TRUE NORTH PROJECT MONITORING PLANdnr.alaska.gov/mlw/mining/largemine/truenorth/pdfs/... · 2000....
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i TRUE NORTH PROJECT MONITORING PLAN Fairbanks Gold Mining, Inc. A Subsidiary of Kinross Gold Corporation P.O. Box 73726 Fairbanks, Alaska 99707-3726 September 2000
Transcript of TRUE NORTH PROJECT MONITORING PLANdnr.alaska.gov/mlw/mining/largemine/truenorth/pdfs/... · 2000....
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TRUE NORTHPROJECT
MONITORINGPLAN
Fairbanks Gold Mining, Inc.A Subsidiary of Kinross Gold Corporation
P.O. Box 73726Fairbanks, Alaska 99707-3726
September 2000
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE1.0 INTRODUCTION 1
1.1 General Information 21.2 Site Description 31.2.1 Objectives 3
2.0 BASELINE AND COMPLIANCEMONITORING AND SAMPLING 3
2.1 Groundwater 32.2 Surface Water 42.3 Characterization for Acid Rock Drainage 52.4 Development Rock and Overburden Evaluation 5
3.0 ANALYTICAL PROFILES FOR LIQUID SAMPLES 6
4.0 MONITORING/SAMPLE RECORDSAND REPORTING 8
4.1 Documentation of Measurements, Sampling, Inspections 84.2 Retention of Records 94.3 Monitoring Reports and Submission Schedules 9
5.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITYCONTROL PROGRAM 9
6.0 POTABLE WATER MONITORINGPUBLIC WATER SYSTEM 9
7.0 IMPACTS TO AVIAN AND TERRESTRIAL WILDLIFE 9
LIST OF TABLES
Table 2-2 Summary of Surface Water Sites by Drainages 4Table 3-1 Analytical Profile I - Surface Water Inorganic Parameters 6Table 3-2 Analytical Profile II - Groundwater Inorganic Parameters 7Table 3-3 Analytical Profile III - Organic Parameters 8
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APPENDICES
Appendix A Site Location MapAppendix B Groundwater Well LocationsAppendix C Surface Water Sampling LocationsAppendix D True North Project Monitoring QA/QC
& Field Procedures Manual
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
Fairbanks Gold Mining, Inc. (FGMI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Kinross Gold Corporation (KGC)has prepared this monitoring plan for the True North Project.
It is the goal of FGMI to operate the True North Project in a manner that will ensure zero discharge forthe protection and enhancement of surface and groundwater quality. This monitoring plan will assistFGMI in the establishment and refinement of operating procedures to ensure the long-term protectionof State of Alaska Land, wildlife, and water resources. Periodic updates of the monitoring plan willcoincide with regulatory changes, one-year reviews, process modifications, or anomalies noted as aresult of monitoring and sampling.
This monitoring plan is an intricate part of the Project Management System (PMS) for the True NorthProject.
Access by Federal and State regulatory personnel to the True North Project facilities for the purposeof inspecting for reclamation, wildlife mortalities, or other appropriate compliance areas arestatutory/regulatory mandates and will be adhered to by FGMI, with the request that agents contactmine management to gain access. The health and safety of FGMI employees and that of regulatorypersonnel is the rational for this request. Mining is regulated under the Mine Safety and HealthAdministration (MSHA) and their regulations require minimum training for employees and visitors forHazard Recognition and Safety. Visitors as well as employees must wear safety equipment,approved by MSHA.
FGMI requests consideration by the regulatory agencies to conduct routine inspections duringweekdays when administration and site managers are available to answer questions and, ifnecessary, accompany agents to different site components.
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1.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
Date: September 2000
Name of Facility: Fairbanks Gold Mining, Inc. – True North ProjectType of Facility: Gold Mine and Operation
Location: The True North Project is within the Chatanika River watershed located on the northwestflank of Pedro Dome approximately 25 miles northeast of Fairbanks. The ridgelines draininto Murray Creek, a tributary of Dome Creek to the south; and Louis Creek, WhiskeyGulch, and Spruce Creek, tributaries of Little Eldorado Creek to the north. Morespecifically, the Millsite Lease boundary is located in portions of Sections 21, 27, 28, 29,32, & 33, Township 3N, Range 1E, Fairbanks Meridian (Appendix A). The project site islocated entirely on State and University of Alaska land. There is no federal land involvedwithin the project boundaries and the closest residence is approximately one mile from theproject boundary.
Corporate Information:
Business Name: Fairbanks Gold Mining, Inc.
Address: P.O. Box 73726Fairbanks, Alaska 99707-3726
Telephone: (907) 488-4653
General Manager: Thomas E. Irwin
Operations Manager: Rick A. Baker
Fairbanks Gold Mining, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of
Kinross Gold U.S.A., Inc.185 South State Street, Suite #820Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Designated Contact Person for Regulatory Issues:
Name: William R. JeffressTitle: Manager of Environmental ServicesTelephone: (907) 488-4653 Ext. 2206
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1.2 SITE DESCRIPTION
The True North Project is within the Chatanika River watershed located on the northwest flank ofPedro Dome approximately 25 miles northeast of Fairbanks. The ridgelines drain into Murray Creek,a tributary of Dome Creek to the south; and Louis Creek, Whiskey Gulch, and Spruce Creek,tributaries of Little Eldorado Creek to the north.
The Project will operate year-around with conventional open pit mining averaging 30,000 tons perday, at a 2:1 strip ration with an average of 82.4% recovery, and producing approximately 180,000ounces of gold annually. Approximately 10,000 tons of ore per day will be trucked to the Fort Knoxmill for processing.
