Nearly two years since it was initially reported, the Wolverine mine tailings facility in the Yukon is still grappling with an undisclosed leak that remains elusive to detection and repair. This ongoing issue has raised concerns for a First Nation community impacted by the situation.
Situated between Ross River and Watson Lake, the former zinc mine, which has been inactive since 2015, faces challenges in addressing the leak hidden beneath the tailings. Despite attempts to lower water levels for access, technical obstacles have hindered progress. Additionally, the efficiency of a water treatment plant constructed on-site has fallen short of expectations, exacerbated by high precipitation causing a rise in water volume.
Ryan Hennessey, a manager at the Yukon government’s assessment and abandoned mines branch, expressed the complexity of the situation, noting the inability to pinpoint the leak after two years of efforts. To mitigate environmental impact, the team has adapted water management practices to ensure proper treatment before discharge.
Chief Dylan Loblaw of the Ross River Dena Council voiced apprehension over the prolonged issue, questioning the extent of contamination entering the environment. Reflecting on the history of the Wolverine mine, which was previously owned by Yukon Zinc Corporation, the site has encountered fatalities and financial burdens, with two deaths during construction leading to safety violations and fines.
The government’s expenditure on remedial actions at the Wolverine site has reached $42 million by 2024. Loblaw emphasized the importance of improved precautionary measures and expressed concerns about the lasting effects on the surrounding ecosystem. While efforts are underway to contain the leak and comply with water licensing requirements, discrepancies exist in meeting environmental standards set by regulatory bodies.
Hennessey assured that restoration efforts are prioritized, aiming to return the land to its original state. Collaboration with First Nations communities for input on the reclamation and closure plan is crucial in achieving a mutually agreeable outcome. Despite challenges, addressing the leak remains a primary focus for the government.
Overall, the unresolved leak at the Wolverine mine continues to pose environmental and regulatory challenges, underscoring the need for comprehensive remediation efforts and community engagement.