Diavik Diamond Mines Inc. - Revegetation Research
Principal Investigator: Wytrychowski, Scott I (12)
Licence Number: 13901
Organization: Diavik Diamond Mines Inc.
Licensed Year(s): 2017 2016 2015 2014 2009 2008 2005
Issued: Aug 16, 2005
Project Team: Bonnie Kwiatkowski, Erin Van, Sasha Wilkinson

Project Description: The goal of this research is to identify the most effective and economical methods for establishing a self -sustaining native vegetation cover on disturbed sited at the Diavik Diamond Mine, specifically: which substrates are most effective for plant establishment and growth; which soil amendments are most effective at enhancing substrate properties; which native plant species are able to establish and survive on a variety of substrates; the potential for plants to spread from the site to adjacent areas. Soil and vegetation parameters will be measured. Soil will be analysed for: nutrients, carbon content, pH, conductivity, density, penetration resistance, moisture, and temperature. Plants grown in sewage sludge amended soil will be analysed for uptake of heavy metals. Monitoring will continue for 2 to 5 years. All combinations of substrate and amendments will be studied. Large scale trials will be conducted once the number of treatments is reduced through the initial study. Revegetation methods tested should attempt to minimize the quantity of topsoil required while maximizing its benefits. Salvaged topsoil, inorganic fertilizer, Sewage sludge and a standard reclamation formulation will be tested. Monitoring will continue for 2 to 5 years. A report will be submitted to the Aurora Research Institute. The study will be conducted at Lac de Gras Lac de Gras