Trends in cyanide solution concentrations and mine operations at gold mines in Nevada and their potential effects on cyanide-related mortality of vertebrates
Published By US Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
Issued about 9 years ago
Summary
Description
Information on trends in practices at gold mines in Nevada using CN extraction technology and its relation to mortality of vertebrates, especially birds, was needed to assess current risks to these Fish and Wildlife Service trust resources in Nevada. The objectives of the study were as follows: 1 Determine pH and biologically available CN concentrations at the inflow of selected ponds and CN concentrations in heap puddles; 2 observe bird activity in relation to CN concentrations; 3 compare trends in CN concentrations at ponds and on heaps in relation to those found in 1990 and 1991 Henny et al. 1994; and, 4 Determine the amount of puddling on the tops of heaps.