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Eighth Annual Victor Mine FUPA
DRAFT
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
FOLLOW UP PROGRAM AGREEMENT
EIGHTH ANNUAL REPORT
2014 REPORTING PERIOD
Submitted to:
De Beers Canada Inc.
900-250 Ferrand Drive
Toronto, Ontario
M3C 3G8
Submitted by:
Amec Foster Wheeler Environment & Infrastructure
a Division of Amec Foster Wheeler Americas Limited
160 Traders Blvd., Suite 110
Mississauga, Ontario
L4Z 3K7
September 2015
TC140504
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report – 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
DRAFT
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This is the eighth annual Follow Up Program Agreement (FUPA) report for Victor Diamond Mine
(VDM) covering the 2014 reporting period. FUPA is a program designed to monitor and verify the
accuracy of federal Environmental Assessment (EA) predictions relating to the VDM, and to
determine the effectiveness of applied environmental protection measures. The federal EA for the
VDM was carried out pursuant to the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (CEAA) at the
Comprehensive Study level of investigation, as documented in the Comprehensive Study Report
(CSR) dated June 2005. The First Annual FUPA Report, tabled in draft in March 2009, covered
the 2006 and 2007 construction period. Subsequent annual FUPA reports have covered the
ongoing mine operations phase for the years 2008 through 2014.
Parties to the FUPA are Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada (the Government of Canada),
De Beers, and the Attawapiskat First Nation (AttFN). Participants, or potential participants, to the
Agreement include the Province of Ontario, the Fort Albany First Nation (FAFN), the
Kashechewan First Nation (KFN), the Moose Cree First Nation (MCFN), the Taykwa Tagamou
Nation (TTN), the MoCreebec Council of the Cree Nation, the Town of Moosonee, and the
Mushkegowuk Council. FUPA allows for Participants, or potential participants, to become Parties
to the Agreement. To date, no additional Parties have been added to the Agreement.
The VDM encompasses the exploration, planning, design, permitting, construction, operation, and
eventual closure and reclamation of an open pit diamond mine and associated processing plant
in the James Bay Lowlands. The mine site is located approximately 90 km west of the First Nation
(FN) community of Attawapiskat and is accessible seasonally by winter road and year-round by
air.
The principles of the FUPA involve the tenets of: open and honest participation; respect for the
environment and traditional activities of the local FNs; full consideration of scientific and traditional
knowledge; sustainable development; continual improvement; application of the precautionary
principle; and the use of adaptive management strategies (AMS) and programs.
Environmental aspects to be included in the FUPA program include:
Atmospheric systems;
Surface water systems;
Groundwater systems;
Terrestrial systems;
Malfunctions and accidents;
Traditional pursuits, values and skills;
Heritage resources;
Environmental health; and
Business, employment and training.
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Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report – 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
DRAFT
A major commitment of the FUPA is the preparation of an Annual Report. The purpose of the
Annual Report is to summarize and interpret activities and monitoring results from the previous
year, and to compare these results and longer-term data trends to expected conditions
determined through the EA; and to make the data and interpretations available for review by the
Parties and Participants. The Annual Report is to include, but is not restricted to, information on
the following aspects:
Summary of monitoring results and trends;
Summary of studies and research;
Summary of compliance reports;
Rolling summary of mine operational activities;
Actions taken or planned to address compliance problems;
Verification of the accuracy of the EA;
Determination of the effectiveness of mitigation measures;
Summary and evaluation of Adaptive Environmental Management measures;
Summary of public concerns and responses to those concerns;
Summary of new technologies investigated; and
A plain language executive summary in both English and Cree.
The central theme in all of the above is that the Annual Reports are to be written as high level
summary documents. Details are made available through the various compliance and study
reports on request. This Eighth Annual FUPA Report, as stated above, covers the 2014 operation
phase of the mine. Year 2015 data will be reported in the Ninth Annual Report.
The report is structured into the following principal sections:
Section 1 - Introduction;
Section 2 - Summary of Mine Operations Facilities and Activities;
Section 3 - Summary of Monitoring Results and Data Trends;
Section 4 - Summary of Compliance Reports;
Section 5 - Summary of Study and Research Programs;
Section 6 - Actions Planned or Taken to Address Effects or Compliance Problems;
Section 7 - Verification of the Accuracy of the Environmental Assessment;
Section 8 - Determination of the Effectiveness of Mitigation Measures;
Section 9 - Summary and Evaluation of Adaptive Environmental Management Measures;
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Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report – 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
DRAFT
Section 10 - Summary of Public Concerns and Responses to Public Concerns; and
Section 11 - Summary of New Technologies Investigated.
The introduction (Section 1) provides a general background of the VDM and to FUPA. The
summary of mine operations facilities and activities in Section 2 identifies: the major components
for both the mine site and its related off-site infrastructure that were in place as of the end of 2014;
together with related information regarding permitting as well as business, employment and
training programs associated with the mine. Permitting carried out in 2014 included a small
number of permit renewals, amendments and revocations, together with four new permit
applications related to waste management operations and transmission line maintenance.
Business, employment and training efforts were focused mainly on the community of
Attawapiskat, and to a lesser extent on the communities of the Kashechewan, Fort Albany,
Taykwa Tagamou and Moose Cree First Nations. The value of contracts awarded to First Nation
companies and joint ventures in the year 2014 was $67 million, which brings the cumulative total
since the start of operations to $328.5 million, or $528 million since the start of construction of the
VDM. These values exclude subcontractor work on the James Bay Winter Road. Actual revenue
generated by the First Nation from these contracts is not known as De Beers is not privy to the
Joint Venture agreement terms. Training has been a cornerstone of Aboriginal employment at the
VDM, and during 2014 there was greater than 50% First Nation participation in the Victor
workforce.
Section 3 is the main body of the report and provides an overview of the various monitoring
programs, their results and interpretation. There was a major focus during the EA and during
follow-up permitting on the potential effects of mine dewatering on area muskeg systems, the
potential for increased rates of mercury release to surface waters, the discharge of chloride in
well field water to the Attawapiskat River, and effects of mine disturbance on caribou. All
monitoring results obtained thus far are essentially consistent with EA predictions and regulatory
standards.
As of 2014:
Muskeg systems have not been adversely affected (showing signs of drying out) as a
result of mine dewatering; except for small, localized areas surrounding bedrock outcrops
(bioherms) and areas where bedrock is very near surface, as predicted in the EA.
Total and methyl mercury concentrations continue to be well below federal Canadian
Environmental Quality Guidelines (CEQG) for the protection of aquatic life. Filtered methyl
mercury levels in the Nayshkootayaow and Attawapiskat Rivers are at or below levels
which would be of potential concern for fish eating birds and mammals such as bald eagles
and otters (0.05 ng/L).
A very minor increase in methyl mercury concentrations has generally been observed in
downstream Granny Creek system waters over the period of monitoring, related to
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Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report – 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
DRAFT
localized sulphate releases. This localized increase appears to have resulted in an
increase in the body burden mercury concentrations of small fish (Pearl Dace) in South
Granny Creek. This increase in small fish body burdens in some instances is difficult to
distinguish from background concentrations, and the effects of seasonal variation.
De Beers is taking steps to further investigate and mitigate this localized effect.
The slight increase in mercury body burdens observed in North Granny Creek in previous
years has decreased to background levels, indicating that the localized impact is
potentially short term. Further assessment of trends will be developed as monitoring
continues.
Actual mine dewatering rates to date have been lower than predicted in the federal EA
(and slightly lower than those of 2013), to the current stage of development, suggesting
that the hydrogeological model was conservative.
Mine dewatering rates and chloride concentrations in the Attawapiskat River have
remained below EA predictions.
Caribou continue to use the area around the VDM site.
In the occasional instance where monitoring results may deviate from EA predictions or regulatory
standards, more detailed explanations are provided as to the circumstances of the condition.
Section 4 provides a listing of all compliance reports issued for the 2014 reporting period. The list
is extensive and the general content of the various compliance reports (or letters) defines the
subject matter of the reports. No attempt has been made to summarize the contents of individual
compliance reports as this would yield a description of several hundred pages, which is not the
intent of this document. The vast majority of these reports relate to conditions specified in
provincial permits, and particularly to activities which involve the taking and discharge of water.
Section 5 summarizes study and research programs beyond those specifically required by
permits. Of particular note, is the ongoing muskeg hydrogeology / hydrology study, including
aspects relating to mercury dynamics, that is being undertaken jointly by a team of specialists
from four Ontario universities. This is a very large, multi-year program that is designed to look at
the details of potential mine dewatering effects on muskeg systems, and the associated effects
on mercury forms and transport. Much of this work has been and will be published in peerreviewed scientific journals. The ongoing caribou radio-telemetry program has continued to
provide much valuable information on Woodland Caribou movements and habitat use. Radio
collars were fitted to female caribou in each of 2004, 2007, 2010 and 2013 (no collars were placed
in 2014).
Sections 6 through 9 provide an overview on VDM environmental performance relative to
expectations defined through the EA and permitting processes, including the application and
effectiveness of mitigation measures designed to protect the environment.
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Section 10 provides a summary of public concerns and response to those concerns which have
been documented since completion of the federal EA. Detailed comments on the Seventh Annual
FUPA Report, from various parties, have been addressed under separate cover.
Section 11 considers new technologies investigated during the reporting period. During the 2014
monitoring period, no new technologies were considered for use or investigated.
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(0.5 ng/L)
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report – 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
DRAFT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................... i
1.0 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................... 1 1.1 FUPA Framework ..................................................................................................... 1 1.2 FUPA Program Content ........................................................................................... 2 2.0 SUMMARY OF MINE OPERATIONS FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES ............................. 4 2.1 Mine Site .................................................................................................................. 4 2.2 Off-site Transmission Lines ...................................................................................... 6 2.3 Winter Roads............................................................................................................ 6 2.4 Permitting ................................................................................................................. 6 2.5 Environmental Monitoring Systems and Programs .................................................. 7 2.6 Business, Employment and Training ........................................................................ 7 2.7 Closure Plan Implementation ................................................................................... 8 3.0 SUMMARY OF MONITORING RESULTS AND DATA TRENDS .................................. 10 3.1 Atmospheric Systems ............................................................................................. 10 3.1.1 Point Source Emissions ........................................................................... 10 3.1.2 Point of Impingement Air Quality ............................................................. 12 3.1.3 Greenhouse Gas Emissions .................................................................... 15 3.1.4 Noise ....................................................................................................... 16 3.1.5 Artificial Light ........................................................................................... 17 3.1.6 Climate..................................................................................................... 17 3.2 Surface Water Systems .......................................................................................... 18 3.2.1 Point Source Discharges ......................................................................... 18 3.2.2 Stockpile Runoff and General Site Drainage ........................................... 23 3.2.3 Receiving Water Quality .......................................................................... 25 3.2.4 Creek and River Flows ............................................................................ 28 3.2.5 Fish Habitat.............................................................................................. 31 3.2.6 Benthos and Fisheries Resources ........................................................... 32 3.3 Groundwater Systems ............................................................................................ 39 3.3.1 Groundwater Pumping Rates .................................................................. 39 3.3.2 Groundwater Quality ................................................................................ 40 3.4 Terrestrial Systems ................................................................................................ 40 3.4.1 Wetlands .................................................................................................. 40 3.4.2 Caribou and Moose ................................................................................. 45 3.4.3 Large Predators and Furbearers ............................................................. 49 3.4.4 Migratory Birds......................................................................................... 50 3.5 Malfunctions and Accidents .................................................................................... 51 3.5.1 Spill Prevention, Protection and Response ............................................. 51 3.5.2 Fire Prevention, Protection and Response .............................................. 53 TC140504
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Eighth Annual Report – 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
3.6 3.7 3.8 3.9 DRAFT
3.5.3 Slope Stability and Stockpiles.................................................................. 54 3.5.4 Karst Voids .............................................................................................. 55 Traditional Pursuits, Values and Skills ................................................................... 56 3.6.1 Fishing, Hunting and Trapping – AttFN Lands......................................... 56 3.6.2 Fish and Wildlife Availability – AttFN Lands ............................................ 57 3.6.3 Fishing, Hunting and Trapping – Regional FN Lands .............................. 57 3.6.4 Fish and Wildlife Availability – Regional FN Lands.................................. 57 Heritage Resources ................................................................................................ 57 3.7.1 Attawapiskat FN Lands ............................................................................ 57 3.7.2 Transmission Line – Otter Rapids to Kashechewan ................................ 57 Environmental Health ............................................................................................. 58 3.8.1 Accidents Along Winter Roads ................................................................ 58 3.8.2 Drinking Water and Country Foods ......................................................... 58 Business, Employment and Training ...................................................................... 58 3.9.1 Business .................................................................................................. 58 3.9.2 Employment ............................................................................................. 58 3.9.3 Training .................................................................................................... 59 4.0 SUMMARY OF COMPLIANCE REPORTS .................................................................... 60 4.1 Certificates of Approval - Air Emissions (MOECC) ................................................ 60 4.2 Permits to Take Water (MOECC) ........................................................................... 60 4.2.1 Pit Perimeter Well System ....................................................................... 60 4.2.2 Open Pit Sump ........................................................................................ 61 4.2.3 Other Well Systems ................................................................................. 62 4.2.4 Winter Roads ........................................................................................... 62 4.2.5 Other ........................................................................................................ 62 4.3 Certificates of Approval – Wastewater Discharge (MOECC) ................................. 62 4.3.1 Fen Systems ............................................................................................ 62 4.3.2 Processed Kimberlite Containment Facility – Granny Creek ................... 62 4.3.3 Well Field – Attawapiskat River ............................................................... 63 4.3.4 Sewage Treatment Plant ......................................................................... 63 4.3.5 Landfill and Bioremediation Facility ......................................................... 63 4.3.6 Other ........................................................................................................ 63 4.4 Aggregate Permits (MNRF) .................................................................................... 64 4.5 Federal Permits and Authorizations ....................................................................... 64 5.0 SUMMARY OF STUDY AND RESEARCH PROGRAMS .............................................. 65 5.1 Groundwater Studies .............................................................................................. 65 5.1.1 Pumping Tests ......................................................................................... 65 5.1.2 Modelling ................................................................................................. 65 5.2 Muskeg Systems .................................................................................................... 66 5.2.1 Hydrogeology / Hydrology ....................................................................... 66 5.2.2 Climate Change in Muskeg Environments............................................... 74 5.2.3 Water Quality ........................................................................................... 75 TC140504
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Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report – 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.7 DRAFT
5.2.4 Plant Communities................................................................................... 75 5.2.5 Breeding Bird Surveys ............................................................................. 75 Aquatic Ecosystem ................................................................................................. 75 Caribou ................................................................................................................... 76 5.4.1 Aerial Surveys.......................................................................................... 76 5.4.2 Radio Telemetry Surveys ........................................................................ 76 Mercury .................................................................................................................. 76 5.5.1 Mercury Availability and Transport Mechanisms ..................................... 76 5.5.2 Potential for Enhanced Mercury Release ................................................ 77 5.5.3 Receiving Water Conditions .................................................................... 77 5.5.4 Potential for Bio-magnification in Fish ..................................................... 77 Traditional Pursuits, Values and Skills ................................................................... 77 5.6.1 Traditional Ecological Knowledge ............................................................ 77 5.6.2 Hunter Surveys ........................................................................................ 77 5.6.3 Other Initiatives ........................................................................................ 77 List of Victor Mine Related Papers and Publications .............................................. 77 6.0 ACTIONS PLANNED OR TAKEN TO ADDRESS EFFECTS OR
COMPLIANCE PROBLEMS ........................................................................................... 80 6.1 Atmospheric Systems ............................................................................................. 80 6.2 Surface Water Systems .......................................................................................... 80 6.3 Groundwater Systems ............................................................................................ 81 6.4 Terrestrial Systems ................................................................................................ 81 6.5 Malfunctions and Accidents .................................................................................... 82 6.6 Traditional Pursuits, Values and Skills ................................................................... 82 6.7 Heritage Resources ................................................................................................ 82 6.8 Environmental Health ............................................................................................. 82 6.9 Business, Employment and Training ...................................................................... 82 7.0 VERIFICATION OF THE ACCURACY OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT ... 83 7.1 Atmospheric Systems ............................................................................................. 83 7.2 Surface Water Systems .......................................................................................... 84 7.3 Groundwater Systems ............................................................................................ 86 7.4 Terrestrial Systems ................................................................................................ 86 7.5 Malfunctions and Accidents .................................................................................... 88 7.6 Traditional Pursuits, Values and Skills ................................................................... 89 7.7 Heritage Resources ................................................................................................ 90 7.8 Environmental Health ............................................................................................. 90 7.9 Business, Employment and Training ...................................................................... 90 8.0 DETERMINATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF MITIGATION MEASURES ............ 91 8.1 Atmospheric Systems ............................................................................................. 91 8.2 Surface Water Systems .......................................................................................... 91 8.3 Groundwater Systems ............................................................................................ 92 TC140504
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Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report – 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
8.4 8.5 8.6 8.7 8.8 8.9 DRAFT
Terrestrial Systems ................................................................................................ 92 Malfunctions and Accidents .................................................................................... 93 Traditional pursuits, Values and Skills .................................................................... 93 Heritage Resources ................................................................................................ 94 Environmental Health ............................................................................................. 94 Business, Employment and Training ...................................................................... 95 9.0 SUMMARY AND EVALUATION OF ADAPTIVE ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT MEASURES ......................................................................................... 96 9.1 Atmospheric Systems ............................................................................................. 96 9.2 Surface Water Systems .......................................................................................... 96 9.3 Groundwater Systems ............................................................................................ 96 9.4 Terrestrial Systems ................................................................................................ 96 9.5 Malfunctions and Accidents .................................................................................... 96 9.6 Traditional pursuits, Values and Skills .................................................................... 96 9.7 Heritage Resources ................................................................................................ 97 9.8 Environmental Health ............................................................................................. 97 9.9 Business, Employment and Training ...................................................................... 97 10.0 SUMMARY OF PUBLIC CONCERNS AND RESPONSES TO PUBLIC CONCERNS.. 98 10.1 Atmospheric Systems ............................................................................................. 98 10.2 Surface Water Systems .......................................................................................... 98 10.3 Groundwater Systems .......................................................................................... 100 10.4 Terrestrial Systems .............................................................................................. 100 10.5 Malfunctions and Accidents .................................................................................. 101 10.6 Traditional Pursuits, Values and Skills ................................................................. 101 10.7 Heritage Resources .............................................................................................. 102 10.8 Environmental Health ........................................................................................... 102 10.9 Business, Employment and Training .................................................................... 102 11.0 SUMMARY OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES INVESTIGATED ........................................... 104 12.0 REFERENCES .............................................................................................................. 105 LIST OF APPENDICES
A
TC140504
List of Acronyms
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Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report – 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
DRAFT
LIST OF TABLES
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Table 1:
Table 2:
Table 3:
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Table 5:
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Table 8:
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Table 10:
Table 11:
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Table 14a:
Table 14b:
Table 15:
Table 16a:
Table 16b:
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Table 19:
Table 20:
Table 21:
Table 22:
Table 23a:
Table 23b:
Table 24a:
Table 24b:
Table 25:
Table 26:
Table 27:
Table 28:
Table 29:
Table 30:
Table 31:
TC140504
Employment Statistics 2014 Summary ................................................................. 109 In-stack Limits and Annual Test Results for 2014 as Defined in Table 1 of
Certificate of Approval .......................................................................................... 109 Incinerator Point of Impingement Emissions Summary (2014) ............................ 110 Total Dustfall Monitoring (2014) ........................................................................... 110 Snow Sampling (2008 - 2014) .............................................................................. 111 Hi-Vol and Lo-Vol Ambient Air Sample Results (2014) ........................................ 112 Passive SO2 and NO2 De Beers Victor Mine - 2014............................................. 113 Northeast Fen Compliance Performance (2014) .................................................. 114 Total Mercury – Fens (Unfiltered) ......................................................................... 115 Total Mercury – Fens (Filtered) ............................................................................ 116 Methyl Mercury – Fens (Unfiltered) ...................................................................... 117 Methyl Mercury – Fens (Filtered) ......................................................................... 118 Prototype Well and Well Field Discharge Compliance Performance (2006 –
2014) .................................................................................................................... 119 Mercury Content in Well Field Discharge ............................................................. 120 Mercury Content in Well Field Discharge Graphical Presentation ....................... 121 Sewage Treatment Plant Compliance Performance (2014) ................................. 122 Total Mercury – Ribbed Fen Surface Waters (Sampled as Peat Pore Water
2007 - 2014) (Filtered).......................................................................................... 123 Methyl Mercury – Ribbed Fen Surface Waters (Sampled as Peat Pore Water
2007 - 2014) (Filtered).......................................................................................... 124 Muskeg System Ribbed Fen General Chemistry Results – All Years .................. 125 Receiving Water Quality (2014) ........................................................................... 126 Total Mercury – Granny Creek (Unfiltered) .......................................................... 130 Total Mercury – Granny Creek (Filtered) .............................................................. 131 Methyl Mercury – South Granny Creek ................................................................ 132 Methyl Mercury – North Granny Creek ................................................................. 133 Total Mercury – Nayshkootayaow and Attawapiskat Rivers (Unfiltered) .............. 134 Total Mercury – Nayshkootayaow and Attawapiskat Rivers (Filtered) ................. 135 Methyl Mercury – Nayshkootayaow and Attawapiskat Rivers (Unfiltered) ........... 136 Methyl Mercury – Nayshkootayaow and Attawapiskat Rivers (Filtered)............... 137 Granny Creek Measured Average Annual and Monthly Flows – Station
04FC011 .............................................................................................................. 138 Tributary 5A Measured Average Annual and Monthly Flows – Station TRIB-5A . 138 Nayshkootayaow River Measured Average Annual and Monthly Flows –
Station 04FC010 .................................................................................................. 139 Summary of Monitoring Wells and End Formations ............................................. 139 Summary of Victor Site Area Monitoring Programs Involving Muskeg Systems .. 140 Elevation Monitoring Stations – Ground Settlement to the End of 2014 .............. 141 2012 Breeding Bird Survey Results ..................................................................... 142 Page x
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report – 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
DRAFT
LIST OF FIGURES
Page
Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Project Location.................................................................................................... 143 General Site Plan ................................................................................................. 144 Air Quality and Noise Monitoring Sites around Victor Mine .................................. 145 Dustfall Measurements at Victor Diamond Mine 2006 - 2014 .............................. 146 Ratio of NEF / HgCON – Methyl Mercury (filtered) July / October
Combined Data .................................................................................................... 147 Figure 6 Pumping Rates and Chloride Concentration at VDW Wells ................................. 148 Figure 7a Interpreted Drawdown Contours (m) in Upper Bedrock Aquifer (2013 and
2014 Data)............................................................................................................ 149 Figure 7b Distal Monitoring Well Locations .......................................................................... 150 Figure 8 Surface Water Monitoring Stations ....................................................................... 151 Figure 9 Nayshkootayaow and Attawapiskat River Total and Methyl Mercury Trends
(filtered values) ..................................................................................................... 152 Figure 10 Water Flow and Level Monitoring Stations - Site Locations ................................. 153 Figure 11 Granny Creek Flow Station 04FC011 – Flows for 2006 to 2014 .......................... 154 Figure 12 North Granny Creek Water Level Station Data (2007-2014) ................................ 155 Figure 13 South Granny Creek Water Level Station Data (2007-2014) ............................... 156 Figure 14 Nayshkootayaow River and Granny Creek Flow Supplementation Systems ....... 157 Figure 15 Nayshkootayaow River Flow Station 04FC010 – Flows for 2006 - 2014 ............. 158 Figure 16 Prorated Attawapiskat River Flows Calculated for the Victor Site
(prorated from Station 04FC001, Attawapiskat River below Muketei River) ........ 159 Figure 17 North granny Creek Exposure Area and Reference Area Sampling Stations ...... 160 Figure 18 Total Mercury Body Burden Data General Additive Model for Pearl Dace –
Granny Creeks and Tributary 5A .......................................................................... 161 Figure 20: Fish Sampling Areas 2007 - 2014 ........................................................................ 163 Figure 21 Least Square Plots of Total Mercury Body Burden Data for Trout
Perch – Attawapiskat River .................................................................................. 164 Figure 22 Total Mercury Body Burden Data General Additive Model for Trout
Perch – Attawapiskat River .................................................................................. 165 Figure 23 Comparison of Total Mercury in YOY Trout Perch – Attawapiskat River ............. 166 Figure 24 Comparison of Total Mercury in Age 1+ Trout Perch – Attawapiskat River ......... 167 Figure 25 Infrastructure and Monitoring Near the Pit ........................................................... 168 Figure 26 Groundwater Elevations in Pit Perimeter Monitoring Wells .................................. 169 Figure 27 Groundwater Elevations at Muskeg Monitoring Site MS-8 ................................... 170 Figure 28 Muskeg Monitoring Cluster Locations and 2006 IKONOS Satellite
Image Coverage ................................................................................................... 171 Figure 29 2014 Pldeiades Satellite Imagery Coverage and Muskeg Monitoring Locations.. 172 Figure 30 Typical Muskeg Monitoring Program Cluster Arrangement (MS-7) ...................... 173 Figure 31 Muskeg Monitoring MS-8 ..................................................................................... 174 Figure 32 Aerial Survey Flight Line Transects ...................................................................... 175 TC140504
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Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report – 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
Figure 33 Figure 34 Figure 35 Figure 36 Figure 37 Figure 38 TC140504
DRAFT
Average of all Aerial Survey Density Surfaces of Caribou Sightings and
Tracks (December 2005 – March 2014) ............................................................... 176 Average of All Aerial Survey Density Surfaces of Moose Sightings and
Tracks (December 2005 – March 2014) ............................................................... 177 Caribou Calving Areas Combined and Probable Parturition Locations for all
Sets of Collars (2004 – 2014) ............................................................................... 178 Caribou Overwintering Areas for All Sets of Collars (2004 – 2014) ..................... 179 Average of all Aerial Survey Density Surfaces of Wolf Sightings and Tracks
(2005 – 2014) ....................................................................................................... 180 Caribou Overall Home Range Areas .................................................................... 181 Page xii
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report – 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
1.0
DRAFT
INTRODUCTION
This is the Eighth Annual Follow Up Program Agreement (FUPA) report for the Victor Diamond
Mine (VDM) covering the 2014 calendar year reporting period. The VDM (also referred to herein
as the “Mine”) encompasses the exploration, planning, design, permitting, construction, operation,
and eventual closure and reclamation of the open pit diamond mine and associated processing
plant in the James Bay Lowlands. The mine site is located approximately 90 km west of the FN
community of Attawapiskat and is accessible seasonally by winter road and year-round by air
(Figure 1). A general site plan is shown on Figure 2.
Notable milestones in the development of the VDM for reference purposes include:
Commencement of advanced exploration in the winter of 2000;
Engineering studies for the mine commenced in 2001 and were largely completed by the
end of 2005, with engineering for some mine components continuing into the construction
phase;
Initiation of the federal Environmental Assessment (EA) process in August 2003 and
completion in August 2005. Environmental baseline studies in support of the federal EA
and provincial permitting were initiated in 1999;
Completion of provincial class EAs relating to electricity projects, and to resource
stewardship and facility development projects.
Provincial and federal permits to support mine construction and operation were obtained
during the period of 2005 through 2008;
Commencement of mine construction in January 2006 with construction completion during
the fourth quarter of 2007;
Commencement of process plant commissioning during the fourth quarter of 2007 and
continued into 2008, with commercial production starting officially on August 1, 2008.
1.1
FUPA Framework
The VDM FUPA program is designed to monitor and verify the accuracy of federal EA predictions,
to determine the effectiveness of applied environmental protection measures, and the need, if
any, for further protective measures. The federal EA for the VDM was carried out pursuant to the
Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (CEAA) at the Comprehensive Study level of
investigation, as documented in the Comprehensive study Report (CSR) dated June 2005. The
FUPA also provides for regular communication and consensus building between the Government
of Canada, the Government of Ontario, De Beers, the local First Nations (FN), and the Town of
Moosonee; and a mechanism for dealing with unplanned events.
TC140504
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September 2015
DRAFT
The principals of the FUPA involve the tenets of:
Open and honest participation;
Respect for the environment and traditional activities of the local FNs;
Full consideration of scientific and traditional knowledge;
Sustainable development;
Continual improvement; application of the precautionary principle; and
The use of AMS and programs.
The Parties or signatories to the FUPA are: Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada (the
Government of Canada), De Beers, and the Attawapiskat First Nation (AttFN). Participants, or
potential participants, to the agreement include the: Province of Ontario, Fort Albany First Nation
(FAFN), Kashechewan First Nation (KFN), Moose Cree First Nation (MCFN), Taykwa Tagamou
Nation (TTN), MoCreebec Council of the Cree Nation, Town of Moosonee, and Mushkegowuk
Council. FUPA allows for Participants, or potential participants, to become Parties to the
Agreement. As of the date of preparation of this report, FUPA has been signed by the AttFN and
De Beers but still remains unsigned by the federal government, although it has been agreed to in
all of its details by the Parties.
