Use of bio-inputs in the ecological restoration of iron ore mine sites in northern Quebec, Canada

This research project focuses on restoring the land that has been disturbed by post-iron-ore extraction sites at the Timmins 7 site in Newfoundland and Labrador Province and the other at the Good Wood site in Quebec Province at Tata Steel Minerals Canada Ltd. (TSMC) in Schefferville. These post-mining sites have extreme climatic conditions of a harsh subarctic climate, like long, harsh winters, low temperatures, nutrient-poor soils, and short growing seasons, which create substantial challenges for vegetation establishment and make it difficult for plants to grow naturally. To solve this problem, the project will test the use of “bio-inputs,” such as beneficial microbes—fungi and bacteria that naturally help seedling roots absorb nutrients, tolerate stress, and survive in harsh environments. We will grow native boreal seedling species like Picea mariana, Betula glandulosa, and Alnus viridis ssp. Crispa in the greenhouse with and without these microbes and then plant them in two active mine restoration sites (Timmins 7 and Good Wood). By monitoring plant survival, growth, soil quality, and nutrient recovery, we aim to identify the best combination of soil amendments and microbial treatments that can speed up ecological restoration of the post-iron-ore-mining area.

Faculty Supervisor:

Damase Khasa

Student:

Partner:

TSMC

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Mining

University:

Université Laval

Program: