Congratulations, Kettle River-Buckhorn! The site’s mine closure plan has been awarded the U.S. Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) 2016 Hardrock Mineral Community Outreach and Economic Security Award. The award recognizes work in three components of sustainable development: environmental health, social responsibility, and economic security.
“We are proud to receive this national award in recognition of our commitment to the local community,” said Mark Ioli, Vice-President and General Manager, Kettle River-Buckhorn. “We want to ensure that the community is prepared after mining ends at Buckhorn. From providing skills training and development workshops, we are fully committed to the economic well-being of the community. We are also committed to environmental stewardship and reclaiming and remediating the land after mining.”
“Thank you to the entire Kettle River-Buckhorn team for making this big win possible!” continued Mark.
The site has created a comprehensive closure plan that includes environmental reclamation and providing support to mitigate social and economic impacts in the community after the mine closes. Kettle River-Buckhorn has led training sessions to help members of the community learn about starting or growing their own business, including holding workshops so people gain a better understanding about business laws and taxes, and social media and strategic planning.
Other aspects of the closure plan include training sessions and tools to adapt to life post-mining. The closure plan is a result of ongoing consultations and needs assessment surveys that the site conducted in the community.
“Through efforts like yours, America’s mineral community continues to demonstrate its accomplishments and commitment to environmental stewardship, while providing the nation with the minerals needed for America’s economic well-being,” said Hal Quinn, President and CEO of the National Mining Association.
Highlighting responsible mineral resource development and sustainable development, the BLM awards also promote successful ideas and practices that may be implemented at various locations throughout the nation.
Click here to watch a video about the mine’s employee development and here for their environmental reclamation plan.
Accepting the award (from left to right): Mitchell Leverette, Division Chief Solid Minerals, BLM, Mary Linda Ponticelli, Solid Minerals Specialist, BLM, Warwick Morley-Jepson, Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer, Mark Ioli, Vice-President & General Manager, Kettle River-Buckhorn, Deana Zakar, Community Relations & Corporate Responsibility, Kinross Kettle River-Buckhorn, Gina Myers, Environmental Manager, Kettle River-Buckhorn, Jacquelyn Nutt, Environmental Superintendent, Kettle River-Buckhorn and Michael Nedd, Assistant Director, Energy, Minerals and Realty Management, BLM
Mark Ioli, Vice-President and General Manager, Kettle River-Buckhorn, accepts the award at the end of September at a celebratory lunch
The award
The Kettle River-Buckhorn community
