Mobility and Speciation of Antimony and Arsenic in the Aqueous Environment around the Giant Mine, Yellowknife, NWT
Principal Investigator: Fawcett, Skya (3)
Licence Number: 14115
Organization: Queen's University
Licensed Year(s): 2007 2006 2005
Issued: Feb 21, 2007

Objective(s): The objective of this study is to determine how potentially toxic elements such as arsenic (As) and antimony (Sb) move in the environment around Giant Mine, the implications to the environment, and how their behavior may change over time or in response to reclamation.

Project Description: The purpose of this project is to study the mobility, speciation, and mineralogical and geochemical controls on antimony (Sb) and arsenic (As) originating from the Giant Mine. This research could aid in designing reclamation plans, resolving the relation between Sb and benthic diversity and identifying threats to the Great Slave Lake ecosystem. Understanding the movement and speciation of As and Sb in the environment is essential in understanding human exposure and addressing health concerns. Because Sb behaves in a complex manner, and large gaps in knowledge of its interaction in the environment exist, it is difficult to regulate. This research could aid regulators in addressing the problem. Four 60mL surface water samples will be collected at six sites, and groundwater samples will be collected from wells on the mine site. Results will be submitted to the Giant Mine Remediation Team (a division of Indian and Northern Affairs), and this organization will make the findings of the research available to the public in the form of reports and community meetings. Members of the community will be offered the opportunity to learn environmental sampling skills and techniques. Fieldwork will take place from July 2-30, 2007 in the Giant Mine area (N62°29’12.3”, W114°21’22.2”).