i_wrrc_2017a_2017-10-04t13:31:52z0 Hearing Summary

Date: 10/04/2017

Location: SCR 352

01:31 PM -- Ouray Silver Mines



The committee was called to order. A quorum was present. Brian Briggs, Chief Executive Officer, Ouray Silver Mines, introduced himself to the committee. Committee members received a copy of Mr. Briggs presentation (Attachment A). Mr. Briggs discussed recent project activity, feasibility studies, the management team, and the project history related to the Ouray Silver Mines.



Attachment A.pdf



01:42 PM



Mr. Briggs discussed the potential economic output of the mine once in production. He also discussed the permitting process for the mine and the associated environmental regulations in the United States and in other countries. He also discussed the treacherous conditions faced at the mine site, including adverse weather, avalanche threats, and steep terrain. He further explained that water quality is generally high in the area. He further discussed the feasibility study that was recently conducted for the mine.



01:53 PM



Mr. Briggs discussed the geology and the expected resource output for the mine. He also explained the technical process of resue mining and the annual target of silver production. He further discussed the required capital investment, operational readiness, and the personnel structure for the mine.



02:06 PM



Mr. Briggs discussed the social, economic, and environmental impacts related to mining. He explained the passive water treatment system used at the mine site and recent compliance activities with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).



02:20 PM



Mr. Briggs discussed permit revisions that the mine is currently working on with CDPHE, upcoming construction activities, and post closure reclamation plans.



02:25 PM



Mr. Briggs responded to a committee question regarding the resue mining process. Briana Greer, President, Solid Solution Geosciences, responded to committee questions regarding the water quality at a specific well. Mr. Briggs and Ms. Greer responded to committee questions regarding a recent visit to the mine site by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and whether CDPHE has recently visited the mine site. Mr. Briggs further explained the economic impacts of the mine for Ouray County.



02:37 PM



Mr. Briggs responded to committee questions regarding the use of passive treatment systems in other regions and the proximity of the mine site to groundwater and surface water sources. He also responded to committee questions regarding the social acceptance of mining sites by local communities and the potential training opportunities for coal miners to learn hard rock mining skills.



02:49 PM



Ms. Greer responded to additional committee questions regarding the passive treatment process and the water quality standards near the mine site.