Sustainable development activities during closure of the Homestake gold mine

This paper discusses the successful application and implementation of sustainable development policies at the Homestake Mine in western South Dakota, USA. Following the decision to close the mine in 2000, a strategy plan was developed to complete closure and reclamation of the historical mine site. A number of major successes have been achieved that include the selection of the mine site for a deep underground state-of-the-art national science laboratory; the preservation of historical artefacts from the 125 year operational history for economic and research opportunities; the transfer of utilities to public entities; working with private organisations to utilise former mine properties for recreational and tourism development; and working with civic organisations to promote tourism in the area emphasising the historical mining history. These efforts have ensure a sustained commitment to the economic health of the area well into the future.