A Positive Ending Sustaining livelihoods and restoring lands are natural outcomes as El Sauzal closes. Social responsibility and environmental stewardship are top of mind at El Sauzal, as the mine completes its final year of active mining. The site has generated upwards of 1.7 million ounces of gold and created promising futures for local people. Following the acquisition of El Sauzal in 2006 from Glamis Gold, Goldcorp has been planning a legacy of positive community impact for this remote, mountainous region of Mexico. Planning included immediate and long-term socioeconomic contributions and closure strategies for site rehabilitation, utilizing innovative strategies that have set industry benchmarks and earned reclamation awards.
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Prior to the development of El Sauzal, the 2,000 residents surrounding the mine were isolated, with few roads and no electricity. Jobs were scarce, as were safe water sources, medical services and nutritious food. In partnership with local and national NGO’s, state authorities and local groups, key community needs were identified through baseline studies, and cultural values were woven into each new initiative. Since then, vital infrastructure, health care, education, career training and jobs have been created. Other grassroots ventures supported by Goldcorp to boost the local economy and family income include entrepreneurial and agricultural enterprises, such as hydroponic farming to optimize crop yields in arid climates and conserve water.
GROWING LEGACIES The Reclamation Team line up seedlings for planting.