May 21, 2015 – Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – Western Economic Diversification Canada
The Global Institute for Water Security (GIWS) at the University of Saskatchewan will be establishing a research and testing facility to develop and commercialize innovative mine cover systems for mine closures, thanks to a $1.85 million investment from the Government of Canada announced today by Brad Trost, Member of Parliament for Saskatoon-Humboldt, on behalf of the Honourable Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification.
Mine covers are designed to return a site to its natural condition and isolate waste material so that it does not damage the environment. The Mine Overlay Site Testing (MOST) facility will address a critical gap in the current mine cover design process by enabling mining companies and researchers to design and test soil cover systems under varying climatic conditions and assess performance prior to mine the site closure. Construction of the facility is expected to be completed by the fall 2015.
This investment in reclamation research will allow companies to adjust cover designs before building onsite mine covers, saving companies both time and money in the design and testing phases, and increasing their ability to meet environmental regulations.
Rhonda Shymko
A/Manager, Communications
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Telephone: 306-975-6980
Email: rhonda.shymko@wd-deo.gc.ca
Meagan Hinther
Communications Specialist
Global Institute for Water Security
University of Saskatchewan
Telephone: 306-966-1019
Email: meagan.hinther@usask.ca
WD Toll-Free Number: 1-888-338-WEST (9378)
Teletypewriter (TTY): 1-877-303-3388
Website: WD is online at www.wd-deo.gc.ca.
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