPA) regulations are under review

One common sentiment is that revising

criteria since. In 2013, two plaintiffs filed a

by the Council on Environmental Quality

NEPA again is likely to take place over a

lawsuit against the EPA for violating the

(CEQ). CEQ has outlined a multi-step revi-

time period of years rather than months.

revisions, would follow the completion of the second step.

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Idaho Mining Association 27

Clean Water Act – Navigable

2008 guidance to determine what quali-

by the current administration but has not

Waters Protection Rule

fies for federal protection as “waters of the

been formalized.

The CWA applies only to waters of the

United States” under the CWA. The 2008

Qualified mining infrastructure projects

United States (WOTUS). WOTUS was

guidance can be found here: https://www.

(those subject to NEPA review, require a

defined by the previous administration

usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/

total investment of $200M or more, and

in the Navigable Waters Protection Rule

Regulatory-Program-and-Permits/Relat-

not eligible for other abbreviated environ-

(NWPR) (effective June 20, 2020). The

ed-Resources/CWA-Guidance/

mental review) are now eligible to be cov-

Fixing America’s Surface

ered by FAST-41 on a non-discretionary

Transportation Act

basis. While coverage does not predeter-

current administration had announced a two-stage process for defining WOTUS: (1) rescind the NWPR; (2) propose and

After receiving nearly 6,500 public

mine the outcome of any federal decision-

comments, the Federal Permitting Im-

making process, the goal is to have timely

provement Steering Council (FPISC)

federal agency review, enhanced inter-

voted unanimously to add mining as a

agency coordination, improved predict-

The EPA’s two-step plan was abruptly

sector with infrastructure projects eligible

ability, accountability, and transparency of

interrupted on August 30, 2021 by U.S.

for coverage under Title 41 of the Fixing

the federal review and authorization pro-

District Judge Márquez in the Arizona

America’s Surface Transportation Act

cesses and certain legal protections.

District who ordered the NWPR vacated

(FAST-41). Established in 2015, FAST-41’s

Todd Glindeman is the Mining Market

and remanded for reconsideration by the

intent was to improve the timelines of the

Sector Director at Brown and Caldwell.

EPA and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

federal environmental review and autho-

Brown and Caldwell provides compliance

Soon after the ruling, the EPA announced

rization process for major infrastructure

and permitting, industrial water, and site

that the definition of WOTUS reverts to

projects. Extending the sunset date of

investigation and remediation support

the 1986 regulation as interpreted by the

2022 for the FPISC and FAST-41 is favored

services to the mining industry. s

promulgate a new rule. As part of the process, EPA launched a series of listening sessions in August to gather perspectives on the definition.

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Idaho Mining Association 29

SVL ANALYTICAL CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF SCIENCE, FAMILY AND MINING

F

rom geology exploration to mining environmental research compliance, SVL attributes their longevity to hard work and an adaptive mentality.

The laboratory may be an unrecognized partner in mine

operations — until something goes wrong. Mining operators count on data of known quality created by scientists who recognize the importance and worth of each individual sample.

For 50 years, SVL Analytical (SVL), through tailings breaches, new permit requirements, and remediation plans, has shown up ready to perform in this space. It is that consistency that makes their work trustworthy to the company’s mining clients, says SVL CEO Nan Wilson.

SVL started out as an assay lab, serving geologists on large ex-

ploration projects by processing drill core samples and returning timely assay data. By the mid-‘90s, however, the exploration work all but disappeared. “At the time, SVL had 100 employees on staff putting in double shifts to keep up with the workload,” says Wilson.

30 Mine Idaho

“We faced an inevitable crossroad: pivot our focus, or close our doors.”

Fortunately, SVL had a strong work relationship with geologists, who found themselves consulting, leading and working in environmental departments at mines around the west. SVL was able to answer needs for permit support, waste rock characterization studies, and groundwater and surface water monitoring.

“We expanded the laboratory model to support mining operations in all phases, including pre-permit application, operations, closure, and remediation,” says Wilson. “Recognizing the need for defensible data, we developed a robust data quality system.”

In order to stay out front, SVL remains committed to keeping up with the pace of technology. “Today’s scientific process doesn’t look like it used to. In 1972, laboratory work was completely manual, a pen and a notebook, glass pipettes and volumetric glassware, similar to what you likely experienced in chemistry lab in school.

Data handling was a chore and validation was difficult,” says Wilson.

Wilson, whose parents started the lab a year before she was

our scientist employees who show up every day committed to

born, jokes she was born into the business. “My first paid work

doing the best work, as well as the relationships we have with

was mowing the lawns at age 11. Since then, I have worked in

our clients — many of whom have worked with us for decades,”

almost every position, from head beaker washer to laboratory

says Wilson. “All parties involved know that SVL is a laboratory

director, and just about everything in between. Our family has

that cares about them, their project, and their success.”

always been dedicated to the lab and our employees, and that’s

Wilson says the company is especially grateful for everyone in the Idaho Mining Association who has trusted SVL to be their

a legacy I’m honored to continue.”

Now, nearly every scientific process is mechanized and mi-

partner. “We couldn’t have made it 50 years without you. Thank

croscale. Computer networks and databases have created a

you for choosing an Idaho company and supporting local sci-

level of efficiency and consistency that would have been hard to

entists.”

Nan Wilson is the second-generation owner and CEO of SVL

imagine 50 years ago.

“As SVL continues to grow and evolve over the next 50 years, we recognize all who have contributed to our success: namely,

Analytical. She can be reached at nan@svl.net. Learn more about SVL Analytical at svl.net. s

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Idaho Mining Association 31

IN FOR THE LONG HAUL:

UNIQUE PARTNERSHIP CELEBRATES PROGRESS IN REBUILDING UPPER BLACKFOOT RIVER CUTTHROAT TROUT

By William Whelan

Dan Keetch of Bear Lake Grazing Company explains their cooperative grazing agreement with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game to improve trout habitat in headwater streams. Photo credit: Will Whelan.

T

en years ago, three phosphate mining companies and two conservation groups looked beyond their history of conflict and launched a bold experiment in collaboration.

They committed to work together to develop and fund river restoration projects that benefit Yellowstone cutthroat trout in the watershed of the Upper Blackfoot River in southeast Idaho.

They named their group the Upper Blackfoot Confluence (UBC) to highlight the value they placed joining forces for a common goal.

