Mining for gold is a challenging and unpredictable business.
The Dickinson family is relying on mining to support their family.
Water scarcity is a major issue for their operation.
Their equipment often breaks down, causing delays and frustration.
Silt build-up is a constant problem, requiring frequent clean-outs.
How long has the Dickinson family been mining?
—The Dickinson family has been mining for almost six years, starting with basic tools and gradually upgrading to equipment.
How much gold have they found so far?
—Since using their current wash plant, they have found about half an ounce of gold per week, which covers their expenses but is not enough to sustain their family.
Where do they get their water from?
—They have to truck in water with a water truck because there is no water source in the desert.
What are the challenges they face with their equipment?
—Their equipment often breaks down, requiring repairs and causing delays in their mining operations.
How do they deal with silt build-up?
—They have added a chute extension to push water further into the tailings pond and installed tarpaulin dams to force silt to settle before reaching the pump.
00:00The Dickinson family has been mining for almost six years, starting with basic tools and gradually upgrading to equipment.
01:18Water scarcity is a major issue for their operation, forcing them to truck in water with a water truck.
04:40Since using their current wash plant, they have found about half an ounce of gold per week, which covers their expenses but is not enough to sustain their family.
07:30Their equipment often breaks down, requiring repairs and causing delays in their mining operations.
09:59Silt build-up is a constant problem, requiring frequent clean-outs and affecting their run time.
