Frequently Asked
Questions
Find straight answers about the Donlin Gold project, including jobs, community engagement, environmental planning, permitting, transportation, and what the project could mean for the Yukon-Kuskokwim region.
Project Overview
Donlin Gold is a proposed gold mining project in the Yukon-Kuskokwim region of Alaska, developed in collaboration with Calista Corporation and The Kuskokwim Corporation.
The project could create long-term jobs, generate revenue for Alaska Native corporations, and support economic growth in the Yukon-Kuskokwim region.
The mine is expected to operate for about 27 years, with potential to extend if additional resources are developed.
Jobs & Economic Impact
Yes. Donlin Gold plans to prioritize local hiring and expects to employ about 800 workers during operations.
Jobs may include equipment operators, mechanics, engineers, environmental staff, and administrative roles.
Most roles require a high school diploma or training. Additional certifications and experience can improve hiring opportunities.
Yes. The project is expected to support regional businesses through demand for transportation, food services, lodging, and logistics.
Environment and Subsistence
Water will be treated to meet state and federal standards before discharge, with ongoing monitoring throughout the project.
The project is designed to reduce impacts through environmental safeguards, monitoring, and coordination with local communities.
Tailings will be stored in a lined, engineered tailing storage facility designed to prevent leaks and protect surrounding land and water.
Both materials are managed under strict regulations using containment systems, treatment processes, and continuous monitoring.
Permitting and Timeline
The project requires more than 100 federal and state permits related to environmental protection, water use, air quality, and land use.
Most key permits have been issued, while others are still in progress.
Construction begins only after a final development decision is made.
Construction is expected to take about 3 to 4 years.
Infrastructure and Operations
The mine site will be 9000 acres in total. The project includes an open pit mine, processing facilities, and supporting infrastructure across a large site.
Transportation will include river barges, road systems, air access, and a natural gas pipeline. The pipeline is a result of listening to public comments out of concerns about barge traffic on the Kuskokwim River.
The pipeline would supply natural gas, which burns cleaner than diesel and produces fewer emissions during power generation, helping reduce reliance on diesel fuel.
Yes. The mine is designed to operate year-round once in production.
Safety and Risk Management
The project will use emergency response plans, trained personnel, and containment systems to respond quickly and reduce impacts.
Risks are managed through engineering controls, monitoring systems, safety procedures, and regulatory oversight.
Yes. Donlin Gold plans to work with local communities to support training and coordinated emergency response.
Partnerships and Ownerships
Donlin Gold LLC is owned by Donlin Gold Holdings (DGH), 100% wholly-owned by Paulson Advisers LLC (“Paulson”).
Calista owns the mineral rights and is a key partner in the project’s development.
TKC owns much of the surface rights and will have direct oversight of the reclamation plan and implementation.
The project provides revenue through royalties, jobs, and regional economic participation under ANCSA.
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