The Upper Blackfoot is wild trout country. Cold, nutrient-rich headwater streams flow from forested ridges and high valleys to form the meandering Upper Blackfoot River in the north of Soda Springs. The river is one of the last major strongholds for Yellowstone cutthroat trout in the American West. Unfortunately, the basin’s trout populations have declined in recent decades due to a variety of causes, ranging from bird predation to habitat loss.

The Upper Blackfoot is also one of the most important sources of ore for the phosphate mining industry, a source of good jobs and a key driver of the southeast Idaho economy. The region’s mineral reserves are large enough to support the phosphate industry for decades to come.

UBC’s mining companies – currently the J.R. Simplot Company, Bayer, and Nutrien – have provided over $2 million in restoration funding over the years. The Trout Unlimited and Idaho Conserva-

32 Mine Idaho

Creating pools and cover to enhance trout habitat at the Blackfoot River Wildlife Management Area.

tion League have helped develop the restoration projects and advised on priorities. They select projects and review results together.

This year, Itafos, which operates mines and the Conda processing facility, joined UBC. Tim Vedder, Conda general manager for Itafos said, “Itafos is pleased to join the Upper Blackfoot Confluence (UBC) group. Since acquiring Conda’s phosphate operations in early 2018, Itafos has been involved in a variety of efforts benefitting both the Upper Blackfoot River and Yellowstone cutthroat trout. Itafos’ affiliation with UBC is an additional positive step towards its goals of protecting the environment and wildlife native to Southeast Idaho.”

Over the last decade, the UBC’s partnerships have extended beyond its original members to include landowners, local government and a range of agencies such as the Idaho Department of Fish and Game and the U.S. Forest Service. These partners have far more than doubled UBC’s investments.

The partners have now completed a host of projects to create the cold, complex and connected habitat that trout need to survive. They’ve worked with irrigators to improve old irrigation diversions, adding fish passage to historic spawning tributaries. They’ve replaced outdated road culverts that had long been barriers for spawning trout. They’ve restored stream banks to make river channels narrower and deeper to lower water temperature, and

Upper Blackfoot River Yellowstone cutthroat trout. Photo credit: Trout Unlimited.

they’ve restored other sections of stream to their original channels.

They’ve also planted hundreds of willow trees to shade the water and provide cover for the trout.

This year, the UBC partners celebrated signs that the trout are making a strong comeback. The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) counted more than 1,800 cutthroat migrating from Blackfoot Reservoir to the headwater streams where they spawn.

For the second year in a row, the run far exceeded the fewer than 20 fish that were observed in 2005 to 2006. As recently as 2016, only 204 fish were observed making the migration.

Spawning ground surveys confirmed the good news. In June, Trout Unlimited and IDFG found over 250 redds (fish nests) distributed among the historically important spawning tributaries in the Upper Blackfoot, including within several reaches that have undergone recent UBC-funded habitat restoration projects.

But the adverse conditions brought on by this year’s long, hot summer brought home the reality that large river restoration requires a sustained effort. By early July, stream flows in the Upper Blackfoot River were about one-third of normal levels. Elevated water temperatures and low flows challenged cutthroat trout, which need cold water to survive. Conditions were particularly hard for this year’s juvenile trout, which will emerge from their gravel bed nests in mid-summer.

The summer 2021 underscored the need for UBC’s work. Warren Colyer, Trout Unlimited fish biologist and UBC member, explained,

UBC’s 2019 field trip demonstrates the broad support for restoring the Upper Blackfoot River. Photo credit: UBC photo.

Alan Prouty of J.R. Simplot Co. and Justin Hayes of Idaho Conservation League explain the origins and goals of the Upper Blackfoot Confluence.

“Our projects build resilience for native Yellowstone cutthroat trout by providing healthy habitats and a way for fish to move within and among them. As stream flows drop and water temperatures increase, the fish become increasingly dependent on healthy habitat refuge areas where they find cool water and cover.”

UBC’s largest investment this year is in an ambitious, multi-year project at the Blackfoot River Wildlife Management Area led by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. The project is designed to help cutthroat trout cope with challenging conditions. New riffles and streambank restoration completed in the last two years are expected to raise the water table in restored reaches. This higher water table means more cool, upwelling water in the streambed, giving trout a break from the heat. IDFG biologist Carson Watkins explained, “Ultimately, the goal is to promote landscape-level resiliency to drought and warmer temperatures by increasing the capacity of the river system to retain water and moderate water temperatures. For cutthroat trout, this will help provide the type of cool thermal refuge they need to survive and complete their life cycle in the face of stressful conditions.”

Ten years of collaboration have taught UBC’s members the value of patience, sound science, broad partnerships and building trust over time. The UBC looks forward to more years of working together to make the Upper Blackfoot River a place where trout thrive and where people can continue to make a living from the land. s

Meanders of the Upper Blackfoot River. Photo credit: Will Whelan.

Idaho Mining Association 33

SILVER TAKES THE GOLD

S

ilver Hammer Mining Corp. is proving that Idaho is the place to be for silver exploration.

Aiming to become a multimine silver producer, Silver Hammer Mining is a junior resource company with three past-producing mines: the Silver Strand Mine in Idaho and the Eliza Silver Project and Silverton Silver Mine, both in Nevada. According to Morgan Lekstrom, president and CEO, the company employs a three-pronged approach to building value in the company: meaningful acquisitions with resource growth and near-term production potential. Currently, Silver Hammer Mining is focusing on exploring and expanding the Silver Strand Mine located in the Coeur d’Alene Mining District of Idaho, within the same geological rock formation, along the same trend as numerous multi-hundred million ounce silver deposits, including the Sunshine and Lucky Friday Mines.

“Those mines extend to depths of 1,800-plus meters, so there’s lots of potential there, given Silver Strand has only ever been mined to depths of 90 meters,” Lekstrom says.

34 Mine Idaho

Lekstrom has worked in the mining industry for nearly 15 years, spending time with companies such as FreeportMcMoRan in Indonesia and Rio Tinto in Mongolia, as well as building a mine in Ghana with Golden Star Resources.

With a background in electrical automation, project management and engineering management, in addition to running mining metallurgical projects in the steel industry, Lekstrom confidently took on the role of CEO and president, where he is utilizing his growing team of industry experts in exploration and capital market, while leveraging his extensive mine-building background in executing his vision to create a silver production company.

“As someone who has traveled all over the world, I am happy to be working with a company focused on the Western United States, especially in Idaho, given there is a plethora of talent here,” Lekstrom says. “It’s a mine-centric community. Coeur d’Alene has folks that are generational miners, which I find encouraging as someone who has built mines before. There seems to be a lot of support for mining.”

