In addressing a short-term operational need for the relocation of a tailings storage facility reclaim pond, a mine has achieved a host of water management objectives. Through effective planning and adoption of a strategic whole of mine life' approach, the mine has achieved significant environmental, social and economic benefits._x000D_
A review of all water management aspects across the site identified a host of other interrelated water issues and concerns which, if dealt with individually, would prove too costly for individual operational departments. When considered as a whole, however, the issues became opportunities and provided the stimulus for integration of the site water management system. The development of site water and solute balance models provided the tool by which a number of water management options/strategies could be evaluated. The conceptual design and costing of the proposed water infrastructure further facilitated the evaluation of the multiple benefits to be gained from each option. A business case could then be made to mine management for the preferred option._x000D_
The recommended water management strategy finally recommended to the mine not only provided a tailings storage facility (TSF) reclaim pond, but also provided for: increased wastewater recovery from the TSF, the capture of all waste rock dump run-off, additional water harvesting from local creeks, increased wastewater reuse, improved environmental water management, infrastructure that could be used by the local community after mine closure, and overall cost savings._x000D_
This paper illustrates how effective water management planning can provide both short-term economic and environmental benefits, as well as long-term social benefits._x000D_
FORMAL CITATION:Wright, A and Vleggaar, R, 2006. Adoption of an integrated mine water management approach provides environmental, social and economic benefits, in Proceedings Water in Mining 2006, pp 137-146 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne).