Water resource management in mining projects with leaching systems represents a challenge, especially when storage capacities are limited and there is a risk associated with extreme rainfall events.
This study focuses on the hydrological analysis of an operational leach pad with a catchment area of approximately 900,000 m². The system includes three storage ponds with a total capacity of 300,000 m³, designated for handling pregnant solution, barren/intermediate solution, and runoff containment, respectively.
Current operations have required the simultaneous use of the barren/intermediate solution pond and the runoff pond, reducing system flexibility and increasing uncertainty during intense rainfall events. This situation is further complicated by the planned expansion of the leach pad, which will add 200,000 m² and increase pressure on the storage system.
This study proposes strategies to mitigate water exceedances, comparing both the expansion of storage capacity and the implementation of impermeable covers (Rain Coats) on parts of the pad. Through dynamic simulations using GoldSim and the analysis of real data, the study aims to identify operational scenarios that support informed and adaptive decision-making, aligned with the technical, logistical, and time constraints inherent to mining projects."