The Silver Strand Mine has tremendous discovery potential, considering the location, the neighbors and the types of rocks.

The mine is past-producing down to 90 metres depth, and the historic drill results show that it is not just high-grade silver grade, but also high-grade gold.

“Having this gold credit is unique to our site,” Lekstrom says. “It’s not common along the Silver Valley, so being in that Revett formation – the same geological formation as Lucky Friday and Sunshine – suggests to us the potential for significant mineralization both at depth as well as laterally along the 5.5-kilometer strike.”

Silver Hammer Mining is the first company ever to consolidate the 5.5-kilometer land package, and the company plans to explore the mineralized zones all the way up to the Burnt Cabin Mine, endeavoring to expand Silver Strand from one single vein that only extended down 90 meters to possibly multiple paralleling veins extending to much greater depths.

“It’s underexplored because of the history of that land package being held by multiple different owners and never being looked at from a holistic perspective,” Lekstrom adds.

The company recently initiated its first drilling program at the project using modern technology for an environmentally friendly approach, working with a local contractor who introduced new drilling technology from Canadian company Odessey, which aided in accelerating the permitting process, all while following US Forest Service guidelines and laws.

“When we looked at this new drilling technology, we were able to make it so it doesn’t touch the ground; there is no surface disturbance,” Lekstrom explains, adding they were granted drilling permissions within two weeks.

For more information, visit silverhammermining.com. s

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Idaho Mining Association 35

EXCELLON IDAHO GOLD: COMMITTED TO THE GEM STATE

By Phil Bandy, Senior Project Manager at Excellon Resources Inc.

Drilling at Oakley.

E

xcellon Idaho Gold is proud to be an Idaho company.

We’re excited to be moving the Kilgore Gold Exploration Project forward in Clark County. We place the highest value on being a responsible member of the communities in which we operate, focusing on the long-term benefits for all stakeholders, including our neighbors in East Idaho.

We have a deep curiosity in the natural world and a fascination with the search for metals needed for our future. Our exploration is intensely scientific – we analyze before we act – and we rely on the latest in remote sensing and geophysical techniques. This approach allows us to find and define big deposits in a minimally invasive manner. We want to minimize waste while still creating maximum value. Most importantly, we strive to be better by seeking and accepting new innovations, ideas, and perspectives. In other words, we never say “no” without asking “how.”

Kilgore Let’s start in Clark County. Kilgore is a caldera-related, lowsulfidation epithermal gold deposit, geologically comparable to Kinross Gold’s Round Mountain with a sizeable, near surface gold resource of almost one million ounces. We have also identified high-grade, near-surface mineralization in Tertiary volcanics

36 Mine Idaho

Kilgore miners’ cabin.

and the underlying late Cretaceous Aspen formation is open for expansion for additional high-grade gold mineralization.

We’re learning more about the deposit setting on a local and regional scale every day in a variety of ways. Re-logging historically drilled core is a key step in enhancing the underlying structural and lithologic framework. We’re also sampling and assaying previously unsampled or unassayed core and using screen metallic assaying to better categorize the distribution and presence of coarse gold – hopefully resulting in higher grades throughout the deposit.

We’re currently planning to explore the Kilgore Project for the next three to five years. We’ll drill for higher-grade gold based on new geological modelling from our developing understanding of historical data.

While the near surface potential at Kilgore is promising, we’re also looking to define underground resource potential. Our exploration thesis is to demonstrate potential for a three- to fivemillion ounce gold opportunity. As such, in addition to drilling, we’re also planning a regional exploration program, including geophysics, mapping, prospecting, soil geochemistry, and modeling. Once we complete exploration, our goal is to advance Kilgore toward development in the coming years through collaboration with regulators, stakeholders, and the community.

Scree slope at Kilgore.

Oakley We’re also exploring the Oakley gold project in Cassia County in collaboration with Centerra Gold, a mid-tier gold producer, which has an option to buy a 70 percent interest in the project from us. Oakley hosts gold-silver, epithermal hot spring-type mineralization at two targets: Blue Hill Creek and Cold Creek, along with detachment-related gold-silver mineralization at Matrix Creek. Extensive IP/RES geophysics have been conducted and diamond core drilling commenced at the Cold Creek target this year.

Our commitment to Idaho is founded upon the respect, patience and curiosity necessary to sustain a balance of economic development and natural resources stewardship. That commitment guides our progress and inherently relies on open and transparent communication with all interested parties as Kilgore and Oakley progress. Great projects require patience and discipline to advance them at the right pace. In Idaho, we are focused on a responsible step-by-step process that can deliver value to all stakeholders. s

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Our commitment to Idaho is founded upon the respect, patience, and curiosity necessary to sustain a balance of economic development and natural resources stewardship.

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info@excellonidaho.com

Idaho Mining Association 37

TECHNOLOGY AND THE FUTURE OF FLEET MANAGEMENT

By Joe Shoen, Connected Asset Specialist

T

he influence of technology as it relates to the heavy equipment industry is undeniable, even to the point that these technology advancements are included straight from the OEM. Disruptive influences now become standard options, which can lead to more material moved with greater accuracy and less effort. Who would have thought that flying a drone to measure material movement could also add to a machine’s total lifespan?

While technology takes human performance to greater heights, the assets also need to be at peak performance. Many of the decisions made in the past to keep an asset running will not suffice as additional sensors, tolerances, and algorithms demand a different approach. The benefit, of course, is we no longer have to be present on the machine to understand what is happening and what will happen. The downside is we now have to know how a PPPC hydraulic system works along with pulse width sensors, software files, and communication channels such as CANBUSS or J1939.

The introduction of technology adds another layer to the already complex landscape of our industry. To properly manage and facilitate these growing production dynamics, we must also address the machine health aspect as well. We are now expected to diagnose, predict, and analyze data in addition to maintaining the responsibilities that come with keeping a fleet moving. This can range from recognizing what is generating and transmitting the data all the way to understanding who and how that data is

38 Mine Idaho

consumed. The scenario of needing to understand software and networking along with asset environmental impacts is critical to the success of the next generation of site comprehension.

If you have already developed a robust and inclusive PM (preventative maintenance) program you may be head of the curve.

Allowing your people and processes to be adaptive to the changing equipment and environment(s) will enable different approaches to stay ahead of certain failures. Items such as a pragmatic inspection program and detailed work order history can prove invaluable when trending failures and focus areas. These are starting points for gaining additional understanding and insights to your fleet and are benchmarks for performance. As you start to introduce technologies, you can trend performance, become focused on what needs attention and make those adjustments before they have a negative impact.

