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Profile

Located in the Dominican Republic, the former Pueblo Viejo mine site was operated by the Dominican government from 1979 until closing in 1999. During its 20 year lifespan, approximately 5 million ounces of gold and 22 million ounces of silver were mined from oxide deposits. However, the remaining sulphide deposits contain an estimated 16 million ounces of gold. In 2002, Barrick Gold was chosen by the Dominican government to conduct a feasibility study on the property.

Overview

As part of Barrick Gold's agreement with the Dominican government, the company is responsible for future environmental effects as a result of their operations. Previous mining at Pueblo Viejo has led to severe acid rock drainage, impacting several streams near the mine site. Therefore, it was important to develop a baseline characterization of the area prior to any future project activity.

Experience

Rescan was contracted by Barrick Gold to develop an EIA to World Bank standards. Rescan collected the aquatic, vegetation, wildlife, soils, and fisheries data that was used in the EIA. Data collected during the 2002 and 2003 aquatic campaigns included water quality, sediment quality, algae, invertebrates, and fish habitat and community data. Data collected during the terrestrial campaigns included information on plants, insects, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Rescan scientists were assisted in their work by local experts from various universities and scientific institutions.