No process components will be present at the property; therefore mining will be similar to a gravel pitor rock quarry operation.
1.3 OBJECTIVES
The objective of baseline monitoring is to collect data that describe the pre-mining surface water andgroundwater systems in the project area. These data are used to determine the potential impactscaused by development and operation of the True North Project. The objective of compliancemonitoring is to ensure that the True North Project mine operations minimize impacts to theenvironment. FGMI will continue monitoring and sampling through development, operations,reclamation and closure.
2.0 BASELINE AND COMPLIANCE MONITORING AND SAMPLING
2.1 GROUNDWATER
Appropriate locations of monitoring wells were determined after an outside consulting firm was hired todetermine the hydrology of the True North Project area. Nine monitoring wells were installedDecember 1999 and sampling began in January 2000. Appendix B identifies the well locations. FGMIwill continue to evaluate the hydrogeologic features of the True North Project area and determine ifadditional monitoring wells are necessary.
The nine wells and any additional monitoring wells determined to be necessary will use threemonitoring parameters:
Parameter Frequency1. Profile II* Quarterly2. Profile III Annually3. Static Water Level** Weekly
* After two (2) years of monitoring and sampling the analytical profiles, for three of the quarters, theanalytical profiles may be reduced to the following: pH, conductivity, alkalinity (as CaCO3)bicarbonate and total. Any results of analysis from the reduced sample parameters inconsistentwith previous water quality analyses will require re-sampling and Profile II analysis. Third quartersample analytical parameters will be Profile II and Profile III. The annual full parameter analysiswill provide a database for comparison and enable the water quality trends to be tracked over thelife of the operation.
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** After one year of monitoring the static water levels with no significant change, the frequency maybe reduced to quarterly readings during the Profile II sampling periods.
A complete analytical list for Profile II and Profile III can be found in Section 3.0.
Individual parameters may be reduced after additional sampling. The criteria for reducing parameterswill be based on consistent result of analysis below the detection limit and the potential for changesthat could result in water quality concerns.
2.2 SURFACE WATER
Surface water samples include those sources with the potential to be affected by the True NorthProject mine (Appendix C). The number of surface water sampling locations has been reduced sinceFGMI narrowed the area of activities to the Millsite Lease area. FGMI monitors surface water in thefollowing locations:
TABLE 2-2Summary of Surface Water Sites by Drainages
Drainage Location CommentLittle EldoradoCreek
Lower Louis Creek Location consistent with 1999 samplinglocation
Whiskey Gulch Location consistent with 1999 samplinglocation
Marshall Gulch Called “Marshall Creek” in 1999 sampling,continue sampling at 1999 location
Little Eldorado Creek 1999 location unknown, sample at pointdownstream of Marshall Gulch
Dome Creek Upper Dome Creek New location – try and sample above tailings (whereold bus is located), upstream of Murray Creek
Murray Creek Location consistent with 1999 samplinglocation
Moose Creek Location consistent with 1999 samplinglocation
Lower Dome Creek Uncertain whether this is location referredto as “Dome Creek” in 1999, samplelocation consistent with historic location
Spruce Creek Spruce Creek 1999 location unknown, sample mainchannel of Spruce Creek down gradient ofMW-05
Chatanika River Chatanika above LittleEldorado Creek
Location consistent with 1999 samplelocation
Chatanika below Dome Creek Location consistent with 1999 samplelocation
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Two parameters will be monitored for these surface water sites:
Parameter Frequency1. Profile I* Quarterly2. Profile III Annually
* After two (2) years of monitoring and sampling the analytical profiles for three of the quarters maybe reduced to the following: pH, conductivity, alkalinity (as CaCO3) bicarbonate and total. Anyresults of analysis from the reduced sample parameters inconsistent with previous water qualityanalyses will require re-sampling and Profile I analysis. Third quarter sample analyticalparameters will be Profile I and Profile III. The annual full parameter analysis will provide adatabase for comparison and enable the water quality trends to be tracked over the life of theoperation.
A complete analytical list for Profile I and Profile III can be found in Section 3.0.
Individual parameters may be reduced after additional sampling. The criteria for reducing parameterswill be based on consistent result of analysis below the detection limit and the potential for changesthat could result in water quality concerns.
2.3 CHARACTERIZATION FOR ACID ROCK DRAINAGE
Quarterly and annual characterization of development rock and ore will continue over the life of themine. Sampling for representative samples will be based on annual operational and geologicalrecords identifying materials mined. Acid/base accounting will be performed on the samples. If staticevaluations show less than a 3 to 1 ratio of net neutralization potential to net acid generation, kinetictesting (12-week Humidity Cell Testing) will be performed. A detailed explanation of samplecollection and analysis is located in Appendix D: Section 2.3.4.
2.4 WASTE ROCK AND OVERBURDEN EVALUATION
The purpose of the annual characterization of development rock and overburden is to evaluate thepotential for dissolution and mobility of certain constituents from mine rock samples using theMeteoric Water Mobility Procedure (MWMP). The procedure consists of a single-pass column leachover a 24-hour period using a mine rock sample to extraction fluid (effluent) ration of 1:1. Theextraction fluid will have a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 representative of precipitation in this geographicregion.
The annual sample submitted for MWMP testing will consist of a composite of representative samplescollected over four quarters. A detailed explanation of sample collection analysis is located inAppendix D: Section 2.3.4.