The not-so-distant technology future for our industry includes vast advancements in autonomous vehicles and safer operations.

The bridge between now and then is already being created with production technologies already in place. Our job as fleet managers is to ensure that the assets are available to meet those increasing needs. The days of being able to ignore an indication of failure are waning, thus the need for more advanced health technologies in combination with an increased focus on prevention of failures. s

INTEGRA DELAMAR: RAISING THE BAR FOR MODERN MINING

By Mark Stockton, Vice President Corporate Affairs & Sustainability at Integra Resources

F

or generations, the legacy of past mining practices has pitted environmental organizations and mining companies against one another. And that is not without reason – as the follies of historic mining have had large impacts.

The sins of mining’s past are a reality that modern miners own.

Many in the industry are working hard to build trust, acknowledging that it may take time and proven effort.

From day one, our team of dedicated staff began working to advance the Integra DeLamar Project with a serious commitment to environmental stewardship, seeking out opportunities to go beyond what is required. Idahoans have a strong tie to the land.

As stewards of a large project, we share that tie and take the responsibility seriously. Where in the past, miners and environmentalists have not seen eye to eye, modern miners aim to learn from history so that future projects are ones that all Idahoans can be proud of. At Integra we firmly commit to raise the bar for modern mining practices. Some of the ways we are currently doing that is by partnering with groups that push us to raise our awareness and performance in sustainable & environmental practice.

In 2021, Integra signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Trout Unlimited, a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of freshwater fish habitat. Through our partnership, we are evaluating potential future habitat reclamation

40 Mine Idaho

projects surrounding the project area, particularly within the Jordan Creek watershed in Owyhee County. Integra’s partnership will seek to improve some of the damage from antiquated mining practices that impacted Jordan Creek during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Our hope is to find ways to enhance habitat for species like the redband trout. As we continue to advance the DeLamar Project, we are committed to minimizing unnecessary impacts within the project boundaries. Where there are impacts, we will seek opportunities to offset them with positive habitat improvements in surrounding areas. These potential habitat projects could include road crossing improvements, aquatic organism and fish passage barrier identification, reclamation, and revegetation of mining impacted lands, source reduction of mercury from historic mills, and in-stream habitat improvements.

Meanwhile, Idaho-based Warm Springs Consulting, a sustainability consulting firm of scientists, engineers, and analysts, committed to finding innovative technologies and sustainable practices that reduce overall environmental impact and improve the bottom line, is working closely alongside our engineering team.

Together, they have produced a prefeasibility study (PFS) that looks much different than those of the past. This PFS looks beyond what is required for regulatory compliance and includes technology and renewable energy options that will have the In-

tegra DeLamar Project drastically reduce direct emissions, indi-

It has always been in Integra’s mission to drive change in an

rect emissions, fuel usage, electricity costs, and increase energy

industry critical to modern life. Through collaboration with orga-

reliability at the site.

nizations such as Trout Unlimited, Warm Springs Consulting, and

Integra has also joined the CleanTech Alliance to collaborate

the CleanTech Alliance, we will continue to incorporate practices

with other companies advancing clean technologies in the north-

that best serve our shared environment and neighboring com-

west. Exposure to this industry network connects our team to

munities. Expanding our perspectives, building trust based on

new opportunities that will raise the bar in the years to come. In-

the follow through of our actions, and focusing on constructive

tegra will also represent an important voice as a potential future

solutions towards common goals is a critical pursuit that will help

producer of gold and silver, some of the metals critical to clean

Integra advance a resilient and responsible operation, and help

technology.

us develop a leading example of what a modern mine can be. s

INTEGRITY, CARE & INNOVATION We are all looking for something we can depend on.

GOLD Now trading on the NYSE American

ITRG DELAMAR PROJECT We are expanding and developing the DeLamar Project located in southwest Idaho.

The DeLamar Project, composed of the old DeLamar and Florida Mountain mines, sits in-between Silver City, Idaho and the ranching town of Jordan Valley, Oregon.

IntegraResources.com

Idaho Mining Association 41

SMALL FUELING PROCESS IMPROVEMENTS LEAD TO BIG PRODUCTION GAINS

M

arket forces continue to demand that the mining industry learn to do more with less. Increasing productivity while adhering to strict safety and environmental standards can be challenging, but fueling process

are backed by excellent service and an absolute commitment to

improvement is an easy way to boost efficiency quickly without a

ed benefit of easily moving it as the mine plan requires. Our Fuel-

huge capital expenditure.

ing Depots are extremely customizable with various options for

customer satisfaction.

FlowTech’s Mobile Fueling Depots provide the efficiency and flexibility of a high-flow, multi-station fueling facility with the add-

Established in 2001, FlowTech Fueling is the leader in fueling

fuel storage capacity and fueling station configurations. A mine

process improvement. Their patented Fueling Systems and large-

that recently installed two FlowTech Fueling Depots decreased

scale Mobile Fueling Depots are designed to meet the challenges

fueling times nearly 50 percent for a fleet of 240-ton class haul

of harsh mining environments. With several decades of mining ex-

trucks, improving production by over 8,000 tons per shift. The re-

perience, FlowTech’s expertise and dedication to customer service

turn on investment was less than six months.

are second to none.

Fuel is often a mine’s second largest operating expense, yet little

FlowTech’s non-pressure, overfill prevention Fueling Systems

time is spent focusing on fueling process improvements. FlowTech

installed on your mobile equipment will eliminate fuel spillage,

helps customers develop a customized and comprehensive plan to

improve personnel safety, reduce tank maintenance and mini-

boost efficiency from delivery, to bulk storage, to equipment refu-

mize environmental impacts. With over 1,800 systems installed

eling. Fueling process improvement provides a unique opportunity

throughout the United States and Canada, FlowTech’s systems

to easily increase productivity while reducing operating costs so

provide ease of installation, reliability and low maintenance, and

your operation can do more with less. s

42 Mine Idaho

LEGAL OVERBURDEN REMOVED

With more than 75 years helping mining clients, we have a deep understanding of all stages of a mine’s lifecycle. Let us help remove the legal overburden to move your mining project forward.

