The Diavik diamond mine has been awarded the Northwest Territories Mining and Exploration (MAX) Special Achievement Award for the design, construction and operations of its dikes and its contribution as a joint venture partner to the Tibbitt to Contwoyto Winter Ice Road.
The NWT MAX awards are a partnership between the NWT & Nunavut Chamber of Mines and the NWT Government’s Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment. The awards recognise major contributions to the Northwest Territories’ minerals industry, the largest private sector contributor to its economy.
Diavik’s three award-winning rockfill dikes are an integral part of its life-of-mine plan, enabling safe access to underwater deposits while keeping the pristine waters of Lac de Gras at bay. The most recent rockfill dike was constructed to encircle the ore body of Diavik’s fourth diamond pipe, known as A21. It took 3 million tonnes of rock to build the 2.2km embankment which has a maximum depth of 30 metres.
Diavik diamond mine president and chief operating officer Patrick Boitumelo said, “We are delighted and honoured to receive this award, which is a testament to the pioneering spirit of everyone at Diavik.”
The Tibbitt to Contwoyto Winter Ice Road was also the recipient of a Special Achievement award. This seasonal highway is a vital supply artery for the three operating diamond mines in the Northwest Territories.
Ron Near, Tibbitt to Contwoyto Winter Road Joint Venture director of winter road operations, said, “We are honoured to be selected by the committee. This award is a testament to the collaborative work done between the three joint venture partners. Operating in such remote areas with challenging technical constraints brings the best out of respective teams. We look forward to another successful Winter Road season in 2019.”
The Diavik diamond mine is located 300km northeast of Yellowknife, capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories. The underground and open-pit mining operation began production in 2003. It produces predominantly gem quality diamonds destined for high end jewellery in all major consumer markets around the world.