Mine Oversight and Stability

The Cayuga Mine operates under a Mined Land Reclamation Permit issued by the DEC in 1975, which has been subject to regular permit renewals. In each case, the DEC has determined that there would be no significant adverse environmental impact from mining.

In the mid-1990s Cargill undertook a thorough environmental assessment of the region to verify Cargill’s understanding of the geology. This work has served as a critical foundation for the continued evaluation and study of mine stability and operations.

Over the years, Cargill has relied on several similarly credentialed experts to assist its own mine stability and other technical evaluations. Each year Cargill performs an internal risk review with leaders to evaluate and manage the risks associated with mining.

In addition, the federal Mine Safety & Health Administration (MSHA) oversees mine safety such as adequacy of underground ventilation and emergency access. MSHA inspects the mine every calendar quarter. Each of these inspections typically lasts six to eight weeks. It is Cargill’s concern for mine safety and MSHA requirements that drive Cargill toward the construction of Shaft #4.

Cargill has received approval from the New York Department of Environmental Conservation for a new air shaft and its associated facilities. Information on the State Environmental Quality Review Determination is available at www.dec.ny.gov/enb/20160831_reg0.html