Kevin Ramsey of BHP informed the Globe City Council during the Feb. 11 meeting that the mining company plans to shut off part of the Old Dominion Mine Park indefinitely effective Feb. 29. This immediate closure is due to safety concerns expressed by BHP regarding the stability of the tailing storage facilities.

Ramsey informed the council that due to recent tailings dam failures, the company has increased awareness of risks and impacts related to these failures. BHP is now exploring options to reduce risks from the community, and options that include potentially changing the location or structure of the tailing dams.

BHP is planning an upcoming tailing removal project for the Miami Unit. A site which scored extremely very high on the risk scale used to monitor stability. The tailings dams located at Old Dominion Mine Park are listed very high on the scale. Because the projects will involve heavy equipment and construction, BHP will be restricting access to its sites to protect public safety.

Old Dominion Mine Park representative Dr. Thea Wilshire, who walks her dog around the back half of the park every day, expressed her sadness about losing part of the park. “I understand the need for mine safety and know our legal easement gives BHP the right to close any part of the park for safety at any time; however, I hope the executive leadership at BHP realizes how important the Old Dominion is to our region. It generates tourism, supports economic development, educates about mining and our local history, and is the primary fitness resource for a growing number of our residents.”

While BHP promises to work with the City of Globe to provide alternate recreational facilities, the timeline of when we will receive these facilities is a general concern. “We have a very good collaborative relationship with our local BHP representatives. They have stated the company is committed to replacing any park resources that we lose because of their closure, be it trails or disc golf or other amenities,” said Wilshire. “At this time, it is unclear whether we move park features or simply wait for that section to reopen.”

It is uncertain how long the park will be closed, according to Ramsey it could be a period of several years before the back half of the park is reopened. Still, Wilshire is optimistic about what can come from this partnership with BHP.

“This could be a great opportunity for us,” said Wilshire. “We may be able to expand the park’s footprint into the east and around the head frame, and possibly negotiate a longer trail that connects the Old Dominion and Round Mountain Park. There is a silver lining to the situation, though I’m currently letting myself just feel very sad about losing access to half of our park.”