September 29, 2023
Contact: Dana Swift, Remediation Bureau Chief, dana.swift@deq.idaho.gov
BOISE — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has reviewed for completeness an application from Perpetua Resources Idaho, Inc. for a permit to construct, operate, and close a cyanidation facility intended to contain, treat, or dispose of process water or process-contaminated water containing cyanide.
In accordance with the “Rules for Ore Processing by Cyanidation” (IDAPA 58.01.13), Perpetua Resources is requesting a permit to operate a cyanidation facility as part of the Stibnite Gold Project (SGP), a proposed gold mine located in Valley County, approximately 12 miles east of Yellow Pine, Idaho. The SGP is located on private and public lands within the Boise and Payette National Forests. Perpetua has 29,827 acres of mining claims comprised of both unpatented (28,477 acres) and patented (1,350 acres) claims. The SGP is also located within the historical Stibnite Mining District, an area characterized by previous mining activities including legacy mining features such as underground mine workings, rock dumps, tailings deposits, and open pits, most notably the Yellow Pine Pit.
During the 30-day completeness review, DEQ identified information missing in the application, which is required by rule. DEQ determined that the application is incomplete and has issued a written notice to Perpetua Resources and included a list of specific deficiencies and required information.
The completeness review and the cyanide permit application are available for review on DEQ’s website or at DEQ’s Boise Regional Office (1445 N. Orchard, Boise, Idaho). Currently, DEQ is not accepting public comments on the permit application or completeness review.
Upon receipt of an updated application, DEQ will again conduct a completeness review. If the application is deemed complete, DEQ will review the application for accuracy and protectiveness and either reject the application or issue a draft permit within 90 days of receiving the application. DEQ will issue public notice if the permit application is rejected.
If DEQ prepares a draft permit, a public comment period of 60 days will begin on the date of the public notice of the draft permit. Within 30 days of the public notice for draft permit, a public meeting will be held and the public will have the opportunity to submit comments. DEQ will address public comments submitted in its Response to Public Comments. All comments must be submitted in writing during the public comment period.
For more information, contact the following:
Perpetua Resources Idaho, Inc.
Alan Haslam
Vice President – Permitting
405 S 8th St. Suite 201
Boise, ID 83702
alan.haslam@perpetua.us
Idaho Department of Environmental Quality
Dana Swift
Remediation Bureau Chief
1410 N. Hilton St.
Boise, ID 83706
dana.swift@deq.idaho.gov
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