1.2
FUPA Program Content
As part of the FUPA, the Parties committed to meeting at least twice per year (although to date
this has not happened), and to develop working groups to address specific environmental
aspects, most notably: wetlands; Woodland Caribou; traditional pursuits, values and skills; and
eventual mine closure. Without the FUPA being formally signed by the federal government, it has
not yet been possible to obtain representation for these working groups. De Beers however,
continues to meet regularly with the AttFN Environmental Management Committee (EMC) where
all matters of environmental interest, including FUPA, are discussed. There has been some
dialogue with Environment Canada based on their reviews of previous annual reports.
Environmental aspects to be included in the FUPA program include:
Atmospheric systems;
Surface water systems;
Groundwater systems;
Terrestrial systems;
Malfunctions and accidents;
Traditional pursuits, values and skills;
Heritage resources;
Environmental health; and
Business, employment and training.
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A major commitment of the FUPA is the preparation of an Annual Report. The purpose of the
Annual Report is to summarize and interpret, activities and monitoring results from the previous
year, as well as to provide an analysis of any developing long-term trends linked to earlier data,
for review by the Parties and Participants. The Annual Report is to include, but is not restricted
to, information on the following aspects:
Summary of monitoring results and trends;
Summary of studies and research;
Summary of compliance reports;
Rolling summary of mine operational activities;
Actions taken or planned to address compliance problems;
Verification of the accuracy of the EA;
Determination of the effectiveness of mitigation measures;
Summary and evaluation of Adaptive Environmental Management measures;
Summary of public concerns and responses to those concerns;
Summary of new technologies investigated; and
A plain language executive summary for the final report in both English and Cree.
The overall format and structure of this FUPA report purposefully follows that developed for the
previous Annual Reports, and is designed to provide the reader with an easy reference to the
bulleted lists shown above. The central theme in all of the above is that the Annual Reports are
to be written as high level, summary documents. Where appropriate, historical trends have been
noted and historical data are summarized for information of the readers. If the Parties or
Participants wish to view further details, these are to be made available through the various
compliance and study reports.
The First Annual FUPA Report, tabled in draft in March 2009 (AMEC 2009a), addressed the 2006
and 2007 construction period. Subsequent annual FUPA reports have covered the ongoing mine
operations phase for the years 2008 through 2014. This Eighth Annual Report addresses the
2014 calendar year mine operations phase.
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2.0
SUMMARY OF MINE OPERATIONS FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES
2.1
Mine Site
Construction of the mine was essentially complete by the end of 2007 and the first kimberlite was
processed in December of that year to commission the processing plant. Established site facilities
as of the end of 2014 included the following (Figure 2):
Open pit mine for kimberlite ore extraction;
Muskeg, mine rock and overburden stockpiles for the disposal of mine pit materials
(partially completed);
Well field, mine dewatering system, including the pipeline discharge arrangement to the
Attawapiskat River and associated water discharge facilities;
Open Pit Phase 1 Mine Water Settling Pond, and associated Northeast Fen (NEF) water
treatment system;
Mill building, crusher building, ancillary buildings, and electrical substation;
Fine Processed Kimberlite Containment (PKC) facility and water treatment facility
(formerly the Central Quarry [CQ]), including the completion of all Cell 1 dam raises (4) of
the Phase 1 PKC storage and water treatment facility operations, and construction of the
initial raise of the Cell 2 containment dykes;
Development of coarse PK and low grade ore stockpiles (partially completed);
Site road network, permanent airstrip, and freight yard;
Permanent 224 person operations camp and recreational complex (with some
construction-phase dormitories retained for contractors and visitors);
Explosives manufacturing and storage facilities;
Potable water and sewage treatment facilities, including a potable water supply well;
Fuel tank farm;
Standby emergency power generators;
On site power distribution systems;
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Waste management systems – incinerator, bioremediation area and non-hazardous waste
landfill;
Aggregate pits (a sand pit located approximately 16 km west of the mine site), and the
South Quarry (SQ) limestone quarry south of the mine open pit – neither in operation but
retained for contingency purposes in 2014 along with the North Aggregate Pit (which has
been approved but is not developed);
A regional network of groundwater monitoring wells and river flow monitoring stations;
Attawapiskat River water intake and discharge facilities and associated water lines, to
supply water for mill processing, other industrial uses and potable water, as well as water
for creek and river flow supplementation;
South Granny Creek diversion;
Nayshkootayaow River flow supplementation water supply system; and
Granny Creek flow supplementation system.
Mine site activities carried out during 2014 consisted of:
Continued development of the open pit and associated ore extraction;
Open pit dewatering;
Kimberlite ore processing and the discharge / disposal of processing wastes (fine and
coarse PK);
Development of containment dikes forming Cell 2 of the PKC facility (completed in the fall
of 2014);
Ongoing stockpiling of open pit wastes (limestone waste rock removal);
Transport operations (air, winter road and on-site all-season roads);
General site activities related to camp operations including potable water supply and
domestic sewage treatment;
Water line systems operations associated with open pit dewatering, ore processing,
potable water supply, and creek and river flow supplementation
Ongoing waste management; and
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Progressive reclamation of sections of the perimeter berms of Cell 1 of the PKC facility.
By the end of 2014, the open pit maximum depth, of approximately 140 m below ground surface
in the eastern kimberlite pipe remained unchanged from 2013, while the western kimberlite open
pipe / pit segment was developed to a maximum depth of approximately 95 m. The surface area
(footprint) of the open pit remained at approximately 86 ha. The total quantity of kimberlite ore
processed in 2014 was 3.2 million tonnes, at an average mill processing rate of 8,963 tonnes per
day (355 days). Mine dewatering was carried out at rates varying from about 9,455 to 90,830 m3/d,
with the average dewatering rate over the year being 79,484 m3/d. Overall, combined dewatering
well pumping rates were approximately three percent lower in 2014 than in 2013.
The major construction activities undertaken in 2014 were limited to the construction of the initial
lift for FPK Cell #2 and expansion of the mine rock and coarse PK stockpiles.
2.2
Off-site Transmission Lines
No off-site transmission line installation work was undertaken in 2014. All off-site transmission
line installation work was completed in 2009. Maintenance of portions of the Otter Rapids to
Moosonee transmission line was undertaken in 2014, to remove hazard trees and to complete
minor upgrades to the line before it is transferred to Hydro One Networks Incorporated.
2.3
Winter Roads
Off-site winter road activities carried out during 2014 included the following:
Annual re-establishment and maintenance of the James Bay Coastal Winter Road by the
Kimesskanemenow Corporation;
Annual re-establishment of the South Winter Road from Attawapiskat to the VDM site; and
Annual re-establishment of the James Bay Winter Road Extension, and the Moosonee
transfer station and truck staging area, to facilitate the off-loading, storage and transfer of
materials to and from the Ontario Northland Railway system and the James Bay Winter
Road truck carriers.
The winter road network for the mine site was constructed, maintained and managed as described
in the CSR.
2.4
Permitting
The major environmental permitting to allow for mine site construction, operation and servicing,
was completed by 2008. Permitting carried out during 2014 included:
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Renewal of Permit to Take Water (PTTW) #1810-99FHAD for Well Field Dewatering
(expired March 31, 2014). A short term renewal was granted under PTTW #4767-9HKJ38
that expired August 2014.
Renewal of PTTW #4767-9HKJ38 for Well Field Dewatering (expired August 2014). A
short term renewal was granted under PTTW #6342-9NEJVH that expires August 30,
2015.
Renewal of PTTW #8752-9E5SAY for Well Drilling (expired March 31, 2014). A short term
renewal was granted under PTTW #3143-9HJTC4 that expired August 2014.
Renewal of PTTW #3143-9HJTC4 for Well Drilling (expired August 2014). A short term
renewal was granted under PTTW #6381-9NEKKS that expires August 30, 2015.
Application (December 2013) for transmission line corridor maintenance. Minor right-ofway clearing / maintenance, removal of hazardous trees, and minor transmission line
upgrades for the Otter Rapids to Moosonee transmission line. Approvals were granted
(Forest Resource Licenses 552764 and 552765, issued January 27, 2014; Work Permit
MO-13-008 issued January 31, 2014; Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF)
Letter of Authorization (LOA) issued January 31; and Ontario Parks LOA, issued
January 23).
Application (October 22, 2014) for an Environmental Compliance Approval for a
Demolition Landfill. The landfill is proposed to accept inert, non-putrescible demolition
wastes at VDM closure, consistent with the CSR.
Application (January 13, 2014) for an Environmental Compliance Approval for a Use of
Biosolids as Part of Progressive Reclamation at the Victor Diamond Mine.
Victor Diamond Mine Closure Plan, Amendment #3 (filed December 18, 2014).
2.5
Environmental Monitoring Systems and Programs
Environmental monitoring systems and programs that were either continued into the current
reporting period (2014) from prior years, or established and operated during 2014, are described
in Section 3.
2.6
Business, Employment and Training
Business, employment and training efforts were focused primarily on the community of
Attawapiskat, and to a lesser extent on TTN, KFN, FAFN and MCFN. The value of contracts
awarded to FN companies and joint ventures in the year 2014 was $67 million bringing the
cumulative total since the start of VDM operations to $328.5 million, or $528 million since the start
of construction. The above values exclude subcontractor work on the James Bay Winter Road in
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2014. Actual revenue generated by the various FN from these contracts is not known as De Beers
is not privy to the Joint Venture agreement terms.
Employment of local residents has to date been very successful as shown in Table 1. The reader
should also refer to Section 3.9.2 for further details on business, employment and training.
The need for training and academic upgrading continued into 2014 to ensure FN employment
participation in the Mine. VDM has developed a formal training program, the Victor Training
Pipeline that offers a minimum of 20 training positions each year dedicated to the communities
with whom De Beers has signed Impact Benefit Agreements (IBAs). The Training Pipeline
commenced in 2012. Extensive training continued in 2014 and on average 37 FN members were
employed as trainees in various positions. Prior training initiatives are documented in earlier
annual FUPA Reports.
In addition, the VDM offered many other on-the-job training positions. All training programs
contained a job readiness component to prepare the individual for employment at the Mine and
elsewhere. Various training sessions including mandatory training, such as cardio pulmonary
resuscitation. Other capacity development initiatives like financial management are offered in the
community of Attawapiskat at the training facility.
2.7
Closure Plan Implementation
In 2013, a contract was negotiated with Laurentian University to undertake two undergraduate
theses on an existing vegetation plot at the south overburden stockpile facility. This work has
been renewed / extended and expected to continue for several years. In addition, longer term
plots were started at the Mine Rock Stockpile and PKC. The following are the recent publications
and/or undergraduate theses arising from previous research agreements with this university:
Jennifer Button – Creating a Growing Matrix to support Nitrogen Fixing Plants Using
Kimberlite Tailings from the De Beers Victor Diamond Mine, April 2012 (Undergraduate
thesis).
Daniel Campbell – The Development of Mine Revegetation Protocols for the Hudson Bay
Lowland, Canada (Conference paper, 2013).
Daniel Campbell and Jaimee Bergeron – Natural Revegetation of Winter Roads on
Peatlands in the Hudson Bay Lowland, (Arctic, Antarctic, and Alpine Research, Vol 44,
No. 2, 2012 pp. 155-163).
Daniel Campbell and Angie Corson – Testing Protocols to Restore Disturbed Sphagnumdominated Peatlands in the Hudson Bay Lowland (Official Scholarly Journal of the Society
of Wetland Scientists Volume 33, Number 2 pages 291-299, 2013).
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Brittany Rantala-Sykes – Growth and Restoration Potential of Five Nitrogen Fixing
Species on Soil Amendments of Waste Rock and Materials from Victor Mine, April 2012
(Undergraduate thesis).
Melissa Lefrancois – Optimum Fertilization of Phosphorus to support Plant Growth within
the Waste Material Peat Mixtures at De Beers Victor Diamond Mine, Ontario April 2014.
Research undertaken in 2013 and final report written in 2013. (Undergraduate thesis).
Andrea Hanson – The effects of Fertilization and Mulch on the Reclamation of Peat and
Overburden Mixes at the De Beers Victor Diamond Mine, Ontario April 2014. Research
undertaken in 2013 and final report written in 2013. (Undergraduate thesis).
Daniel Campbell and Angie Corson – Can Mulch and Fertilizer Alone Rehabilitate Surfacedisturbed Subarctic Peatlands, Ecological Restoration Vol. 32, No. 2, 2014 pp 153-160.
Conference Presentation - Campbell, D., Corson, A., & Bergeron, J. 2014. Rehabilitation
of peatlands in the Hudson Bay Lowland after winter road disturbances. 20th Symposium
of the Peatland Ecology Research Group, Québec City, QC.
Amendment #2 to the VDM Closure Plan was deferred from 2009 until 2010 (submitted
June 2010). This was filed by the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry on May 9,
2011. Through the updated cost estimates in that plan, the financial security for mine closure was
increased to $47.3 million from the previous value of $42.9 million. However, through updated
modeling based on observed groundwater response to the mine dewatering operation, it was
possible to reduce the predicted duration of active post-operational mine closure from five years
to three years. An administrative compilation of all the closure plan revisions to date was
subsequently prepared and distributed to interested parties early in 2012.
Amendment #3 to the VDM Closure Plan was submitted in September 2014, and was filed by the
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines (MNDM) on December 18, 2014. Through the
updated cost estimates in that plan, the financial security for mine closure was increased to
$53.2 million from the previous value of $47.3 million.
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3.0
SUMMARY OF MONITORING RESULTS AND DATA TRENDS
3.1
Atmospheric Systems
3.1.1
Point Source Emissions
VDM point source air emissions are limited to those generated by the incinerator. An incinerator
has been used at the VDM due to its extreme remote location without all-season access, and
because the wet ground conditions were not suited to the development of a conventional landfill.
A source separation program is used for operation of the incinerator to exclude those wastes such
as batteries and electronics which might contribute to elevated parameters of concern.
Continuous monitoring and stack sampling results are summarized below.
3.1.1.1
Continuous Emission Monitoring – Incinerator
Certificate of Approval (C. of A., Air) #4556-6LULPN, dated March 9, 2006 provides for
Continuous Emission Monitoring (CEM) systems for the solid waste incinerator to measure total
hydrocarbons (THC), residual oxygen, carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and
combustion temperatures. The CEM system monitors are equipped with continuous recording
devices, and an operations manual was in place to define acceptable ranges for equipment
operation relative to CEM system monitoring.
The function of the CEM systems is to ensure that the incinerator is operated in a manner which
provides optimal combustion, so as to reduce emissions to low levels. There are no specific
reporting requirements for CEM systems operation, but CEM operating data are to be retained on
site for Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) inspection, or other data
requests.
CEM system equipment was installed and operational as of August 2006, and was subsequently
optimized to achieve desired levels of performance. Data are retained on site.
3.1.1.2
Stack Sampling – Incinerator
ORTECH Environmental conducted the annual compliance stack testing on the VDM incinerator,
in accordance with C. of A. #4556-6LULPN requirements. An inspector from the MOECC was on
site to observe these tests. Testing in 2014 was conducted between October 4 and October 6,
and involved measurement of the following contaminants:
Total suspended particulate (TSP);
Metals (cadmium, lead and mercury);
Volatile and semi-volatile organics;
Hydrogen chloride (HCl);
THC;
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Combustion gases (NOx, SO2, O2); and
CO2, CO.
During the 2014 compliance testing programs, all in-stack parameters were within prescribed
MOECC limits, with the exception of TSP (Table 2). TSP measured 55.1 mg/m3, which is over the
standard of 17 mg/m3. TSP has been highly variable in previous years, and as such the facility
still does not meet the vendors’ performance guarantees which were based on Ontario incinerator
standards. It is believed that a significant proportion of the elevated particulate matter readings is
not due to actual particulate matter generated by the incinerator, but is instead a by-product of
salts generated from the combustion process and the scrubber system. At the property boundary,
incinerator emissions only represents 0.33% of the Ontario point-of-impingement criteria (POI) for
suspended nuisance particulate, and no environmental impact is expected from these emissions.
De Beers has been in discussions with the MOECC regarding the TSP values and has developed
mitigation strategies to lower the TSP concentrations. It is noteworthy that sewage sludge was
incinerated in 2014 during the compliance testing program. De Beers has submitted a permit
application to use partially treated sludge from the aerobic digester as nutrient and organic matter
for progressive reclamation of facilities. This would divert the sewage sludge waste stream
(maximum of 35% of incinerated waste stream) from the incinerator and is expected to reduce
potassium salts.
De Beers continues to evaluate and optimize the incinerator performance with the long term goal
of meeting the C. of A. regulatory values.
Lead was historically elevated above the 142 µg/m3 limit in 2009 and 2010, but with subsequent
improved waste source segregation has been well within discharge limits since that time, showing
a value of 40.2 µg/m3 for 2014.
Cadmium levels have remained below the emission standard of 14 µg/m3, in all years except
2010. Cadmium levels in 2014 measured 2.57 µg/m3, indicating that the source segregation
program continues to be successful.
Mercury levels have remained below the emission standard of 20 µg/m3, in all years. Mercury
levels in 2014 measured 0.21 µg/m3, or 1.1% of the compliance criteria of 20 µg/m3.
All other parameters were within compliance limits (Table 2). Further details regarding incinerator
stack sampling results can be found in the De Beers Canada Inc. Victor Mine Site 2014 Incinerator
Compliance Testing Program Performed in Accordance with Certificate of Approval (Air) Number
4556-6LULPN, dated December 3, 2014.
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3.1.2
Point of Impingement Air Quality
3.1.2.1
Incinerator Emissions
As for previous years, all 2014 off-property, incinerator-linked POI concentrations were found to
be well within the applicable criteria, including particulate emissions (Table 3).
3.1.2.2
Dustfall Jars
Dustfall jars were first set up north, south, east and west of the VDM site in May, 2006 (Figure 3).
From 2009 onward, dustfall jars were operated only for the period of May through October of each
year, in accordance with the document Air Quality Monitoring Plan Rev. 2, Certificate of Approval
(Air) #9452-78ZP4M, Condition 10.1, Victor Mine, filed with the MOE Timmins District office. The
purpose of the dustfall jars is to measure dust loadings to the natural environment at the property
boundary during the non-winter period. Dust loadings derive mainly from vehicular traffic on allseason gravel roads, during dry periods, as well as from other sources such the stockpiling of
materials. Water truck sprays are used to control road dust.
As the roads are comprised of limestone rock-fill, and as the material stockpiles are chemically
inert, the principal concern for dust loadings is for possible adverse effects to local plant growth
due to surface dust coating.
Dustfall monitoring data for the period of 2014 are presented in Table 4. For comparative purposes
all results for 2014 have been well within the regulatory limit of 7 g/m2/30 day period (O. Reg.
419/05, Schedule 3) that has been applied to metal mines since 2010. This limit is for comparative
purposes only, as the limit does not specifically apply to diamond mines. The dust from diamond
mines is less likely to be harmful to the environment compared with the dust from metal mines.
Figure 4 emphasizes the seasonal aspect of the dustfall monitoring data in some years. The data
show no clear trend to indicate that downwind sites, south and east of the site, are dustier than
upwind sites to the north and west. Dustfall decreased following the end of the construction period
in 2008 and following the additional use of a large capacity water truck commissioned in 2010,
and has remained well below the reference regulatory standard of 7 g/m2/30 day period since that
time.
3.1.2.3
Snowpack Data
Snowpack data were also obtained from sites located north, south, east and west of the VDM
site, as per Figure 3. Samples are collected at the end of March each year as a composite of
three sub-samples, spaced at 10 m intervals.
The data represent cumulative dust loadings over the entire winter, and analyte concentrations
(Table 5) are affected by accumulated snowfall over the winter, as well as by melt events, wind
direction and other factors. Data are compared to Provincial Water Quality Objectives (PWQO)
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for the protection of aquatic life for comparative purposes only. These standards apply to area
receiving waters but do not apply to snow samples.
Snow pack samples are taken to provide an indication of the potential for snowmelt to affect local
receiving waters, such as Granny Creek. The main source of contaminants in the snow is dust
generated by mining and hauling activities over the course of the winter (although material
deposited from long distance air transport is also present). It also needs to be appreciated that
the concentration of parameters in the snowpack is a function of the state of the snowpack. As
the winter progresses, dust accumulates over time, and as the snowpack begins to melt and
consolidate towards the end of the winter (March) the concentration of contaminants in the
snowpack will therefore increase. The PWQO values are used only as a benchmark, as the
objectives apply to receiving waters and not to snowpack.
Snow samples from the winter of 2013/2014 were collected on March 21, 2014. Overall, snow
sample parameter concentrations met PWQO values for protection of aquatic life except (as in
previous years) for pH, which is typically below pH 6.5 for snowpack, and for a few of the metals.
With the exception of iron, average snowpack metal concentrations, where they exceed PWQO
values, only exceed these values by a small amount. Also, it is clear from the data that there is a
strong correlation between metal concentrations and total suspended solids (TSS)
concentrations, as would be expected. Correlation coefficients for cobalt, chromium, copper, and
iron, with TSS, for example, were 0.79, 0.72, 0.58, and 0.85 respectively, indicating that a high
proportion of the observed metal concentration values is explained by the relationship with
suspended solids concentrations.
3.1.2.4
High-volume (and Low-volume) Sampling
High-volume (hi-vol) and low-volume (lo-vol) air sampling systems function to determine the mass
concentrations of suspended airborne particulate (<100 microns), and associated heavy metals,
at (or near) the property boundary, by drawing a known volume of air through a pre-weighed filter
medium.
The CSR provided for periodic air sampling with hi-vol samplers during the mine lifespan. Once
the sampling program was submitted and approved in accordance with MOECC permitting
requirements (C. of A. #4134-6J8TGK), both hi-vol and lo-vol sampling units were installed.
Sampling stations were established at locations that provided reasonable access at the time.
Although access has improved, station locations have not been altered in order to maintain the
historical database. The hi-vol samplers require grid power and the only property boundary
location for which grid power is available is at the north boundary near the Attawapiskat River
pumphouse, northwest of the mine site (Figure 3). There are no power sources available at any
of the other property boundary locations.
The low-vol samplers do not require grid power (can run on battery power). The south boundary
station was established at the former exploration camp which remained in use through the early
Victor Mine operations phase (Figure 3). A lo-vol sampler was also set up in association with the
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hi-vol sampler at the Attawapiskat River pumphouse location to allow correlation of lo-vol and
hi-vol sampling results.
Hi-vol samples obtained in 2014 were collected on 24 occasions, at approximately 6-day intervals,
between the dates of May 5 and October 26, 2014. The number of samples and sample locations
for the high-volume (and low-volume) air samplers comply with C.of A. #4134-6J8TGK and the
MOECC approved air quality monitoring plan and Best Management Plan for the site. Each hi-vol
sample consisted of a 24-hour composite. The samples were analyzed for TSP, mercury,
cadmium and lead. Mercury, cadmium, and lead are analyzed because of their potential to
bio-accumulate, and because they are typically included in air quality modeling and analysis for
mining projects. Also, the intent of the annual FUPA reports is to confirm EA predictions. EA air
quality predictions were confined to these three metals. Results are expressed as μg/m3,
averaged over a 24-hour period as per O.Reg. 419/05 requirements. Measurements of all four
parameters were all well below applicable regulatory standards (Table 6).
Lo-vol samples were collected on 24 to 30 occasions from Stations Lo-vol-02 and Lo-vol-04, also
at generally 6-day intervals, between the dates of May 5 and October 26, 2014. As with the hi-vol
sample results, all data were well below applicable O.Reg. 419/05 requirements, with all heavy
metals occurring at non-detectable levels (Table 6). Fifty percent of the Lo-vol-04, and 50% of the
Lo-vol-02 TSP samples were at or below the method detection limit. Mercury analysis for the lowvolume samples could not be undertaken as the filter is too small to complete analysis for both
cadmium and lead, and mercury.
3.1.2.5
Passive SO2 and NO2 Sampling
The air quality monitoring program defined through C. of A. #4134-6J8TGK also requires passive,
30-day average, SO2 (sulphur dioxide) and NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) sampling at (or near) the
property boundary. These passive systems were installed in 2008 at locations adjacent to the
dustfall monitoring locations (Figure 3). This program follows standardized protocols from the
Province of Alberta, as Ontario does not have formalized methods for this type of monitoring at
remote sites such as the VDM.
SO2 and NO2 data results for samples collected during 2014, for the months of May through
October, are shown in Table 7. The tabled data are for 30-day average results. There are no
MOECC 30-day standards for SO2 or NOx gas concentrations. Schedule 3 of O.Reg. 419/05
provides local air quality standards for 24-hr average concentrations for these two parameters,
which can be used as a general point of comparison. The O.Reg. 419/05 24-hour standards are
275 μg/m3 for SO2 and 200 μg/m3 for NOx (approximately 105 ppb and 106 ppb respectively). The
measured site values were well below these threshold values, with maximum measured values
of 0.5 ppb NOx and 0.4 ppb SO2.
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DRAFT
Wetland Monitoring
The first five-year interval study of plant community compositions, for principal VDM area muskeg
community types (i.e., northern ribbed fen with broad flarks, horizontal fen, domed bog, and flat
bog) was carried out in 2007 with a second survey carried out in 2012. The data from the first
monitoring series provide a baseline against which the longer-term effects of dust emissions, mine
dewatering, or other effects of VDM on muskeg plant communities can be assessed.
Overall results of the assessment show that:
Species richness has not declined since operations began;
The relative cover of vascular plants has not increased;
The relative cover of Sphagnum (moss) species has not decreased; and
There was no correlation between community structure and distance to the mine site.
The data indicate that there were as many or more species recorded in 2012 than in 2007
(Table 3-2, Stantec 2012). The number of recorded species was greater in 2012 compared with
2007 in three of the four wetland types monitored (domed bog, flat bog and horizontal fen). The
number of species recorded in ribbed fen types was unchanged.
The relative cover of vascular plants decreased between 2007 and 2012 for all four habitat types
(Table 3-3, Stantec 2012). The percent relative cover for vascular plants decreased by 20 to 23%
in the bog habitats, and by 6-29% in the fen habitats (Table 3-3, Stantec 2012). This is directly
contrary to the effect expected if dewatering activities were affecting plant communities
The closest wetland in the study was approximately 2.5 km from the VDM and is within the
groundwater drawdown zone, and it does not show a negative change. Also, as shown on Figure 4
(dustfall monitoring), dustfall has remained low in the post construction period. It can be concluded
that VDM dust generation is not having an impact on the structure of wetlands near the VDM. The
next wetland monitoring study is planned for 2017.
Further details regarding the wetland monitoring study are available in the document entitled
Victor Mine Project: 2012 Vegetation and Breeding-Bird Assessment, by Stantec Consulting Ltd.,
dated December 2012.
3.1.3
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
3.1.3.1
Fuel Consumption and GHG Emissions
Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from fuel consumption were estimated in the CSR at
72,400 tonnes of CO2 per year (t/a) for the mine operations phase. This estimate was based on:
On-site diesel fuel consumption of 15,000,000 L/a, equivalent to 40,040 t/a of CO2
emissions;
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September 2015
DRAFT
Truck transport diesel fuel consumption of 120,000 L/a, based on 500 round trips per year,
of 378 km each way, at a fuel consumption rate of 0.3175 L/km, equivalent to 320 t/a of
CO2 emissions; and
An equivalent CO2 emission rate of 32,030 t/a for off-site power generation from diesel
fuel equivalents, based on a site power demand of 18.7 megawatts (MW) from off-site
sources, and assuming that 39.22% of this power demand derives from fossil fuel
combustion (diesel equivalent, as a provincial average), together with a 2% allowance for
line losses.
Other types of fuel were ignored as their use at site is minor compared with diesel fuel use.
Measured site diesel fuel consumption during 2014 was 12,004,399 L. The number of transport
truck round trips during 2014 was 576. Based on these values, calculated site CO2 emissions
during 2014 for on-site diesel fuel use and truck traffic between the VDM site and Moosonee,
totalled 32,031 t. This value is lower than the 40,360 t/a estimate in the CSR.
Mine site power demand from off-site sources averaged approximately 13.4 MW during 2014,
which is less than the average sustained power demand of 18.7 MW predicted in the CSR,
indicating that CO2 production from mine-related off-site power production was less than predicted
in the CSR by a proportional amount. Ontario also no longer uses coal fired generators, reducing
the provincial CO2 production rate for grid power below the CSR estimate.
3.1.3.2
Carbon Exchange Rates
This item was addressed in Section 3.1.3.2 of the First Annual FUPA Report and there has been
no appreciable increase in the amount of excavated peat available for carbon exchange during
2014, beyond what was tabulated in the First Annual FUPA Report. The measured total organic
carbon content of all excavated peat at the VDM site therefore remains at approximately 91,000 t,
which is less than the approximately 100,000 t predicted in the CSR.