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3.0 ANALYTICAL PROFILES FOR LIQUID SAMPLES
Table 3-1Analytical Profile I -- Surface Water Inorganic Parameters
Major Ion Chemistry Minor IonChemistry
Trace Ion Chemistry
Lab pHLab ConductivityTemperature (field)TurbiditySettleable SolidsTotal Suspended SolidsTotal Dissolved Solids*Calcium*Magnesium*Potassium*Silicon*SodiumSulfateChlorideAlkalinity (as CaCO3)
BicarbonateTotal
Calcium HardnessMagnesium Hardness
*ArsenicFluoride*Iron*ManganeseNitrogen, AmmoniaNitrate as NitrogenNitrite as NitrogenTotal PhosphorusTPH
*Antimony*Barium*Bismuth*Cadmium*Chromium*Copper*Lead*Mercury*Selenium*Silver*Zinc
• Total & Dissolved
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Table 3-2Analytical Profile II -- Groundwater Inorganic Parameters
Major Ion Chemistry Minor IonChemistry
Trace Ion Chemistry
Lab pHLab ConductivityTemperature (field)TurbidityTotal Suspended SolidsTotal Dissolved Solids*Calcium*Magnesium*Potassium*Silicon*SodiumSulfateSulfideChlorideAlkalinity (as CaCO3)
BicarbonateTotal
Calcium HardnessMagnesium Hardness
*ArsenicFluoride*Iron*ManganeseNitrogen, AmmoniaNitrate as NitrogenNitrite as NitrogenTotal PhosphorusTPH
*Antimony*Barium*Bismuth*Cadmium*Chromium*Copper*Lead*Mercury*Selenium*Silver*Zinc
*Total & Dissolved
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Table 3-3Analytical Profile III -- Organic Parameters
BenzeneCarbon tetrachlorideChlordaneChlorobenzeneChloroformo-Cresolm-Cresolp-Cresol2,4-D1,4-Dichlorbenzene1,1-DichloroethyleneEndrinEthyl BenzeneHeptachlorHexachlorobenzene (and its hydroxide)Hexachlor-1, 3-butadieneHexachloroethane
LindaneMethoxychlorMethyl ethyl ketoneNitrobenzenePentachlorophenolPyridineTetrachloroethyleneTolueneToxapheneTrichloroethylene2,4,5-Trichlorophenol2,4,6-Trichlorophenol2,4,5-TP (silvex)Vinyl chloridePCBXylene (total)
4.0 MONITORING/SAMPLE RECORDS AND REPORTING
4.1 DOCUMENTATION OF MEASUREMENTS, SAMPLING, INSPECTIONS
For each measurement or sample taken pursuant to this monitoring plan the following informationshall be recorded:
a. The exact place, date, and time of inspection, observation, measurement, or sampling;
b. The person(s) who inspected, observed, measured, or sampled;
c. The dates the analyses were performed and by which analytical facility;
d. The analytical techniques or methods used;
e. The accuracy of the analytical method (detection limits); and
f. The results of all required analysis.
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4.2 RETENTION OF RECORDS
During operation, closure and reclamation all records of monitoring activities and results, calibrations,and maintenance records will be retained for a period of three years.
4.3 MONITORING REPORTS AND SUBMISSION SCHEDULES
Monitoring results will be submitted quarterly to ADEC. All quarterly reports will be submitted on orbefore the 15th day of the month following the quarter. An annual report through September 30th ofeach year, including raw data (if required), will be presented to the ADEC, COE and EPA two weeksprior to the annual meeting. The annual report prepared for the ADEC, COE and EPA will addressthe analytical results of analysis (ROA’s).
Reports will be on forms or in a data base format, which is agreeable to ADEC, COE and EPA.
5.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL PROGRAM
The True North Project Water Monitoring QA/QC and Field Procedures Manual has been designed toreflect current baseline and compliance monitoring at the True North Project (Appendix D). Theanalytical QA/QC program for FGMI’s contract laboratory, incorporated into the above referenceddocument, will be updated routinely or whenever a different laboratory is used.
6.0 POTABLE WATER MONITORING PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM
Water will be trucked to the True North Project on a weekly basis. Routine sampling and analysis ofwater from the system at appropriate points and appropriate times will be in accordance with theintervals set out in Tables B and C of 18 AAC 80.200. Reporting requirements will conform to 18AAC 80.260.
7.0 IMPACTS TO AVIAN AND TERRESTRIAL WILDLIFE
Wildlife mortalities occurring within the Millsite Lease boundary and along the access/haul road will bereported to the ADF&G. Moose mortalities will be report to Alaska Fish and Wildlife Troopers socharitable organizations can be contacted to salvage useable meat.
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1
APPENDIX D
TRUE NORTH PROJECTQA/QC & Field Procedures Manual
2
TRUE NORTH PROJECT
QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITYCONTROL
ANDFIELD PROCEDURES MANUAL
September 2000
i
True North ProjectFairbanks, Alaska
Quality Assurance/Quality Control and Field Procedures Manual
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0INTRODUCTION•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 11.1 Objectives•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 11.2 Quality Assurance/Quality Control Program••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 11.3 Data Uses and Data Quality Objectives••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 11.4 Data Quality Parameters•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 2
2.0 FIELD QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL PROCEDURES••••••••• 32.1 Purpose••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 32.2 Quality Control Samples••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 42.3 Sample Collection, Labeling, and Handling Procedures••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 42.3.1 Surface Water Grab Sampling••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 52.3.2 Surface Water Grab Sampling Through Ice••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 62.3.3 Groundwater Sampling•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 62.3.4 Solids Sampling ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 72.3.5 Sample Labeling••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 82.3.6 Packaging••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 92.3.7 Chain-of-Custody••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 92.3.8 Shipping••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 92.3.9 Field Documentation•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 102.3.10 Corrections to Documentation•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 102.3.11 Field Equipment Calibration•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 102.3.12 Decontamination Procedures•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 112.3.13 Field Corrective Action••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 11
3.0 LABORATORY QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL PROGRAM••• 12
4.0 DATA QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL PROGRAM••••••••••••••• 12
1
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Objectives
This Water Monitoring QA/QC and Field Procedures Manual is for the use ofFairbanks Gold Mining, Inc. (FGMI) operating personnel at the True NorthProject. This manual will be used to maintain the quality of field activities,sample collection, sample handling, laboratory analysis and data analysis, and todocument the quality of data at each processing level. The QA/QC programidentifies major aspects of the project requiring specific quality control anddemonstrates that quality control is a major focus for this project. Additionally,this manual will be used for training employees in approved field monitoringprocedures (i.e. instrument calibrations, measurements, maintenance).
