In 2007, Detour Gold Corporation acquired the Detour Lake property, where previously there had been an underground/open-pit mine, which closed in 1999. The mining company faced numerous challenges caused by the low-grade deposit as well as the presence of a large muskeg and vulnerable wetlands in the area. Over 10 years later, Detour Lake has become one of Canada’s largest gold mines with capital reaching $1.5 billion. Since the first gold bar was poured in February 2013, the open-pit mine has produced an average of 656,000 ounces of gold per year.
Awards and RecognitionAfter a series of promising drilling campaigns and successful pre-feasibility and feasibility studies by BBA team members, once again, Detour Gold turned to BBA experts to develop ore processing facilities. The team was tasked with the detailed engineering of the new low-grade, high-tonnage processing plant as well as with purchasing equipment and providing technical support for the construction project of this impressive open-pit gold mine.
Founded on several innovations and evidence-based environmental solutions, BBA’s concept greatly exceeded client expectations in terms of mining. In addition to the technical aspects, BBA stood apart through exemplary project execution, from estimating and producing exhaustive monthly reports to project control.
The industry has recognized this project as being one of the most successful examples of how engineering improves the quality of social, economic and cultural lives of Canadians.
BBA’s design exceeded the client’s operating expectations and implemented industry-leading innovations and effective environmental solutions. Today, the Detour Lake Mine is the largest regional employer, creating sustainable opportunities for the local and regional communities.