3.1.4
Noise
The CSR required representative noise monitoring during year two of construction (i.e., 2007) and
for the first full year of mine operations (i.e., 2008 / 2009), and at three year intervals thereafter,
in both summer and winter. Consequently noise data were collected and analyzed for the
2011/2012 calendar year and summarized in the Fifth Annual FUPA Report. The next monitoring
period was scheduled for the 2014 calendar year, the results of which are provided below.
3.1.4.1
East and Northwest Transects
The following information is taken from De Beers Canada – Victor Mine Acoustic Environment
Monitoring Report (NNS, 2015).
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For the Victor site, ambient noise surveys were carried out in each of August 2014 and February
2015, along two transect lines extending outward from the centre of the Mine site (Figure 3). One
transect extended northwest with noise monitoring stations positioned at 2.5 km (Station NW25),
5.0 km (Station NW50) and 7.5 km (Station NW75) from the Mine centre. A second transect
extended east-southeast of the Mine centre, with noise monitoring stations also positioned at
2.5 km (Station E25), 5.0 km (Station E50), and 7.5 km (Station E75) from the Mine centre. The
5.0 km stations are located just inside the outer boundary of the Victor wildlife buffer zone.
Weather data were obtained from VDM environmental weather station.
The highest daytime sound level was recorded at the 2.5 km (northwest transect) and the highest
nighttime sound level was recorded at the 7.5 km marker, also on the northwest transect. The
lowest sound level recorded during the daytime was recorded at the 5km location of the northwest
transect and at the 7.5 km location on the east transect. Overall, the results observed for the
2014/2015 investigation were similar to historical sound level ranges and profiles.
3.1.4.2
Winter Road Transects
Noise surveys associated with the winter road were conducted from February 13 to 18, 2015
along north and south transects positioned perpendicular to the road, at distances of 0.5, 1.0 and
2.0 km from the road. Sound levels (Leq, 1 hr, dBA average) on the north transect were similar
between stations with noise levels ranging from 19 to 32 dB. The south transect also had sound
levels that were similar between stations; however, overall sound levels were higher than for the
north transect. The highest daytime and nighttime sound levels were recorded at the 0.5 km
station, south of the Winter road (39 and 33 Leq, 1 hr, dBA average, respectively). Traffic was
found to have some impact on sound levels; however, wind had a much larger impact. The 2015
sound data are reported here because the winter 2015 data are a continuation of the 2014/2015
sound monitoring program.
3.1.5
Artificial Light
To the extent practicable, site lighting has been directed inwards towards mine site activity areas
and away from peripheral buffer zones, as provided for in the CSR. There are no regulatory
requirements and site-specific light measurements have not been taken in connection with the
VDM. There are no known effects on the surrounding area.
3.1.6
Climate
A weather station was established on the VDM site in March, 2000. The station was set up to
measure: wind speed and direction, temperature, relative humidity, net radiation, precipitation,
and snow depth. Barometric pressure and pan evaporation were added to the system in 2002. A
new upgraded weather station was installed at site in April, 2008. The new station provides data
on all of the parameters listed above, as well as for solar radiation and heat flux.
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Since the summer of 2010, the VDM site has also hosted and acted as a base of operations for
an MOECC climate research station that is located about 15 km south of the mine. This is part of
a long-term global warming / carbon flux study. The mine has also acted as a base of operations
since that same time for an MNRF research program on muskeg permafrost. Through this
program a number of long-term monitoring stations have been installed near the mine, to monitor
the effects of climate change on these features.
3.2
Surface Water Systems
3.2.1
Point Source Discharges
3.2.1.1
Southwest Fen
The Southwest Fen (SWF) served as part of the wastewater treatment system for water
discharged from CQ operations during 2006 pursuant to C. of A. 3374-6G7J2Y (December 13,
2005). CQ water discharge operations were concluded on December 2, 2006. C. of A.
3374-6G7J2Y was revoked on March 3, 2009 and all related monitoring was discontinued. Much
of the SWF is overprinted by Cell #2 of the PKC facility and the Coarse PK Stockpile.
3.2.1.2
Northeast Fen
The NEF previously served as part of the wastewater treatment system for the removal of TSS
and the uptake of residual nutrients (nitrate, ammonia and phosphorus) for waters discharged
from a number of different site areas and facilities. Discharge from a number of these sites no
longer occurs.
During 2014, the only effluents received by the NEF were area runoff from the Phase 1 Mine
Water Settling Pond, area runoff from the mine rock stockpile, and landfill leachate. Effluent from
the Phase 1 Mine Water Settling Pond consisted of a small amount of well development water
(discontinued in late 2014), area runoff, and muskeg drainage as there was no mine water
discharge from the open pit to the Phase 1 Mine Water Settling Pond in 2014. Virtually all collected
precipitation and runoff that fell within the open pit perimeter drained subsurface through the
adjacent rock to the mine well field dewatering system, as in previous years. Operation of the
NEF passive wetland treatment system is governed by C. of A. #4056-6W8QBU dated January 3,
2007, and as amended May 31, 2007.
The principal parameters of concern in effluents received by the NEF, from a C. of A. compliance
perspective, are TSS and ammonia. Ammonia is derived from blasting agents used for mining in
the open pit.
C. of A. #4056-6W8QBU provides for sampling in the NEF for pH, oil and grease, TSS, total
dissolved solids, total and un-ionized ammonia, temperature, chloride, sulphate, calcium,
magnesium, iron, total phosphorus, sodium, ICP metals, Rainbow Trout and Daphnia magna
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acute lethality, and mercury. The frequency of sample collection varies from three times weekly
to monthly, depending on the parameter being tested.
Final effluent compliance limits apply to pH (≤9.5), TSS (maximum monthly average and daily
limits of 15 mg/L and 30 mg/L, respectively), oil and grease (maximum daily limit 15 mg/L), and
toxicity (maximum 50% mortality).
Monitoring data from 2014 are summarized in Table 8. Monitoring data for total and methyl
mercury are provided separately in Tables 9, 10, 11 and 12. C. of A. limits were met in all cases
during 2014 (Table 8), with the exception of three daily exceedances above the limit of 30 mg/L
TSS measured on April 21 (41.2 mg/L), 25 (47.0 mg/L) and November 7 (37.0 mg/L), and one
monthly average exceedance above the monthly limit of 15 mg/L for April (16.6 mg/L). The annual
average TSS was 4.05 mg/L. Late winter (e.g. April) samples often show elevated values for TSS
because of the difficulty in obtaining samples, without disturbing underlying sediments under a
thick ice cover. There is effectively little or no flow through the NEF in late winter.
The NEF passive wetland treatment system also functioned well for the removal of residual
nutrients (no in-pit water was being treated in 2014). As such, there is no source of ammonia
except perhaps drainage from the mine rock stockpile. Unionized ammonia was less than the
PWQO of 0.02 mg/L with all samples at or below 0.002 mg/L (Table 8). PWQO thresholds apply
to surface receiving waters and not to fen systems, but are used for comparative purposes.
Sulphate levels were elevated, averaging 60.2 mg/L, but were lower than the 74.5 mg/L and
85.41 mg/L results observed in 2013 and 2012, respectively. Elevated sulphate levels have
implications for methyl mercury dynamics as discussed below.
Analytical results for total and methyl mercury for the NEF are presented in Tables 9, 10, 11
and 12. All results were within applicable federal (and provincial) guidelines for the protection of
aquatic life, with the exception of a NEF unfiltered methyl mercury sample taken in April/May 2013
which is not consistent with the other 2013 methyl mercury results and appears anomalous in
nature (unfiltered value of 6.05 ng/L and filtered value of 2.85 ng/L). Total mercury concentrations
were comparable between the NEF and control fen stations (Southeast Fen, SEF; and Northwest
Fen, NWF). Overall, methyl mercury concentrations, while still meeting guidelines, were elevated
in the NEF compared with the two control fens.
Methyl mercury concentrations in the NEF are believed to be elevated as a result of increased
sulphate levels, as described in previous annual reports. Sulphate reducing bacteria utilize
sulphate as an electron acceptor, and hence higher sulphate levels tend to promote increased
rates of conversion from total mercury to methyl mercury (Ullrich et al. 2001; Jeremiason et al.
2006). Sulphate concentrations in the NEF during 2014 averaged 60.2 mg/L. This value compares
with average sulphate concentrations of 47.9, 32.2, 30.5, 60.0, 84.5 and 74.5 mg/L for the years
of 2008 through 2013, respectively. The optimal sulphate range for mercury methylation is 20 to
50 mg/L (Ullrich et al. 2001). Samples from control fen sites typically contain <0.1 mg/L of
sulphate.
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Ongoing elevated sulphate values observed for the NEF indicate that sulphate containing waters
are still draining to the NEF, most likely from the Mine Rock Stockpile and from well development
waters intermittently discharged to the Phase 1 Mine Water Settling Pond during part of 2014. It
is noteworthy that the ratio of filtered methyl mercury concentrations observed during the open
water period (July and October) between the NEF and the HgCON declined substantially in 2014
from peak values observed in 2011 and 2012 (Figure 5), indicating that mercury methylation rates
in the NEF may be attenuating. This effect could be the result of partial depletion of the small
stores of inorganic mercury originally present in the upper fen sediments. Alternatively, the buildup of sulphide (as opposed to sulphate) in fen sediments could be occurring to a point that is
beginning to inhibit mercury methylation (Benoit et al. 1999, Webb et al. 1998).
Further details regarding final effluent quality of the NEF are provided in De Beers Canada Inc.,
Victor Mine, Northeast Fen 2014 Annual Report per Condition 8(3) of Certificate of Approval
#4056-6W8QBU dated April 18, 2015. Data specific to mercury are provided in Mercury
Performance Monitoring 2014 Annual Report, as per Conditions 7(5) and 7(6) of Certificate of
Approval #3960-7Q4K2G, dated June, 2015.
De Beers is continuing to investigate the sources of sulphate loadings to the NEF, and methods
to reduce, or otherwise mitigate, such loadings. Details are provided in Section 5 of the Mercury
Performance Monitoring 2014 Annual Report, and in earlier annual mercury reports.
3.2.1.3
Well Field Discharge to the Attawapiskat River
Well field discharge to the Attawapiskat River (Final Discharge station) during the 2014 reporting
period was governed by C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G, dated March 13, 2009, and its predecessors.
This permit is linked to PTTW #6342-9NEJVH and its predecessors (PTTW #4647-9HKJ38,
#1810-99FHAD and #5521-8CSNK), which provide for a well field water taking of up to
130,000 m3/d together with a contingency taking of an additional 20,000 m3/d, for a maximum
total permissible taking of 150,000 m3/d.
During 2014, all final discharge data were consistent with permit limits (Table 13). From a total of
158 samples, the average TSS value for 2014 was 1.99 mg/L, far below the daily and monthly
permit limits of 30 mg/L and 15 mg/L respectively. The maximum daily TSS value in 2014 was
13.2 mg/L.
In terms of general trends, the data in Table 13 show that average TSS values continue to be low.
Values for pH increased somewhat until 2010, and have since stabilized averaging 7.71 in 2014.
Chloride concentrations have generally increased over time, although the average of 1,248 mg/L
for 2014 is slightly lower than that for 2013 (1,263 mg/L). The permit limit is 1,500 mg/L as a
monthly average. A gradual increase in chloride concentrations was predicted by the 2007
groundwater solute transport model (HCI 2007) as updated by the 2012 solute transport model
(Itasca 2012). The predicted increase is a function of drawing proportionately more water from
deeper formations as the open pit develops.
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Figure 6 provides more detailed data for the well field discharge and final discharge at the pump
house. This figure shows an overall gradual, but variable increase in well field chloride
concentrations with time. In addition to well field discharge water, the final discharge at the pump
house may contain a small portion of effluent from the fine PKC facility. During 2008 and 2009
fine PKC effluent discharge comprised approximately 5% of the discharge to the Attawapiskat
River. Since 2011 with greater recycle back to the processing plant, the fine PKC percentage
contribution to the total Attawapiskat River discharge has been zero to 1%.
Thus far, maximum chloride concentrations in the well field discharge have continued to be at or
below concentrations predicted in the CSR and subsequent provincial permitting, wherein chloride
concentrations were expected to peak at approximately 1,300 mg/L during 2010, before gradually
dropping back to about 800 mg/L at the end of the mine life, but with the potential for chloride
concentrations to go as high as 1,800 mg/L (HCI 2004). The revised solute transport model
predicts chloride concentrations will continue to increase to approximately 1,500 mg/L by late
2016 when the relative proportion of dewatering from the lower aquifer increases, and will remain
at this level until operations cease (Itasca 2012). This is in line with the CSR prediction which
stated that under more conservative assumptions of higher chloride concentrations at depth, well
field discharge chloride concentrations could be as high as 1,400 to 1,800 mg/L (HCI 2004).
Previous versions of FUPA stated a maximum of 1,900 mg/L (quoted from the CSR), but the CSR
contains a typographical error in stating 1,900 mg/L. The document that was referenced in the
CSR in relation to the maximum chloride concentration was HCI 2004, which shows a maximum
of 1,800 mg/L. The CSR and ECA provide for blending of discharge water with Attawapiskat River
water prior to final effluent discharge should chloride concentrations increase to levels above
1,500 mg/L as a monthly average.
Total ammonia concentrations in the well field discharge in 2014 averaged 0.97 mg/l with a
maximum of 1.85 mg/L (40 samples). Survival of rainbow trout and Daphnia magna in
standardized toxicity tests had passing results for all samples in 2014 and has remained at or
near 100% survival for all years.
Sampling of the well field discharge for mercury has been ongoing since November 2007. All
values for the period of November, 2007 to December, 2014 have remained low (well below
CEQG guidelines) for both total and methyl mercury, as shown in Table 14a and 14b. Filtered
total and methyl mercury concentrations in the well field discharge have thus far, on average,
been at or below background concentrations measured in the Attawapiskat River. There are no
evident temporal trends in the data and methyl mercury is at or below the detection limit.
Further details regarding the well field discharge are provided in Victor Mine Well Field Dewatering
Discharge, Annual Performance Report; January 2014 to December 2014 per Conditions 7(3) of
Certificate of Approval No. 3960-7Q4K2G dated April 15, 2015.
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DRAFT
Fine Processed Kimberlite Containment Facility
Operation of the PKC facility is governed by C. of A. #6909-76ZGYP. Final effluent from the PKC
facility is either re-circulated back to the process plant, discharged along with the well field water
to the Attawapiskat River (see above), or discharged to North Granny Creek (with seasonal and
flow restrictions in accordance with the C. of A.). In 2014, PKC facility effluent discharge did not
occur to the Attawapiskat River, but limited discharge did occur to North Granny Creek between
October 2 and November 8, during a period of high runoff and creek flow conditions
(Section 3.2.4.1). All discharges were consistent with C. of A. parameter concentration limits.
3.2.1.5
Sewage Treatment Plant
Operation of the VDM membrane bioreactor (MBR) sewage treatment plant (STP) is governed by
C. of A. #9003-6MHGXE, dated March 10, 2006. The plant consists of two separate MBRs; one
to service 650 persons, and a second parallel plant to service 230 persons. The 230 person MBR
remained on standby in 2014 (in case of required maintenance on the 650 person MBR). It was
put into service from April 22 to 25 while the 650 plant was undergoing maintenance. The final
effluent from the STP is monitored on a weekly basis for 5-day biological oxygen demand (BOD5),
TSS, total phosphorus, total ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, E. coli, pH, temperature and discharge
volume.
STP effluent performance for 2014 is summarized in Table 15. BOD5 and TSS did not exceed
either of their respective daily objective / limits or their monthly limits. The average total
phosphorus was within objective of 0.3 mg/L, with the exception of 6 results ranging from 0.34 to
7.84 mg/L. It is believed that these higher than normal total phosphorus value resulted from
temporary problems with the alum addition system. De Beers continued to use phosphate free
detergents for camp residents and at the site laundry through 2014, to help reduce phosphate
loadings.
Twenty-one of 53 ammonia nitrogen samples exceeded the daily objective of 2 mg/L with results
ranging from 2.17 to 19.20 mg/L. Twenty of 53 nitrate-nitrogen samples also exceeded the daily
objective of 10 mg/L with results ranging from 11.0 to 22.5 mg/L. Elevated concentrations of
ammonia and nitrate were the result of plant upsets and operating periods after membrane
changes.
As described in the applications for the STP approval and C. of A. #6909-76ZGYP (PKC facility),
the discharge point for the fully treated wastewater from the STP has been transferred from the
NEF to the PKC facility. Treated STP wastewater was directed to Cell #1 of the PKC facility
beginning on August 9, 2011. This PKC facility provides additional treatment and attenuation of
the treated effluent from the STP. For example, average annual ammonia-N for the fine PKC
facility measured 0.192 mg/L in 2014, compared with a value of 4.05 mg/L for the STP effluent.
Similarly, the average annual dissolved phosphorus concentration for the fine PKC facility
measured <0.05 mg/L in 2014, compared with a total phosphorus value of 0.337 mg/L for the STP
effluent. Fine PKC nitrate concentrations are not measured, but would be expected to show
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similar reductions. All effluent to the environment from the STP, by way of the fine PKC facility
were therefore fully consistent with STP final objectives and limits.
Further details pertaining to operational performance of the camp sewage treatment system are
provided in Camp Sewage Treatment Plant Annual Performance Report, January to December
2013 As Per Condition 9(6) of Certificate of Approval No. 9003-6MHGXE, submitted to MOE
Timmins District Office, March 28 2015.
3.2.1.6
Minor Point Source Discharges
There were no other minor point discharge sources in operation during 2014.
3.2.2
Stockpile Runoff and General Site Drainage
3.2.2.1
Stockpiles
Stockpiles in place as of the end of 2014 included:
A small overburden stockpile adjacent to the east side of the previous CQ developed from
stripping of the quarry during early 2006. Use of this material for progressive reclamation
of the FPK Cell #1 dykes began in 2014;
Linear stockpiles of muskeg along the margins of the site airstrip;
An overburden stockpile developed adjacent to the southwest margin of the open pit;
A larger overburden stockpile developed adjacent to the north and northeast margins of
the open pit;
A coarse PK stockpile being developed south of the plant site area; and
A mine rock stockpile being developed northwest of the open pit.
Stockpile locations are shown in Figure 2.
All stockpiles are monitored visually for erosion and subsequent migration of TSS. All stockpile
sites are separated from Granny Creek (the only proximal watercourse) by a minimum 200 m
perimeter zone of intact muskeg, with two exceptions. The first is in the area of the deep
overburden trench adjacent to North Granny Creek where the overburden stockpile has been
deliberately constructed closer to the creek to protect the creek against the potential for ground
settlement, as described in Section 6.4.3.2.1 of the CSR. The initially predicted rate of ground
settlement in this area, expected to result from mine dewatering, did not occur (Section 3.4.1.3).
The second exception to the 200 m buffer is in a short section southwest of the mine pit, where a
low overburden stockpile was placed against the north side of the diversion dike for the South
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Granny Creek channel re-alignment as an additional barrier against possible creek flood waters
from entering the mine pit.
Operating experience at the VDM has shown that muskeg buffers effectively remove TSS values
to very low levels of generally <5 mg/L and frequently to <2 mg/L, which is below background
values typically observed for the Granny Creek system.
Section 6.4.3.1.2 of the CSR provided for a buffer zone of intact muskeg surrounding mineral
waste stockpiles to manage the potential for offsite TSS migration, with such buffer zones to be
flanked with perimeter runoff collection ditches to allow for monitoring. Site experience during the
construction phase has shown that perimeter runoff collection ditches are generally not required
for water quality management (primarily for TSS control), and that such ditches would be
unnecessarily disruptive to the environment, as per the First Annual FUPA report. The only
exception to this statement is in relation to sulphate migration and mercury methylation, which
De Beers is currently investigating. Options are being investigated on how best to better control
sulphate drainages, to keep such drainage from contacting muskeg environments where
enhanced mercury methylation can occur.
3.2.2.2
General Site Drainage
In addition to point source discharge monitoring programs referenced in Section 3.2.1, water
quality of general area drainage is monitored at three ribbed fen stations located on or near the
VDM site (Stations MS-V1-R [also referenced as MS-2-R], MS-V2-R and MS-V3-R) as well as at
MS-8-R), and at several more remote sites (Figures 7a and 7b). Ribbed fen sites were selected
for comparison because ribbed fens, more than other muskeg types, tend to collect water from
surrounding drainages and therefore provide the most representative data on overall site
drainage.
Water quality data from the suite of ribbed fen sites is presented for mercury in Table 16 and for
a suite of general parameters in Table 17. C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G dated March 13, 2009 (and its
predecessors) provides for surface water sampling of total and methyl mercury from these and
other site area ribbed fen stations on a quarterly basis, except where prevented by frozen ground
conditions. In addition, to assist with data interpretation De Beers collects samples from these
same stations for analysis of chloride, conductivity, nitrate, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), pH,
sulphate, total phosphorus, calcium, iron, magnesium and sodium.
The data show low concentrations of both total and methyl mercury across all years, including
2014. Average annual total mercury values (filtered) ranged from 1.12 to 3.13 ng/L and average
methyl mercury concentrations (filtered) ranged from <0.02 to 0.07 ng/L. For comparison, the
CEQG values for total and methyl mercury for the protection of aquatic life are 26 and 4 ng/L,
respectively.
Analytical results from ribbed fen stations for chloride, conductivity, nitrate, DOC, pH, sulphate,
total phosphorus, calcium, iron, magnesium and sodium were broadly comparable among the
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different stations (Table 17). The only stations that stand out are MS-8R and to a lesser extent
MS-13R. Station MS-8R shows variably elevated concentrations of chloride, sulphate,
magnesium and sodium compared with the other stations. MR-S13 shows generally lower values
for pH and higher values for DOC compared with the other stations. The data for MS-8R suggest
that this station is periodically influenced by groundwater upwellings. There were likely natural
groundwater upwellings in the immediate vicinity of MS-8R in the predevelopment condition, but
this condition was reversed by mine dewatering in 2009, and the area remains under-drained
(Figure 7a). Variable data for MS-8R since 2009 may therefore be the result of fen track drainages
which originate further to the west, outside of the influence of mine dewatering.
3.2.3
Receiving Water Quality
3.2.3.1
Granny Creek System
Water quality in the Granny Creek system is monitored at eight locations at various frequencies
for multiple parameters as shown in Figure 8 and Table 18. The data are compared against
PWQO and CEQG for the protection of aquatic life. Throughout 2014, these provincial and federal
water quality guidelines were met for all parameters with the exception of pH, cadmium, cobalt,
copper, iron, and silver. Exceedances are described below:
Values for pH exceeded the lower value of PWQO and CEQG at five stations in 2014.
Regionally low background pH values are typical due to the nature of muskeg terrain.
Cadmium values exceeded PWQO and CEQG values in one of seven samples from North
Granny Creek downstream of the NEF, and in one of 12 samples for South Granny Creek
upstream of the SWF.
Elevated iron values were of frequent occurrence at all stations due principally to high
DOC values. This is a background condition that was observed during the pre-mining
baseline condition, and is currently observed at both upstream and downstream stations.
Cobalt concentrations occurred above PWQO at two stations (North Granny Creek
upstream of the confluence, and South Granny Creek upstream of SWF) on three
occasions (total) in 2014, with at least one of these values being associated with an
exceptionally high TSS value (downstream of the site at North Granny Creek (upstream
of the confluence). Lead occurred above CEQG on one occasion and silver was above
PWQO and CEQG on one occasion (same sample).
The occasional exceedances for cadmium, cobalt, lead and zinc were slightly above guideline
values.
Mercury has received specific attention at the VDM because of concerns expressed over the
potential adverse effects of mine dewatering on local wetland (muskeg) systems, and associated
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mercury chemical dynamics. Total and methyl mercury concentrations in the Granny Creek
system during 2014 were consistent with PWQO and CEQG, as shown in Table 18.
More detailed data pertaining to total and methyl mercury concentrations within the Granny Creek
system are provided in Tables 19 through 22 and their associated trend graphs.
Average total mercury concentrations in 2014 for North and South Granny Creeks varied from
2.60 to 3.01 ng/L for unfiltered samples (Table 19), and from 1.61 to 1.84 ng/L for filtered samples
(Table 20). These concentrations are well below the total mercury CEQG value for the protection
of aquatic life (26 ng/L). Average total mercury concentrations in 2014 are very similar for
upstream and downstream samples in both creek branches. The graphs included with Table 19
and Table 20 also demonstrate that while total mercury concentrations can vary substantively
throughout the year due to seasonal and hydrological effects, there are no evident long-term
trends for total mercury in the comparison of upstream to downstream stations for either North or
South Granny Creeks.
Methyl mercury concentrations for unfiltered and filtered samples collected from upstream and
downstream in South and North Granny Creek, are shown in Tables 11 and 12. The values are
again variable, depending on seasonal and hydrologic influences. However, and unlike total
mercury (where there is no evident trend between upstream and downstream stations) the trend
of elevated downstream methyl mercury concentrations in North Granny Creek appears to have
stabilized (Tables 11 and 12). While elevated methyl mercury concentrations are noted in
downstream North Granny Creek waters (averaging 2.4 times background over all of the years
sampled); these values are still very low and well below the federal guideline (CEQG) of 4 ng/L.
Long-term average upstream and downstream South Granny Creek methyl mercury values are
very similar: <0.05 ng/L for the upstream station for filtered values, and <0.07 ng/L for
corresponding downstream values (Table 11).
Downstream increases in North Granny Creek methyl mercury appear to be related to sulphate
drainages associated with the mine site area. These drainages occur primarily in association with
the NEF, and are not believed to be linked to muskeg dewatering effects, as all available evidence
shows that the peat horizons in the general mine site area continue to be saturated (AMEC Foster
Wheeler 2015a). Sulphate drainage effects are localized.
3.2.3.2
Nayshkootayaow River
Water quality in the Nayshkootayaow River system is monitored quarterly at three separate
locations (Figure 8) for parameters shown in Table 18. As with the Granny Creek system, the data
are compared against PWQO and CEQG values for the protection of aquatic life. Throughout
2014, provincial and federal water quality guidelines were met for all parameters except iron
(several occasions), and silver (one occasion), (Table 18). Iron showed regular exceedances in
2014, as it has in all past years including the predevelopment baseline condition. Elevated iron
concentrations are indicative of natural conditions, and are not a function of mine-related
influences.
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Total and methyl mercury results for the Nayshkootayaow River are shown in Tables 23 and 24.
All values are very low, consistent across the stations, and well within CEQG values. Graphical
data are presented in Figure 9. Filtered results for all stations were comparable and well within
the range of historical data for the respective stations, indicating no effect on background mercury
concentrations for either total or methyl mercury.
In addition to being well below the CEQG of 4 ng/L for the protection of aquatic life, methyl mercury
concentrations in the Nayshkootayaow River were also at or below the bioaccumulation threshold
of 0.05 ng/L for filtered methyl mercury samples cited by the United States Environmental
Protection Agency (US EPA 1997) for the protection of fish-eating wildlife species such as Bald
Eagle and River Otter.
3.2.3.3
Attawapiskat River
Water quality in the Attawapiskat River system is monitored at four separate locations (Figure 8),
for parameters and frequencies (monthly or quarterly), shown in Table 18. As with the Granny
Creek and Nayshkootayaow River systems, data are compared against PWQO and CEQG values
for the protection of aquatic life. Throughout 2014 provincial and federal water quality guidelines
were met for all parameters with the exception of regular exceedances for iron and the minor
exceedances summarized below:
One exceedance each of chromium (PWQO) at two of the Attawapiskat stations (AR-US
upstream of site, and AR-DS downstream of site);
One exceedance each of silver (PWQO) at two of the Attawapiskat stations (AR-US of
site, and AR-DS of site);
Three exceedances of lead (CEQG) at two of the Attawapiskat stations (two at AR-US of
site, and one at AR-DS of site), with one of the upstream values also exceeding PWQO;
and
One exceedance of copper at the AR-DS site, associated with an elevated TSS value that
exceeded both CEQG and PWQO thresholds.
Total and methyl mercury results for the Attawapiskat River are shown in Tables 23 and 24, along
with results for the Nayshkootayaow River. Graphical data are presented in Figure 9 for filtered
samples. All values are generally low, consistent across the stations, and well within CEQG
values. The 2014 filtered and unfiltered results were consistently within the historical ranges for
each station, again indicating no effect on background mercury concentrations for either total or
methyl mercury in the Attawapiskat River.
Methyl mercury concentrations in the Attawapiskat River were also at or below the
bioaccumulation threshold of 0.05 ng/L for filtered methyl mercury samples cited by the US EPA
1997 for the protection of fish-eating wildlife species such as Bald Eagle and River Otter.
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3.2.4
DRAFT
Creek and River Flows
Local creek and river flows are monitored to confirm maintenance and function of aquatic habitat
in relation to mine dewatering effects (Granny Creek system and Nayshkootayaow River), and
also to aid in the assessment of mine-related wastewater discharge effects on local receiving
waters (Granny Creek system and Attawapiskat River).