This document will be periodically reviewed and updated by site personnel toreflect actual site conditions and permit monitoring requirements as they change.
1.2 Quality Assurance/Quality Control Program
The QA/QC program consists of three components:
• Field QA/QC identifies the procedures to be used in the field to verify thatwater samples and field monitoring data are collected according to therequirements of the project. The objective of field QA/QC is to assure that bothfield measurements and samples collected for laboratory analyses can bedemonstrated to be representative of the environment sampled and are of knownand acceptable quality.
• Laboratory QA/QC identifies the protocols to be used by the laboratories todemonstrate that project data are analyzed according to U.S. EnvironmentalProtection Agency (EPA)-acceptable methodologies, and that reported valuesare accurate. The objective of the laboratory QA/QC program is to produce datathat will meet state and federal analytical requirements.
• Data QA/QC identifies the protocols to be used to verify that laboratory andfield data have been reported accurately. The objective of the data QA/QCprogram is to demonstrate that the data reported meet the specifiedrequirements, including comparability with data from previous years.
1.3 Data Uses and Data Quality Objectives
Quality assurance requirements are established in this QA/QC program toachieve the project objectives for the data uses. Applicable quality controlprocedures, quantitative target limits, and level of effort for assessing the dataquality are dictated by the intended use of the data and the nature of the requiredfield and analytical methods. The project objectives are to collect data of known
2
and sufficient quality for FGMI to comply with the analytical permit requirementsduring operation and ultimately closure of the True North Project. The analysesto be conducted on the various sample types have been presented in the TrueNorth Project Monitoring Manual. Protocols and appropriate detection limits areincluded in the laboratory’s QA/QC plan available to all FGMI environmentalpersonnel.
Federal and state levels of concern (i.e. ambient water quality criteria ormaximum contaminant levels) exist for many of the parameters being analyzed inthe water monitoring program. To the extent possible, analytical methods havebeen specified that will allow detection of chemical constituents at or below levelsof concern.
1.4 Data Quality Parameters
The quality of laboratory data is measured by the precision, accuracy,representativeness, comparability, and completeness of the data. Theseparameters and the applicable quality control procedures and levels of effort aredescribed below.
Precision
Precision is a qualitative measure of the reproducibility of a measurement undera given set of conditions. For duplicate measurements, analytical precision canbe expressed as the relative percent difference. A quantitative definition of therelative percent difference is included in Appendix A. The level of effort forprecision measurement will be at a minimum frequency of one in 20 (5 percent)or one per batch, whichever is more frequent.
Accuracy
For samples processed by the analytical laboratory, accuracy will be evaluatedthrough the use of matrix spikes and standard reference materials (SRMs) toestablish the average recovery. A quantitative definition of average recovery isincluded in Appendix A. The laboratory will perform matrix spike and matrixspike duplicate measurements at a minimum frequency of one in 20 samples fororganic parameters, and matrix spikes of one in 20 for inorganic ormiscellaneous samples, or one per batch, whichever is more frequent.
Representativeness, Precision and Accuracy
Representativeness is a measure of how closely the measured results reflect theactual concentration or distribution of the chemical compounds in the soil andwater sampled. Sampling plan design, sampling techniques, and samplehandling protocols (e.g., storage, preservation, and transportation) have beendeveloped and are discussed in other sections of this document. Proposeddocumentation will establish that protocols have been followed and sample
3
identification and integrity assured. Field blanks (Profile III only) and fieldduplicates obtained at a minimum frequency of 5 percent or one per Sampleevent will be used to assess field and transport contamination and methodvariation. Laboratory sample retrieval, storage, and handling procedures havealso been developed and are discussed in other sections of this document.Laboratory method blanks will be run at the minimum frequency of 5 percent orone per set to assess laboratory contamination.
Comparability
Comparability is the level of confidence with which one data set can becompared with another. Comparability of the data will be maintained by usingEPA-defined procedures, where available and appropriate. Comparability willalso be maintained by the use of consistent units.
Completeness
Completeness is a measure of the amount of valid data obtained from themeasurement system. The quantitative definition of completeness is given inAppendix A. The target completeness objectives are approximately 90 percentfor each analytical parameter; the actual completeness can vary with the intrinsicnature of the samples. The completeness of the data will be assessed during thedata review.
2.0 FIELD QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL PROCEDURES
2.1 Purpose
Producing data of known quality that are considered representative of thesampling environment at an appropriate level of detail is achieved by establishinga QA/QC program with specified data gathering protocols overseen by a fieldQA/QC leader (Environmental Engineer). The main components of the proposedQA/QC program include the following:
•Verification of use of proper sample containers and preservatives•Collection and analysis of blank and duplicate samples•Specific procedures for handling, labeling, and shipping samples•Field equipment calibration•Equipment decontamination•Field documentation•Field corrective action
Each task sampler is responsible for implementing these components in the field.However, the field QA/QC leader will oversee each aspect of field operations toverify that these components are accomplished within the strict requirements ofthe project.
