Site restoration at the L&M Mining Limited alluvial gold mining project
at Waikaka near Gore, Southland is described. In 2000 mining operations started
to recover alluvial gold beneath historical dredge tailings over 244 hectares
in the flood plain of the Waikaka Stream. The project had an eight to nine year mine
life but was prematurely closed in 2002 because of economic considerations.
Restoration of the site back to pastoral farming, with shelter-belt and amenity
tree, shrub, and wetland plantings is described. Dealings with the landowners
and regulating authorities are addressed in the paper.