3.2.4.1
Granny Creek System
Granny Creek is a small watershed with a total catchment area of 91.6 km2, measured at flow
monitoring station 04FC011, just upstream of its confluence with Nayshkootayaow River
(Figure 10). Flows for Granny Creek are measured in each branch of the creek (North and South
Granny Creeks – Stations NG-001 and SG-001, respectively), just above their mutual confluence,
and in the Granny Creek main channel just below the confluence of the two creek branches
(Station 04FC011). Stations NG-001 and SG-001 were set up in September 2005. Station
04FC011 was established in June 2000.
Water level data from the three creek stations are measured continuously using pressure
transducers and data loggers, with water levels being converted to flows through comparisons
with site specific flow / water level rating curves. Manual measurements are taken monthly in
winter when there is ice cover because rating curves are not accurate under ice cover. Monthly
and mean annual flow data for the 04FC011 Station are shown in Table 25 for the period of record,
with detailed (daily) flow data shown in Figure 11 for the period of 2006 through 2014. Comparable
data are also available for Stations NG-001 and SG-001, but are not shown here.
Data gaps have historically occurred due to sensor damage or malfunctions with most damage
occurring in association with ice movement. System modifications were made in 2008 to improve
overall system reliability. The telemetered systems provide real time stage values, which are
converted to discharge.
The data show marked seasonal extremes in flow - from effectively zero flow in late winter in
some years (2004, 2007 and 2008), to flows in excess of 100,000 m3/d during spring melt
conditions and in association with some wet fall conditions. Average flows for October to
December in 2014 were higher than typical. The peak spring freshet occurred in May, which is
consistent with most other years. Flows were lower than average throughout much of the rest of
the year. Flow supplementation has been provided to the Granny Creek system, starting in
October 2008, in accordance with provincial permitting requirements as discussed below. The
measured average annual flow of 63,830 m3/d for 2014 was slightly above the average for years
2009 through 2013 (58,149 m3/d) when flow supplementation also occurred.
In addition to the three creek flow monitoring stations, six water level recording stations were also
established (three on each creek branch upstream of flow Stations NG-001 and SG-001). These
water level recording stations were set up between October, 2006 and January, 2007, and their
purpose is to monitor creek water levels (and inferred fish habitat availability) in upstream creek
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areas where the channel profile and velocity are not suitable for flow measurement (channel
gradient too flat, channel too poorly defined, and flows obstructed by frequent beaver dams).
Creek water levels are measured continuously using pressure transducers and data loggers, the
same as for creek flow monitoring stations, augmented by manual monthly winter measurements
when there is ice cover. Water level data for the Granny Creek stations are provided in Figures 12
and Figure 13. No long-term trends are evident in the data for either creek branch. Occasional
elevated readings are seen as a result of increased pressure on transducers from ice build-up.
In terms of overall system management objectives, commitments were made through the CSR
and through the provincial permitting process to protect Granny Creek against mine dewatering
flow reduction effects that could potentially effect fish and fish habitat. In the winter of 2008, a flow
supplementation pipeline system was constructed to ensure that minimum flow thresholds are
maintained in Granny Creek to protect creek fisheries resources (Figure 14). The pipeline system
draws water from the Attawapiskat River and is capable of providing up to 8,000 m3/d of added
flow to each of North and South Granny Creeks.
System operation is governed by PTTW #6342-9NEJVH, which provides for a minimum flow
supplementation rate during the winter months (December 1 to the onset of the spring melt of the
following year) of 2,000 m3/d to each of North and South Granny Creeks. During the non-winter
(open water) months flows in Granny Creek, as measured at the creek confluence flow station
04FC011, are to be maintained at a minimum threshold of not less than 16,000 m3/d. Flow
supplementation occurred during the entire first quarter of 2014 and continued until May 14, 2014,
when discharge exceeded 16,000 m3/d. Flow supplementation in 2014 also occurred from
June 30 to September 4, and commenced again on October 31 and continued for the remainder
of the year.
A flow measurement station on Tributary 5A was established in June 2007 as a control station for
the Granny Creek system. This creek is located outside of the potential zone of mine dewatering
effects and drains to Tributary 5, which in turn drains to the Nayshkootayaow River from the south
bank, south of the VDM site. Tributary 5A has a watershed area of 29.9 km2, and is broadly
comparable to each principal branch of the Granny Creek system in size and form. The monitoring
system on Tributary 5A consists of one flow monitoring station (Station TRIB-5A), and two water
level recording stations (Stations TRIB5A-U/S and TRIB5A-D/S), (Figure 10). Flows and water
levels at these stations during 2008 to 2014 were monitored in the same way as for the Granny
Creek system.
Winter flows for Tributary 5A in 2014 were effectively zero (Table 26), indicating that winter flows
for the Granny Creek system were artificially maintained above a zero flow threshold by flow
supplementation. Tributary 5A flows for the other months, when prorated to a watershed area of
91.6 km2, were proportionately higher in the months of May, June, September and October, and
proportionately lower in July, August, November and December. Granny Creek flows were
supplemented during these latter four months in 2014.
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3.2.4.2
DRAFT
Nayshkootayaow River
The Nayshkootayaow River is a moderate sized river system with a total watershed area of
2,180 km2. Four flow monitoring stations have been established on the river: two upstream of the
VDM site (Stations NR-001 and NR-002), one opposite the mine site (Station 04FC010) and one
station further downstream (NR-003), (Figure 10). Station 04FC010 was established in June
2000, as part of the initial baseline study program. Stations NR-001, NR-002 and NR-003 were
set up in May 2004, August 2006 and May 2004, respectively.
As with the Granny Creek flow stations, water level data from the four river stations are measured
continuously using pressure transducers and data loggers, with water levels being converted to
flows through comparisons with site specific flow / water level rating curves. Manual
measurements are taken monthly in winter, as for the Granny Creek system. Monthly and mean
annual flow data for the 04FC010 Station are shown in Table 27 for the period of record, with
detailed (daily) flow data shown in Figure 15 for the period of 2006 through 2014.
The data for 2014 show below average flows for January to April, followed by above average
flows in May and June, below average flows in July and August, and above average flows for the
remainder of the year. Overall, average flows for the year were comparable to those of other
years.
A flow supplementation system was installed in the winter of 2007 to manage the potential for
Nayshkootayaow River flow reductions resulting from well field dewatering and was functional as
of 2008. The flow supplementation system involved construction of an approximately 11.3 km
long buried pipeline, connecting to the Attawapiskat River pumphouse, and capable of delivering
up to 28,000 m3/d of flow supplementation water from the Attawapiskat River to the
Nayshkootayaow River, by way of Tributary 3. The capacity of the system is more than sufficient
to offset predicted well field induced flow losses to the Nayshkootayaow River system, with flow
supplementation expected to be solely, or mainly, used in the winter months, when
Nayshkootayaow River flows are typically at their lowest under natural conditions.
Flow supplementation for the winter of 2013/2014 began on October 27, 2013 and ended May 14,
2014. Flow supplementation also occurred during a low precipitation period in the summer, from
July 28 to August 4, 2014, and again from August 12 to September 4, 2014. Supplementation
began again on October 31, 2014 in preparation for the 2014/2015 winter.
3.2.4.3
Attawapiskat River
Attawapiskat River flows opposite the VDM site are calculated by prorating flows from Water
Survey of Canada (WSC) Station 04FC001 located upstream on the Attawapiskat River, just
below its confluence with the Muketei River. The watershed area at the WSC station measures
36,000 km2, whereas north of the VDM site, the Attawapiskat River has a watershed area of
43,500 km2. Flow data for Station 04FC001 was available from Environment Canada (EC) for the
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period of 1968 to 2014 at the time this report was prepared. Calculated river flows opposite the
VDM site for period of 2006 through 2014 are shown in Figure 16.
River flow data show a pattern consistent with other regional hydrologic systems. The
Attawapiskat River demonstrates low winter flows, followed by a strong peak during the spring
freshet, reduced summer flows and a generally smaller fall peak flow. This pattern continued for
2014.
3.2.4.4
North River
Groundwater modeling conducted as part of the federal EA process initially indicated a potential
for well field dewatering to adversely affect flows in the North River later in the mine life.
Consequently, two continuous flow monitoring stations were set up in October, 2004 and
September, 2005 on the North River (i.e., Stations NT-001 and NT-002, respectively). As with
stations on the Granny Creek and Nayshkootayaow River systems, flows at the North River
stations were initially measured continuously and supported by manual monthly flow
measurements in winter.
The June, 2007 and March, 2008 groundwater model updates each showed that well field
dewatering was not expected to adversely affect flows in the North River so regular monitoring of
those locations ceased. Historic data are available on request.
3.2.5
Fish Habitat
3.2.5.1
Granny Creek System
Well field pumping has the potential to adversely affect Granny Creek flows and water levels, and
hence the availability of fish habitat through the interception of waters which would otherwise drain
to the creek as runoff and shallow groundwater seepage, as well as through direct seepage losses
from the creek itself. During 2014, well field pumping was carried out at an average rate of
79,300 m3/d, which is considerably less than the 130,000 m3/d (plus a 20,000 m3/d contingency)
allowed for by PTTW #6342-9NEJVH.
Granny Creek flow and water level data are discussed in Section 3.2.4.1. Granny Creek flows for
2014 showed strong seasonal variations; with a freshet in May, and a drier summer and wetter
autumn compared against long-term averages (Table 25). While creek flows varied substantially,
creek water levels and available fish habitat tended to be much less variable and were broadly
consistent from year to year and throughout the seasons. This is due to the flat terrain and the
effects of beaver impoundments (Figures 12 and 13). Habitat constraints occur in winter under
ice cover, when substantial portions of the creek can freeze to or near the bottom, which is a
natural occurrence. During the winter, it appears that fish species (principally minnow species)
retreat to deeper over-wintering pools.
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As described in Section 3.2.4.1, Granny Creek flows are supplemented by water pumped from
the Attawapiskat River, to help maintain fish habitat. The flow supplementation system provides
for: 1) maintaining Granny Creek non-winter flows, as measured at the Granny Creek confluence
station 04FC011 above the 3-year return period summer low flow month threshold of 16,000 m3/d;
and 2) providing flow supplementation to each of the two main creek branches (North and South
Granny Creeks) at a rate of not less than 2,000 m3/d during the winter period.
With supplementation, Granny Creek fish habitat functions were preserved throughout the 2014
reporting period, as per PTTW #6342-9NEJVH. Winter flow was maintained in these creeks, while
the reference Tributary 5A naturally froze to the point that there was no measurable flow for much
of the winter.
3.2.5.2
Nayshkootayaow River
Nayshkootayaow River flows experienced lower than typical flows from January to April, a later
than typical spring freshet, low flows in July and August and higher flows during the remainder of
the year (Table 27). The principal concern for Nayshkootayaow River flows in relation to mine
dewatering is for low flow conditions, when there is a potential to reduce natural river flows by
greater than 15%. The Nayshkootayaow River flow supplementation system (installed during the
winter of 2007) is designed to offset any significant mine dewatering effects to the river during low
flow conditions. Accordingly, flow supplementation to the Nayshkootayaow River during the winter
of 2014 was provided at an average rate of approximately 17,400 to 20,100 m3/d. The 17,400 m3/d
value is the HCI-Itasca 2008 model predicted flow loss to the Nayshkootayaow River that is
expected to develop as a result of well field dewatering at the maximum predicted mine
dewatering rate of 130,000 m3/d. The 17,400 m3/day value was subsequently revised to
approximately 11,000 m3/d in the 2012 model update (Itasca 2012). Winter flow supplementation
began on October 27, 2013 and ceased on May 4, 2014. Flow supplementation rates during the
winter of 2013/2014 were maintained above the 17,400 m3/day supplementation threshold.
Threshold flow rates in Nayshkootayaow River were above required amounts.
Non-winter flow supplementation was initiated on July 28, 2014 and continued until August 4.
Supplementation began again on August 12, and continued until September 4. Supplementation
began again on October 31 and continued for the remainder of the year. Consequently, there was
no observed adverse effect of well field dewatering on Nayshkootayaow River fish habitat during
the reporting period.
3.2.6
Benthos and Fisheries Resources
The federal Environmental Effects Monitoring (EEM) program is a requirement of the Metal Mining
Effluent Regulations (MMER). The EEM is a science-based program designed to assess the
effects, if any, of effluent discharges on fish and aquatic habitat, including effects on benthic
organisms. Although the VDM is not a metal mine and is not legally subject to the MMER, during
the federal EA for the mine, De Beers made a commitment to conduct a biological monitoring
program that would be consistent with the federal EEM program. The frequency of assessment
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was established to coincide with the aquatic monitoring schedule set out by the MOECC as part
of C. of A. #6909-76ZGYP (for Granny Creek) and C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G (for the Attawapiskat
River), federal EEM guidance documents (every three years), and the occurrence of effluent
discharge from the PKC facility to NGC in a particular year (applicable to C. of A. #6909-76ZGYP).
The first EEM cycle monitoring program for the Granny Creek system commenced during the fall
of 2011. The second EEM cycle monitoring program for the Granny Creek system was carried
out in 2014 as part of an expected sequential cycle of monitoring to be continued into the future
at three year intervals, with an emphasis on benthic invertebrate communities and supporting
environmental variables in reference and near-field exposure areas (Amec Foster Wheeler
2015b).
The first EEM cycle monitoring program for the Attawapiskat River was conducted in the fall of
2008 with second and third cycle programs being carried out in the 2011 and 2014, respectively.
Additional aquatic system sampling for fisheries occurs in relation to the Victor Mine mercury
performance monitoring program, as per Conditions 7(5) and 7(6) of C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G.
This program includes annual sampling of small fish from Granny Creek, the Nayshkootayaow
River and the Attawapiskat River, and sampling at three year intervals for large fish from the
Nayshkootayaow and Attawapiskat River systems and from Monument Channel (Amec Foster
Wheeler 2015c). Monument Channel is a remote control site near the community of Attawapiskat.
Specific aquatic resource studies/reports that were completed in 2014 are the following:
2014 Aquatic Environmental Effects Assessment and Benthic Invertebrate Monitoring
Study, De Beers Victor Mine, North Granny Creek Receiving Waters, as per Condition 8(6)
of Certificate of Approval #6909-76ZGYP, (issued May 2015),
2014 Aquatic Environmental Effects Monitoring Study, De Beers Victor Mine, Attawapiskat
River Receiving Waters, as per Condition 6(16) of Certificate of Approval #3960-7Q4K2G
(issued May 2015), and;
De Beers Canada Inc. Victor Mine Mercury Performance Monitoring 2014 Annual Report
as Per Conditions 7(5) and 7(6) of Certificate of Approval #3960-7Q4K2G (AMEC 2015d
issued June 2015);
The following sections summarize the details of these reports.
3.2.6.1
EEM Studies
Granny Creek System
Water quality, sediment quality and the benthic invertebrate community data for 2014 were
assessed at a near-field exposure area of North Granny Creek (NGC), and at an upstream
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reference area of NGC between October 5 and 7, 2014 (Figure 17). The reference and exposure
areas were located as follows:
Five replicate control stations were situated approximately 1.3 km upstream of the PKC
facility discharge and downstream of the point of discharge for supplementation flow in
NGC and were grouped as NGC-REF (Figure 17).
Five replicate stations were situated directly downstream of the PKC facility discharge
point in NGC (upstream of the NEF) and were grouped as the exposure area (NGC-EXP)
(Figure 17).
Generally, all parameters achieved PWQO and CWQG values at all replicate sampling stations
with a few exceptions. Sediment composition was also generally comparable between exposure
and reference areas and provided similar habitats with respect to benthic invertebrates, with no
indication of an increase in metals concentrations within sediments in the depositional area
downstream of the PKC facility discharge, when compared to the upstream reference area.
Total invertebrate density (TID) and family richness for benthos were greater at the exposure
area, when compared to the reference, in both 2011 and 2014. The difference in these endpoints
is in a direction which infers a potential increase in biodiversity and abundance in the receiving
environment. The observed increase in invertebrate density and family richness for benthos in
the downstream exposure area, compared with the upstream reference site, is believed most
likely to be an effect of slight differences in habitat availability and the relative level of total organic
matter, rather than a response to the PKC facility discharge. The expected timing for the next
monitoring cycle is 2017. Further details are presented in the De Beers Victor Mine, North Granny
Creek Receiving Waters, 2014 Aquatic Environmental Effects Assessment and Benthic
Invertebrate Monitoring Study, as Per Condition 8(6) of Certificate Of Approval #6909-76ZGYP.
Attawapiskat River
Monitoring during 2014 was undertaken between September 24 and October 9 at five replicate
stations within each of the Attawapiskat River near-field and far-field exposure areas, and at two
reference areas for comparisons of water and sediment quality, and benthic invertebrate and fish
communities. The second Attawapiskat River reference area (ATT-REF2) was added to the
program in 2014. This station is located on the north shore of the river, parallel to the discharge
location and near-field exposure area. It is separated from the well field discharge location by an
approximate 1,000 m cross-channel section of river and a chain of mid-channel islands, and is
not influenced in any way by the well field discharge.
Receiving water effluent characterization information indicated that the mixing of well field effluent
in the river occurs within less than 100 m of the discharge point, and that the near-field and farfield exposure areas are within the 1% effluent concentration threshold required by EEM.
Surface water chloride levels within the near-field and far-field exposure areas remained elevated
above background in 2014, as in previous years, but were well below the 120 mg/L federal
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guideline criterion for the protection of aquatic life, for long-term exposure. Concentrations of other
solutes (sulphate, sodium and potassium) were also elevated. Of these parameters only sulphate
has an associated protection of aquatic life guideline value, which has been developed for British
Columbia. There are no applicable Ontario of federal guidelines for the protection of aquatic life
for sulphate. Sulphate concentrations in the Attawapiskat River were well below the applicable
British Columbia value for the protection of aquatic life (216 mg/L for waters with hardness of 31 to
75 mg/L). The observed increases in chloride, sulphate, sodium and potassium in the downstream
river exposure areas is a direct result of the mine effluent discharge. Values are below
concentrations predicted in the CSR.
Sediment substrates and total organic carbon sampled at ATT-REF2 were more comparable to
the near-field and far-field exposure areas, than were those of the historic upstream reference
area (ATT-US) in 2014. Sediment metal concentrations at exposure areas were similar to those
of reference areas.
Total invertebrate density (TID) was greater in the Attawapiskat River near-field exposure area
compared to both reference areas in 2014; however, this result was not identified in past cycles
of the study. The greater TID in the near-field area was not accompanied by a decrease in the
percent Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera (EPT), or an increase in the percent chironomids
when compared to the upstream reference area. Family richness was greater at the near-field
exposure area, but only when compared to the upstream reference area. Family richness was
greater at the near-field exposure area in each of 2011 and 2014. The Bray-Curtis Index (BCI)
was significantly different between ATT-REF2 and each of the exposure areas in 2014, indicating
dissimilar communities. The BCI dissimilarity between ATT-US and ATT-FF was not confirmed
through two cycles (2008 and 2014), and is therefore not demonstrative of an effect as defined
by EEM protocols. Communities at ATT-NF and ATT-US were significantly dissimilar in each of
2011 and 2014, but the magnitude of these effects remained well below the Critical Effect Size
(CES) as provided in the Metal Mining Environmental Effects Monitoring Technical Guidelines
(EC 2012).
Trout-Perch remained the most abundant small-bodied fish species available at near shore areas
of the Attawapiskat River in 2014, similar to previous years. Mottled Sculpin were also captured
as a secondary sentinel species in 2014.
Mottled Sculpin (Young-of-the-Year [YOY] and age 1+) as compared between ATT-NF and
ATT-REF2 were similar for all endpoint descriptors except for the age 1+ condition which was
greater at ATT-REF2 in 2014.
YOY Trout-Perch were slightly smaller in the near-field exposure areas when compared to
ATT-REF2, but larger than the same species at ATT-US. Size was similar between the ATT-REF2
area and ATT-FF. As such, near-field YOY Trout-Perch fall between the upstream reference area
and the adjacent reference area for size, potentially indicating natural variability for this species
within the system.
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Age 1 + Trout-Perch had similar length frequency distributions between each of ATT-REF2,
ATT-NF and ATT-FF, and mean length, weight and age were also similar between these areas.
Trout-Perch condition (weight at length) and growth (weight at age) were similar between ATT-FF
and ATT-REF2 indicating no geographical extent of effect. Condition and growth were greater at
ATT-REF2 than ATT-NF in 2014, but ATT-NF and ATT-FF were not significantly different. The
near-field area was also similar with respect to age 1+ Trout-Perch condition and growth when
compared to ATT-US and therefore considering all lines of evidence, an effect on condition and
growth of 1+ Trout-Perch by the effluent discharge has not been demonstrated.
The next (fourth) cycle of sampling is scheduled to be conducted in 2017 to investigate potential
changes in the receiving water environment
3.2.6.2
Fish Body Burden Mercury Studies
As per C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G, the mercury performance monitoring program includes analysis
of both large-bodied and small bodied fish. Large-bodied sport fish are to be sampled from the
Attawapiskat River, Nayshkootayaow River and Monument Channel at three-year intervals to
investigate mercury body burden concentrations. Large-bodied fish were last sampled in 2013;
hence there are no results to report for 2014. Northern Pike (Esox lucius) is targeted as the
sentinel large-bodied piscivorous species for body burden mercury analysis.
Small-bodied fish are sampled annually to determine body burden mercury concentrations, and
in 2014 were sampled from:
North Granny Creek (NGC);
South Granny Creek (SGC);
Control Tributary 5A (ST-5A);
Nayshkootayaow River (downstream of the Granny Creek confluence, NAY-DS6); and
from
Four stations on the Attawapiskat River (upstream of the mine site, ATT-US;
approximately 500 m downstream of the well field discharge, ATT-NF; approximately 2 km
downstream of the well field discharge point, ATT-FF; and the north shore of the river,
parallel to the discharge location, ATT-REF2).
Sampling areas in the Attawapiskat River upstream of the mine site and at ATT-REF2, in the
Nayshkootayaow River upstream of Tributary 3, and at Tributary 5A serve as reference (control)
areas to near-field and far-field areas located downstream of the mine site and discharge
locations. The presence of Pearl Dace (Margariscus margarita) is adequate to allow for
comparisons for small-bodied fish between North Granny Creek, South Granny Creek and
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Tributary 5A. A second small-bodied species, Trout-Perch (Percopsis omiscomaycus), is used to
compare upstream and downstream Attawapiskat and Nayshkootayaow River locations.
Large-bodied and small-bodied fish are collected from the above mentioned locations using the
techniques of electroshocking, minnow trapping, angling and gill netting, as appropriate.
Detailed mercury analyses for large-bodied fish are presented in the 2013 Annual Mercury
Performance Monitoring Report (AMEC 2014). Small-bodied fish tissue data are provided in the
2014 Annual Mercury Performance Monitoring Report (Amec Foster Wheeler 2015d).
For small bodied fish, to compare total mercury body burden levels between sites and years, a
Before-After-Control-Impact (BACI) design was used with analysis of covariance (ANCOVA)
incorporating total length as the covariate. Both length and weight were used in 2014. Interactions
between period (year) and site (control impact) were analyzed for significance to determine if an
effect due to the mine was evident (as indicated by a significant interaction term). In addition,
trends in mercury levels over time were assessed using a Generalized Additive Model (GAM;
Zuur et al. 2009) for small-bodied fish. The GAM is a useful approach that can deal with nonlinear data and provide statistical tests to determine if change over time has occurred.
Due to the tendency of mercury body burden values to increase as fish grow, and the difficulty in
obtaining similar length fish across all years, fish length was added to the model. Where significant
differences were observed (overall alpha = 0.05) a post-hoc comparison test of the treatment
groups was performed to help identify the nature of the differences. Where applicable, a
Bonferroni correction was applied to adjust for multiple comparisons for each species.
Granny Creek System
In general, mercury levels in Pearl Dace increased between 2009 and 2014 for fish from NGC
and SGC when corrected for total length; whereas mercury levels remained essentially the same
for Pearl Dace from ST5A. The increase between 2009 and 2014 was statistically significant for
Pearl Dace from South Granny Creek (SGC), but not for NGC.
The GAM for Pearl Dace showed an increase in body burden mercury concentrations for fish from
NGC since 2008 specific to a standardized fish size of 60 mm, with a peak reached in 2011 and
2012, followed by gradual reduction through 2013 and 2014 (Figure 18). For SGC the trend
analysis showed near steady state conditions from 2008 through 2012, but an increasing trend
thereafter through 2013 and 2014. ST-5A showed a very slight increase in Pearl Dace body
burden mercury concentrations from 2008 to 2014. A comparison of body burden mercury
concentrations for Pearl Dace from Granny Creek and Tributary 5A for both age classes pooled,
from 2008 to 2014, showed a trend similar to that observed by the GAM model.
Overall, the trend to decreasing body burden mercury concentrations in Pearl Dace from NGC
observed in 2013 and 2014 is encouraging, and may reflect stabilizing filtered methyl mercury
concentrations observed in downstream NGC (Table 22). The trend to increasing body burden
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mercury concentrations in Pearl Dace for SGC, on the other hand, is of potential concern and is
in some instances is difficult to distinguish from background concentrations and the effects of
seasonal variation. Downstream SGC filtered methyl mercury values increased to levels close to
those of NGC in 2013, but declined to background levels in 2014 (Table 21). There does not
appear to be an association between SGC Pearl Dace body burden mercury concentrations and
downstream SGC methyl mercury concentrations. Methyl mercury is the mercury species most
readily taken up by fish.
At least part of the explanation as to why body burden mercury concentrations have increased in
aged 1+ years Pearl Dace from SGC may rest with the size and age of the 1+ year fish from SGC.
Pearl Dace aged 1 + years captured at SGC were older and larger than their counterparts from
NGC in 2014. No YOY Pearl Dace were captured from SGC in 2014. This age and size
discrepancy occurred despite the utilization of comparable fishing techniques and efforts for both
creeks. As such, no selectivity bias toward larger size or age was introduced through sampling
and the reasons for such differences are not fully understood. Greater success in capturing this
species in these water bodies has been found earlier in the field season (late August to midSeptember), prior to substantial reductions in water temperature.
With regard to the cause of increased body burden mercury concentrations in Pearl Dace from
the Granny Creek system compared with baseline conditions and the Tributary 5A control system,
the root cause is believed to be enhanced mercury methylation within the lower portion of the
Granny Creek watershed linked to sulphate release, as described in Section 3.2.1.2. De Beers is
continuing to investigate the sources and options for controlling sulphate discharges to the
muskeg, which appear to increase the bacterial activity that converts naturally occurring trace
levels of metallic mercury to the more mobile methylated form.
Nayshkootayaow River and Attawapiskat River
Small-Bodied Fish
The high water conditions in 2014 prevented the capture of Trout Perch from the upstream
Nayshkootayaow River station. Trout Perch were, however, captured from the Nayshkootayaow
River downstream station prior to the high water conditions. Upstream / downstream comparisons
of Trout Perch body burden mercury concentrations were therefore not possible for the
Nayshkootayaow River in 2014. Trout Perch body burden mercury concentrations for fish from
the downstream Nayshkootayaow River station have declined slightly from values first observed
in 2008 through 2010, and have remained essentially stable (Figure 19) indicating no effect of
mining operations on Trout Perch in the Nayshkootayaow River. Trout Perch body burden
mercury concentrations from the Nayshkootayaow River were also comparable to those of the
Attawapiskat River stations described below.
Trout-Perch were compared from the Attawapiskat River approximately 9 km upstream of the
mine site (ATT-US), the Attawapiskat River 250 m downstream of the well-field discharge
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(ATT-NF), and the Attawapiskat River 2.5 km downstream of the well-field discharge (ATT-FF)
(Figure 20).
A comparison of Trout Perch body burden mercury levels for the Attawapiskat River between
2009 and 2014 (baseline versus present) showed a significant decrease for fish from the ATT-NF
site, a slight decrease for fish from the ATT-FF site, and a slight increase for fish from the ATT-US
site (Figure 21). The latter differences were not statistically significant.
Results for Attawapiskat River Trout Perch for a standardized length of 50 mm were fairly similar
across all years, with total mercury values from all areas staying relatively constant. At ATT-NF
there was an increase in 2009 which then levelled off from 2010 to 2014. At ATT-FF and ATT-US,
total mercury concentrations were slightly higher in 2008 and 2009, but began to decrease
following 2009 (Figure 22). When separated by age class, body burden mercury concentrations
for Trout Perch from the Attawapiskat River also remained relatively consistent from 2008 to 2014
for both YOY and age 1+ fish (Figures 23 and 24), with the exception of 2009 for age 1+ fish when
mercury concentrations were lower.
The data collected thus far, when viewed in their entirety, show that there has not been a minerelated effect on small fish body burden mercury concentrations within the Attawapiskat River.
3.3
Groundwater Systems
3.3.1
Groundwater Pumping Rates
Groundwater discharges during 2014 were limited to those associated with well field dewatering
to support open pit mining. Well field dewatering commenced on January 6, 2007 and continued
through 2014 as shown in Figure 6. Pumping rates in 2014 were on average, slightly lower than
those for 2013. Pumping in 2014 ranged from approximately 10,000 m3/d to 91,500 m3/d, with an
annual average of 79,300 m3/d. This rate is 61% of the permitted daily maximum of 130,000 m3/d,
excluding allowances for contingencies.
