ABSTRACT
Located in northwest Alaska, the Red Dog Operation is the largest zinc mine in the world, both in terms of reserves and concentrate production. Exploration during the summer focused on a deep zone of mineralization identified by previous drilling. This zone the Paalaaq Deposit, has been tested by 25 holes. To date 14,000,000 metric tons, grading 14% zinc, have been identified. Productivity at the operation reached an all time high in 1997. Significant improvements in recovery were achieved while maintaining overall costs. The operation is in the final stage of a major construction project aimed at boosting production by 40%. In July, Cominco reached a settlement agreement with the Environmental Protection Agency for violations, which occurred in the early 1990’s. Several environmental projects were initiated to improve effluent treatment and to further the environmental quality of the operation.