4
2.2 Quality Control Samples
To aid in evaluating the accuracy of the analytical data, a field filter and rinseblank and duplicate sample are collected and subjected to the same analyses asidentified in task samples. One field filter and rinse blank is collected for every20 unknown samples, or one per sampling event (quarterly), whichever isgreater. In addition, a minimum of one duplicate sample is collected for every 20task samples, or one per sampling event (quarterly), whichever is greater.
Equipment blanks for surface water sampling are taken by pouring distilled waterinto a decontaminated sample collection bucket, then samples bottles are filledfrom the sample collection bucket with a decontaminated one-liter plastic pitcher.Blanks will be analyzed along with the unknown samples.
2.3 Sample Collection, Labeling, and Handling Procedures
Sample collection, labeling, and handling procedures are periodically checked bythe QA/QC leader (Environmental Engineer) to verify that the following conditionsare being met:
•Collection -- Samples are collected according to approved samplingmethods.
•Labeling -- Samples are uniquely labeled using a code that prohibitsunauthorized personnel from knowing the sampling locations.
•Packaging -- Samples are correctly packaged to prevent leakage or cross-contamination; Sample containers with proper preservatives are used;Amber sample bottles for UV protection are used when necessary.
•Chain-of-custody forms -- Chain-of-custody forms are properly completed toassure sample custody can be adequately documented.
•Shipping -- Samples are hand delivered to the laboratory or proper shippingprocedures are used, including maintenance of proper temperatures andspecified holding times.
Each task leader is responsible for implementing the proper sample collection,labeling, and handling procedures. The field QA/QC leader will oversee theseactivities.
5
2.3.1 Surface Water Grab Sampling
Surface water samples are collected in the following order:
1. Total and dissolved metals2. Settable solids3. Total suspended solids4. TPH5. Ammonia nitrogen6. Miscellaneous parameters (i.e. fluoride, phosphorous, etc.)
Below, the surface water grab sampling procedure and sampling sites are listed.
1. Decontaminate compositing container (plastic bucket) and one-literpitcher. See section 2.3.12 for decontamination procedures.
2. Locate sampling site at a point in the stream exhibiting greatest flow
and/or highest velocity, if possible. 3. Surface water sample sites at the True North Project require filling the
plastic-bucket by direct submergence.
When submersion is required; submerge plastic-bucket at sampling pointsuch that mouth of container is under water surface at least 2 to 3 inches,if possible. Allow container to fill partially; rinse container by shaking, thendischarge this water. Repeat this procedure three times. Collect sample,and then transfer water from plastic-bucket into the sample bottles withone-liter pitcher.
Dissolved metal bottles are field filtered with a 0.45 µm filter. SeeAppendix A (Section 2.1.1) for complete surface water field filteringprocedure.
Note that when sampling TPH (amber glass bottle), the sample bottlemust be submerged in the plastic bucket so that its mouth is half out of thewater when filling. Alternatively the sample bottle may be filled bysubmersion directly into the sample water, provided the mouth of thesample bottle isn’t fully submersed.
4. Fill out appropriate field data form(s) see documenting sample location,
time, and other pertinent information before leaving sample site.
6
2.3.2 Surface Water Grab Sampling Through Ice
During winter months when ice cover is present, sample water is accessed withuse of a manual handheld ice auger.
1. Clear snow off ice, an area large enough area for sampling equipment.
2. Drill sample hole in ice with auger periodically cleaning hole of ice chips.
3. After breaking through ice, cut a square area with an ax around the icehole large enough (3-4” deep) to dip sample collection container in.
4. Purge three hole volumes from the ice hole prior to sampling, trying toremove all ice chips within the hole. This volume can be approximatedfrom the hole-dimensions in the ice.
5. Follow surface water grab sample procedure steps 3 –4 Surface WaterGrab Sample Procedure.
2.3.3 Groundwater Sampling
Groundwater sampling procedures are listed below.
The monitoring wells are sampled with a portable submersible Grundfos electricpump. A description of the sampling procedure is given below.
1. Adjust the reel support pins (on bar below roller) so that the roller iscentered over the well opening. Lift and hang the REEL E-Z on the wellcasing by resting the support pins against the inside of the well casing.
2. Unlock the reel by pulling the pin lock mechanism outward and turning.
3. Using the operating handle gently reel down the pump to the necessarylevel and lock the reel in place. The cable is marked every five feet.
4. DO NOT power the converter until the extension cord is connected.Connect the extension cord to the electrical box. Connect the other end ofthe extension cable to the Grundfos MPI converter.
5. Connect the discharge hose to the discharge port.
6. Power up the MPI converter (220/240 V - 5KW generator), turn thefrequency control knob to approximately mid-range (12 o’clock position)and start the pump by moving the start/stop switch to the “start” position.Adjust the speed dial to the desired frequency or flow rate.
7. Purge at least three well casing volumes prior to sampling, taking fieldparameters (pH, conductivity, and temperature) at each casing volume.
7
After finishing purging and if field parameters were stable, fill samplebottles directly from sample discharge hose. If field parameters wereunstable during well purging, continue purging well until stable fieldparameters are achieved. Fill out appropriate field data form(s)documenting sample location, time, and other pertinent information beforeleaving sample site.
8. When finished pumping, move the start/stop switch to the “stop” position.Turn off the generator. Disconnect the extension cord.
9. Disconnect the discharge hose, unlock the reel, and rewind the hose andpump back onto the reel.
2.3.4 Solids Sampling Procedure
Quarterly Development Rock Acid/Base Accounting
As part of the mining operation, blast hole drills bore 63/4-inch diameter holes toa depth of 23 feet into schist and granite bedrock within the open pit prior toblasting and loading operations. The holes are drilled on 17-foot centers usingair rotary drilling methods. Generally 50-200 drill holes are drilled. The holes areloaded with explosives and detonated in one shot or blast pattern.
