New Gold’s approach to caring for the environment is rooted in our commitment to responsible and sustainable practices. These practices include air quality management, with a particular focus on monitoring and suppression of dust from operational activities.
In March 2024, the southern portion of the mine’s Tailings Management Area (TMA) became dry and exposed due to low precipitation and lack of snow cover. Dry windy conditions resulted in dust plumes drifting to neighbouring properties. Taking immediate action, New Gold utilized a helicopter to conduct water suppression on the TMA and diverted water to the affected area.
An information session was held at the New Gold office in Emo, Ontario to provide residents with information and an overview of the short and long-term plans to mitigate future dust events, allowing residents to share concerns and ask questions. Feedback shared by neighbours included questions about potential health effects of dust exposure and the impact on vegetation and livestock. As a result of the meeting and feedback collected, Rainy River began regular meetings with area neighbours not only as it relates to dust, but also on topics of interest such as mine operations and closure planning.
A Fugitive Dust Committee led by members of the environment team with representation from key personnel responsible for managing and mitigating dust sources at the mine was formed. The committee meets monthly to track progress mitigation initiatives and explore creative solutions to enhance dust suppression, supporting the mine’s Fugitive Dust Management Plan which identifies the process and practices for managing dust on site.
Rainy River has implemented several dust mitigation measures so far, including installing a 4700m pipe to discharge water on dry areas, using designated water trucks on mine roads, enhancing air monitoring stations, applying calcium chloride on roads, conducting ecological and human health assessments that includes livestock tissue sampling, installing a dust fog system at the crusher and maintaining stockpiles at elevated levels.
In addition, Rainy River Mine Geographic Information System (GIS) and dam monitoring teams developed an innovative dust monitoring system that leverages real-time data and advanced indices to proactively manage dust conditions. The system includes a notification feature that alerts personnel to medium or high dust risk levels, allowing for timely interventions. Additionally, it integrates weather forecasts and visual inspections, including drone photos, to provide a comprehensive view of dust conditions. This approach enhances the accuracy of dust event predictions, facilitates collaboration among teams, and supporting effective dust management.
Rainy River operates a feedback mechanism, and we value community feedback to improve our public reporting, engagement, and operations. If you have a concern, contact our Community team at +1 855 482 0900 or by email at rrcomments@newgold.com.
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