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Revegetation with locally harvested native plant seeds at the abandoned Atlin Ruffner Mine

British Columbia Mine Reclamation Symposium; University of British Columbia. Norman B. Keevil Institute of Mining Engineering

The Atlin Ruffner Mill and Tailings Site has undergone extensive remediation of contaminants related to metal ore extraction, ore processing, and tailings storage. Remediation was implemented to mitigate risks to human health and the environment. Following a comprehensive vegetation survey, a revegetation plan was developed with the goal of re-establishing vegetative cover over the mine disturbance footprint. The challenging site conditions (i.e. cold, dry, short growing season and low nutrient concentrations) favoured the use of native plant species that were adapted to the local environment with the goal of expediting ecological recovery and preserving the structural integrity of the clean soil cover and steep slopes. Revegetation activities were meticulously planned and executed over a period of several years, including several rounds of seed collection, off-site stratification, and greenhouse propagation prior to on-site planting. Initial plans included Dryas integrifolia subsp. integrifolia, Lupinus nootkatensis var. nootkatensis, and Saxifraga tricuspidata. A comprehensive monitoring framework was established to assess the success of revegetation efforts and inform adaptive management actions, if required. The monitoring results revealed varying degrees of plant success across different revegetation areas and identified two additional species (Sedum lanceolatum and Oxytropis campestris var. spicata) that were thriving and judged to be compatible with revegetation objectives. Some areas showed promising plant establishment and survival, while others indicated a need for further intervention and supplemental planting. The data collected from the monitoring program provided valuable insights into the effectiveness of the revegetation efforts and informed adaptive management opportunities. Areas with higher shelter showed better plant survival, suggesting that cover plays a significant role in the success of newly planted species. The presence of native species and the absence of invasive species indicates a positive trajectory. Targeted infill planting and continued vigilance is recommended to address threats to the remedial infrastructure.

Conference Paper

eng

Vancouver : University of British Columbia Library

10.14288/1.0447217

Non UBC

Other

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