A new method to determine whether wildlife are present in certain habitats has been developed that involves collecting environmental samples (water, soil, air) and testing them in a laboratory for the presence of cells and tissue that have been shed by wildlife into their environment. These cells and tissue can include hair, saliva, skin cells, faeces, urine, and once shed are referred to as environmental DNA or eDNA.

This project corresponds to a study of utilization of assets at the New Afton mine, in Kamloops, BC. With the collaboration of New Gold’s conglomerate and Thompson Rivers University this will collect sufficient data internally and by comparing it with publicly related information of similar companies and using statistical tools and optimization models, will provide recommendations that can be used in the whole mining sector.

There is a global human resources shortage in the mining industry due to a number of factors including demographics affecting supply and projected production growth affecting demand. Companies are struggling to develop and retain Highly Qualified People (HQP) who are essential to the successful operation of their business. HQP have an invaluable combination of technical post-secondary education and lengthy industry experience which takes many years to achieve.