Four mining companies win reclamation awards in Nevada

STATELINE, Nev. (AP) -- Four mining companies have been recognized for their reclamation efforts in Nevada.

At the Nevada Mining Association's annual convention, Barrick Gold Corp., Miramar Gold Corp., Nevada Gold Mining Inc. and Newmont Mining Corp. received Nevada Excellence in Mine Reclamation Awards.

The three-day convention at Harvey's Resort & Casino ended Saturday.

"Many of the projects receiving (the award) are unique in the United States if not the world," said Alan Coyner, administrator of the Nevada Division of Minerals.

"Nevada's mining industry should be commended for leading the way in successful reclamation and environmental protection," he added.

State and federal agencies recognized:

--Barrick for its work at the Ruby Hill Mine in Eureka County. The company cleaned up an abandoned heap leach pad and hazardous wastes from past mines in the nearby Eureka Mining District.

--Miramar for its reclamation efforts at the Paymaster Mine in Nye County.

--Nevada Gold for its work at the Sleeper Mine in Humboldt County. The company implemented a post-mining plan for the management of water quality at the mine's pit lake.

--Newmont for its role in development of the Copper Basin Mountain Bike Trail System near Battle Mountain. The state called the trail an innovative approach to post-mining land use.

Newmont and Barrick also were among a host of companies and individuals presented safety awards at the convention. The awards went to those with the best safety records in 2002.

"Safety in the mines is truly the most important aspect of all the functions that go on at our modern mining operations in Nevada," said Russ Fields, president of the Nevada Mining Association.