Abstract
Kirkland Lake Gold Ltd. is a senior gold producer operating in Canada and Australia that produced 1,369,652 ounces in 2020, with target production for 2021 of 1,300,000 – 1,400,000 ounces. Our production profile is anchored by three high-quality operations including, the Macassa Mine and Detour Lake Mine, both located in Northern Ontario, Canada and the Fosterville Mine located in the State of Victoria, Australia.
Biodiversity is a critical component to all aspects of life on this planet. It is often confused with environmental management or that meeting environmental criteria will automatically preserve biodiversity. Environmental protection isn’t geared to specific species especially those that are endangered.
At Kirkland Lake Gold, biodiversity is defined as the variety and variability present in our ecosystems and their interactions with each. Biodiversity is essential for the function and survival ecosystems that society and economic activities depend on.
Mining operations can be located within regions with diverse ecosystems and habitats, all of which have unique and important biological, ecological and biodiversity values. KL Gold is committed to protecting biodiversity, including critical habitats and Species at Risk, and integrating biodiversity conservation throughout our activities and operations.
In 2021, Kirkland Lake Gold Detour Lake Mine launched a biodiversity management plan. The plan incorporated all aspects pertaining to the protection and enhancement of the Woodland Caribou. Through this effort, it was realized that a lot the work being done by KL Gold is enhancing the literature and our knowledge of the Woodland Caribou, which is a critically endangered species.
The presentation is geared to showcase the positive impacts mining companies can do in preserving biodiversity and establishing programs to create an overall positive impact.