During drilling operations a device located near the drill steel, holds a samplecontainer and collects approximately 7-15 kilograms of cuttings from theborehole. Each sample represents a block of approximately 440 tons of minematerial. The sample is collected in a cloth sack, labeled with a bar code toidentify the drill hole where sample was collected. These samples are taken tothe FGMI assay lab (at Fort Knox) to determine the gold content by classical fireassay techniques. Based on analytical results, the block is zoned, by grade. Ifthe grade of the material is less than 0.0018 oz Au per ton of ore, it is classifiedas development material and is placed in the appropriate development rockdump.
Following the determination of ore/waste for the material, assay laboratorypersonnel will store an assay pulp sample of development material from eachblast pattern. These samples will be collected throughout the calendar year.Environmental Services personnel will then form a composite sample usingapproximately 7 grams from each sample. This composite sample will beforwarded to the contract laboratory for analysis. The remaining samples will beheld until the results from the lab are received. Following receipt of the results ofanalysis the remaining samples will be discarded. If the analytical results varysignificantly from previous sampling events, another composite sample will beformed, or samples from individual blast holes will be collected and shipped tothe laboratory for analysis.
8
Annual Meteoric Water Mobility
The ore control engineer and mine geologist will provide information on aquarterly basis relating to tonnage of development rock mined and placed indumps over the previous three-month period. The following factors will beconsidered in collecting a representative sample for the annual compositesample:
• Lithological variation.• Mineralogical variation.• Extent of “sulfide” mineralization.• Color variation.• Degree of fracturing.• Degree of oxidation.• Extent of secondary mineralization.
Collect a representative sample of the material. The minimum sample size forthis procedure is 5 kilograms. The maximum particle size for sample material isequal to or less than 5 centimeters. All quarterly samples collected are to besaved and representatively composite during the year for evaluation. Splits ofthe quarterly samples will be composited and submitted to the contractlaboratory to evaluate the potential to release pollutants by the Meteoric WaterMobility Procedure.
2.3.5 Sample Labeling
Labeling. Each sample container will have a waterproof label large enough tocontain the information needed to easily identify each sample. The information tobe included on each label includes the project name, date, time, preservative (ifadded), and sampling code. The sample code will be formatted to indicatesample number and date. In the field record book, the sampler identifies eachsampling location. Each sample will be identified with a 12-digit number, whichincludes the date, and identification number of the sample. An example ofsample identification is as follows:
990506038101
Where:
990506 = Date (May 6, 1999)038 = Employee’s identification number101 = Sequential sample number recorded in logbook for that date
All blanks and duplicates will be noted in the field notebook. The followingdesignation will be noted where natural samples are identified as 100 series,blanks as 200 series, and duplicates as 300 series.
9
2.3.6 Packaging
Each analytical sample bottle will be packed to prevent breakage and placed inan iced cooler to keep the samples cooled to 4°C. For hand delivered andshipped samples one copy of the chain-of-custody form will be placed in a sealedplastic bag. Additionally, for shipped samples, the cooler lid will be sealed withfiber tape and at least one chain-of-custody seal will be attached to the outside ofthe cooler so that this seal(s) must be broken if the cooler is opened. Beforesealing coolers, the field QA/QC leader (Senior Environmental Engineer) willinspect sample packaging.
2.3.7 Chain-of-Custody
Chain-of-custody forms will be used for all samples. Once collected, the sampleswill remain within the custody of the sampler or will be locked up until thesamples are prepared for shipment. Each time the sample bottle or samplechanges hands, both the sender and receiver will sign and date the chain-of-custody form and specify what samples have changed hands. The pink carboncopy of the chain-of-custody form is retained by FGMI and the original (white)and yellow carbon copy is sent to the laboratory. The laboratory will forward theoriginal to FGMI.
The following information is to be included on the chain-of-custody form:
•Sample identification code•Signature of sampler•Date and time of collection•Project name•Type of sample•Number and type of containers•Sample analysis requested (Profile I, II, III, Acid/Base Accounting, etc.)•Inclusive dates of possession•Signature of receiver
Other chain-of-custody components will include sample labels, sample seals,field notebook, sample shipment receipts, and the laboratory logbook noting theAnalytical profiles I, II, and/or III.
2.3.8 Shipping
FGMI personnel or courier will deliver samples to the designated laboratory assoon as feasible after collection. If a courier is used, a signed receipt from thecourier acknowledging receipt of the samples will be attached to the FGMI’s copyof the chain-of-custody form.
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2.3.9 Field Documentation
Field observations, field equipment calibration information, field measurements,and sample documentation, including sample identification, sample duplicates,and date and time the sample was collected, will be the responsibility of theentire sampling team. Field logbooks will consist of waterproof paper.
Proper documentation for sample custody includes keeping records of allmaterials and procedures involved in sampling. Project notebook and datasheets will be used to record field data. The field crews will record all informationon the sampling station and respective samples and replicates collected at eachsite, including the positions of each station. The field crew leader will review alldata before leaving the sampling station. Completed field logs will be kept on filefor any QA/QC checks. Additionally, the field QA/QC leaders will inspect all fielddocumentation notebooks and data sheets regularly.
