The Sotrami S.A. Santa Filomena II concentration plant is located in the area of confluence of the Santa Rosa ravine. The ravine has a dry river channel throughout the year, except during occasional heavy rains when water accumulates and flows through the stream.  In the lower parts of the creek these seasonal floods (huaycos) could potentially affect the stability of the foundations of existing Sotrami tailing treatment structures. 

The construction of gabion walls protects and stabilises the slopes and the right bank of the Santa Rosa creek, reduces the risk of slope erosion and ensures enhanced flood control where gabions allow suitable channelling of water.

Work started in January 2019 and took approximately 8 months to complete. The project was co-financed by Sotrami  S.A. and the Better Gold Fund. The SBGA contribution amounted to USD 282,000.

Environmental impact

Gabion walls:

• Maintain the physical stability of this area and protect installations from possible landslides, both locally areas and downstream
• Provide stability against erosion and floodwater (huaycos), which could displace sediments with potential impact on human health and the environment 
• Ensure additional stability for the tailing pond  by significantly decreasing the possibility of collapses and potential impact on the environment
• Provide greater assurance to the Sotrami processing plant and nearby villages that all installations meet the highest quality standards to ensure optimum management and protection       

Date of Project completion:

The construction of gabion walls and the stabilisation of the slopes in the creek were concluded in August 2019.