Diavik Aquatic Effects Monitoring Program 2010
Principal Investigator: Bourn, Stephen (2)
Licence Number: 14747
Organization: Rio Tinto
Licensed Year(s): 2024 2023 2022 2021 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001
Issued: Jun 25, 2010
Project Team: Kristin Moore, Leslie Coe, Seth Bohnet, Dayna Meredith, Darcy Bourassa, Justin Grandjambe, Dianne Dul, James Mackay, Ray Eskelson, Stephen Bourn, Colleen English

Objective(s): To determine any seasonal variation that may exist at the Diavik Diamond Mine and confirm impact predictions.

Project Description: The goal of this research is to re-visit fixed sample stations at near-field, mid-field and far-field sites over the course of a year in an effort to determine any seasonal variation that may exist and confirm impact predictions. The study will encompass the following water-based parameters: water quality, zooplankton & phytoplankton biomass and taxonomy, benthic invertebrate analysis and sediment chemistry. This program also includes dust monitoring and fish health. Two individuals will be selected from the local communities to participate in the above-noted program, in addition to our other regulated programs. These are seasonal positions that run from April to October. The investigators will try to facilitate training and experience in support of the Environmental Monitor Certification Program offered by the GNWT Department of Education Culture and Employment when selecting these candidates. Diavik Diamond Mines Inc. (DDMI) supplies this information to the following boards and government organizations: WLWB, DFO, EC, INAC and EMAB. Summary information is provided in DDMI's Annual Environmental Agreement report, which is produced every year. The executive summary of this report is translated into several languages. DDMI also updates communities during community visits over the year. The fieldwork for this study will be conducted from June 26, 2010 to October 31, 2010.