An extensive array of groundwater monitoring wells has been set up to monitor the response of
the groundwater regime as shown in Figures 25 and 7a, b, and as listed in Table 28. Responses
of pit perimeter monitoring wells to well field dewatering are shown in Figure 26. Figure 27 shows
the response of the MS-8 series of monitoring wells to mine dewatering. The MS-8 series of wells
is located approximately 3.5 km northwest of the open pit, and is the closest muskeg monitoring
well station cluster to the open pit. This well series is contained principally with the area bounded
by the 4 and 10 m Upper Attawapiskat Formation groundwater drawdown contours (Figure 7a).
More complete data sets for all groundwater monitoring installations are presented in the quarterly
reports prepared pursuant to PTTW #6342-9NEJVH, as listed in Section 4.2.2.
Figure 26 shows maximum water level declines in the open pit area bedrock aquifer of
approximately 150 m below grade at well OPW-L, located on the west side of the pit. The overall
response of these wells to changes in well field pumping rates is evident from the figure.
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Groundwater elevations in the four muskeg types (domed bog, flat bog, horizontal fen and ribbed
fen) for the MS-8 series wells have varied seasonally, but have not declined over time (Figure 27),
indicating that muskeg water levels have not been influenced by mine dewatering, even at sites
relatively close to the open pit. Water levels in the underlying bedrock and overburden layers,
however, have declined for the MS-8 series wells in response to mine dewatering.
The outer edge of the drawdown contour in the Upper Attawapiskat Formation bedrock aquifer
expanded slightly in 2014 from that observed in previous years, but appears to be approaching
near steady-state conditions (Figure 7a).
3.3.2
Groundwater Quality
Water quality data for chloride (an indicator used to monitor trends in groundwater salinity) are
shown in Figure 6 for the period of 2007 through 2014. As described in Section 3.2.1.3, chloride
concentrations gradually increased from about 450 mg/L early 2007, to an average of 1,248 mg/L
in 2014. Chloride concentrations have thus far remained below those predicted by modeling
during the EA and permitting stages, wherein chloride concentrations during 2010 were predicted
to peak at approximately 1,300 mg/L, and then to gradually decline thereafter to about 800 mg/L
by the end of the mine life. Under more conservative assumptions, the original EA modeling
predicted that well field discharge chloride concentrations could reach levels of from 1,400 to
1,800 mg/L (CSR – Section 6.4.1.5.2; HCI 2004). Updated solute transport modeling conducted
in 2012 predicted that well field chloride concentrations will gradually rise and peak at about
1,500 mg/L by 2016 and remain at that level to the end of the mine life (Itasca 2012).
3.4
Terrestrial Systems
3.4.1
Wetlands
3.4.1.1
Satellite Imagery
IKONOS colour, multi-spectral satellite imagery was initially obtained for an approximate
2,040 km2 area surrounding the VDM site on August 6 and August 9 2006 (Figure 28), prior to
mine development. The imagery was orthorectified to an accuracy of ±1 m, and provides high
quality resolution, in accordance with commitments made in the November 10, 2006 letter to
Mr. Denis Lagáce of Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), entitled Wetland (Muskeg) Monitoring
Plan – Victor Project. The muskeg monitoring program provides for full coverage satellite imagery
to be obtained at five-year intervals, with spot areal coverage to be obtained at two-year intervals.
The five-year interval satellite imagery was obtained using GeoEye-1 satellite imagery on
September 8, 2012. Additional spot coverage satellite imagery was obtained in September 2013
(GeoEye-1) and again in September 2014 (Pleiades satellite imagery). The next 5-year cycle of
detailed analysis will be completed in 2017.
For the purpose of the five year wetland assessment, the overall study area was defined by the
interpolated 2 m predicted drawdown contour in the upper bedrock aquifer originally predicted by
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the 2008 hydrogeological model (HCI 2008). Propagation of the actual mine dewatering cone has
been less extensive than originally predicted by HCI (2008), and the 2008 HCI model was updated
in May 2012 (Itasca 2012). The near-field zone of influence (NF-ZOI) for actual mine dewatering
used in this assessment, was defined as the area within the existing 2 m drawdown contour. The
mid-field zone of influence (MF-ZOI) for the purpose of muskeg pond area comparisons between
2006 and 2012 was defined as the area between the NF-ZOI and the 2008 model predicted 2 m
drawdown contour, referenced herein as the distal study area. A far-field zone centered
approximately 23 km west of the VDM site was selected as a control site.
A maximum likelihood classification algorithm was used to generate digital number averages and
variance information in order to assess the probability for each pixel in the image as belonging to
the open water category as defined by the sample/training pixels. The maximum likelihood
procedure produced a probability image (raster grid) in which each pixel in the overall study area
is assigned a probability category for its inclusion into the open water category. These pixels were
isolated though a re-class raster function in order to produce an image consisting of 2 simple
categories; open water or not open water. Various filter techniques and other refinements were
used to develop and verify the images. Further details are presented in Victor Mine Site Area
Muskeg Pond Satellite Image Assessment: 2006 Compared with 2012, AMEC, September 2013.
Study findings showed that there was a general reduction in pond surface area expression
between 2006 and 2012 in both the NF-ZOI site and the MF-ZOI site. For the MF-ZOI study area
which lies outside of the mine dewatering ZOI, the collective measured pond area for 2012 was
88.9% of that measured in 2006. For the NF-ZOI, the collective measured pond area for 2012
was 82.4% of that measured in 2006. When corrected for regional background effects based on
results for the far-field control zone, the observed reduction in pond expression for the NF-ZOI
and the MF-ZOI were 14.0% and 7.5%.
The observed result is consistent with EA predictions, wherein some localized reduction in
muskeg pond expression was expected to occur as a result of mine dewatering, but by and large,
muskeg ponds within the ZOI were not substantively affected. Where specific larger ponds were
observed to go dry in 2012 (or earlier), compared with 2006, virtually all of these ponds were
located in areas of very thin marine sediment thickness.
3.4.1.2
Piezometer Installations
As described in Section 3.4.1.2 of the First Annual FUPA Report, a series of peatland (muskeg)
groundwater monitoring installations were set up in bioherm zones surrounding the VDM site
during the winter of 2006/2007. In total, nine monitoring clusters were established: designated as
Station Clusters MS-1, MS-2, MS-7, MS-8(1), MS-8(2), MS-9(1), MS-9(2), MS-13, and MS-15.
Cluster locations are shown in Figure 28 and 29 and listed in Table 29, with the most distant
cluster (S-13) being located approximately 30 km west-northwest of the open pit.
At each cluster, a single peat horizon piezometer was set up in each of the four principal peatland
(muskeg) community types (domed bog, flat bog, horizontal fen and ribbed fen). In addition, one
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multilevel piezometer was set up in the mineral soil horizon, and an additional well (or wells) was
set up in the underlying bedrock. Typical piezometer / well arrangements are shown in Figures 27
and 28 for Clusters MS-7 and MS-8, respectively. Peat piezometer installations for any one cluster
were necessarily spaced over a fairly large area in order to achieve representation of the four
principal peatland community types. In addition, a further three sets of peatland piezometers,
referenced as the MS-V Series (i.e., MS-V1, MS-V2 and MS-V3) were established in 2007 at
locations closer to the VDM site. These MS-V Series stations provide representation of domed
bog and ribbed fen community types only, as other muskeg community types were not generally
present in the area closer to the VDM.
Each piezometer / monitoring well was fitted with a pressure transducer, which continuously
records groundwater levels, with readings taken at minimum twice daily intervals. The data are
downloaded manually at periods ranging from quarterly to annually depending on the monitoring
schedule of respective wells. Groundwater samples for water quality analyses are collected
annually in the fall from all MS and MS-V piezometers and groundwater well installations. Surface
water samples are collected quarterly from all MS and MS-V series ribbed fen sites except where
prevented by frozen ground (winter) conditions. A number (32) of peat layer piezometers were
also installed in transects around the CQ during the winter of 2005/2006, as listed in Table 28.
Figure 27 shows a representative set of groundwater level data for a typical set of MS series
piezometers and wells, for Cluster MS-8. The data show that piezometers positioned in the peat
horizon (i.e., MS-8-1D, MS-8-1F, MS-8-1H and MS-8-1R) have all maintained their respective
water table positions, and as such there was no desaturation of the overlying peat layer (muskeg
environment) during the period 2007 through 2014. Inspection of the graphs for the bedrock wells
shows a marked desaturation of the underlying bedrock and increasing desaturation of the marine
sediments positioned between the bedrock and the overlying peat horizon. The data for all three
horizons (peat, marine sediments and bedrock) show moderate to strong seasonal variations.
Water level and water quality data collected from peatland piezometers and associated
groundwater well installations for 2014 were provided to the MOECC in various reports as listed
in Section 4.2.2.
3.4.1.3
Ground Settlement
A deep (220 to 230 m thickness) overburden filled trench was identified during mine exploration
bordering the northeast side of the open pit. Hydrogeological modeling conducted by HCI in 2007
predicted that mine dewatering could potentially result in ground settlement of up to 1.2 to 5 m
near the deepest portion of the overburden trench at the end of mine life. As much as half of this
settlement was predicted to occur at the end of the first year of mining. As a preventive measure,
the area of thickest overburden has been overlain with a mineral waste stockpile.
To measure ground subsidence in this area, seven subsidence monitoring stations were installed
in November, 2007. One of the original stations (Station SS-3) was replaced by a more detailed
SS-8 transect running parallel to the south side of North Granny Creek in the area of the deep
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overburden trench bordering the northeast side of the open pit. Another station (SS-4) was later
destroyed by site infrastructure development. Existing station locations are shown in Figure 25.
Each station consists of one or more steel rods driven into the ground using a portable Pionjar
drill. Stations were surveyed bi-annually until 2011 and have since been sampled annually, except
for 2013 when bi-annual sampling was carried out.
Thus far the SS-1 through SS-7A stations have shown little to no ground settlement, with the
exception the SS-1 station positioned on the northeast side of the open pit, where an overall
settlement of 0.34 m has been recorded (Table 30). The northeast margin of the open pit is
bordered by the deep overburden trench.
The eight central SS-8 transect survey stations (VM ED2 through VM ED9) were set up in pairs,
with one member of each pair set up on the crest of the constructed berm bordering North Granny
Creek, and the other member of each pair positioned in adjacent native ground. The two stations
located at either end of the transect (i.e., Stations VM ED1 and VM ED10) are positioned in native
ground. Stations located on a constructed berm were no longer being monitored from 2009 to
2012 as settlement within the constructed berm is not material to the issue of overall ground
settlement. Station VM ED3 showed a slight increase in elevation in 2014 compared with the
static (baseline condition). For stations established in native ground, there has been very little
ground movement i.e., less than 0.25 m.
Ground settlement has consequently not occurred on the scale predicted (Table 30). One reason
for this is that the model conservatively assumed that the bedrock surrounding the deep
overburden trench would be instantaneously depressurized to the full depth of the trench (i.e., to
a depth of 220 to 230 m) at the start of mining. By the end of 2014, bedrock surrounding the
overburden trench had been depressurized to a maximum depth of about 140 m. Further
appreciable ground settlement is not expected.
3.4.1.4
Vegetation Plot Surveys
Comments were made during the federal EA process that mine-related dewatering activities might
have the potential to adversely affect VDM area muskeg environments, resulting in potential
changes in the balance of non-vascular versus vascular plant species representation in affected
areas. Vegetation monitoring sites around VDM were set up during June, 2007, as described in
Section 3.4.1.4 of the First Annual FUPA Report. A second vegetation monitoring survey was
conducted during 2012 to compare to 2007 baseline conditions and was summarized in the Sixth
Annual FUPA Report.
Concerns expressed during the federal EA process included the following:
Fens generally have groundwater inputs and as groundwater dewatering lowered the
water table, less groundwater inputs could convert fen to bog habitat.
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Bog habitats typically have less diversity and species richness could decline. As conditions
become drier, vascular plants would have an advantage over non-vascular plants (e.g.,
mosses) and vascular plant percent ground cover could increase, resulting in a decline of
Sphagnum (moss species) cover and richness. These effects could be more pronounced
in fen communities and there could be a relationship between impacts and proximity to
the VDM.
Eight monitoring station clusters were set up in 2007 within known bioherm zones, with selection
designed to cover a range of near field, intermediate field, and far field sites (Figures 28 and 29).
Bioherm zones were selected for study as these are the areas that are most likely to show the
effects of mine dewatering, if any. These station clusters are the same station clusters referenced
in Section 3.4.1.2, above. Each cluster had four different habitat types that were individually
assessed - domed bog, flat bog, horizontal fen and ribbed fen, with the exception of the MS-2
series where horizontal fen habitat is not present. These plots are to be reassessed for vegetation
community changes every five years except for the first monitoring interval of four years.
Overall, species richness generally increased between 2007 and 2012; domed bog by 16%, flat
bog by 32%, horizontal fen by 22% while ribbed fens retained the same species richness. The
relative cover of vascular plants decreased between 2007 and 2012; domed bog by 23%, flat bog
by 20%, horizontal fen by 29% and ribbed fen by 6%. Peat moss relative cover generally
increased between 2007 and 2012; domed bog by 21%, flat bog by 35%, horizontal fen by
27% and ribbed fen decreased by 11%. Relative (Sphagnum) moss cover was found to be the
same (25 to 40%), regardless of habitat type and fens were not more affected than bogs. Changes
in species richness and in relative expression of vascular plants showed no relationship with
distance from the VDM. The above differences in species richness and expression of vascular
plants observed between 2007 and 2012 need to be interpreted with caution, as even very slight
differences between sample plot locations can affect species compositions because of the microtopographic effects of muskeg hummocks and hollows on moisture regimes. The main conclusion
of the 2012 work is that there has not been a notable increase in the representation of vascular
plants, which would be expected if there had been a substantial drying of muskeg environments
in bioherm zones. This observation is consistent with the hydrogeological data.
The 2007 baseline, along with 2012 results will be used in the future to assess any changes over
time. Further details pertaining to the methods, results and discussion are provided in Victor Mine
Project: 2012 Vegetation and Breeding-Bird Assessment, dated December 2012. The next
scheduled assessment is in 2017 as per the FUPA however, EC has suggested that the next
assessment take place in 2015.
3.4.1.5
Mercury Release from Wetlands
In follow-up to the federal EA and during the provincial environmental approval process, concerns
were raised regarding the potential for increased mercury release from wetlands to area receiving
waters, as a result of possible muskeg system desiccation and decomposition, linked to mine
dewatering. In response to these concerns a spreadsheet, mass-balance model was developed
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to estimate the potential for increased mercury release from predicted levels of peat desiccation
linked to well field dewatering. This analysis predicted comparatively minor increases in the rates
of total and methyl mercury release from area peatlands to local surface waters, with the most
probable average annual increase being about 7% for total mercury and about 3% for methyl
mercury, as measured in the Nayshkootayaow River (AMEC 2008). These values are well below
CEQG values of 26 ng/L for total mercury and 4 ng/L for methyl mercury. The projected increases
were also well below natural background variability, and therefore, even if they did occur they
would be very difficult to detect.
An extensive wetland mercury monitoring program has been established for the VDM site area
as shown in Figures 28, 29, 30 and 31, and listed in Table 29. VDM area fen water quality results
for the SWF, NEF, SEF and NWF fens, where the latter two fens are control stations, are
described in Sections 3.2.1.1 and 3.2.1.2. Mercury data for area receiving waters are presented
in Section 3.2.3.
As of the end of 2014, observed mercury values were indicative of natural background conditions
with the exception of methyl mercury concentrations observed in the SWF and NEF, and in
downstream North Granny Creek. Increased methyl mercury concentrations observed in these
areas are believed to be attributable to the action of sulphate reducing (methylating) bacteria, as
described in Section 3.2.1.2, and not to mine dewatering. These effects are very localized.
There is no indication in the broader site area mercury data of any increase in total or methyl
mercury levels in either the muskeg or receiving water environments linked to mine dewatering.
This includes the Nayshkootayaow River where upstream and downstream total and methyl
mercury concentrations are virtually identical and at background levels (Section 3.2.3.2).
Peatlands in the area were still saturated as of the end of 2014 (Sections 3.4.1.1 and 3.4.1.2).
3.4.2
Caribou and Moose
3.4.2.1
Direct Habitat Disturbance
In the CSR, it was predicted that direct disturbance to wildlife habitat would total approximately
8.7 km2 of habitat directly displaced by VDM construction activities, and a further 20.1 km2 of
habitat that would be altered by transmission line and winter road construction. Satellite imagery
taken from the Pleiades Satellite in September 2014 shows direct habitat disturbance to an area
of 8.3 km2 which is less than predicted, but dimensions of the various mineral stockpile areas
have not yet reached full development. Appreciable deviations from predicted CSR values are
not expected. Habitat alteration associated with winter road and transmission line construction
was less than predicted as described in Section 3.4.2.1 of the First Annual FUPA Report.
3.4.2.2
Aerial Surveys
Early and late winter aerial surveys, using a fixed wing MNRF Turbo Beaver, were completed in
the winters of 2005/2006, 2006/2007, 2009/2010, 2011/2012, and 2013/2014. Early winter
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surveys are conducted in December and late winter surveys in either February or March, with a
preference for February so as to minimize disturbance to females in the approach to calving
season (Figure 32). Under FUPA, aerial surveys are to be undertaken every other year once the
construction phase has been completed. This request for less than annual surveys was made by
Elders of the AttFN who were concerned that more frequent (e.g., annual) aerial surveys would
be too disruptive to caribou. The most recent aerial survey results of the 2013/2014 winter aerial
surveys are summarized in more detail in the 2014 Caribou Report De Beers Canada Inc. Victor
Mine dated December 2014. As in previous years, caribou and associated track data tended to
be concentrated west-southwest of the VDM in the region closer to Missisa Lake (Figure 33);
however, in December 2013 large numbers of caribou tracks were also encountered directly
southeast of the VDM. Moose tracks were frequently recorded along river corridors in areas west
and northwest of the mine (Figure 34), wolf tracks are variable but largely associated with moose
occurrence (Figure 35).
3.4.2.3
Radio-telemetry
A caribou radio-collaring monitoring program was initiated in 2004 and continued through 2014.
Details regarding methodology, analysis, results and discussion are found in several successive
annual reports (AMEC 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2013), including the latest 2014 Caribou Report
De Beers Canada Inc. Victor Mine (AMEC 2014).
Global positioning system (GPS) satellite collars (Telonics TGW-3600 GPS/ARGOS) with
programmed release mechanisms were attached to 10 adult female caribou in December 2004
during the baseline study. Additional adult female caribou were collared in March 2007, March
2010 and March 2013 (10 to 11 animals per capture year). The caribou were captured using a
net gun from a helicopter by highly trained and approved capture teams (Big Horn Helicopters in
2004, Pathfinder in 2007, Highland Helicopters in 2010 and 2013), and the collars were fitted
without use of tranquilizers. The collars in 2004, 2007 and 2010 were programmed to release on
a specified date three years from the date of deployment. In March, 2013, 10 new Telonics collars
were fitted to 10 female caribou and programmed to release four years from the date of
deployment (February 2017). Seven of these collars were still active as of the end of December
2014; one animal was confirmed to have been shot on the James Bay coast by subsistence
hunters, and two animals died of either natural causes and/or hunting. At this time a confirmed
cause of death is unknown.
Of the 41 collars deployed to date: 3 animals have been confirmed to have been shot by hunters,
6 collars have had suspected malfunction issues, 8 animals have died of suspected predation or
other natural causes, and the remaining 24 animals survived the data collection period. The
collars were retrieved after release where feasible.
By taking regular satellite fixes of an animal’s location, GPS collars in conjunction with digital
habitat data can be used to determine the movement rates, dynamics, behaviour and habitat
preferences of a given individual. Movement and home-range analysis of GPS data were
undertaken from 2005 to 2014. The core wintering and calving areas were compared from year
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to year to assess the degree to which females return to calving and over-wintering areas; detailed
site fidelity analysis using monthly centroids of use was also undertaken. Kernel analysis to
ascertain the home range for each GPS collared animal and the relative probabilities of habitat
use within that home range is completed each year (Figures 36, 37, and 38).
The behaviour of collared caribou varies considerably; home ranges for individual caribou can be
anywhere from 1,200 km2 to >110,000 km2 in size. Most females calve in the James Bay
Lowlands; however in 2013 and 2014 several of the collared cows calved in the area typically
used by the Pen Island herd near Cape Henrietta Maria. This suggests that both the forest-forest
and forest-tundra Woodland Caribou ecotypes occur in the study area. Victor Mine is situated
within a mixing zone where both ecotypes can occur concurrently during the winter in some years.
Evidence that there might be more than one ecotype in this region was first referred to in the
Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) study where reference was made to a herd that travels
to Cape Henrietta Maria, as well as one that is more sedentary around the Attawapiskat River.
Half of the animals collared in 2007 and the majority of animals collared in 2013 appear to belong
to the forest-tundra ecotype, calving up on the Hudson Bay coast and moving significant distances
between summer and winter ranges. The 2007 collared animals calved in proximity to Fort Severn
whereas the animals collared in 2013 calved near Cape Henrietta Maria. This distribution is
consistent with that observed during the MNRF calving surveys for the Pen Island Herd, where
the two highest concentrations of caribou were observed southeast Fort Severn and at Cape
Henrietta Maria (Abraham et al. 2012). The 2008 MNRF data suggests that the VDM study
animals may seasonally associate with the Pen Island Herd in some years.
Several of the home-ranges overlap the VDM site suggesting that the collared caribou are still
utilizing habitat in close proximity to the mine site (Figure 36). Throughout the VDM monitoring
program, patterns of caribou site fidelity to calving areas have remained comparable for all phases
of mine development from 2004 to 2014, with cows often returning to the same calving areas year
after year, within a few kilometers. From 2004 to 2014, satellite data indicated that there was a
general trend for the boreal caribou to move to the northwest in winter. Some collared animals
selected over wintering areas south and southwest of the mine near Missisa Lake. Data from both
GPS collars and aerial surveys indicates a level of fidelity to this area during the winter months.
Based on data obtained thus far, it appears that:
Results suggest that both the forest – forest and forest–tundra woodland caribou ecotypes
occur in the study area. Victor Mine is located in a mixing zone; where both ecotypes occur
during the winter. Recent ecotype boundary assessment by MNRF provides quantitative
rationale and support for the boundary placement depicting the forest-forest versus the
forest-tundra range (MNRF 2014).
The GPS collars have recorded animal locations in close proximity to the mine site and
several animals have the VDM included in their 90% kernel home ranges. Observations
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of caribou close to the mine site suggest that the mine activities have not caused complete
avoidance of the area.
Because the caribou home ranges are very large, it is not expected that the VDM could
have any measurable effect on the heavy metal concentrations in tissue; however, a study
of metal concentrations was to be undertaken at the request of the AttFN representatives
(Section 3.4.2.5). To date no caribou tissue samples have been provided by community
members for analysis, despite several requests for the samples.
Collared females have repeatedly used calving areas within 10 to 50 km of the mine site,
suggesting that mine activities have not triggered abandonment of these sites. It is not known
whether there are females calving closer to the mine than 10 km. At times cows and calves are
observed near the air strip during the summer months. Noise studies indicated that essentially
background sound levels of 20 to 30 dBA were achieved at a distance of approximately 5 km from
the VDM centre, indicating limited opportunities for noise disturbance.
3.4.2.4
Hunter / Fisher / Trapper Surveys
FUPA and the CSR provide for surveys of hunters, trappers, and fishers to be undertaken in
Attawapiskat, as a minimum, starting in 2007 and at three year intervals thereafter for the life of
the mine. Hunter surveys were undertaken by, or on behalf of, the AttFN in each of 2006, 2007,
and 2008, which exceeded FUPA requirements. No hunter surveys were scheduled for 2009 or
2010. AttFN was unable to complete surveys from 2011 to 2014. It should be noted that all AttFN
hunter survey data are provided to De Beers (and AMEC) in confidence. For further information,
the reader should approach the AttFN directly.
De Beers has pursued but not yet implemented a volunteer employee survey to collect hunting
data from employees. The employee survey is pending discussion with the FN on information
confidentiality.
3.4.2.5
Tissue Sample Surveys
A wildlife tissue sampling protocol was developed and agreed to with the AttFN in June, 2007.
The protocol provides for obtaining tissue samples for 25 individuals of each of Woodland
Caribou, Moose, Canada Geese, Snow Geese and Beaver. Samples are to be collected and
submitted by AttFN members as part of AttFN regular hunting activities, starting in 2007 and
continuing annually for two further years; and subsequently at two or three year intervals
thereafter (to be determined). Hunters are to be paid for their efforts in submitting the samples,
and prescriptive definitions of sampling requirements are provided in the protocol. Tissue samples
are to be analyzed for Contaminants of Concern (COC): arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper,
lead, mercury, nickel and zinc. Additional data on date harvested, location harvested, animal sex,
etc., are also to be provided by the hunters. Tissue samples are to be aged, as appropriate.
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The 2008 AttFN wildlife survey indicated that few hunters were willing to submit samples for
analysis, placing the entire program into question. Some incidental progress was made and
De Beers was able to collect five samples of Beaver tissue in March 2011, with results presented
in the Fifth Annual FUPA report. Additional Beaver tissue samples from eight individuals were
collected between March 26 to April 6, 2013 during the 2013 period from the North Granny Creek
area adjacent to the VDM and from Tributary 3. All eight Beaver heads were also retained for age
determination. Due to the small sample size and the lack of aging data from the 2011 sampling
effort, no correlations or statistically valid conclusions can be made from this data set. More data
and a larger sample size from a variety of locations would be required to make statistically valid
conclusions. This would require increased involvement from local FN trappers and increasing the
awareness in local communities as to the benefits of such participation, as beavers are an
advantageous species to use for the monitoring program due to their dietary patterns.
The hunter / trapper surveys are the responsibility of the AttFN. This survey has been discussed
at Environmental Management Committee (EMC) meetings and De Beers understands that it has
been a challenge to get FN resident participation. This topic will be revisited at upcoming EMC
meetings.
3.4.3
Large Predators and Furbearers
3.4.3.1
Direct Habitat Disturbance
For monitoring data pertaining to direct habitat disturbance refer to Section 3.4.2.1.
3.4.3.2
Snow Tracking / Controlled Trapping Surveys
Based on past discussions held with the AttFN through the EMC, there has to date been little
interest among AttFN members in pursuing snow tracking or controlled trapping studies, as there
is little potential for mine-related impacts to large predators and furbearers. This portion of the
FUPA study program has therefore been abandoned. There appears to be some interest in 2015
among AttFN community members in potentially undertaking hunter / trapper surveys and TEK
studies as a better way of obtaining information on these aspects.
3.4.3.3
Aerial Surveys
Details of aerial surveys are described in Section 3.4.2.2. The December 2013 and February 2014
aerial survey results are reported in the Summary of Movements of Caribou Collared in 2010 &
2013 – De Beers Canada Inc. Victor Mine.
3.4.3.4
Hunter Surveys
As per Section 3.4.2.4 no AttFN hunter surveys were completed for 2014.
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3.4.4
Migratory Birds
3.4.4.1
Direct Habitat Disturbance
DRAFT
For monitoring data pertaining to direct habitat disturbance refer to Section 3.4.2.1.
3.4.4.2
Breeding Bird Surveys
The federal EA and FUPA requirements provide for conducting breeding bird surveys in the
general vicinity of the VDM site at five year intervals, starting in 2007, with a second set of surveys
in 2012. The 2012 survey results were reported in the sixth [2012] annual FUPA report. There are
no new results to report for 2013 or 2014. For completeness, results from the 2012 report are
repeated below.
Breeding bird surveys were conducted around the VDM during June 2012, at the same locations
(ribbed fens and domed bogs) surveyed in June 2007. Surveys were conducted between June
16 to 18 and again from June 26 to 27, 2012. Ten minute point counts were undertaken between
5:00 am and 10:00 am at each site, in weather without precipitation and little wind, consistent with
2007 studies.
In 2012, 55 species were noted. Songbirds were most numerous with 31 species, shorebirds
(8 species), waterfowl (5 species), other water birds (5 species), raptors (4 species) and other
birds (2 species). Overall diversity and abundance were slightly higher in the ribbed fens
(40 species, 212 individuals) than domed bogs (33 species, 195 individuals).
Five significant species were observed during 2012 surveys. Common Nighthawk was observed
near camp. Bald Eagle was observed when flying between sites. A lone observation of
Semi-palmated Sandpiper was likely an early southbound migrant. Olive-sided Flycatcher and
Rusty Blackbird are both listed under federal and provincial species at risk legislation and appear
common in the study area. Both Olive-sided Flycatcher and Rusty Blackbird were not classified
as being at risk during the 2007 study.
