Evaluating Oil Sands Process-Affected Water Seepage to Waterbodies by Implementing Traditional Knowledge and Western Science

An Indigenous community living near Alberta’s oil-sand mines is concerned that mining operations may be harming the rivers and lakes where they fish, hunt and trap. The research looks at finding the locations along the edges of rivers and lakes where there is evidence that mining operations may be affecting these waterbodies. The unique part of the research is that Indigenous knowledge, which is the wisdom owned by the community, and Western science are being combined in complementary and respectful ways to find the affected locations along the edges of rivers and lakes. This research will help the community in its relationships with companies that operate the oil-sands mines.

Faculty Supervisor:

Gopal Achari

Student:

Ron Thiessen

Partner:

Fort McKay Metis Community Association

Discipline:

Engineering - civil

Sector:

University:

University of Calgary

Program: