A newly released report, authored by a team of independent environmental consultants from WSP Canada, and Mount Polley Mine’s own Environmental Coordinator, confirms that the remediation efforts at Mount Polley Mine have successfully restored and improved the environmental conditions that were impacted by the 2014 tailings breach. The report highlights that lost fish habitats in Hazeltine and Edney Creeks have been rebuilt to a higher standard, resulting in a significant increase in fish populations and overall habitat quality. This milestone demonstrates that, with the right expertise and collaboration, even substantial environmental damage can be effectively reversed.
Key Takeaways from the report:
1. The Damage from the 2014 Tailings Dam Failure Has Been Reversed and Lost Habitats Have Been Improved
The report shows that the environmental damage caused by the tailings breach at Mount Polley Mine has been successfully repaired and in many cases, the affected habitats have been enhanced beyond their original state. Careful reconstruction of Hazeltine and Edney Creeks, along with habitat improvements, has created better conditions for fish and wildlife to thrive compared to the pre-breach environment.
2. Fish Populations Are Thriving Again
Population surveys show that Rainbow Trout, Sockeye Salmon, and Coho Salmon have returned to the remediated creeks and are reproducing successfully. In fact, the number of Rainbow Trout in some areas is now projected to be even higher than before the breach. This rebound is a direct result of the improved habitat quality and the careful design of the new stream channels.
3. The Project Was a Team Effort
The success of this project was made possible by close collaboration between Mount Polley Mine, WSP Canada, government agencies, and local First Nations, including Williams Lake and Xatśūll. This team worked together through the Habitat Remediation Working Group to ensure that the project met ecological, regulatory, and community standards, leading to better outcomes for the environment and the local community.
Read the full report here: