NWT RESEARCH DATABASE

Tags: mining, water quality, aquatic ecosystems, environmental monitoring, sediment quality

Objective(s): To revisit fixed sample stations at near-field, mid-field and far-field sites over the course of the year in an effort to determine any seasonal variation that may exist and confirm impact predictions.

Project Description: The objective of this research is to revisit fixed sample stations at near-field, mid-field and far-field sites over the course of the year in an effort to determine any seasonal variation that may exist and confirm impact predictions. The AEMP Version 3.5 will consist of the following components; Dust Deposition; Effluent and Water Chemistry; Indicators of Eutrophication; Sediment Chemistry; Plankton; Benthic Invertebrates; Fish Population Health; Contaminants in Fish Tissues; and Weight-of-Evidence. Fish collection will primarily be conducted using nets and angling when deemed acceptable by Aboriginal participants. Seasonal Staff will be selected from the local communities to participate in the above-noted program, in addition to our other regulated programs. These are Seasonal term position that runs April until September. Diavik Diamond Mine Inc. (DDMI) supplies this information to the following boards and government organizations: Wek’eezhii Land and Water Board, Dept. of Fisheries and Oceans, Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, and Environmental Monitoring Advisory Board. 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 May 7, 2015 to September 15, 2015.