Mount Polley Mine

Mount Polley Mine is a gold and copper mining operation located in British Columbia, Canada. It processes ore through open-pit mining, where minerals are extracted from the earth's surface. The mine uses large ponds called tailings ponds to store waste materials left after processing the ore. In 2014, it experienced a dam failure at one of these ponds, releasing water and mining waste into nearby lakes, causing environmental damage. The incident highlighted the importance of strict safety and environmental regulations in mining operations. Mount Polley continues to operate under improved safety standards to minimize ecological impact.