Open Collections

Abstract

As part of Elk Valley Resources’ (EVR) approach to biodiversity management, progressive reclamation is used to support biodiversity, environmental stewardship, and regulatory compliance. This approach integrates progressive reclamation activities with ongoing mining operations, rather than waiting until closure. Key components of our reclamation program include cover material salvage, landform design and contouring, cover material placement, site preparation, revegetation, and monitoring. Since receiving approval in 2015, the Swift Project at Fording River Operations has applied these principles to reclaim mine rock stockpiles or landforms concurrently with mine development. This paper highlights the key lessons learned from the project, focusing on the progressive reclamation of the main landforms.