2.3.10 Corrections to Documentation
Unless weather conditions prevent it, all original data will be recorded usingwaterproof ink. No accountable documents will be destroyed or thrown away,even if they are illegible or contain inaccuracies that require a replacementdocument. If an error is made on an accountable document assigned to oneperson, that person must make corrections by drawing a line through the error,initialing and dating the lined-out item, and entering the correct information. Theerroneous information is not to be obliterated but is to remain legible. Theperson who made the entry will correct any subsequent error discovered on anaccountable document. All such subsequent corrections will be initialed anddated.
2.3.11 Field Equipment Calibration
Field equipment used for collection, measurement, and testing is subject to astrict program of control, calibration, adjustment, and maintenance. (SeeAppendix A) Portable water quality instruments will be used for the in situmeasurement of pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity. Recordedmeasurements will not be taken until an agreement of replicate measurements isobtained. This value will then be recorded. Calibrations will be performed dailyprior to beginning any sample tasks. The standards of calibration are inaccordance with applicable criteria such as the NIST (National Institute ofStandards Technology), ASTM standards, or other accepted procedures outlinedin the manufacturer's handbook of specifications. All calibration activities will bedocumented in each task notebook, as well as on appropriate field calibrationforms.
The field crew leader will review data measured in the field, and final validationwill be by senior personnel. Data validation will be completed by checkingprocedures used in the field and comparing the data with previous results. Data
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that cannot be validated will be so documented; corrective action may berequired, as discussed later.
2.3.12 Decontamination Procedures
All sample processing tools, such as pumps, buckets, and hoses, which comeinto contact with a sample will be decontaminated by means of the followingprocedure:
1.Rinse in water2.Wash with Alconox, or equivalent, in tap water3.Double rinse in de-ionized water, and, if not to be used right away,4.Air-dry5.Place in plastic bag immediately after air-drying
The purpose of the water and Alconox, or equivalent, washes is to remove allvisible particulate matter. This is followed by a de-ionized water rinse to removethe detergent. It is not anticipated that high concentrations of TPH will besampled. If visible contamination is found, a solvent rinse will be added, followedby a de-ionized water rinse.
2.3.13 Field Corrective Action
Field sampling corrective actions include procedures to follow when field dataresults are not within the acceptable error tolerance range. These proceduresinclude the following:
•Comparing data readings being measured with readings previously recorded•Recalibration of equipment (i.e., pH meters)•Replacing or repairing faulty equipment•Resampling when feasible
The field team leader is responsible for ordering appropriate field correctiveactions when deemed necessary. All field corrective actions will be recorded inthe field book.
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3.0 LABORATORY QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROLPROGRAM
The laboratory QA/QC program is available to all FGMI personnel and a copy isalso located in the FGMI library.
4.0 DATA QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY/QUALITY CONTROLPROGRAM
The data QA/QC program serves four major functions:
•Maintenance of a duplicate record of all field data•Sample tracking through laboratory analysis•Data validation•Oversight of data management
During field operations, the field QA leader will receive copies of all field data andwill file these in a project notebook. These duplicates will serve as a backup fileand will be checked against the field data entered into the database managementsystem.
The second major component of the data QA/QC program is sample trackingthroughout the laboratory analytical process. The data QA/QC leader willmaintain close communication with all analytical laboratories to verify samplereceipt, proper sample management, and strict adherence to sample holdingtimes. The laboratories will immediately inform the field QA leader of samplebreakages, inadequate sample media to meet QA objectives, and other sampleproblems. The field QA leader will then notify the task leader and projectmanager so that corrective action can be implemented as deemed necessary.
Following the receipt of the analytical data package, the QA leader will verify thatall sample parameter data have been received and will compare detection limitsand preliminary results with previous results. Should major discrepancies befound, the field QA leader will communicate these to either or both the taskleader and project manager. Possible corrective measures will then beevaluated as deemed necessary.
A data review or validation process will also be performed on 20 percent of allanalytical data received from the laboratories. Chemical data will be reviewedwith regard to the following:
•Analytical methodology•Detection limits•Cross-contamination as indicated by blank data•Accuracy and precision•Adherence to holding times
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Where data do not meet the requirements specified in this QA/QC program, thedata will be flagged with qualifiers. These reviews of data will be summarizedand included in the report of sampling data.
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APPENDIX A
of the
TRUE NORTH PROJECTQUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL
ANDFIELD PROCEDURES MANUAL
1
Instrument Calibration, Operation, and Maintenance Procedures
The following sections discuss field sampling procedures and instrumentcalibration, maintenance, and measurements.
1.1.1 Electrical Conductance
Instrument Calibration
At the beginning of each day of sampling, check instrument linearity.
1. Rinse probe with deionized water. 2. Measure conductivity of two potassium chloride (KCl) solution standards, which
bracket expected sample values. 3. Measure temperature of both KCl solution standards.
4. Calculate cell constant for each standard to determine if instrument linearity isreasonable. The cell constant is the ratio of the computed conductivity to themeasured conductivity of the standard KCl solution.
Maintenance
1. Store meter in its case during transport. 1. Check batteries before taking meter into the field. Carry spare batteries in the
field (9 volt). 2. Inspect conductivity probe for cracks or other damage.
Field Measurement Procedures
1. Turn instrument on. 2. Rinse plastic beaker with approximately 50 milliliters of sample water three times.
3. Place water sample in plastic beaker (fill to at least 50 millimeters). 4. Rinse probe with deionized or sample water and place in sample water.
5. Immerse conductivity probe in sample so that vent hole is submerged. Moveprobe around in sample to displace any air bubbles. Turn instrument on to
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appropriate scale to measure conductivity. Record conductivity reading after astable reading is obtained.
6. Remove probe from sample and turn off instrument.
1.1.2 Field pH
Instrument Calibration
1. Calibrate pH meter at the beginning of each day of field work when pH will bemeasured, and whenever the standard check is out of acceptable bounds.