The same number of species were noted in 2012 and 2007 (55); however, the 2007 count includes
species detected at monitoring wells, where 11 of the species in 2012 were incidental sightings
around the camp. Of the 55 species observed in 2007, 15 were not detected in 2012. Four species
were detected at monitoring sites in 2012, but not in 2007. At both the domed bog and ribbed fen
sites, the abundance of birds in 2012 was approximately two-thirds of abundance reported in
2007. Based on results of breeding bird survey, numbers from 2007 to 2012 suggest a possible
decline in both overall diversity and abundance. With two years of surveys, it is not possible to
discern whether numbers were exceptionally high in 2007 or unusually low in 2012. Further
studies are required to detect any systematic changes in the breeding bird community, as year to
year (and week to week) variations in species presence and abundance would be expected
irrespective of any potential physical changes to the environment. This is evident from the data
collected from the June, 2012 survey periods (June 16 to 18 and June 26 to 27), in which an
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average of only 37% of species were detected at the same sites, during both survey periods
(Table 31).
Also, in comparing numbers of species with distance from the mine site, there is no evident
relationship between the number of species observed for either domed bog or ribbed fen sites
and distance from the mine centroid. If both sets of data are plotted, there is a slight positive
relationship between numbers of bird species and distance for domed bog habitats (r2 = 0.13),
and a slight negative relationship between numbers of bird species and distance for ribbed fen
habitats (r2 = 0.02), with neither relationship being significant.
Further details pertaining to the breeding bird surveys are provided in Victor Mine Project: 2012
Vegetation and Breeding-Bird Assessment, dated December 2012.
3.4.4.3
Hunter Surveys
As per Section 3.4.2.4 no AttFN hunter surveys were carried out for 2014.
3.4.4.4
Tissue Sample Surveys
No tissue samples were recovered for waterfowl, principally for the reasons discussed in
Section 3.4.2.5.
3.5
Malfunctions and Accidents
3.5.1
Spill Prevention, Protection and Response
A Construction Phase Spill Response Plan was developed by the VDM environmental staff on
January 13, 2006. That plan was subsequently amended as a mine operations Spill Response
Plan with several updates, the latest of which is dated February 9, 2014. The plan covers the
VDM site and has related plans for the James Bay Coastal Winter Road, the South Winter Road
and the Moosonee yard. The plan details:
Purpose, scope and responsibility;
Facility overview;
Operating protocols
Reporting Environmental Incidents
Preparedness and prevention; and
Specific spill response.
The following materials were identified as being those which could be accidentally released into
the environment:
Petroleum products (fuel, oil, lubricating fluids);
Hazardous chemicals (domestic cleaners, chlorine, paint and degreasers);
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Domestic sewage;
Ammonium nitrate (used in the manufacture of explosives);
Propane; and
Laboratory chemicals.
During 2014, facilities containing and/or dispensing such materials on site were inspected at a
minimum of daily (main bulk fuel tanks, laboratory chemicals, hazardous chemicals - in part);
weekly (aviation fuel storage facility, hazardous chemicals – in part, domestic sewage effluent
line); or intermittently (ammonium nitrate, propane facilities). All potentially reportable spills or
leaks of hazardous materials were documented and reported internally. Those that met criteria
for reporting to the MOECC were reported to that Ministry.
During 2014 there were a total of 11 MOECC reportable discharges, comprised of the following:
Hydraulic fluid (9 discharges ranging from 20 to 260 L);
Antifreeze (1 discharge of approximately 100 L); and
Fuel (1 discharge, 200 L).
The hydraulic fluid discharges ranged in volume from 20 to 260 L and a major effort continued
throughout the year involving equipment operators, maintenance personnel and equipment
vendors to reduce the frequency and scale of these events. All spilled hazardous materials were
cleaned up and contaminated soil generated from these events was collected and stored for
shipment off-site as hazardous waste. All of these discharges were reported to the Spills Action
Centre (SAC), verbally and in writing.
On May 14, 2014, an excavator lost power. The operator stopped his equipment, exited the
vehicle and noticed a fuel leak at the bottom of the fuel tank. Through investigation it was
determined that the inspection door (where the fuel shutoff valve is situated) fell and hit a fuel
valve, causing the spill. It is estimated that approximately 200 litres of diesel fuel had spilled. A
pre-operational check completed prior to operating the equipment did not indicate a problem. It
was determined that the door came open due to the vibration on the equipment. The mechanics
repaired the issue and added this point of inspection to future equipment inspections/maintenance
programs. The area was cleaned up and the material was placed in 45 gallon drums for shipment
off site. The SAC was notified verbally and in writing.
On July 12, 2014 an employee, while walking in front of the Plant Boiler, noticed liquid running
out of the boiler. The employee entered the building and noticed a glycol leak and shut the boiler
down. It is estimated that approximately 100 litres of glycol (antifreeze) spilled outside the plant,
resulting from failure of a rubber expansion joint on one of the pumps. The area was cleaned and
the material was placed in a 45 gallon drum for shipment off site. The SAC was notified and a
letter sent to the MOECC.
No spills or other issues occurred in relation to any other facility at the mine site during 2014.
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In addition to MOECC reportable spills, near misses were recorded for releases that were
contained and cleaned before the material impacted the environment. A summary of every
environmental incident, whether an MOECC reportable spill or otherwise, is reviewed with the
members of the EMC whenever they meet. In addition, this information is provided in digital form
to the AttFN Director of Lands and Resources, and incident reports are regularly placed on the
EMC website for committee members to review (with digital copies sent to the AttFN). The Mine
Monitor employed at the mine site by the AttFN frequently attends the clean-up work for more
significant leaks and spills, or inspects the site shortly afterwards to verify that the clean-up was
complete.
3.5.2
Fire Prevention, Protection and Response
A Construction Phase Emergency Response Plan was developed by the VDM environmental staff
on January 23, 2006. That plan was subsequently amended as a mine operational Emergency
Management Response Plan with several updates, the latest of which occurred in 2014. As per
previous annual FUPA reports, the plan covers fire prevention, protection and response, among
many other aspects. The plan details a number of items, which cover emergencies such as:
Medical emergency or accident;
Fatality;
Spills (also see Spill Response Plan);
Fire / explosion;
Structure / containment facility failures;
Natural disasters (flood, earthquake, severe winds);
Extreme cold or whiteout conditions;
Equipment or people falling through ice;
Bomb threat and biological or chemical threat;
Missing or overdue aircraft, and aircraft accident;
Missing person(s);
Hostile actions, vandalism and threats against De Beers’ staff, contractors, or property; and
Wild animal incursion into facility / animal incident.
Fire prevention and protection protocols at the VDM site include:
Smoke and fire detectors in all dormitories and office buildings;
Fire extinguishers in all buildings and work sites, regularly inspected;
Hot Work procedures for high risk work, including Fire Watch provisions;
Isolation of fuel storage areas, use of double-wall tanks, proper grounding, etc.;
Monitoring and reporting of forest fires to MNRF by Victor aircraft; and
Trained emergency responders.
There were no recorded fires of any significance at the VDM during 2014.
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3.5.3
DRAFT
Slope Stability and Stockpiles
The CSR provides for settlement plates and other surface monitors to be used, along with regular
operator inspections and periodic geotechnical specialist reviews, to assess ground stability
associated with the open pit and mineral waste stockpiles. Stockpiles requiring monitoring include
the fine PKC facility dams, and the coarse PK, mine rock and overburden stockpiles.
Stripping of the open pit commenced in the winter of 2007. Pit development is scheduled to
continue until approximately the end of 2018, and will reach an ultimate depth of approximately
220 m. At the end of 2014, the open pit had reached a maximum depth of approximately 140 m
below grade. Visual inspection of the pit walls is carried out daily by the pit operators and weekly
by engineers or geologists from the mine site Technical Department, in accordance with site
safety protocols. Victor Mine also employs two automated systems for slope stability monitoring.
These systems are the slope stability radar supplied by Groundprobe and the GeoMos robotic
total station supplied by Leica.
The Slope Stability Radar (SSR) is a slope stability monitoring system capable of detecting rock
movement. This system has been in place at Victor since late in 2014. A radar beam is scanned
over the highwall surface to provide broad area coverage of potentially unstable regions from a
suitable standoff position. Wall deformations or unusual movement patterns (acceleration or step
changes) provide an early indication of wall instability. The SSR offers real-time monitoring and
alarm setting capability and is a proactive early warning device that can be used to indicate slope
instability and facilitate evacuation. The system is only able to provide line of sight deformation
values.
The GeoMos system consists of robotic theodolites situated on the perimeter of the pit and is
operated via a combination of hardline and wireless mesh network. The instrument tracks and
measures strategically placed targets (reflecting prisms) along the high wall, transmitting data to
the GeoMos station and comparing located positions to absolute co-ordinates and can thus
provide vector displacement data. The mine currently employs two GeoMos robotic total stations
so that complete line of site coverage can be achieved and long term slope stability can be
monitored. Reflective prism targets are installed every 50 m horizontally, and every 20 m
vertically, and additionally in areas of potential instability. The first GeoMos system came on line
in 2012 and the second system came on line in 2014. There were no reported pit wall stability
concerns in 2014.
By the end of 2014, overburden stockpiles had been developed north, northeast and southwest
of the open pit, with the maximum height of these stockpiles being approximately 10.5 m with a
combined area of approximately 160 ha. The mine rock stockpile elevation by the end of 2014
had achieved a maximum height of approximately 12 m and generally ranged from 4 to 12 m over
an area of approximately 106 ha. These stockpiles are inspected and photographed monthly by
helicopter during non-winter months. Small, localized slope failures occurred periodically around
at the northeast overburden stockpile during the non-winter period in response to runoff flowing
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off the stockpile. However, the scale of these failures has been within planned limits, and there
were no environmental or safety consequences associated with these minor runouts.
The main coarse PK stockpile is positioned directly south of the plant site, and continued to
expand throughout 2014. Most of the coarse PK was initially used as construction material for site
infrastructure and now is predominantly directed to the coarse PK stockpile and construction of
the PKC cell expansion work. There were no recorded slope failures associated with this stockpile
or the constructed PKC facility, in 2014.
3.5.4
Karst Voids
Construction enhancement measures to address the potential for karst voids were described in
Section 3.5.4 of previous annual FUPA reports.
Monitoring carried out in 2014 consisted of:
Quarterly interval surveys of the perimeter surfaces of the fuel tanks;
Tracking TSS levels in the well field discharge water; and
A Karst Study, undertaken in November, 2014 (Amec Foster Wheeler, 2015e).
At least once per year, De Beers undertakes a helicopter survey around the Victor Mine looking
for any karst / sinkhole features. Any karst or sinkhole features that are identified from the air (or
otherwise) are inventoried with the GPS location recorded and an internal memo submitted after
the survey indicating all known occurrences. The identified features are included in the Annual
Groundwater and Subsidence Report for Victor Mine (Amec Foster Wheeler 2015a), prepared for
the MOECC, and provided to the AttFN. Natural sinkholes outside the cone of influence are not
inventoried as part of this survey.
In addition, site environmental personnel are trained to watch for signs of drying muskeg ponds,
developing sinkholes, or other indications of land effects related to the mine dewatering during
their regular sampling and inspection flights in the area. These observations are recorded and
mapped, and where there is a potential risk to people or animals, protective fencing is installed.
Thus far no settlement issues have been identified associated with the fuel tanks or other critical
structures, such as cracking of concrete floors, foundations, etc.
TSS concentrations within the well field discharge provide a measure of potential soil movement
within filled karst voids that may indicate flushing of karst conduits and new larger sinkhole
development. For soil to become mobilized from filled karst voids in response to mine dewatering,
the sediment would have to exit the system. The only means for sediment to exit the system is
through the well field discharge. TSS concentrations in the well field discharge through 2014 have
remained quite low, averaging 1.99 mg/L over the past year (Table 13), indicating that there has
thus far been a negligible mobilization of ground sediments by the well field dewatering system.
These TSS results are consistent with the karst study conducted in 2014.
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All sinkholes inspected during the 2014 karst study were small (generally less than 5 m across
and less than 2 m deep) and appear to have been caused by the collapse of soft materials in the
overburden (either wet sand or muskeg) into pre-existing karst features. None of the sinkholes
received continuous inflows and the small size of the features suggests that large displacement
of sediments is not occurring.
A review of De Beers’ reports on sinkhole appearance indicates that new sinkholes generally
appear at the outer edge of the expanding drawdown cone in areas with thin overburden. No
sinkholes have been identified under creeks or rivers. A total of 10 dry ponds with sinkholes were
identified during the 2014 survey. The estimated number of ponds within the drawdown cone of
the mine at the time of the survey is 4,300. The small size of the sinkholes and the small number
of dry ponds within the drawdown cone indicates that the sinkholes that have appeared to date
are not significant new features. It is expected that ponds with sinkholes will re-flood following the
end of pumping at the mine, and whatever effect the sinkholes are having will be temporary. Based on the examination of: sinkholes features at the site, available overburden thickness
mapping, historical observations and paleokarst features in the open pit, the 2014 karst study
concluded that sinkholes were only forming in areas of thin overburden where small paleokarst
conduits existed prior to mining (larger paleokarst features appear to have been completely
plugged by overburden during glaciation and lack sufficient void space to allow overburden
collapse and sinkhole formation). Only a small number of sinkholes had been observed to date
and given that the drawdown cone in the Upper Bedrock Aquifer appears to be approaching
steady state, the karst report concluded that number of sinkholes forming in the remaining few
years of mining is not expected to be large.
In terms of mitigation, none of the observed sinkholes were receiving continuous surface water
inflows that promote significant sinkhole growth which could require immediate action.
Furthermore, given that a) activities such as excavation and plugging of paleokarst features would
require significant disruption to the muskeg in terms of winter road access for construction
equipment, and b) these are short lived features that are expected to re-flood within a few years,
the karst report recommended a contingency plan. This plan consists of annual surveys of the
area for new sinkholes, monitoring existing sinkhole development, and fencing sinkholes in areas
of potential snow mobile use (i.e. along former winter roads and near the mine site). The plan also
includes contingency measures such as plugging should sinkhole development appear to
threaten larger surface water features. The plan was presented to the Attawapiskat at a
community meeting and has been formally reviewed by the MOECC. The plan will be finalized
upon receipt of comments from the reviewers, and is cited in the mine dewatering permit issued
in August 2015.
3.6
Traditional Pursuits, Values and Skills
3.6.1
Fishing, Hunting and Trapping – AttFN Lands
As per Section 3.4.2.4, no AttFN hunter surveys were completed for 2014.
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Fish and Wildlife Availability – AttFN Lands
Direct impacts to wildlife habitat through physical displacement were assessed using satellite
imagery of construction and development areas (Section 3.4.1). Monitoring data pertaining to
receiving water flow, fisheries availability, and wildlife availability are provided in Sections 3.2.4,
3.2.6 and 3.4.2, respectively.
3.6.3
Fishing, Hunting and Trapping – Regional FN Lands
Hunter, trapper and fisher surveys were to be carried out by, or on behalf of, the regional FN (i.e.,
the MCFN, KFN, FAFN, and TTN) with financial support from De Beers, provisionally starting in
2007, and at three year intervals thereafter. As of 2014, no such surveys had been carried out.
De Beers continues to work with the potentially affected Aboriginal groups in an effort to arrange
for the surveys to be carried out. Specifically, a consultant was retained by De Beers to work with
the coastal communities in 2012 on a study of potential impacts on traditional game harvesting.
In addition to the hunter surveys, samples of wildlife tissues were to have been obtained, but no
such samples have been obtained other than the samples of beaver tissue referenced in
Section 3.4.2.5 for 2011 and 2013.
3.6.4
Fish and Wildlife Availability – Regional FN Lands
Direct impacts to wildlife habitat through physical displacement were assessed through the
calculation of displaced habitat associated with transmission line construction and winter road
widening (Section 3.4.1). Monitoring data pertaining to wildlife availability are provided in
Section 3.4.2.
3.7
Heritage Resources
3.7.1
Attawapiskat FN Lands
While the Victor Heritage Management Plan continues to provide guidance on activities which
could potentially affect cultural heritage resources, the greatest potential for any such effects was
during the mine construction phase. No specific cultural heritage investigations were carried out
in 2014 within AttFN traditional lands, and no cultural heritage resources were inadvertently
encountered by any mine-related activities during the 2014 reporting period.
3.7.2
Transmission Line – Otter Rapids to Kashechewan
All transmission line construction was completed by the end of 2008. There were no activities in
2014 near the VDM. Maintenance of portions of the Otter Rapids to Moosonee transmission line
was undertaken in 2014, to remove brush and hazard trees and to complete minor upgrades to
the line before it is transferred to Hydro One Networks Incorporated.
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3.8
Environmental Health
3.8.1
Accidents Along Winter Roads
DRAFT
Emergency Management Plans were developed previously to support logistical operations along
winter roads. All traffic accidents involving vehicles related to De Beers’ VDM operations are
documented. No De Beers’ related traffic accidents occurred during the 2014 winter road season.
3.8.2
Drinking Water and Country Foods
Drinking water standards were met in all receiving waters with the exception of exceedances for
iron, alkalinity and hardness, one occurrence of lead, and naturally low concentrations of pH. This
is particularly true in Granny Creek which derives most of its drainage from naturally acid muskeg
systems; and for iron, which is linked mainly to concentrations and dissolved organic acids that
drain from natural muskeg systems. Similar iron and pH exceedances were observed in these
systems in the pre-development background condition, and all such exceedances are due to
natural background conditions.
No country food samples were received for analysis during the 2014 FUPA reporting period (see
Section 3.4.2.5 for further details). The provision of tissue samples is the responsibility of the
AttFN. Measures were taken to assist the AttFN in the collection of such data, including payment
to individual hunters and fishers for submitting samples for analysis; but thus far the community
has elected not to provide any samples for analysis, other than the beaver tissue samples
collected in 2011 and 2013 during trapping of a small number of nuisance beavers which was
directly commissioned by De Beers.
3.9
Business, Employment and Training
3.9.1
Business
When the mine progressed from the construction phase into the operational phase, the value and
number of business contracts was reduced as expected, but it remains substantial. It has always
been De Beers’ goal to maximize local business benefits. A Business Development Coordinator
has been hired to manage this process, and De Beers’ commitment is to annually review business
and contract opportunities with the communities. Annual success in this area is reported to the
communities. Further details are presented in Section 2.6.
3.9.2
Employment
An Aboriginal Employment Coordinator was hired to help maximize Aboriginal employment during
the construction stage and this continued into operations. The mine site established antidiscrimination policies and mandatory cross-cultural training as part of the new employee
induction. An aboriginal employees’ committee has been established to liaise with mine
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management. Annual success in this area is reported to the communities. Further details are
presented in Section 2.6.
3.9.3
Training
All employees at the mine site have a training file. This is intended to keep requirements such as
Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), safety and job specific certificates
current, as well as to manage an individual’s career path. De Beers has established a number of
on the job training programs for process plant trainees, warehouse and logistics trainees, along
with exploration training. A heavy equipment simulator to be used for basic training and safety
improvements has been purchased, and is in operation at the Victor Mine. There is also an
established management trainee program.
Annual success in the area of training is reported to the communities. Further details are
presented in Section 2.6.
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4.0
SUMMARY OF COMPLIANCE REPORTS
4.1
Certificates of Approval - Air Emissions (MOECC)
The following compliance reports were issued in respect of air emissions monitoring during the
2014 reporting period:
Written Summary Required by Basic Comprehensive Certificate of Approval (Air/Noise)
#9452-78ZP4M De Beers Canada Inc., Victor Mine as per Condition 5.0, submitted to
Environmental Assessment and Approvals Branch Toronto Office, dated May 18, 2015;
De Beers Canada Inc. Victor Mine Site 2014 Incinerator Compliance Testing Program
performed in Accordance with Certificate of Approval (Air) #4556-6LULPN, submitted to
MOECC Timmins District Office, dated December 3, 2014; and
De Beers Victor Mine, Certificate of Approval (Air) #9452-78ZP4M Condition 10.1, 2014
Air Quality Monitoring Plan Annual Report, submitted to MOECC Timmins District Office,
dated April 18, 2015.
4.2
Permits to Take Water (MOECC)
4.2.1
Pit Perimeter Well System
During initial construction of the pit perimeter well field, not all of the permitted wells were
constructed. As mine operations progress, additional wells are needed to further optimize
dewatering performance. The PTTW associated with this activity has been renewed according to
the following:
PTTW #2824-8D2HVW for well drilling expired December 20, 2013;
PTTW #8752-9E5SAY expired March 2014;
PTTW #3143-9HJTC4 expired August 31 2014; and
PTTW #6381-9NEKKS expires August 30, 2015.
The following compliance reports were issued in respect of PTTW for operations related to the
provision of cooling water for the drilling pit perimeter wells during the 2014 reporting period:
PTTW #6381-9NEKKS, Water Taking Reporting System (online) for 2014.
The PTTW associated with dewatering the open pit through use of the pit perimeter wellfield has
been renewed according to the following:
PTTW #5521-8CZSNK for Well Field Dewatering (expired September 30, 2013); PTTW #1810-99FHAD issued September 30, 2013 and expired on March 31, 2014;
PTTW # 4767-9HKJ38 issued March 26, 2014, and expired August 31, 2014; and
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PTTW #6342-9NEJVH issued in August 31, 2014 and expires in August 30 2015.
The following compliance reports were issued in respect of PTTW for operations carried out in
relation to pit perimeter well field dewatering operations during the 2014 reporting period:
PTTW #6342-9NEJVH, Annual Groundwater and Subsidence Report for 2014 period up
to September 30 as per Condition 4.1.5 of PTTW #6342-9NEJVH, Victor Mine, report
dated January 31, 2015.
Compiled Quarterly Groundwater Data Reports as per Condition 4.1.6 of Permits to Take
Water #1810-99FHAD, #4767-9HKJ38 and #6342-9NEJVH that cover the same activity
at the Victor Mine (for various periods within 2014 as per Section 2.4); report dated
May 30, 2014 (up to March 31, 2014); report dated August 29, 2014 (up to June 30, 2014);
report dated November 30, 2014 (up to September 30, 2014); and report dated
February 28, 2015 (up to December 31, 2014).
Victor Mine, Quarterly Monitoring Reports for the Hydrometric Program, as per
Conditions 4.4.3, 4.4.4 and 4.5.4 of Permits to Take Water #1810-99FHAD, #47679HKJ38 and #6342-9NEJVH , dated May 24, 2014; August 31, 2014; November 30, 2014
and February 26, 2015.
PTTW #1810-99FHAD, Condition 4.5.3, Flow differential greater than 10% 04FC010 and
NR-003, January 2014, De Beers’ Victor Mine - Notification Letter.
PTTW #1810-99FHAD, Condition 4.5.3, Flow differential greater than 10%, 04FC010 and
NR-003, March 2014, De Beers’ Victor Mine - Notification Letter.
PTTW #4767-9HKJ38, Condition 4.5.3, Natural Flow differential greater than 15%
04FC010 and NR-003, April 2014, De Beers’ Victor Mine - Notification Letter.
PTTW #4767-9HKJ38, Conditions 4.4.2 and 4.5.2, May 2014, Flow stations not measured
due to high water hazards, NR-001, NR-002, 04FC010, NR-003, TRIB-3, TRIB-5,
TRIB-5A, TRIB-7, SG-001, NG-001, 04FC011, TRIB5A-US, De Beers’ Victor Mine Notification Letter.
PTTW #6342-9NEJVH, Conditions 4.4.2 and 4.5.2, December 2014 Manual Verifications
not measured due to unsafe ice conditions, 04FC010, NR-001, NR-002, NR-003, TRIB-3,
TRIB-5, SG-001, De Beers’ Victor Mine - Notification Letter.
4.2.2
Open Pit Sump
The following compliance report was issued in respect of PTTW for the open pit sump that
operated during the 2014 reporting period:
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PTTW for Open Pit Sump (Phase 1 Ditch) #8081-8D2JT4, Annual 2014 Report, dated
December 1, 2014.
4.2.3
Other Well Systems
As per MOECC direction, the potable water well no longer requires a PTTW to operate, and
reporting conditions documented in the former PTTW no longer apply.
4.2.4
Winter Roads
The following compliance report was issued in respect of PTTW for water taken from area creeks
and rivers to help develop the South Winter Road during the 2014 reporting period:
South Winter Road PTTW #8682-8N9HBJ, submitted to MOECC Thunder Bay Office,
dated April 1, 2015 (via WTRS online and in a letter report).
4.2.5
Other
The following additional compliance report was issued in respect of PTTW for the 2014 reporting
period:
Water taking Reporting System, all active PTTW for the VDM operations.
4.3
Certificates of Approval – Wastewater Discharge (MOECC)
4.3.1
Fen Systems
The following compliance reports were issued in respect of C. of A. for operations carried out
during the 2014 reporting period, involving the use of passive wetlands (fen systems) for effluent
treatment:
De Beers Canada Inc., Victor Mine, Northeast Fen 2014 Annual Report as per
Condition 8(3) of Certificate of Approval #4056-6W8QBU; letter report submitted to the
MOECC Timmins District Office, dated April18, 2015.
4.3.2
Processed Kimberlite Containment Facility – Granny Creek
Reporting relevant to operation of the PKC facility for the 2014 period included the following:
Certificate of Approval #6909-76ZGYP – Section 8(6) Annual Report on Fine Processed
Kimberlite Containment Water Management, report submitted to the MOECC Timmins
District Office, dated March 30, 2015.
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Well Field – Attawapiskat River
The following compliance reports were issued in respect of C. of A. for operation of the well field
mine dewatering system during the 2014 reporting period:
Quarterly River Profile Reports for Mine Dewatering C of A #3960-7Q4K2G (Q1 – May 30,
2014; Q2 – August 26, 2014; Q3 –November 29, 2014; Q4 – February 18, 2015);
Victor Mine Well Field Dewatering Discharge, Annual Performance Report: January 2014
to December 2014 per Condition 7(3) of Certificate of Approval No. #3960-7Q4K2G,
submitted to the MOECC Timmins District Office, dated April 18, 2015; and
Mercury Performance Monitoring 2014 Annual Report, Certificate of Approval #39607Q4K2G, Conditions 7(5) and 7(6), submitted to the MOECC Timmins District Office and
the AttFN, dated June 30, 2015.
4.3.4
Sewage Treatment Plant
The following annual compliance report was issued in respect of STP operations carried out
during the 2014 reporting period:
Camp Sewage Treatment Plant Annual Performance Report, January to December 2014,
as per Condition 9(6) of C. of A. #9003-6MHGXE, report submitted to MOECC Timmins
District Office, March 28, 2015.
4.3.5
Landfill and Bioremediation Facility
The following study and compliance reports were issued in respect of C. of A. for the on-site
landfill and bioremediation facilities for the 2014 reporting period:
Landfill Leachate Report, Waste Disposal C. of A. #1352-6N6LRW & Industrial Sewage C
of A #6084-6T6Q4P, report to MOECC Timmins District Office, dated March 18, 2015;
and
Certificate of Approval #1059-6RELN9, section (15) – De Beers Victor Mine
Bioremediation Facility, submitted to MOECC Timmins District Office, letter dated
February 9, 2015.
4.3.6
Other
The following additional annual compliance reports were issued in respect of facilities for the 2014
reporting period:
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Annual Report for Oil / Water Separator C. of A. #7297-7297-72MJ3Q, submitted to
MOECC Timmins District Office, dated December 28, 2014;
Annual Report for Moosonee Waste Transfer Station C. of A. #4483-6MRLSV, submitted
to MOECC, dated June 27, 2015;
As-built Report and Construction Drawings, 2013 Construction PKC Facility Cell 1, dated
January 28, 2014; and
Detailed Design Report for Phase 1 of Cell 2, Processed Kimberlite Containment Facility,
dated January 31, 2014.
4.4
Aggregate Permits (MNRF)
No aggregate was extracted in 2014. The Esker Pit and SQ are complete (no longer in operation).
The North Quarry was never developed, and the CQ is complete permit revoked in September
2013), and as planned, has become the polishing pond for the PKC facility. The following
compliance reports were issued in respect of MNRF Aggregate Permits for the 2014 reporting
period (all nil reports):
Aggregate Permit, Esker Pit - Category 10, Annual Extraction Report to the Ontario
Aggregate Resource Corporation, December 12, 2014;
Aggregate Permit, North Quarry - Category 12, Annual Extraction Report to the Ontario
Aggregate Resource Corporation, December 12, 2014;
Aggregate Permit, Central Quarry - Category 10/12, Annual Extraction Report to the
Ontario Aggregate Resource Corporation, December 12, 2014;
Aggregate Permit, South Quarry - Category 12, Annual Extraction Report to the Ontario
Aggregate Resource Corporation, December 12, 2014; and
Compliance Assessment Reports for the pit and quarries licensed under the above listed
permits (Aggregate Permits #83095, #605582, #605583, and #605584; Submitted
September 5, 2014).
4.5
Federal Permits and Authorizations
No compliance reports were issued in connection with federal approvals during 2014.