Bill Myers 208.383.3954

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Phone: 208-556-1164 - Option 1 716 Bank Street, Wallace, ID 83873

Idaho Mining Association 43

REVIVAL GOLD IS FOR RESPONSIBLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

M

odern exploration and development companies such as Revival Gold are increasingly leading the way in responsible economic development, according to Hugh Agro, Revival Gold’s president and CEO. While the public calls for greater employment equality and diversity, coupled with increasing care for environmental considerations such as decarbonization, clean water and a biodiverse environment, mining companies are at the vanguard proving that industry can achieve these goals in addition to delivering the necessary economic benefits derived from modern mining.

Revival Gold’s Beartrack-Arnett gold project near Salmon in Lemhi County is an example of this modern and responsible approach to exploration and mining with diversity in employment including female directors and executives, a “safety first” culture and a track record of award-winning reclamation of previous mining activity.

Salmon is a small and remote community within which Revival Gold will provide a significant economic impact when BeartrackArnett resumes gold production. With many past and current Beartrack-Arnett employees living in Salmon, the company takes its position within the community seriously. Whenever possible, Revival Gold seeks to engage local businesses and hire locally to provide desirable employment to Salmon’s residents, particularly those who might otherwise have to migrate to larger cities for their livelihood. This approach assists the town of Salmon in maintaining a vibrant community.

44 Mine Idaho

As an example, Salmon resident Lexie Adams-Lett, who previously worked as a flight attendant, returned to school to obtain a geology degree, and was subsequently employed by Revival Gold.

Earlier this year, Idaho regional economist Steven Peterson, a long-term associate clinical professor at the University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, completed an independent economic study on the potential impact of the Beartrack-Arnett project on the local community of Lemhi County and the State of Idaho. His analysis concluded that the project would provide the following: • $1.2 billion in cumulative contributions to the Idaho State gross domestic product over an eight-year period; • 858 average annual full-time jobs supported during operations including – direct employment of 267 personnel at site – an additional 506 full-time jobs supported during construction; and • $87 million and $121 million of cumulative contribution to state of Idaho and federal tax revenues.

“The project could have a substantial positive impact on employment, skills development and overall economic activity that would bring a much needed economic boost directly and indirectly to hundreds of families and local businesses in Idaho.

Beartrack-Arnett has the potential to support a peak of more than 1,300 high-wage, full-time jobs representing almost $100 million a year in total compensation, largely in a region that suf-

The company also supports local initiatives including the Salmon Hockey Association, the Lemhi County Fair, 4-H Youth Development and food banks. fers from higher unemployment than the Idaho state average,” said Agro.

Revival Gold is not solely focused on economic impacts. The company recognizes there are multiple uses for the public lands on which it operates, and that Revival Gold has a responsibility to conduct its activities safely and with care and consideration for the environment and other users. The Beartrack-Arnett project benefits from considerable existing infrastructure including roads, hydro powerlines and buildings. The company is reusing an idled plant-site, in effect, recycling existing infrastructure, which might otherwise be put to waste. The project benefits from the availability of hydroelectric power in Idaho. Hydropower will allow Revival Gold to produce gold with a lower carbon footprint and lower emissions than other gold mining projects in the U.S. The company will continue with Beartrack-Arnett’s award-winning track record of reclamation, to return any areas disturbed by mining to a natural state for future generations to enjoy.

The company also supports local initiatives including the Salmon Hockey Association, the Lemhi County Fair, 4-H Youth Development and food banks.

Revival Gold’s goal is to bring Beartrack-Arnett back into production, as it was Idaho’s largest gold producer when it operated

Member IMA

in the 1990s. The mine was shut down in the early 2000s when the gold price was below $300 per ounce. In November 2020, the company released a preliminary economic assessment that would result in an average of 72,000 ounces of gold production annually for an initial mine life of seven years. Currently the company is conducting an extensive exploration program to discover additional resources and potentially extend the mine life. An extension of the project life would result in further economic and social benefits for Lemhi County, Idaho and its residents.

With three and a half miles of favourable mineralized structure across Revival Gold’s 14,300-acre land position, the Company has tremendous exploration upside beyond its current three-million ounces of gold in resource. The Joss target at Beartrack-Arnett is an exciting aspect because it contains higher grades of gold. The Company is also drilling to upgrade and expand resources at its Haidee target area.

“The next 12 months promise to be exciting ones for our team and the community of Salmon, Idaho, as we release results from exploration drilling, additional metallurgical test work and optimization efforts focused on responsibly guiding Beartrack-Arnett back into production,” said Agro.

For more information, visit www.revival-gold.com. s

Learn more at revival-gold.com

TSX-V: RVG OTCQB: RVLGF

Idaho Mining Association 45

SHIMMICK: MINING INFRASTRUCTURE AND SUPPORT SERVICES

S

himmick and its legacy companies have been deliver-

• Bayer Quarry: 27 years without a lost-time incident, 16 years

ing construction services and building infrastructure

without a recordable incident and perennial MSHA Sentinels of

for our clients for more than 50 years. Shimmick provides excellence in safety, quality, efficiency, and con-

struction execution, and is committed to exceeding our customers’ expectations in project delivery. With a substantial fleet of job-owned heavy mobile earthmoving equipment and self-performing teams, our mining group focuses on infrastructure construction, reclamation and remediation services, process plant waste stream operations and maintenance management, working with clients in the mining, energy and manufacturing sectors.

Shimmick’s No. 1 core value is safety; we pride ourselves in conducting all work in a safe manner. We recognize that our

Safety recipient • Nu-West Ponds Project: 20 years without a lost-time incident and 10 years without a recordable incident Services • Construction of stormwater and erosion control management structures: dams, diversion canals and embankments and inflow/outflow structures; • Topsoil and overburden stripping: loading, hauling, direct-place and stockpile; • Specialty rock products processing to include drill, blast, load/ haul, crush, screen and wash;

people are our most valuable asset and are proud that our safety

• Haul road construction;

achievements are recognized throughout the industry. Recently,

• Tailings pond construction;

the Black Thunder Mine experienced no lost-time injuries for the

• Tailings pond operations and maintenance;

past nine years, and over seven years since the last recordable.

• Tailings pond remediation and closure;

Other notable and recent safety achievements and awards in-

• Active and legacy mine reclamation and remediation;

clude:

• Site restoration.

