Mount Isa Mines advances groundwater remediation project to protect water quality
Mount Isa Mines (MIM) is committed to protecting local water resources with a major groundwater remediation project that is a key part of MIM’s long-term commitment to sustainable and environmentally responsible operations.
In line with statutory obligations, MIM has undertaken a study to investigate potential sources of mine-related contamination and the potential spread of contaminants around our operations.
A series of scientific studies were completed to inform engineering designs. These included extensive drilling, testing and sampling programs, contamination characterisation and modelling. These works defined five areas needing targeted remediation, in the vicinity of the Black Start Open Cut (BSOC), Waste Rock Embankment (WRE) and Tailings Storage Facility (TSF).
MIM’s approach combines smart engineering with sustainability:
- Seepage Management: Seepage interception trenches and seepage extraction boreholes (up to 30m deep) will be installed in key locations.
- Pump Stations: Six stations across the five sones will collect water from trenches and local extraction bores.
- Water Reuse: Captured water will be redirected back to the processing plant, reducing waste and supporting sustainable operations.
The project includes “greenfield” construction: laying high-voltage electrical networks, building pumping infrastructure, and establishing full site operations.
The project has already made impressive progress:
- Q2 2024 Pre-Feasibility: Reviewed previous studies, identified gaps, drilled and sampled new groundwater boreholes, defined seepage extent, and developed preliminary designs and power/water allocation options.
- Q3 2025 Feasibility and Early Execution: Completed detailed engineering designs, drilled, sampled and tested of extraction groundwater bores.
- January 2026 Project Approval: Received the green light for full execution.
- April 2026 Construction Commencement: Work begins on site infrastructure and northern remediation sones.
Images showcasing ongoing groundwater monitoring activities, highlighting field teams conducting measurements, inspecting wells, and collecting water samples to assess water quality and levels.
A skilled, multidisciplinary team is leading the project, including:
- Rodrigo Correa, Principal Environmental Water Studies - Project initiator
- Stephanie Sherritt, Project Manager - Overseeing delivery and coordination
- Phil Abel, Senior Electrical Engineer - Leading high-voltage and pumping infrastructure
The project will roll out in stages over the next several years:
- 2026: Construction of northern remediation sones including BSOC WRE King Gully, BSOC WRE west area, TSF Dam 5, TSF Dam 7; and the TSF West Wall.
- 2027: Construction of West Wall pump stations 1 and 2; commissioning the full system; integrating operations for continuous monitoring; ongoing environmental compliance verification.
Designed for a +40-year operational life, the system ensures that MIM’s groundwater remediation efforts remain effective even as contamination levels gradually decline, reflecting the long-term commitment to protecting water resources.
This project highlights MIM’s innovative approach to environmental management. By combining sound science, engineering solutions, operational integration, and long-term planning, MIM is safeguarding water resources while supporting safe and productive mining operations.