Dominican Republic mining report flags water risks in Cordillera Septentrional

The Environmental Commission of the Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo (UASD) and the Academy of Sciences of the Dominican Republic released a baseline study on mining activities in the Cordillera Septentrional. The report covers three metallic‑mining concessions—Cobre El Hoyazo II, Lluvia de Oro and Monte Hoyazo—forming an area of about 14,431 hectares.

The study notes that the mining block influences watershed headwaters, recharge zones, productive lands, local communities and water‑supply systems. It was submitted to the Procuraduría General de la República and forwarded to the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources. The baseline assessment examines environmental, hydrological, geological, social and territorial aspects, highlighting hazards such as steep slopes, karst terrain, landslides, sedimentation, acid‑rock drainage and the seismic threat posed by the Septentrional Fault.

Authorities aim to use the findings to guide decision‑making on mining permits and protect the region’s water resources and communities.