Prospective Lessee Agreement, Agnico Eagle Mines Limited, Agnico Eagle (USA) Limited, Lawrence County, South Dakota

Issuing agencies

Abstract

Notice is hereby given by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Region 8, of a prospective lessee agreement between the United States, the State of South Dakota, Agnico Eagle Mines Limited, and Agnico Eagle (USA) Limited (collectively "Agnico"), at the Gilt Edge Mine Superfund Site in Lawrence County, South Dakota (Agreement). The agreement provides that Agnico will perform a reuse assessment, including surface and subsurface sampling, and pay at least $2.5 million annually to cover the cost of water treatment and site operations at the Gilt Edge Mine Site during the pendency of the Agreement. In exchange, the United States and the State of South Dakota covenant not to sue Agnico for Existing Contamination, work (including subsurface and surface sampling) conducted by Agnico, and certain payments as defined in the agreement.