46 Mine Idaho

FEATURED PROJECTS SHIMMICK

91 South Main Street Soda Springs, ID 83276 Main: (208) 547-3322

Black Thunder Mine Location: Gillette, WY Client name: Arch Resources

SERVICES

Nu-West Ponds Location: Soda Springs, ID Client name: Itafos

• Construction of storm-water and erosion control management structures: dams, diversion canals and embankments, and inflow/outflow structures • Topsoil and overburden stripping: loading, hauling, direct-place, and stockpile • Specialty rock products processing to include drill, blast, load/haul, crush, screen and wash • Haul road construction • Tailings pond construction • Tailings pond operations and maintenance • Active and legacy mine reclamation and remediation • Site restoration

Gypsum Stack Closure Location: Soda Springs, ID Client name: Nutrien

shimmick.com

Bayer Silica Quarry Location: Soda Springs, ID Client name: Bayer • Geological Consulting • Contract Geological Technicians • Claim Staking • Soil Sampling • Technical Reports Questa Mills Basin Location: Questa, NM Client name: Chevron

• Project Management • Drill Programs • Property Evaluations

• American Institute of Professional Geologists, CPG # 11508 • Society of Economic Geologists - Fellow • M.Sc. in Mining Engineering/Management

“Specializing in working in some of the World’s most difficult terrain and challenging environments”

Morenci Mine Location: Morenci, AZ Client name: Freeport McMoRan s

Brian T. Brewer, CPG, QP, M.Sc. President, Brewer Exploration Inc.

P.O. Box 305, Salmon, Idaho 83467

1.208.940.0898

brian@brewerexploration.com Idaho Mining Association 47

IF IT CAN’T BE GROWN, IT MUST BE MINED

By Tim Vedder, Vice President and General Manager at Itafos Conda

I

f it can’t be grown, it must be mined.

sources of phosphate are here in south-

enough ore to sustain responsible opera-

It’s a phrase commonly used in the

east Idaho.

tions for years to come and is a key com-

mining industry – and is exactly why

With agriculture contributing more

companies like ours and other mining

than $1 trillion to the U.S. gross domes-

projects around Idaho are so valuable. At

tic product each year, and Idaho serving

With decades of continuous opera-

Itafos Conda, we do both. Our phosphate

as the nation’s third-largest agricultural

tions, the facility has become an integral

ore is mined and manufactured into both

state in the west and second in net farm

part of the social and economic structure

dry and liquid phosphate fertilizer prod-

income, it is vital that we continue to

of the surrounding communities while

ucts that support the North American

move our mining projects forward.

supplying fertilizer products to meet local

farmer.

ponent in maintaining a domestic supply of essential crop inputs.

At our Conda facility just outside of

and regional agricultural needs. Many of

You learn at an early age that water

Soda Springs, we are in the process of

us come from generations of phosphate

and sun are needed for our plants – what

gathering comments, updating plans, and

miners and fertilizer producers. Continu-

does not get talked about as much is the

working with the Bureau of Land Man-

ing to permit projects like H1/NDR keeps

phosphate needed to help them survive.

agement, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Army

communities like ours alive by providing

This nutrient’s primary role in a plant’s

Corps of Engineers, Idaho Department of

more than 500 local jobs that generate

lifecycle is to stockpile and transfer en-

Environmental Quality, and other agen-

more than $50 million in wages and ben-

ergy produced by photosynthesis. Nearly

cies to complete the National Environ-

efits. Our facility alone is credited with

all farmers use phosphate fertilizers to

mental Policy Act (NEPA) process on the

supporting an estimated 1,500 additional

efficiently grow the foods we consume

Husky 1/North Dry Ridge (H1/NDR) mine

job opportunities through sourcing con-

today, and some of the most plentiful

project. The H1/NDR project will provide

tractors, materials, services, and supplies

48 Mine Idaho

from local providers. We are one of the largest taxpayers in the area, helping our state and county to better fund schools, roads, infrastructure, and more. Every year Itafos contributes roughly $367 million to Idaho’s economy. With the ongoing success of the Rasmussen Valley Mine and the future success of H1/NDR, these significant economic inputs to our great state will continue.

From the potatoes down south to the lentils up north and every crop in between, producers and consumers can be rest assured that with continued phosphate mining and manufacturing, Idaho farmers can continue to efficiently grow the healthy crops necessary to put food on our tables. We are proud that our commitment to excellence and dedication to deliver quality phosphate fertilizer contributes to this critical process. s

The

HUSKY 1/NORTH DRY RIDGE PROJECT is the next step to continue our mission of responsibly providing phosphate, a critical crop nutrient, to North America.

Your Voice Matters

CondaGrowingIdaho.com Idaho Mining Association 49

MINING: SUPPORTING AMERICA’S CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION

By Mckinsey Lyon Perpetua Resources employees overlook the Yellow Pine Pit.

enable Ambri to produce enough energy storage capacity to power approximately one million homes with solar power over the batteries’ targeted 20-year lifespan.

“Our new partnership with Ambri will enable the production of batteries with over 13 gigawatt hours of energy storage capacity,” said Sayer. “This is more than eight times the total energy storage capacity that was added to the entire U.S. energy storage market in 2020.”

Today, China, Russia, and Tajikistan control the overwhelming majority of the world’s antimony, supplying more than 90 percent of the global production. De-

A

pendence on these countries puts Ameri-

merica’s current way of life is dependent upon antimony.

From wind and hydro turbines to semiconductors and

tion, according to the project’s feasibility study.

ca’s supply chain at risk.

Perpetua Resources is currently work-

“Antimony is a building block to the

ing with United States Antimony Cor-

solutions that will help America fight cli-

poration (USAC) to study the potential

energy storage batteries to fire retar-

mate change and transition to a greener

of processing antimony from Stibnite at

dants and cell phones, antimony is a key

economy,” said Laurel Sayer, president

USAC’s facilities and have been in dis-

component of the technology that pow-

and CEO of Perpetua Resources. “We

cussions with other potential processing

ers our nation, keeps us safe, connected,

want to do everything we can to be part of

partners.

and on the move.

the solution. Recently, we took a big step

Perpetua Resources sent antimony

Despite antimony’s importance in our

toward our goal by committing some of

concentrate samples to USAC to deter-

everyday lives – it is one of 35 minerals

the production at site to help decarbon-

mine the viability of a long-term partner-

the Department of Interior deemed criti-

ize energy grids around the world.”

ship. Early results show concentrate from

cal – America has no mined source of this mineral.