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5.0
SUMMARY OF STUDY AND RESEARCH PROGRAMS
5.1
Groundwater Studies
5.1.1
Pumping Tests
In August 2013, a trial dewatering well was installed within the kimberlite pipe, inside the VDM
open pit, rather than adding to the surrounding limestone perimeter wells as the original long term
dewatering strategy had proposed. Monitoring over several months indicated an improved
efficiency in lowering the water table locally, focused on the ore, while pumping less water. This
has the environmental benefits of both reducing the volume of water discharged to the
Attawapiskat River and minimizing the drawdown of regional bedrock aquifers. As a result of the
trial in-pit well, the dewatering strategy changed to favour installing two additional in-pit wells,
rather than more perimeter wells, in 2014.
During 2014, one additional in-pit well that had been constructed in 2013 was put into service,
while a second in-pit well was constructed in 2014 to enter service in 2015. Results have
continued to be favorable in terms of pumping efficiency, and no impact on increased salinity of
the produced water has been observed. Due to the success of this strategy, three additional inpit wells are now planned to be installed in 2015.
During March 2014, short-term pumping tests were conducted at three new wells drilled in the
vicinity of the Tango Extension kimberlite, located approximately 6 km northwest of the Victor
mine. Those tests and other geological data were collected in support of an ongoing EA under
the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (2012) for the proposed development of a mine at
that location to extend the operating life of the Victor site. In May 2014 this data was incorporated
into an updated and integrated groundwater model for the VDM, as described in Section 5.1.2.
5.1.2
Modelling
Section 8.3.3 of the CSR states the following “Generate data necessary to confirm and update
the groundwater model as required…”. FUPA provides for updating the groundwater flow and
quality models annually. Itasca made changes to the groundwater model in May 2012
(Recalibration of March 2011 Victor Regional Groundwater Flow Model and Updated Simulations
of Victor Mine Dewatering) which relied on new and more accurate flow data from each of the
dewatering wells, where the previous model relied on calculating each well’s discharge based on
combined well field discharge.
In May 2014, the groundwater model for the VDM was further recalibrated and updated by Itasca
Denver (ITASCA 2014). This update modified the previous two-part model (comprised of regional
groundwater and Granny Creek overburden components), into one integrated model for Victor
which also incorporated the Tango-Extension kimberlite.
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This integrated model incorporated recent VDM dewatering monitoring data, more detailed
overburden stratigraphy, information from pumping tests conducted for the Tango-Extension site,
and information from additional exploration drill core logs in the region, to refine the accuracy of
the model. This improved and integrated groundwater model will be used for future predictions of
VDM dewatering. This model will continue to be refined as the VDM is developed and as additional
groundwater monitoring data becomes available.
5.2
Muskeg Systems
5.2.1
Hydrogeology / Hydrology
A joint research program was formally approved in March 2008 involving the University of
Waterloo, Queens University and the University of Western Ontario, to provide detailed
information on peatland (muskeg) hydrodynamic responses to well field dewatering. This included
investigation of the mechanisms involved in such responses, including an assessment of
associated mercury dynamics. The research program was led by:
Dr. Jonathan Price – a peatland hydrologist with the Department of Geography and
Environmental Management, University of Waterloo;
Dr. Vicki Remenda – a specialist in fine sediment hydrogeology with the Department of
Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering, Queen’s University; and
Dr. Brian Branfireun – a specialist in mercury geochemistry related to peatlands with the
Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario (formerly with the University of
Toronto).
Each of these professors is a recognized expert in their respective fields. The research program
related to the VDM involved the work of graduate students at the Ph.D. and Masters’ levels, and
complemented other site monitoring programs linked directly to conditions in MOECC approvals,
and to monitoring commitments made through the federal EA process.
The program was funded jointly by De Beers ($1,400,000 including in-kind contributions) and the
Canadian federal Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) grant program
($968,000). Although the formal contractual agreement for this program concluded in 2013, the
reporting deadline was extended by NSERC. While the final summary report was issued to
NSERC in February 2015, research findings and theses continue to be published based on this
work.
Funding for this program was nominally for a period of five years. There was a potential for further
study beyond the five year period depending on findings from the five year period, and other
related monitoring data gathered from the VDM site. This has been achieved through De Beers’
direct financial sponsorship and hosting of field research at the mine site for an NSERC research
partnership referred to as the Canadian Network for Aquatic Ecosystem Services (CNAES
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website is http://www.cnaes.ca/). Section 5.3 outlines current work in progress by CNAES
partners that is related to the Victor site and immediate area.
The De Beers / university partnership study utilized data collected by De Beers through the
broader muskeg and mercury monitoring programs described in this document, but also involved
further more detailed investigations. A list of the specific objectives of the study and a summary
of the findings quoted from the final report to NSERC is provided below.
The final summary of outcomes from this study stated:
“The overall challenge that underpinned this project is that there is large gap in our knowledge
about how the wetlands in the James Bay Lowland function both hydrologically (water),
chemically (natural mercury contamination), and biologically (impacts on fish). (Note: the
combination of these three things is typically called biogeochemistry). The lack of information
made it challenging to predict impacts from the De Beers Victor Mine, as important baseline data
did not exist, nor had any project of this magnitude been completed in this environment. It became
apparent early on in the project that the seasonal (year to year) and spatial differences in the
biogeochemical processes was very large, and thus trying to determine the impacts of the mine
was difficult, as natural processes varied more.
The key achievements, from the perspective of the industry were that:
This program provided useful third-party research that has supported dialogue between
De Beers and the Attawapiskat First Nation, with respect to the state of the natural
environment and potential or observed mine impacts. It is proposed that further
presentation(s) of the mercury research results take place in community meetings in
Attawapiskat, to enhance the understanding of this longstanding issue in their traditional
territory by community members.
The biogeochemistry in particular is providing valuable input to environmental monitoring
programs and the renewal of environmental permits for the Victor mine, and are being
factored into the design of a proposed second pit in the area.
The study results generally support a better understanding of peatland hydrological
processes in the James Bay / Hudson Bay Lowlands, and their interrelationship with the
dynamics of methyl mercury in the system. This promotes understanding of potential effects
of climate change, and the effects of proposed future mining and infrastructure developments
such as the Ring of Fire.
The network of scientific contacts and research programs in the region supported by
De Beers has enhanced the understanding of the heretofore poorly known ecology of the
James Bay Lowlands. These have included this CRD, climate change research by the
Ontario Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, and permafrost monitoring by the
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, among others.
The benefits to Canadians are that with climate change and increased resource development
pressure in Ontario's North, important baseline information, as well as improved understanding
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of the hydrological and biogeochemical processes that occur in these systems has been gained.
This important information will be used to aid decisions-makers at all levels (First Nations,
Industry, Government - local, provincial, federal) on how best to proceed with development in
these environments.”
Objective 1)
Identify and characterize the hydrological linkage between upper (peatland) and
lower (bedrock) systems and determine the change in recharge and discharge flow
pathways resulting from aquifer dewatering.
“The dewatering of the limestone aquifer surrounding the mine has allowed for considerable
insight in the groundwater-surface water connectivity of this large peatland system. Unfortunately,
the timing of the drawdown under the main research transect was quicker than originally thought,
meaning that very little pre-mining data exists (in large part due to a pumping test performed in
the area), in addition, the total drawdown at the end of the study period was less than originally
expected as the drawdown cone was smaller than the feasibility reports suggested, and thus the
study area was not as stressed. Regardless, it is clear that peatland areas where there are thin
or locally absent marine sediments are more susceptible to the aquifer depressurization
(Whittington and Price, 2012, 2013), and that both the hydraulic conductivity, as well as the
marine sediment thickness, were both important. Recharge rates in these areas were similar to
that of evaporation (Leclair et al., submitted), representing a significant loss of water to the
system. Interestingly, the claystone layer located ~50 m below the surface (between the upper
and lower Attawapiskat formations) also exhibited a strong control on the surface recharge
patterns where this layer was either locally thinner, or absent (see Objective 4 for a longer
explanation).
Of particular interest was the role of bioherms, areas that represented locally thin or non-existent
marine sediments. Whittington and Price (2012) showed that the drawdown caused by the
bioherms was limited to ~30 m from the edge of the bioherm due mostly to the properties of the
peat, rather than any marine sediments underlying the peat. Ali et al. (major revisions) found that
the sediments surrounding the bioherms were either highly stratified showing 3-4 layers with
distinct hydraulic properties; or poorly stratified with only a mix of silts and sands. In a suite of
nested piezometers the vertical Darcy flux from the peat to the sediment and from the shallow to
deep sediments indicated one of two patterns: either less water flowed downward in the sediment
than was supplied from the peat layer above, or significantly (100 times) more water was flowing
down in the sediment than was being received from the overlying peat. The conceptual model
presented in Ali et al. (major revisions) hypothesizes that in the first case flow in the sediment is
primarily horizontal until proximal to flow channels in the bioherm rock at which point the second
case is observed as both water from the peat above and water flowing laterally in the sediment
drains downwards into the dewatered bedrock.
In addition to the empirical evidence of the bioherm’s impact on the surrounding peatlands found
by Whittington and Price (2012) and Ali et al. (major revisions), Kompanizare and Price (2014)
created an analytical solution for the recharge around the bioherms (see also Objective 4). Their
study supported the idea that thin marine sediments (found to be <4.3 m in their model) were
important for allowing recharge rates to exceed that of the regional average, and that the most
distinct water table drawdown in the peatland proximal to bioherms was most prevalent in the first
~30 m from the bioherms.
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As mentioned above, the heterogeneous nature of these systems have made using
biogeochemical tracers to establish the vertical connectivity of these systems difficult to interpret;
however, the use of inert species (e.g. chlorides) and water isotopes may provide a surrogate for
the potential shift in hydrological and geochemical regimes over the long-term. These data
obtained throughout the study period along the main research transect, as well as control sites
and show definite geochemical impacts of increased hydraulic gradients. In contrast to the
remote sites, isotopic signatures have been enriched across the main research transect, while
chloride levels have declined, particularly within bog and fen regions, respectively. These results
are important as they are in contrast to the water balance of the North Granny Creek, which have
shown minimal impact (see Objective 2 below) on account of contributions from the non-impacted
upper reaches of the watershed (see below). Further data interpretation is currently underway by
MSc student (E. Perras) under the supervision of Drs Price and Whittington.
The surficial hydrologic linkages between bogs and fen-water-tracks have also been extensively
researched over the study period. Ubiquitous to large dome bogs (>20 km2) within the Hudson
James Bay Lowlands, internal fen-water-tracks are found located along the flanks of the bogs.
These features have been noted by several authors as apparent bog drainage nodes within the
region, but rarely investigated. As such, investigative research was performed in hopes to provide
insight into not only to the source of high pH values obtained within bogs of the region, but also
the enigmatic hydrological and geochemical sources to creeks and rivers that were based on end
member characteristics and mixing models. Results (E. Perras, MSc student with Drs Price and
Whittington) have shown the connectivity between bogs and their internal fen-water-tracks,
whereby the bogs provide hydrologically and geochemically to these features throughout the icefree season. Statistically significant higher chloride levels were found within these features, as
compared to their harbouring bogs, thus indicating groundwater contributions exist within the
otherwise considered ombrogenous bog. These features and their groundwater contributions are
therefore likely contributors to the high pH values obtained within bogs of the region. Through this
research, the importance of the fall wet-up period (initially overlooked in detail) on solute transport
(particularly from bogs to receiving surface waters) has been determined and may provide insight
into the uncertainty of initial end member and mixing models. It is unclear however, whether the
internal fen-water-tracks themselves provide any significant contributions. Given that the watertracks are weak discharge zones, alteration of the rates of deep seepage are likely to restrict or
reverse groundwater flows to them, which will have implications for biogeochemistry of these
systems.”
Objective 2)
Measure and evaluate the change in the flow pathways and water balance of bog
and fen peatlands, including runoff, evaporation, water storage and surface
wetness
“As noted in the Brief Description section above, the location of the main research transect was
chosen for the various peatland types and marine sediment thicknesses it crossed. However, due
to the shape of the North Granny Creek sub-watershed (created after LiDAR data was obtained)
and smaller than expected drawdown cone, much of the watershed was unimpacted (Leclair et
al., submitted). Exacerbating this issue is that much of the unimpacted area was located in the
headwater of the watershed, meaning that this area was able to supply water to the main research
transect area via North Granny Creek. In fact, only ~7, 11, and 15% of the watershed was
considered impacted for 2009, 2010, and 2011, respectively. Leclair et al. (submitted) conclude
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that inter-annual variability in weather was a larger control on the water balance of the North
Granny Creek watershed than mine dewatering.
Runoff totals were 249, 73 and 127 mm from 2009, 2010 and 2011 for the April 1 to August 31
periods. The low runoff in 2010 was due to the minimal snow pack, which melted in February and
minimally recharged the system due to the melt being able to runoff of the frozen ground more
easily, which created a large storage deficit, reducing runoff during the summer season as well
as moving any spring runoff that did occur, outside the study period.
Seasonal average (2009 vs. 2010 vs. 2011) evaporation rates were greatest for open water (1.6 to
2.2 mm/day) and lowest for lichen (0.72 to 0.97) with Moss and Sedge being slightly less than
open water. Due the abundance of moss cover in bogs and that bogs occupied most of the
landscape, bogs contributed the most to seasonal evaporative losses (141, 186 and 189 mm for
2009-2011).
Storage changes in bogs were -5, 4, and -15 mm for 2009, 2010, and 2011 respectively. In the
fens, these values were 70, 7, -32 mm. This was due to the fens receiving water from the upper
(unimpacted) reaches of the watershed, whereas bogs are ombrogenous (precipitation inputs
only). Once these values were areally weighted for the entire watershed, the change in storage
was -26, -12 and 0.3 mm for 2009, 2010, and 2011, respectively.”
Objective 3)
Determine the hydrological response of clay and peatland systems to drainage
where the connectivity is strong, including changes in the soil hydraulic properties.
“As mentioned earlier, the subsidence found on-site within the marine sediments was not as
significant as originally thought (several to ~10 cm instead of 10s to 100s of cm) which caused us
to repurpose the money for the second LiDAR flight to expand on Objective 6.
Sediment Characterization: Collection of soil samples and the installation of piezometers within a
newly exposed section of the open pit were completed in 2011 to further facilitate the
characterization of the hydraulic properties of the sediments. Two (2) nests and six (6) individual
piezometers were installed within the partially stripped section of the pit. These piezometers
allowed for hydraulic testing to determine hydraulic conductivity (K) within sediments for which
consolidation samples have been collected. In addition to soil samples from boreholes (prior to
piezometer installation) soil samples were collected at freshly exposed faces of the pit. At pit walls
17 samples suitable for consolidation testing were collected and laboratory testing completed to
determine consolidation parameters. Sediment characterization has been advanced by soil
samples collected within the pit, during geological mapping of small streams, and from boreholes
advanced during investigations of the peat- sediment-bedrock interface near three (3) bioherms.
The 82 samples collected in these three areas were be characterized using Atterberg limits,
traditional grain size analyses, Fritsch Particle Sizer, conventional X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), and
moisture analysis. The Victor Tyrrell Sea (VTS) deposits are clayey silt with low LL, low PI, and no
smectite clay minerals. The clay fraction consists of quartz, illite, chlinochlore, and usually calcite.
The deposits are normally consolidated with Cc values of 0.08-0.155 and void ratios of 0.52-0.77.
The VTS deposits are grey with pockets of black graphite and frequent shells. The K rages from
6.6x10-9 to 4.7x10-8 m/s. Finite element modeling software was used to investigate the sensitivity
of surface drainage and consolidation behaviour to the variability identified in the clay. Based on
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this modeling the thickness, K, and the K modifier function of the clay have the greatest impact on
the potential rate and magnitude of consolidation and vertical drainage of the surface.”
Objective 4)
Model the hydrogeology of the bioherm-mineral sediment-peatland system.
“The objective of modeling the areas surrounding the mine pit were to evaluate the role of the
marine sediment (MS) and other confining layers within the bedrock on the spatial patterns of
recharge, which affect peatland function as well as mine pumping requirements. The model
domain includes the Granny Creek watershed and extends to the Attawapiskat and
Nayshkootayaow Rivers closer to the mine pit. The modeled area is about 106 km2 with total
thickness of ~300 m. The model was calibrated for the period Jan 2007 to the end of 2012 (Dec.
2012). The most sensitive parameters are the hydraulic conductivity in the Ekwan-Severn River
formation (ESR), the deep granite layer and the central quarry supplying the pumped water from
the mine. The second most sensitive parameters are hydraulic conductivities in the Upper
Attawapiskat and MS and weathered bedrock (WB) barrier layers that are important in controlling
percolation from the overburden layers. The third most sensitive parameters are hydraulic
conductivities of limestone bedrock, especially the upper part of the Lower Attawapiskat (ULAP)
formation, the central quarry (CQ) which received pumped process water (CQ is an opening that
breaches all confining layers), and the ESR layer at the western boundary, where most flow
enters the model domain. On Dec 2012 the main outflow was pumped water was from the mine
(86000 m3/day). The lateral boundaries provided the largest of the inflows to the system
(46600 m3/day), followed by surface recharge (32800 m 3/day), then from the Attawapiskat and
Nayshkootayaow Rivers (2400 and 4900 m3/day, respectively).
The spatial distribution of surface recharge pre-mining (Dec 2006) was dominated by cropping
and sub-cropping bioherms where MS was thin or absent, notably in the northern domed bog and
near the central quarry. In the pre-mining condition most areas experienced recharge rates
between 0.1 to 0.3 mm/day (green areas). Under the mining condition enhanced recharge areas
(1-3 mm/d) occurred around the mine pit, as well as around the central quarry and Northern
Bioherm close to the Attawapiskat River margin. Also in the mining condition recharge rates
around the fen tracks increased up to 0.3 mm/day nearer the mine, as water supply was
maintained by flow from higher up the water track. This was confirmed by much higher specific
discharge in fen water tracks compared to the surrounding areas, being 2-10 times higher under
the mining condition than pre-mining.
In the Upper Attawapiskat (UAP) layer the highest drawdowns (Dec 2012) are up to 7 and 24 m
around the central quarry and in an opening in the claystone (CS) layer north of the mine pit,
respectively, acting as sinks. In the upper part of the Lower Attawapiskat (ULAP) layer, which
occurs below the CS barrier layer a depression cone occurs around the mine pit and extends
beyond the watershed boundaries. Drawdown near the Attawapiskat River suggests a CS layer
opening between the mine pit and the river.
Location of the mine in the down-gradient part of the watershed means that horizontal flow along
the fen tracks may help maintain wetland processes in areas closer to the mine, but the additional
water increases the dewatering requirement. Location of central quarry close to the mine and its
depression cone intensify the effect of the central quarry in the total recharge rate. Due to the
effect of barrier layers only about 25% of the pumped water is supplied by surface recharge;
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however, there are significant local anomalies where there are windows in barrier layers,
especially CS.”
Objective 5)
Establish the present distribution and mobility of both inorganic (total) mercury, and
methyl mercury in the peats and pore waters of the various bog and fen-type
peatlands, and couple changes in the release of total mercury and methyl mercury
to the changes in peatland hydrology.
To address the large variability in the distribution of total mercury (THg) in the landscape,
collection of solid and aqueous phase samples from the experimental and reference transects
were undertaken for three years (2008-2011). Contrary to our initial hypothesis, data from small
(1 m) and large (100 m) scale peat and pore water sampling campaigns (2008-2011, n≈350) show
that THg in surface peats is not uniformly distributed throughout the region.
Overall, large variability exists in THg, particularly in the surface peat (0-10 cm depth) in all
peatland types, but variability was lower at depths greater than 10 cm. In general, ombrotrophic
bog peat THg concentrations were 80±30 ng/g and 60±20 ng/g (dry weight) for 2.5 and 27.5 cm
(integrated over 5 cm), respectively. Minerotrophic fens (including riparian channel fen) contain
30-50% more THg than bogs, with concentrations 120±30 ng/g and 100±20 ng/g at 2.5 and
27.5 cm depths, respectively. Pore water Hg concentrations show no distinguishable temporal
trends as a result of mine dewatering (range between 1-5 ng/L), and seem to be more influenced
by the location of the water table (directly coupled to precipitation and evapotranspiration) as well
the partitioning of mercury between the liquid and the solid phase. A manuscript on small-scale
spatiotemporal variability of peatland biogeochemistry has been published (Ulanowski and
Branfireun, 2014). This research included sampling for solid phase THg although the manuscript
did not include the Hg data and focussed on pore water solutes but these data showed that THg
concentrations in peats was highly variable even at a small scales. Findings were consistent with
above however, with fen peats containing >40% more THg than bog peats.
Methylmercury concentrations were considered in concert with THg in the same framework
discussed above. Pore water concentrations of methylmercury were between 0.01 and 0.50 ng/L
(1-10% of THg as MeHg), and there were no clear trends in both space and time. As with total
mercury and ancillary, MeHg in peat and pore waters shows considerable variability, and given
that production of this species is biologically-mediated, variability is equal to, or even greater than
that for total inorganic mercury. Upon completion of the project and the power analyses reported
in Ulanowski and Branfireun (2014) we recognized that the plot based random sampling approach
taken in this project resulted in between sample spatial variability in concentrations that
obfuscated clear spatial or temporal patterns at the larger scale. The withdrawal of the PhD
student leading this aspect of the project has sidelined the publication of these results, however
Branfireun will continue to move these results to manuscript form.
Additional experimental work in the laboratory addressed critical questions concerning the
release of THg and DOC from wetting and drying bog and fen peats, and the sorption of DOC
and THg to marine silts to evaluate the downward mobility of peat-derived solutes. Ahmad and
Branfireun (in prep) found that the flushing of peats with pH adjusted water (4.0 and 6.5) resulting
in nearly 2x more dissolved Hg being released from bog peat than fen peat under both pHs, and
that pH 6.5 water consistently resulted in higher THg concentrations from both peat types. These
findings are consistent with field results that showed consistently higher THg in fen peats
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(apparently stronger binding which is likely geochemically controlled). Wozney and Branfireun
(in prep) found rapid sorption of THg to marine silts taken from the Victor pit immediately proximal
to overlying peats, with 96% sorption of THg alone in <24 hrs. When combined with DOC in a
simple binary solution, THg sorption was much slower, with only 50-75% sorption in 24 hrs
indicating that DOC had a protective effect on THg in solution. Ahmad and Wozney were both
undergraduate researchers at Western.
The regular and reliable collection of surface water samples from creeks in the zone of water
table drawdown (NGC) and tributaries (Nayshkatooyaow, Attawapiskat, TRIB 5A) was
undertaken from 2008 through 2012. Surface water concentrations ranged from 0.5-5.0 ng
L-1 THg and 0.005-0.1 ng L-1 MeHg. Our overall findings were that there is up to 2x betweenyear variation in surface water THg and MeHg concentrations for a given stream. Between
streams, there is a similar range of variability driven presumably by differing hydrological
processes and groundwater-surface water contributions (see Orlova and Branfireun, 2014). Total
and in particular methylmercury concentrations are very low relative to more southerly peatlanddominated watersheds again suggesting that surface water chemistry around the Victor mine are
as influenced by the degree of surface water – groundwater interaction than by the nearcontinuous surface peat deposits. Importantly, there was no indication of a change in surface
water quality (DOC, Hg) in the monitored stream (NGC) impacted by the dewatering of the Victor
Pit This work is in preparation for publication (Branfireun and Price, in prep).
Objective 6)
Use remotely sensed data to document changes in surface elevation and
vegetation community structure, to provide a broad-scale interpretation of
hydrological and biogeochemical change.
The classification work completed by DiFebo (MSc defended in 2011) has since been published
as a book chapter. This study demonstrated how airborne LiDAR surveys can augment highresolution optical satellite imagery such as IKONOS to improve ecosystem classification and
mapping in a heterogeneous, low-gradient, northern peatland complex. Specifically, a single
LiDAR terrain derivative (difference between the elevation at the centre of the window and the
mean elevation in the window for 250 m windows) was found to provide important contextual
information about the relative topographic positions of different peatland subforms throughout the
study site. This information contributed to a >10% increase in classification accuracy (76.4%) over
the use of IKONOS imagery alone. Use of other LiDAR derivatives, particularly those based on
above-ground vegetation returns and textural derivatives sensitive to surface roughness would
likely provide further improvements to the separability of several spectrally similar class pairs such
as bog-lichen and bog-lichen / conifer subforms.
The Richardson et al. work summarized in the last report has since been published (Richardson
et al., 2012). It was found that at low flows, the six catchments observed as part of the regulatory
monitoring effort generated equivalent amounts of runoff (mm), leading to a strong flow vs gross
drainage area (Q–GDA) relationship. During high flows, total growing season runoff increased
systematically with GDA between 8 and 50 km2 and then decreased with further increases in
GDA. Landscape analysis using a 5-m resolution LiDAR-based digital elevation model revealed
that discrete near-stream zones may be the key determinant of catchment runoff efficiency at
the small to medium (~10 to ~200 km2) headwater catchment scales.
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As previously noted, the surface elevation changes were not as significant as originally
anticipated; as such, work was shifted to understanding the geomorphological processes
controlling runoff in these low relief environments. Dr. Richardson’s MSc student (Bouffard,
graduated Sept. 2014) looked at the unique hydrologic characteristics of the peatlands in the
James Bay Lowlands that challenge some basic assumptions embedded within many hydrology
models including topographically-driven lateral flows and hydrologic connectivity of all terrestrial
landscape elements within the stream network. With the increased resource development in
Ontario’s (and Canada) north, Bouffard compared the performance of two popular conceptual
rainfall-runoff models: TOPMODEL and HBV. He found that TOPMODEL was altogether
unsuitable for these low relief environments, but HBV was acceptable.
Finally, an additional paper, currently in preparation by M. Richardson and J. Price shows that
the 2008 LiDAR acquisition can be used to test analytical and numerical models of peat bog
dome development. This finding is significant because it will lead to more robust models of peat
accumulation in the JBL and may provide a predictive framework to forecast changes in peat
accumulation/degradation rates under conditions of hydrologic non-stationarity, an expected
consequence of global climate change.”
5.2.2
Climate Change in Muskeg Environments
De Beers Canada and the Victor mine continue to host and support field research programs in
the James Bay Lowlands operated by several government agencies and their academic partners.
These include:
Climate Change Research (Ontario Ministry of Environment and Climate Change)
The MOECC operates a carbon flux monitoring research site approximately 13 km south of the
Victor mine, outside the area potentially affected by mine dewatering. The monitoring station was
established in collaboration with the MNRF and several universities to complement related
monitoring and research activities in the Attawapiskat region. Installation of the monitoring station
was completed in the summer of 2010, with the approval of the AttFN. The station is anticipated
to operate for up to ten years.
The research activities at this site include the ongoing monitoring of various hydrological and
biogeochemical aspects of the peatlands, including:
1) A comprehensive characterization of the two main types of peatland ecosystems from a
hydrological, biogeochemical, and carbon cycling perspective;
2) Highly robust direct measurements of evaporation from the different peatland types;
3) Use of a boardwalk system that allows site access for extensive and reliable hydrological
measurements without physically disturbing the muskeg; and
4) Measurement of greenhouse gases that are tightly coupled to the production of DOC,
the primary association of mercury in surface runoff.
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The MOECC station and Victor mine jointly support climate change and wetlands research by
McGill University (Lorna Harris, PhD candidate with Prof. Nigel Roulet and Prof. Tim Moore). This
work focuses on the biogeochemistry of northern peatlands, how peatlands form and develop
over time and how this development may be impacted by environmental change (climate change
or development). It studies vegetation-hydrology relationships and gas exchange (CO2 and CH4)
across various microforms in both pristine and hydrologically impacted bogs and fens. Changes
in biogeochemical processes in this region could have major consequences for global greenhouse
gas exchange and climate regulation.
Permafrost Monitoring Research (MNRF)
Researchers from the MNRF established several research monitoring stations in the
discontinuous permafrost features near the Victor mine, beginning in the summer of 2009. This
program is gaining a better understanding of peat and permafrost ecosystems in Ontario’s Far
North. Activities involve peat sampling, installing and maintaining permafrost and peat monitoring
stations, vegetation sampling, etc. Principal researchers include Dr. Jim McLaughlin, Benoit
Hamel, Adam Kinnunen, and Mark Crofts, who continue to use the Victor site accommodations,
aircraft, and freight services each year. This work is coordinated with several other permafrost
research sites in the Far North, and has included paleo-ecological work by the University of
Toronto (Dr. Sarah Finkelstein and others) to reconstruct long-term peatland carbon accumulation
rates, fire history and hydrologic history in the region.
5.2.3
Water Quality
Water quality elements, including a focus on mercury / methyl mercury dynamics are included in
Section 3.2.1.2.
5.2.4
Plant Communities
The muskeg plant community study program is described in Section 3.4.1.4. Other vegetationrelated research pertaining to mine closure planning and progressive rehabilitation of the Victor
site is discussed in Section 2.7, and recently published study results are included in Section 5.7
below.
5.2.5
Breeding Bird Surveys
The breeding bird survey program is described in Section 3.4.4.2.