2. Rinse pH electrode probe with deionized water.
3. Immerse electrode and temperature probe in beaker of fresh commercialcalibration solution of pH 4.0. Calibrate meter to solution.
4. Remove electrode and temperature probe from solution, and then rinse withdeionized water.
5. Immerse electrode and temperature probe in fresh pH 10.0 solution. Calibratemeter to solution.
6. Remove electrode and temperature probe from solution, and rinse with deionizedwater.
7. Measure pH of a third fresh calibration solution at pH 7.0. If measured valuediffers from expected value by more than 0.1 units, obtain fresh calibrationsolutions and recalibrate. If discrepancy persists, begin trouble-shootingprocedures following meter operating instructions: check batteries, connections,probe, etc.
Maintenance
1. Store meter in its case with electrode immersed in a pH 7 buffer solution. 2. Inspect electrode prior to use. 3. Filler hole plug should be firmly seated when meter is stored for a week or more. 4. Check glass electrode for cracks or scratches. 5. Check batteries each time meter is used. Carry a spare battery pack into the
field in the pH meter case.
3
Field Measurement Procedures
1. Rinse decontaminated glass beaker or sample bottle with approximately 50milliliters of sample water three times.
2. Rinse pH electrode with deionized water. 3. Rinse pH electrode with deionized water. 4. If measurement is read ex situ, fill beaker with sample water. 5. Immerse electrode and temperature probe in sample while swirling the sample to
provide thorough mixing. Turn on meter. Read pH to nearest 0.1 until thereading has stabilized (when beaker icon stops flashing) .
6. Record sample pH. Note any problems such as erratic readings. 7. Rinse probe with deionized water and store according to manufacturer's
directions.
1.1.3 Water Temperature
Linearity and Field Measurement Procedures
1. Use either a National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)-calibratedthermometer or a digital temperature probe calibrated against an NIST-calibratedthermometer to measure temperature.
2. Check thermometers for cracks or gaps in the mercury. Do not use
thermometers if either cracks or gaps are visible. 3. When possible, measure temperature of surface water at midstream by
submersing the thermometer or electronic temperature probe for approximately 1minute or until temperature stabilizes.
4. When in situ temperature measurements are not possible, draw sample of at
least 200 ml into a decontaminated beaker or sample bottle as soon aftersampling as possible.
5. Place thermometer or electronic temperature probe in sample and allow
temperature to stabilize. 6. Record temperature to nearest 0.5°C in field logbook or on field data sheet.
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7. Rinse thermometer or electronic temperature probe with deionized water. 8. Check field thermometers or digital temperature probes against an NIST-certified
laboratory thermometer, on a quarterly basis. Agreement should be within 0.5°C.
1.1.4 Dissolved Oxygen
Instrument Calibration
Calibrate probe and dissolved oxygen meter in accordance with manufacturersinstrument operating procedures, as follows:
1. Switch instrument to OFF and adjust meter to mechanical zero.
2. Switch to red line and adjust.
3. Prepare probe for operation (keep in moist paper towel taking care that papertowel doesn’t touch membrane), plug into instrument, turn ON and wait 15minutes for probe to stabilize (temperature).
4. Switch to ZERO and adjust.
5. Adjust salinity knob to FRESH.
6. Switch to TEMP and read.
7. Use probe and true local atmospheric pressure (feet above MSL) to determinecorrect calibration values from Table I and II (see instrument back panel) forexample calculation.
8. Switch to desired dissolved oxygen range 0-5, 0-10, 0-20 and with calibratecontrol adjust meter to correct calibration value determined in step 7.
9. It is important that the instrument not be turned off between measurementsas it will then need to be recalibrated if turned off.
Maintenance
The probe membrane must be replaced prior to sampling. There should be nocracks, tears, or wrinkles in the membrane as well as no air bubbles in the KCLsolution filled probe tip. Also any extra membrane should be cut to avoidcovering the stainless steel temperature sensor. Store the probe in a saturatedpiece of cloth or paper towel.
5
Field Measurement Procedures
1. When possible, place probe directly into the stream or water to be measured. Ifthis is not possible, place probe into Teflon sample container filled with sample.Manually raise and lower probe through sample about 1 foot per second. Allowsufficient time for probe to stabilize to sample temperature and dissolved oxygenconcentration.
2. Read dissolved oxygen value. Record appropriate data on field forms.
2.1.1 Dissolved Metal Field Filtration Method
Surface Water:
1. Use a disposable, high capacity, pre-cleaned, vacuum-type, .45-micron filter foreach sample.
2. Visually inspect funnel, filter, and plastic hose for damage. Replace parts or
repair equipment as necessary.
3. Attach a section of plastic hose on both the inlet and outlet of the filter. Insertfunnel into end of plastic hose (pre-filter end). Fill funnel and let approximately 3volumes of sample water pass through hose and filter.
4. If sample water is extremely turbid use the same procedure but pre-filter thewater (usually with a 3-micron filter) and then use the .45-micron filter.
5. Fill sample container to appropriate level with filtered sample. 6. Repeat step 6 until all sample bottles are filled. 7. If sample water is extremely turbid use the same procedure but pre-filter the
water (usually with a 3-micron filter) and then use the .45-micron filter. 8. Decontaminate all non-disposable equipment following use.
Groundwater:
1. Place disposable, high capacity, pre-cleaned, vacuum-type, .45-micronfilter in two-way hose fitting/reducer fitting after restricting flow to one outlet.
2. After inserting filter firmly into the two-way hose fitting adjust valves so asto divert flow through the filter.
3. Let at least three filter volumes run through the filter before filling samplebottles.
