NYSE-listed gold and silver miner Gold Resources said in a statement on August 5 that it had been invited by Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) to participate in a scoping environmental-impact assessment (SEIA) meeting on the day.

The company said it was given the opportunity to represent the initial site plan and other key improvements being incorporated into the optimised feasibility study for its Back Forty gold project, in Michigan, in the US.

Another key objective of the meeting was for the EGLE and key stakeholders to discuss the permitting process and related requirements of the project.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to introduce our initial site plans to key stakeholders in the community, especially tribal communities. While the initial site plans have taken into consideration historical concerns expressed, we are keen to learn more about other concerns that may come up during the assessment.

“Our priorities while progressing the feasibility study and permitting initiatives at the Back Forty project are focused on favourably impacting our environment, social and governance programmes, while identifying economic and operational efficiencies,” Gold Resources president and CEO Allen Palmiere said in the statement.

The optimised initial site plan includes several project improvements from the 2018 plans.

This includes a combined openpit and underground mine, with the pit being smaller and pulled back from the Menominee river and River road.

Moreover, the filtered tails facility eliminates the traditional tailings dam and, therefore, the need for a dam safety permit and streamlines water management of the tailings management facility, including at closure.

The plan also eliminates a waste storage facility in proximity to neighbouring properties and wetlands.

It shows reduced wetland dredge and fill impacts and reduced visual intrusion on the Menominee river and identified cultural resources.

The initial revised mine plan consists of a smaller openpit and incorporates underground mining. The openpit is further from the Menominee river than previously planned and does not cross River road.

The underground mine also does not go under the Menominee river, Gold Resources pointed out.