Mining Industry

Completing mine closure efficiently is critical to a mining company’s bottom line. As mining operations transition to full-time reclamation, the focus shifts to creating stable landforms, establishing vegetation, and returning the site to the approved post-mine land use — all within schedule and budget.

One of our key strengths is our ability to develop restoration plans that are customized to each site's specific needs and goals. We work closely with hard rock and soft rock mining operators and other stakeholders to identify restoration priorities and develop and implement reclamation plans to enhance environmental, economic, and social benefits. We have worked with clients to achieve final bond release for six mine permits in four states (Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas), so we understand how different regions, climates, and regulatory frameworks impact reclamation.

Trihydro’s team includes ecologists, engineers, scientists, geologists, and reclamation specialists with extensive knowledge in the subject areas necessary for successful mine restoration, including surveying, permitting and compliance, environmental services, land reclamation, and bonding and closure support.

Mine operators face many challenges in today’s competitive marketplace. State and federal regulations and permitting requirements are ever evolving and operational costs are subject to frequent fluctuations. Trihydro offers a range of engineering and environmental services to support operating mines, including environmental assessments, mining plans and designs, and compliance support. We also specialize in water resource management, environmental remediation, and waste management to help mining companies minimize their environmental risk.

We work with local, state, and federal agencies to prepare mine permit applications and modifications that address overlapping requirements from multiple agencies to meet a mine’s operational needs. Trihydro prepares and implements National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) individual permits and Multi-Sector General Permits (MSGPs), including Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs).

Mine permits have an approved post-mining topography (PMT) that includes surface water channels, water impoundments, and reclaimed topography. Properly designed PMTs limit erosion, reduce maintenance, improve water quality, enhance vegetation success, and reduce costs. We began designing geomorphic PMTs in 2006 and we have been brought in as technical experts to train other entities on geomorphic design. Whether a mine operator needs assistance with constructing the PMT, making design adjustments based on field conditions, or full-scale earthwork services, Trihydro has the experience and resources to help.