March 31, 2025
CONTACT: Adam McMahon, Cyanidation Program Manager, Adam.McMahon@deq.idaho.gov
BOISE – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is issuing a cyanidation permit for the Stibnite Gold Project (SGP).
In accordance with the “Rules for Ore Processing by Cyanidation” (IDAPA 58.01.13), Perpetua Resources requested a permit to construct and operate a cyanidation facility as part of the SGP, a proposed gold mine located in Valley County, approximately 12 miles east of Yellow Pine, Idaho. Following review of the complete permit application on November 1, 2024, DEQ determined the application for the tailings storage facility (TSF) and associated operation and maintenance plans accurate and protective, in accordance with IDAPA 58.01.13.300.02 and prepared a draft cyanidation permit. This permit establishes the procedures and requirements to construct, operate, and close that component of the cyanidation facility.
DEQ initiated a 60-day public comment period on December 31, 2024, and hosted a public meeting for the draft permit on January 22, 2025. Following this review period, DEQ determined that the permit application for TSF and associated operation and maintenance plans meets the requirements of Idaho Code § 39-118. The Idaho Department of Lands also determined that the permanent closure plan meets the requirements of Chapter 15, Title 47, Idaho Code, and the rules promulgated thereunder. Therefore, DEQ is making a final permit decision to issue a permit to Perpetua Resources.
Individuals may be entitled to appeal this action pursuant to the “Contested Case Rules and Rules for Protection and Disclosure of Records” (IDAPA 58.01.23). For more information, see DEQ’s Petitions for Review and Precedential Orders web page.
For more information on the final permit, including the permit, fact sheet, and responses to comments, see DEQ’s Issued Permits and Water Quality Certification web page.