NWT RESEARCH DATABASE

Regions: North Slave Region

Tags: contaminants, environmental assessment, mining, site remediation

Objective(s): The objective of this project is to determine the current environmental and physical condition of the site, in support of the development of a remedial action plan and remediation specifications for the site.

Project Description: The objectives of the assessment are to collect sufficient soil, sediment and surface water samples in order to characterize the site and to determine areas that require remediation. Samples of the waste rock piles will also be evaluated to determine the potential for acid rock drainage. After the completion of the field program, a risk assessment will be completed to Health Canada protocols in order to determine if there is any risk to ecological receptors. The objective of this project is to determine the current environmental and physical condition of the site, in support of the development of a remedial action plan and remediation specifications for the site. The work should be completed with local community and aboriginal involvement in the program. The research will provide the necessary information to develop a remediation plan for the West Bay Mine site. Not only will the project move towards eliminating potential environmental concerns, but short term employment will also be available (wildlife monitor/laborer during the assessment phase). Results collected by AECOM will be sent to Public Works Government Services Canada, who in turn will forward them to their client Indian and Northern Affairs Canada in Yellowknife. INAC typically holds public open houses presenting the proposed remedial plans The fieldwork for this study will be conducted from August 28, 2009 to October 31, 2009. The abandoned West Bay mine site is located on the east side of Gordon Lake, approximately 80 km northeast of Yellowknife. The site is located within the Tlicho Land Claim Area and also the Akaitcho Treaty 8 Territory.