This study presents an analytical estimation of steady-state groundwater inflow to the Detour Lake open pit mine in Northern Ontario, Canada. A confined radial flow equation (Thiem equation) was applied using hydrogeological parameters derived from reported fractured bedrock conductivity ranges published in NI 43-101 technical disclosures for the site. Sensitivity analysis was conducted across hydraulic conductivity values spanning three orders of magnitude (K = 10⁻⁸ to 10⁻⁵ m/s). Predicted inflow ranged from approximately 76 m³/day in low-permeability bedrock conditions to 76,079 m³/day where fracture-enhanced shear zone conductivity was applied, consistent with reported operational dewatering scales at the site. Results confirm the dominant influence of structurally controlled permeability on inflow magnitude and demonstrate the practical value of analytical models for preliminary mine water management assessment and pump sizing during early mine planning.
Isaiah Goodluck Ephraim (Thu,) studied this question.