LAND RECLAMATION


To minimize our impact on the environment, we encourage progressive reclamation at all of our sites. Over the past two years, we have reclaimed over 100 hectares of land.

Land Reclamation (ha)
  new reclamation (ha) Previous reclamation (ha)
2007 17 164
2008 31 181
2009 81 212
2010 94.3 264
2011 *13.05 358
* The considerable difference in new reclamation between 2011 and 2010 is due to less land availability for reclamation compared to 2010.

CASE STUDY: Essakane

At Essakane, we are assessing the possibility of performing re-vegetation directly on the tailings without an impermeable and anti-erosion layer. This will also reduce water-induced erosion that left its marks on several mining infrastructures at Essakane after the rainy season. To do direct re-vegetation, we have started a pilot project with Laval University on the waste dump to test the potential of several plant species to stabilize the soil and control erosion. If the technique is effective and approved by the government, it will be possible to rehabilitate mining infrastructures progressively, as provided under the IAMGOLD sustainability policy, with more cost-effective techniques.

CASE STUDY: Solbec successfully Addressing the Legacy of Others

The Solbec mine (Quebec, Canada) was in operation from 1962 to 1970, although the mill was active until 1977. The tailings pond received mill refuse from 1962 to 1977. Over 2.5 million cubic meters of sulfide tailings from the mill were deposited in a natural pond. Local sampling conducted by governmental authorities had confirmed the presence of acid rock drainage (ARD). A 1987 characterization report of the tailings pond proposed flooding of the tailings as the most appropriate solution to the problem. A series of experiments and studies was conducted from 1989 to 1993 to test the efficiency and viability of flooding as a solution. The work required to achieve flooding was planned, designed and carried out from 1994 to 1996. After the flooding was completed, the quality of the water cover and groundwater surrounding the tailings pond was monitored as part of the MEND program (Mine Environment Neutral Drainage program). Analysis of ten parameters for more than 50 samples revealed that the flooding solution was effective. Results showed that the covering waters met all requirements outlined in Guideline 019 (Quebec Environment and Wildlife Department) as well as those of the Quebec drinkable water regulation. The site has now been covered with water for 15 years and has performed according to design. The former tailings pond has become a valued recreation area; land lots have been purchased around the "lake", and vacation homes have been built. The mine site had become a popular area for walking all year round.