Perpetua signed an agreement to sup-

Stibnite would be ideal feedstock for pro-

ply a portion of its antimony to Ambri, an

cessing at USAC’s facilities. This venture

Perpetua Resources is working to

American grid-scale, stationary storage

could have the potential to re-establish

change that with its Stibnite Gold Project,

battery company. Ambri batteries make it

America’s antimony supply chain.

located in Valley County, Idaho. The proj-

feasible for power grids to rely more heav-

While the Stibnite Gold Project would

ect has the potential to supply approxi-

ily on renewable energy sources, such as

produce the only domestic source of an-

mately 35 percent of American antimony

solar and wind, and transition to cleaner

timony, 95 percent of the economic value

demand in the first six years of produc-

power generation. The partnership will

of the project comes from gold. The com-

50 Mine Idaho

pany’s studies indicate the project will produce more than four million ounces of gold. This makes recovering antimony from site economically feasible and provides Perpetua Resources the funds necessary to restore what is currently an abandoned brownfields site.

The U.S. Forest Service is currently evaluating the Stibnite Gold Project under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The Forest Service is expected to release a Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement (SDEIS) for public review in Q1 of 2022, after the company submitted additional improvements to its plan in December 2020. After listening to stakeholder feedback and collecting more data, Perpetua Resources found new ways to reduce the project footprint and improve water quality and temperature on site, while still responsibly producing the critical mineral antimony American’s so desperately need. A final record of decision on the project is expected in the first half of 2023. s

An employee shows off a rock sample from Stibnite. Gold, silver and antimony mineral reserves have all been found in the Stibnite Mining District.

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SIMPLOT: A PROUD PAST, A BRIGHT FUTURE

By Josh Jordan

Simplot’s phosphate mining activity provides ore for processing facilities in Pocatello, Idaho, and this plant in Rock Springs, Wyoming, bringing jobs and financial security to the area, while producing fertilizer for farmers in their quest to contribute to feeding the world.

T

he J.R. Simplot Company began to take shape in the

worldwide. Its integrated portfolio includes farming, ranching

farm fields of southern Idaho in the late 1920s. The

and cattle production, food processing, food brands, phosphate

company’s purpose of contributing to feed the world

mining, fertilizer manufacturing and other enterprises related to

drives our commitment to global food and agriculture.

agriculture. Its major operations in the United States, Canada,

It pioneers innovations in plant nutrition and food processing,

Mexico, Australia, Argentina, and China provide a diverse array

researches new ways to feed animals and sustain ecosystems

of products and services to people around the world.

and strives to feed a growing global population. Simplot’s di-

Simplot’s history in fertilizer production began in the Second

verse portfolio across global agriculture and food gives it a

World War when the company’s founder struck a deal to supply

unique and broad view of the entire food system.

the U.S. military with food. The agreement meant an increased

Still family-owned and privately held with its headquarters

demand for potatoes and onions and J.R.’s fertilizer suppliers

in Boise, Idaho, Simplot has grown into an international food

were struggling to meet the need. Seeing an opportunity where

and agriculture company with more than 13,000 employees

others might have seen an obstacle, Simplot got into the fertiliz-

52 Mine Idaho

er business and today is one of the largest miners of phosphate

and capturing more phosphate ore from its mining activities to

ore and producer of phosphate fertilizer in North America.

extend the life of mines, create more jobs, and provide for fertil-

Today, Simplot is celebrating more than 75 years in the fer-

izer that grows more food.

tilizer business, having opened its first fertilizer manufacturing

In recent years, Simplot has also spent millions of dollars re-

plant in 1944 in Pocatello, Idaho. Simplot phosphate operations

storing areas impacted from historic mining activities. This in-

are responsible for ensuring millions of people get the food they

cludes developing a first-of-its-kind water treatment facility at

need.

Smoky Canyon and building innovative soil caps designed to

Much of the company’s phosphate mining and manufacturing efforts are focused in eastern Idaho and western Wyoming

reduce the potential impact mining has on groundwater while reclaiming impacted land for multiple use.

where Simplot provides jobs to more than 600 people and con-

The core values of the company – passion for people, spirit of

tributes almost $150 million annually to local economies. The

innovation, and respect for resources – are as relevant now as

company has invested millions of dollars to improve operational

they were when J.R. began his journey more than 90 years ago,

excellence and innovative technologies, improving capabilities

and its dedication to making things grow is as strong as ever. s

Providing environmental permitting and compliance services to the mining and exploration industries.

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Idaho Mining Association 53

IDAHO MINING CONFERENCE SUMMARY

By D. Kerner

O

n November 1 and 2, 2021, in Boise, Idaho, 350-plus representatives from Idaho’s mining and related industries

breathed a collective sigh of relief at the reinstatement of the in-person format for the Idaho Mining Association’s fourthannual Idaho Mining Conference. The latest iteration of this ever-growing event returned to its original platform this year and boasted a larger and more accessible downtown venue, an added day for registration, vendor set-up and meetings, and an expanded suite of technical sessions.

Individuals from all corners of the state gathered at the Boise Center to share information, engage in camaraderie, and re-calibrate an industry that, like other areas of essential services, doesn’t have the luxury of taking days off during the COVID pandemic. The robust response from everyone that sponsored, attended and engaged in the IMC sent a resounding message: the people of this industry are what matter, and their coming together is an important part of the mission to conduct responsible mining in Idaho.

Together with its growing membership and event participants, the Idaho Mining Association’s annual flagship event is charting the course for Idaho’s miners, explorers, and would-be operators; positioning itself as a leader for the state’s mineral industry; and a source for encouraging broader understanding of what’s to come. And the timing is right. The future seems now to be more complicated than ever: How will ever-changing regulatory frameworks impact our capability to provide the minerals that the United States and global economies demand?

54 Mine Idaho

What can we, as an industry and a nation, do to continue to lead in the areas of environmental responsibility and social governance? How do we effectively communicate our industry’s integral role in national security when looked at through the broader lens of domestic mineral production and the foreign import reliance?

The Idaho Mining Conference certainly is effective in stoking enthusiasm and energy, and it also challenges us all by bringing these hard-hitting questions and topics to the fore and encouraging us to find solutions.

To set the tone of the conference, Idaho Governor Brad Little’s opening statements included an endorsement of Idaho mining’s contributions to the Gem State’s overall business climate, “We’re partners in creating this incredible miracle that’s taking place here in Idaho. I am very bullish. If I had the opportunity to buy stock in any of the 50 states, I’d really go long on buying stock in Idaho, because of what all of you have done.” High praise from the Governor, and what’s not to love? In a 2020 annual survey conducted by the Fraser Institute in Canada, mining and exploration companies’ ratings of 77 mining jurisdictions ranked Idaho first for policy perception and ninth when mineral potential was considered.

