WINNEMUCCA — Two representatives from Newmont were before local governments in order to garner support for the Vista Pit phase 7 expansion project at Twin Creeks Mine.

Sue Hawkins, External Relations, and Doug Barto, Senior Environmental Compliance Manager, asked both the Humboldt County Commission and the Winnemucca City Council to write letters to the BLM in support of the expansion.  The two were before the city council on Tuesday (Aug. 23) and the county commission on Monday (Aug. 15).

The BLM will accept comments on the project until Sept. 6.

The BLM conducted an environmental assessment to determine potential impacts from the expansion of the Vista Pit, which would impact 117 acres.

Barto explained mines operate in phases, and the expansion is the seventh phase of development of the Vista pit.  He continued and noted the expansion is entirely within existing boundary.

Additionally, the plan includes different methodology for closing some of the heap leach pads, and an addition to one of the existing heap leach pads.

Barto explained the expansion would not create jobs, but instead would extend the life of the mine and therefore maintain existing jobs.

Both the City and the County agreed to send letters of support.

Further Reading:

Twin Creeks Mine Vista Pit Expansion Preliminary Environmental Assessment available for public comment