As the technical sessions got underway, important updates on operations, permitting, exploration, and environmental issues were punctuated by the addition of new topics and panel discussions that are likely to become perennial mainstays.

The Critical Minerals session will become increasingly pertinent in coming years as two critical mineral resource projects in Idaho (Iron Creek – First Cobalt [cobalt] and Stibnite – Perpetua Resources [antimony]) advance toward production. With current U.S. import reliance at 76 percent for cobalt and 81 percent for antimony, the implications of developing these resources in Idaho would be a boon for national supply-chain security, not to mention the

ronment, social, and governance (ESG) principles, or understand how quickly they are becoming necessary principles to attract investment in this modern age, you’d do well to become acquainted.

The Net Impact Panel, moderated by Josh Serfass (Integra Resources Corp.) with participating panelists Amber Bieg (Sprout Energy & Warm Springs Consulting), Jason Willis (Trout Unlimited), Kevin Carter (Cormark Securities) and Mckinsey Lyon (Perpetua Resources), provided a nice primer on the topic. Attractive drill core assays and resource models can get you a long way toward garnering interest in your project; however, the incorporation of ESG principles into the decisionIdaho economy. Trent Mell of First Cobalt

focus area for a variety of deposit types

making processes of would-be investors

Corporation pointed to the importance of

including strata-bound Fe-Co-Cu-Au-Bi-

is becoming the new normal. Those who

cobalt in the continued development and

Y and rare-earth element (REE) deposits.

proactively seek productive partnerships

battery storage for electronic vehicles, a

At lunchtime, a journey to the other

and opportunities to incorporate sustain-

fundamental change that is very much

end of the supply chain was captained

able technologies into their mining proj-

shaping the low-carbon future that world

by Micron’s Craig Murphy, who provided

ects are no longer viewed merely as over-

leaders are increasingly pressured to de-

an eye-opening look into the internal

achievers. Instead, they are meeting the

liver. A companion piece by First Cobalt’s

machinations of the technology campus

increasingly stringent expectations of the

Dan Pace in the exploration session noted

southeast of Boise. The sheer number

more active investor and facilitating the

that the resource potential of the Idaho

of suppliers upon whom Micron relies to

permitting and construction of the next

Cobalt Belt is only beginning to be real-

produce their semiconductor products

generation of mining companies.

ized. Additional tools for exploring critical

(over 2,000!), the vetting process they

As the Idaho Mining Association and

mineral resources in Idaho and across the

undertake when sourcing their materials,

the annual Idaho Mining Conference con-

U.S. were presented by Jane Hammar-

and the potential for disruptions to that

tinues to grow, be assured that your in-

strom (USGS). Recent executive orders

network through geopolitical instability

vestment in association membership and

have prioritized the identification and

was astounding. It’s a wonder their op-

attending, sponsoring and contributing

cataloguing of our nation’s critical mineral

eration runs as smoothly as it does (or

to the conference is well spent, and very

resource potential, and the USGS is part-

appears to). Testimonies like Craig’s are

much appreciated. Ben Davenport, the

nering with state geological surveys in

useful for those in the mining industry to

executive director of the Idaho Mining As-

the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative to

hear, and would be even more helpful if

sociation, noted at this year’s conference

produce a state-of-the-art geodatabase

conveyed to regulatory agency person-

that during his tenure, membership has

for the entire country, supporting state-

nel. Clearly, Micron or any other manu-

more than doubled. Though that is cer-

based boots-on-the-ground geological

facturer’s supply chain risk would be re-

tainly a vote of confidence in Ben’s abili-

mapping efforts with high-resolution air-

duced if we were producing more of their

ties to motivate and mobilize representa-

borne magnetic and radiometric surveys,

raw materials domestically.

tives of our state’s mining industry, it is

and surface elevation (LiDAR) data. Idaho

The IMC’s morning and afternoon tech-

also a reflection on the commitment of

is a prime candidate for benefitting from

nical sessions gave way to panel discus-

each and every one of us to build on the

these studies, hosting known deposits of

sions in the later afternoon to address

great legacy of Idaho mining. If this year’s

antimony, cobalt, fluorspar, and tungsten.

timely issues that are becoming as inte-

Idaho Mining Conference is any indicator,

Areas targeted for new data acquisition

gral to mining as field mapping and explo-

that legacy will grow long into the future,

include the Idaho Cobalt Belt, a priority

ration drilling. If you’ve not heard of envi-

and the best years are yet to come. s

56 Mine Idaho

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INDEX TO ADVERTISERS AECOM/Shimmick......................................................................................... 47

Itafos Conda.....................................................................................................49

AFFCO................................................................................................................24

J.H. Fletcher Mining Equipment................................................................ 17

American Equipment, Inc............................................................................ 31

J.R. Simplot Company.....................................................................................3

Americas Gold and Silver Corp................................................................29

Kiewit Mining Group.................................................................................... IFC

Brewer Exploration iInc................................................................................ 47

McCallum Rock Drilling...................................................................................7

Brown & Caldwell........................................................................................... 27

Mine Development Associates................................................................... 11

Bunker Hill Mining Corp................................................................................. 6

Northwest Mine Supply...............................................................................43

Coastline Equipment.......................................................................................8

Perpetua Resources..................................................................................OBC

Cobalt Truck Equipment............................................................................. 25

Purcell Tire.........................................................................................................43

Coeur Products...............................................................................................24

Revival Gold......................................................................................................45

EM Strategies................................................................................................... 53

RMA Prospectors............................................................................................ 21

Excellon Resources Inc................................................................................. 37

RockTech USA..........................................................................................28, 53

FlowTech Fueling............................................................................................. 9

Ruen Drilling Incorporated..........................................................................10

Gilmour & Company, Inc............................................................................... 51

Silver Hammer Mining Corp....................................................................... 35

Hecla Mining Company..............................................................................IBC

Small Mine Development LLC....................................................................19

High Country Fusion.....................................................................................26

SVL Analytical, Inc.............................................................................................5

Holland & Hart.................................................................................................43

The Woodshop Ejay Oil Co. Inc................................................................29

Idaho Power..................................................................................................... 23

Tunnel Radio of America, Inc..................................................................... 22

Integra Resources...........................................................................................41

Western States Equipment Co.................................................................39

58 Mine Idaho

We’re Hecla Mining Company.

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THE FUTURE STARTS HERE. Responsible production of critical resources begins right here at home.

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