5.3
Aquatic Ecosystem
In 2012 De Beers signed on as a financial sponsor and to act as a research base for the CNAES
consortium (Canadian Network for Aquatic Ecosystem Services - website is
http://www.cnaes.ca/). This consortium of approximately 30 researchers from 11 universities,
government, and industrial partners is studying the region of the James Bay / Hudson Bay
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Lowlands. Of the three major study themes, Theme 1: Coupling the Landscape, Aquatic
Ecosystems, Services and Environmental Change in Canada’s North builds on and continues
elements of the previous De Beers-sponsored NSERC study on the biogeochemistry of mercury
in the muskeg and waterways of the region. This includes the following specific projects in the
Hudson Bay Lowlands:
A synthesis and analysis of existing hydrological, biological and chemical data for the
Hudson Bay Lowlands;
Coupling the landscape and surface waters of the Hudson Bay Lowlands at the regional
watershed and sub-watershed scales;
Characterizing the structure and function of aquatic ecosystems of the Hudson Bay
Lowlands;
Identifying the impacts of climate and land-use changes on peatland biogeochemical
function in the Hudson Bay Lowlands; and
Characterizing the distribution of mercury and methyl-mercury in surface waters and
freshwater biota of the Hudson Bay Lowlands.
This program will extend for five year period, ending in 2018. Some initial research reports arising
from this work were published in 2014, as noted in Section 5.7, with numerous other reports
currently in preparation. A current list of publications and materials in preparation may be found
on the internet at http://www.cnaes.ca/publications/.
5.4
Caribou
5.4.1
Aerial Surveys
The caribou aerial survey program is described in Section 3.4.2.2.
5.4.2
Radio Telemetry Surveys
The caribou radio telemetry survey program is described in Section 3.4.2.3.
5.5
Mercury
5.5.1
Mercury Availability and Transport Mechanisms
De Beers’ study programs related to mercury availability and transport are described in
Section 3.4.1.5. The associated inter-university NSERC research program involving peatland
hydrodynamics and associated mercury dynamics is described in Section 5.2.1, and the CNAES
research consortium sponsored in part by De Beers is outlined in Section 5.3.
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Potential for Enhanced Mercury Release
The potential for enhanced mercury release in response to well field dewatering is being
addressed through monitoring programs described in Sections 3.4.1.5 and 5.2.1.
5.5.3
Receiving Water Conditions
Receiving water conditions with regard to the potential for enhanced mercury release in response
to well field dewatering are being addressed through monitoring programs described in
Sections 3.4.1.5 and 5.2.1.
5.5.4
Potential for Bio-magnification in Fish
The potential for mercury bio-magnification in fish, as related to well field dewatering, is being
addressed through monitoring programs described in Sections 3.2.5, 3.4.1.5 and 5.2.1. This is
also an element of the CNAES research program described in Section 5.3.
5.6
Traditional Pursuits, Values and Skills
5.6.1
Traditional Ecological Knowledge
To De Beers’ knowledge, no TEK studies were carried out in association with the VDM during
2014. The three Elders of the AttFN who are active members of the joint EMC with De Beers are
frequently asked for input or offer their opinions as to potential areas of significance or applicable
traditional knowledge, during discussions of permit applications, environmental studies and
proposed diamond exploration activities. These opinions are valued.
No major issues which required formal follow-up were identified during 2014.
5.6.2
Hunter Surveys
To De Beers’ knowledge, no hunter surveys were completed by or on behalf of the AttFN in 2014.
5.6.3
Other Initiatives
No other initiatives were carried out in 2014 with respect to traditional pursuits, values and skills.
5.7
List of Victor Mine Related Papers and Publications
The following is a list of recent research results published during 2014 and reports currently in
progress. Previously published results are listed in earlier annual FUPA summaries and are not
repeated here.
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Publications
Ali, K., Whittington, P., Remenda, V., Price, J.S. The role of permeable marine sediments in
peatland-dewatering around a bioherm outcrop, James Bay Lowlands. Accepted
Hydrological Processes HYP-12-0907
Campbell, D. & Corson, A. 2014. Can mulch and fertilizer alone rehabilitate surfacedisturbed subarctic peatlands? Ecological Restoration 32: 153-159.
Difebo, A., Richardson, M., and Price, J.S. Fusion of multi-spectral imagery and LIDAR digital
terrain derivatives for ecosystem mapping and morphological characterization of a
northern peatland complex. In: Remote Sensing of Wetlands: Applications and Advances,
(eds. RW. Tiner, V.V. Klemas and M.W. Lang). CRC Press 2015.
Humphreys, E.R., Charron, C., Brown, M., & Jones, R. Two Bogs in the Canadian Hudson Bay
Lowlands and a Temperate Bog Reveal Similar Annual Net Ecosystem Exchange of CO2;;
Antarctic and Alpine Research Journal – special issue Environmental Change in the
Hudson and James Bay Region, Vol 46. No.1 2014 pp 103-113
Kompanizare, M., & Price, J. S. (2014). Analytical solution for enhanced recharge around a
bedrock exposure caused by deep-aquifer dewatering through a variable thickness
aquitard. Advances in Water Resources, 74, 102-115. 12 / 2014.
McLaughlin, Jim, & Webster, Kara. Effects of Climate Change on Peatlands in the Far North of
Ontario, Canada: a Synthesis; Antarctic and Alpine Research Journal – special issue
Environmental Change in the Hudson and James Bay Region, Vol 46. No.1 2014 pp
84-102.
O’Reilly, Benjamin C., Finkelstein, Sarah A., & Bunbury, Joan; Pollen-Derived Paleovegetation
Reconstruction and Long-Term Carbon Accumulation at a Fen Site in the Attawapiskat
River Watershed, Hudson Bay Lowlands, Canada; Antarctic and Alpine Research Journal
– special issue Environmental Change in the Hudson and James Bay Region, Vol 46.
No. 1 2014 pp6-18
Orlova, J., & Branfireun, B.A. Surface Water and Groundwater Contributions to Streamflow in the
James Bay Lowland, Canada;; Antarctic and Alpine Research Journal – special issue
Environmental Change in the Hudson and James Bay Region, Vol 46. No.1 2014 pp
236-250.
Papers and Reports in Review or in Preparation
Ali, K., Whittington, P., Remenda, V., Price, J.S. accepted. The role of permeable marine
sediments in peatland-dewatering around a bioherm outcrop, James Bay Lowlands.
Hydrological Processes HYP-12-0907.
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Leclair, M., Whittington, P., Price, J.S. Hydrological functions of a mine-impacted and natural
peatland-dominated watershed, James Bay Lowland. Submitted to Journal of Hydrology:
Regional Studies. EJRH-D-15-00051
Whittington, P., Thompson, D.K., Price, J.S. Fire, rock and ice: a fire risk assessment of
dewatered organic soils surrounding a bioherm at an open-pit diamond mine in the James
Bay Lowlands. Submitted to Canadian Journal of Forest Research. CJFR-2012-0499.
Conference Presentations
Campbell, D., Corson, A., & Bergeron, J. 2014. Rehabilitation of peatlands in the Hudson Bay
Lowland after winter road disturbances. 20th Symposium of the Peatland Ecology
Research Group, Québec City, QC.
McCarter, C and J. Price. Hydrological response to simulated wastewater input from point source
in a Northern Ribbed Fen/ CGU 2014.
Theses
Bouffard, J.-S. A Comparison of Conceptual Rainfall-Runoff Modelling Structures and
Approaches for Hydrologic Prediction in Ungauged Northern Peatlands Basins. MSc.
Thesis. Carleton University, September 2014.
Hanson, Andrea. The effects of Fertilization and Mulch on the Reclamation of Peat and
Overburden Mixes at the De Beers Victor Diamond Mine, Ontario April 2014.
(Undergraduate thesis).
Leclair, Melissa. In progress, "Natural and mine- impacted hydrology of northern peatlands:
James Bay, Ontario, Canada", MSc thesis, University of Waterloo (est. completion in
2015).
Lefrancois, Melissa. Optimum Fertilization of Phosphorus to support Plant Growth within the
Waste Material Peat Mixtures at De Beers Victor Diamond Mine, Ontario April 2014.
(Undergraduate thesis).
Perras, Emily. Hydrological and geochemical implications of groundwater depressurization of an
expansive peatland complex, MSc thesis, University of Waterloo (est. completion in 2015).
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6.0
ACTIONS PLANNED OR TAKEN TO ADDRESS EFFECTS OR COMPLIANCE
PROBLEMS
6.1
Atmospheric Systems
Emissions of TSP from the on-site waste incinerator have fluctuated in recent years. Incinerator
stack sampling conducted to date has indicated that the elevated TSP values are in large part a
by-product from the NaOH scrubber system, and not a direct reflection of incinerator efficiency
(Section 3.1.1.2). Efforts have been made to reduce the concentrations of recirculating salts by
increasing the blow-down rate, but, despite these measures average TSP emissions have
remained elevated. Air quality POI TSP concentrations at the property boundary, however, have
remained very low, being at or less than 1% of applicable criteria for all years. Efforts to control
TSP emissions that took place in 2014 included preventative maintenance (cleaning of the
scrubber pipes) and increased attention to drops in pressure. An incinerator expert was retained
in 2014 to review this facility and their recommendations are being reviewed and implemented as
appropriate.
Mercury, cadmium, lead, dioxins and furans, sulphur dioxide, HCl, nitrogen oxides and THC
emissions concentrations in 2014 continued to be well below C. of A. limits.
Recommended Actions
Continue to work with equipment vendors to optimize incinerator and scrubber
performance; and
Continue to pursue the permitting of land-spreading of dewatered sewage sludge for
revegetation trials on overburden stockpiles and the fine PKC facility to eliminate this
source of potassium salts in the incinerator waste feed, further improve the efficiency of
combustion, and reduce the operating hours of the facility. An application to the MOECC
was submitted in 2014 and has been reviewed by the regional Biosolids Utilization
Committee as part of the application process.
6.2
Surface Water Systems
No compliance issues were identified in respect of the protection of surface water systems.
Increased sulphate in the NEF is thought to be responsible for observed increased methyl
mercury concentrations within the NEF, as per discussions in Section 3.2.1. De Beers has
diverted one sulphate source from the NEF (pit perimeter well development water) and is
continuing to investigate other potential measures for further reducing sulphate loadings to the
NEF. These measures are detailed in Section 5 of the Mercury Performance Monitoring 2014
Annual Report, and in earlier annual mercury reports, as per Section 3.2.1.2. It is also noteworthy
that the ratio of filtered methyl mercury concentrations observed during the open water period
(July and October) between the NEF and the HgCON control fen has declined substantially in
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2013 and 2014 from peak values observed in 2011 and 2012, indicating that mercury methylation
rates in the NEF may be attenuating (see Figure 5).
6.3
Groundwater Systems
Groundwater pumping rates in 2014 averaged 79,300 m3/d (Section 2.1), which is considerably
less than the 130,000 m3/d, plus an addition contingency allowance of 20,000 m3/d, allowed for
by PTTW #6342-9NEJVH. Recent recalibrations of the mine dewatering hydrogeological model
indicate that this approximate pumping rate is expected to continue to be the case throughout the
remaining life of the mine. Chloride concentrations in the well field discharge have thus far also
remained below Amended C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G final effluent limits.
No actions are recommended at this time.
6.4
Terrestrial Systems
Terrestrial system plant and breeding bird surveys are carried out at five year intervals with the
first such survey having been conducted in 2007, and the first follow-up survey having been
completed in 2012. The next survey is therefore not scheduled until 2017. Key observations from
the 2012 monitoring program are repeated here for ease of reference.
Results of the 2012 wetland plant monitoring program were compared with the 2007 wetland
monitoring program. Overall results of the assessment showed that; species richness had not
declined, the relative cover of vascular plants had not increased, the relative cover of Sphagnum
moss species had not decreased, and there was no correlation between community structure and
distance to the mine site among the various survey plots, indicating no effect of mine dewatering
on muskeg vegetation community expression. This observation is consistent with hydrological
data which continue to show no effect of mine dewatering on muskeg system water levels
(Section 3.3.1).
Breeding bird surveys conducted in 2012 suggested a possible decline in both overall diversity
and abundance. With only two years of surveys, it is not possible to discern whether bird numbers
were exceptionally high in 2007 or unusually low in 2012. Further studies are required to detect
any systematic changes in the breeding bird community. In particular, survey results from 2012
showed a marked variability in species representation between sampling dates (June 16 to 18
and June 26 to 27), in which an average of only 37% of species were detected at the same sites,
during both survey periods. In comparing numbers of species with distance from the mine site,
there is no evident relationship between the number of species observed and distance from the
mine centroid. The apparent observed decline in overall bird species diversity and abundance
between the 2007 and 2012 surveys is therefore likely a reflection of natural variation and survey
timing effects.
Recommended actions are to continue with scheduled breeding bird surveys at five year intervals.
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Malfunctions and Accidents
All spills in 2014 were minor and when meeting applicable criteria, spills were reported to the
MOECC, as described in Section 3.5.1. Spill prevention, protection and response procedures
functioned effectively.
6.6
Traditional Pursuits, Values and Skills
Traditional pursuits, values and skills are not subject to compliance aspects.
6.7
Heritage Resources
A formal Heritage Management Plan and related awareness training for all site employees
continued throughout the reporting period. The Heritage Management Plan forms part of the VDM
Environmental Management System, and has previously been made available to the AttFN, and
is posted to the joint EMC website.
6.8
Environmental Health
No De Beers’ related traffic accidents occurred on winter roads during 2014.
6.9
Business, Employment and Training
Business, employment and training are not subject to compliance aspects.
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7.0
VERIFICATION OF THE ACCURACY OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
7.1
Atmospheric Systems
Monitoring conducted during the 2014 reporting period indicated that measured environmental
effects on atmospheric systems were consistent with EA predictions, as per the following:
Incinerator Emissions
Emissions have been consistent with EA predictions with the exception of TSP concentrations
which have remained elevated. De Beers continues to investigate and develop solutions to
mitigate the elevated TSP emissions. Property boundary POI TSP values however, have
remained well below applicable standards, indicating that elevated point source TSP emissions
from the incinerator are not resulting in an adverse environmental effect, also consistent with EA
predictions.
Lead and cadmium levels were below applicable criteria in 2014, indicating that the source
segregation program for these metals continues to be successful. POI parameter concentrations
for all incinerator emissions were well below applicable standards.
Dust
Dustfall jar test results for 2014 were within applicable standards at all locations, indicating that
road dust (the primary source of concern) is being effectively managed with the use of watering
trucks. There has been a long-term trend of decreased dustfall quantities at the VDM, with dustfall
values for 2014 being quite low.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
GHG emissions for 2014 as determined from fuel consumption and transport activities, were less
than predicted in the EA for the mine operations phase, and below both provincial and federal
reporting thresholds.
Carbon Exchange Rates
Carbon exchange rates based on quantities of peat removed and stockpiled by the end of 2014
remain unchanged from 2013 when they were approximately at (or slightly less than) predicted in
the EA. No new peat was removed and stockpiled in 2014.
Noise
Noise monitoring was last conducted in the summer of 2014 and the winter of 2015 as per CSR
requirements. Results were consistent with historical measurement data at the mine and EA
predictions.
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Surface Water Systems
Monitoring conducted during 2014 indicated that measured environmental effects on surface
water systems were generally consistent with EA predictions, as per the following:
Point Source Discharges
Point source discharges from the NEF and from the well field have met applicable C. of A. limits
and conditions, and were consistent with, or better than, EA predicted results with the exception
of a few minor exceedances of TSS which were due to disturbing bottom sediments during
sampling (drilling through thick ice in an effort to sample a very thin layer of water below the ice).
The STP met all C. of A. limits, however, there were exceedances of C. of A. objectives for: total
phosphorus (6), ammonia (21), and nitrate (20). However, the STP effluent since August of 2011
has been discharged to the fine PKC facility where additional reduction of phosphorus and
ammonia occurs as a result of natural degradation processes such as nutrient uptake by microorganisms. Total phosphorus and ammonia in the effluent from the fine PKC facility have been
well below STP objectives. Nitrate is not measured. The STP in use at the VDM, when combined
with fine PKC system polishing, is therefore performing well overall, and is not having an adverse
effect on receiving waters.
Receiving Water Quality
Receiver surface water quality consistently meet federal CEQG and Ontario PWQO guidelines
for the protection of aquatic life except where already in exceedance because of background
conditions (including pH at all reference sites, and silver at Nayshkootayaow upstream of site),
and for minor exceedances of a few parameters including pH, cadmium, copper, iron and silver
(Table 18). Localized higher methyl mercury values observed in downstream Granny Creek
waters are well within the CEQG value of 4 ng/L.
Creek and River Flows
The March 2008 hydrogeological model predicted that Nayshkootayaow River flows would
decrease from mine dewatering over the longer-term by approximately 17,400 m3/d. This
compares with a value of 22,200 m3/d predicted in the CSR. A flow reduction of 17,400 m3/d has
the potential to reduce Nayshkootayaow River natural flows by >15% during winter conditions.
The Itasca model update for 2012 showed reduced predicted flow losses for the Nayshkootayaow
River closer to 11,000 m3/d (Itasca 2012a).
In accordance with CSR commitments to maintain natural flow losses at <15%, a
Nayshkootayaow River flow supplementation system was installed during the winter of 2007, and
has operated every winter since then. Flow supplementation in the winter of 2013/2014 started
on October 27, 2013 and continued through to May 14, 2014, at an average rate in excess of
17,400 m3/d (i.e., the model predicted longer-term flow reduction rate) in accordance with PTTW
#6342-9NEJVH. Supplementation began again on October 31, 2014. Hydrometric measurements
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of river flows showed that Nayshkootayaow River flow losses during the winter of 2013/2014 were
maintained below the 15% threshold in accordance with CSR commitments.
To further assess any potential flow losses to the Nayshkootayaow River system, De Beers has
selected a supplemental flow gauging station on the Nayshkootayaow River based on recent
hydrogeological monitoring. The most probable zone of influence (ZOI) would be located just
upstream of the confluence of Granny Creek and Nayshkootayaow River. The intermediate flow
station has been used through the 2014 winter season to assist in identifying if significant flow
differentials are occurring, and will continue to be monitored in future to develop reliable rating
curves and to evaluate potential flow differentials.
The March, 2008 hydrogeological model also predicted that there would be flow losses to the
Granny Creek system in excess of 15% of natural flows a result of well field dewatering. In the
CSR it was predicted that well field induced flow losses to the Granny Creek system would be
less than 15% of natural flows. However, provisions were made in the CSR for flow
supplementation to the Granny Creek system if required. The Granny Creek flow supplementation
system was installed in the winter of 2007/2008 in accordance with CSR contingencies and
Adaptive Environmental Management strategies. The flow supplementation system for Granny
Creek was run throughout the winter of 2013/2014 and for much of the non-winter period during
2014 as well, all in accordance with PTTW #6342-9NEJVH requirements. The 15% Granny Creek
flow threshold was maintained throughout the year.
Fish Habitat
Provisions have been made for flow supplementation to the Granny Creek and Nayshkootayaow
River systems, as provided in the CSR to maintain fish habitat. The South Granny Creek
diversion, replacing like-for-like fish habitat, was completed in February 2008. The 2011
assessment report, following four seasons of monitoring, indicated that the new creek channel is
being actively used by fish and other aquatic organisms throughout its length and is naturalizing
well. Fieldwork undertaken in 2013 and 2014 indicated this was still the case.
Fish habitat losses resulting from the displacement of muskeg ponds have not yet reached levels
predicted in the CSR, by the end of 2014, because not all mine-related facilities have been
constructed. Most notably, Cell 1 and part of Cell 2 of the fine PKC facility had been constructed,
and other mineral waste stockpiles including the coarse PK and mine rock stockpiles, were not
fully completed. These measures, and the associated creation of comparable levels of new fish
habitat to offset muskeg pond losses, remain as predicted in the CSR.
Benthos and Fisheries Resources
Adverse impacts to benthos and fisheries resources were not predicted to occur as a result of
mine-related discharges to the environment. This is still the case, and there were no adverse
effects of effluent discharges on benthic and fisheries resources for the 2014 monitoring period.
An increase in background body burden mercury concentrations has been noted for small fish
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(Pearl Dace) inhabiting the lower Granny Creek system (Amec Foster Wheeler 2015d). Small fish
occurring in the Attawapiskat and Nayshkootayaow Rivers showed background body burden
mercury concentrations consistent with observed water quality data for these systems.
7.3
Groundwater Systems
In the CSR, it was predicted that well field dewatering would gradually increase to approximately
100,000 m3/d, and that chloride concentrations in the groundwater discharge would start at
approximately 800 mg/L, and gradually increase to approximately 1,000 mg/L before eventually
decreasing to approximately 800 mg/L, but with the potential for chloride concentrations to go as
high as 1,800 mg/L based on more conservative assumptions involving increased chloride
concentrations at depth. It was further predicted that muskeg dewatering linked to well field
dewatering would be localized and would most likely to occur in the vicinity of bioherm zones in
generally closer proximity to the mine site, where mineral soils are thinner, and generally coarser.
June, 2008 groundwater modeling, based on results of the 2006, 60-day pump test and on 2007
mine dewatering results and associated monitoring well development and performance, indicated
that well field dewatering rates were likely to increase to approximately 110,000 m3/d by mid2008, to 130,000 m3/d by mid-2010, and that chloride concentrations were likely to start out at
approximately 900 mg/L and increase to 1,300 mg/L before dropping back to about 800 mg/L in
later mine life.
The groundwater model was updated in May, 2012, wherein the predicted average maximum flow
was determined to be between 95,100 and 97,300 m3/d which is lower than previous model
predictions (Section 5.1.2). Chloride concentrations in the well field discharge are now predicted
to increase to approximately 1,500 mg/L by 2016 and to level off at that approximate concentration
(Itasca 2012).
Currently, well field dewatering rates are less than the steady state dewatering rates predicted in
the CSR. Well field dewatering rates in 2014 averaged 79,300 m3/d. Well field chloride
concentrations for 2014 averaged 1,248 mg/L.
7.4
Terrestrial Systems
Wetlands
Wetland monitoring systems have been developed and installed as provided for in the CSR. The
muskeg monitoring program provides for full satellite imagery to be obtained at five year intervals,
with spot coverage to be obtained at two year intervals. Initial imagery was taken in August, 2006.
The five year interval satellite imagery was obtained for 2012 using GeoEye-1 satellite imagery
taken on September 8, 2012. The study compared the 2012 surface expression of muskeg ponds
within the groundwater ZOI with surface expressions from 2006 satellite imagery.
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Study findings showed that there was a general reduction in pond surface area expression
between 2006 and 2012 in both the NF-ZOI site and the MF-ZOI site. For the MF-ZOI study area
which lies outside of the mine dewatering ZOI, the collective measured pond area for 2012 was
88.9% of that measured in 2006. For the NF-ZOI, the collective measured pond area for 2012
was 82.4% of that measured in 2006. When corrected for regional background effects based on
results for the far-field control zone, the observed reduction in pond expression for the NF-ZOI
and the MF-ZOI were 14.0% and 7.5%.
The observed result is consistent with EA predictions, wherein some localized reduction in
muskeg pond expression was expected to occur as a result of mine dewatering, but by and large,
muskeg ponds within the ZOI were not substantively affected. Where specific larger ponds were
observed to go dry in 2012 (or earlier), compared with 2006, virtually all of these ponds were
located in areas of very thin marine sediment thickness
Subsequent to completion of the CSR, additional concerns about peat decomposition in
dewatered areas and the potential for the release of increased amounts of methyl mercury were
raised. In response to these concerns, and based on updated hydrogeological modeling,
predictions of expected rates of increased total and methyl mercury release were developed by
AMEC and submitted as part of the permit application packages to the MOECC for well field
dewatering in 2007 and 2008. The most recent annual Mercury Performance Report was
submitted for C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G in June, 2015. The report identified no adverse effects of
mine dewatering on area mercury levels in peatlands, surface waters, or fish flesh for the period
up to and including the 2014 monitoring period, consistent with CSR and MOECC permit
predictions. The localized increase in methyl mercury concentrations observed in downstream
Granny Creek is a function of sulphate effects on mercury methylating bacteria and not a result
of mine dewatering effects. Investigations are underway to determine ways to manage sulphate
loadings to the muskeg environment.
Caribou and Moose
Based on monitoring data collected to date, the area of directly altered habitat is less than the
predicted CSR value of 28.8 km2, and caribou (and moose) continue to use areas both within and
outside of the VDM buffer zones. Local home ranges for caribou have also been shown to be
quite large, varying from approximately 1,200 km2 to >110,000 km2, such that the area of the VDM
site takes on comparatively less importance relative to caribou movement. AttFN hunter survey
data have not been provided since 2008. Based on the above, and recognizing the limitations of
AttFN hunter survey data, it does not appear that there has been any discernible adverse effect
on caribou numbers or land use outside of the immediate mine site area, as a result of activities
at the VDM site.
Large Predators and Furbearers
As per the above, the area of directly altered habitat is less than the CSR predicted value of
28.8 km2. Data on other aspects of habitat use show that large predators (Wolves) continue to
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use the area near the VDM site, but the data are too few to draw any firm conclusions regarding
past versus present patterns of usage. Intuitively there is little reason to suspect that predator and
furbearer distributions, outside of the immediate mine site area, have been adversely affected by
mine development. Wolves have not been observed to regularly use the winter road, although
wolves are often associated with linear corridors. Fox, Black Bear, Marten, Otter and Beaver
continued to be observed in and around the VDM buffer zone throughout the subject period.
Migratory Birds
The area of directly altered habitat is less than the CSR predicted 28.8 km2. The first migratory
bird standardized plot survey was carried out in June, 2007 with the second survey being
completed in 2012. Fewer species and individuals were observed in 2012, compared to 2007,
and there were marginally fewer birds at domed bogs than ribbed fens. Densities of most breeding
birds in 2012 were comparable to regional patterns in abundance as presented in the Ontario
Breeding Bird Atlas. With only two years of surveys, it is not possible to discern whether numbers
were exceptionally high in 2007 or unusually low in 2012. Further details are presented in
Sections 3.4.4 and 6.4.
Data is not yet available on COC in goose flesh and livers, as De Beers has not received any
samples from Attawapiskat community members, but there is nothing in site area water quality
data to suggest the potential for an adverse effect.
7.5
Malfunctions and Accidents
Spill Prevention, Protection and Response
Spill prevention, protection and response measures have been implemented as described in the
CSR, and no adverse associated effects were noted in 2014.
Fire Prevention, Protection and Response
Fire prevention, protection and response measures have been implemented as described in the
CSR, and no adverse associated effects were noted in 2014.
Slope Stability
Visual inspections by site operators and automated laser and radar-based pit stability monitoring
systems have not detected any significant slope stability concerns during 2014. Small, localized
occurrences such as pockets of sand, are reported and actively managed to prevent escalation
to larger failures.
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Karst Voids
Visual observations, and Well Field TSS values showed no indications of karst related concerns.
Only a few very small and isolated locations of subsidence have been noted to date, in areas
where the limestone is very close to the surface of the muskeg. This is further supported and
documented in the Karst Study Report for the separate, dedicated investigation that took place in
2014 (AMEC Foster Wheeler 2105e).
7.6
Traditional Pursuits, Values and Skills
Fishing, Hunting and Trapping (AttFN)
No data have been obtained from the AttFN regarding hunter and fisher survey results since 2008.
Small quantities of beaver tissue have been collected by De Beers and the report was appended
to the 7th Annual FUPA Report.
Fish and Wildlife Availability (AttFN Traditional Lands)
Receiving water quality up to the end of 2014 was not adversely affected; the area of direct habitat
disturbance was less than predicted in the CSR. Wildlife use of areas outside of the VDM buffer
zone does not appear to have been diminished, again recognizing the limitations of the TK data.
COC were not assessed, but there is no reason to assume any mine-related increase based on
water quality and air emissions data.
Fishing, Hunting and Trapping (Regional FN Lands)
Data are insufficient to confirm environmental effects as hunter / fisher surveys have not been
undertaken by the AttFN subsequent to 2008.
Fish and Wildlife Availability (Regional FN Lands)
Direct reduction in wildlife habitat has been less than predicted in the CSR. Radio-tracking and
aerial surveys of caribou, Moose, Wolves and larger furbearers have thus far not suggested any
adverse mine-related effects. COC were not assessed, but based on water quality and air
emissions data, there is no reason to assume any mine-related increase.
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Heritage Resources
Attawapiskat Traditional Lands
There has been no known additional disturbance to cultural heritage resources / values, as of the
end of 2014, consistent with CSR predictions.
Transmission Line (Otter Rapids to Kashechewan)
There has been no known disturbance to cultural heritage resources / values, as of the end of
2014, consistent with CSR predictions.
7.8
Environmental Health
Accidents Along Winter Roads
No De Beers' related accidents occurred along winter roads during 2014.
Drinking Water and Country Foods
Site water and air quality data indicate no compromise of receiving water or air quality as a result
of mine-related activities up to the end of 2014, with the possible exception of small-fish mercury
body burdens in the Granny Creek system, which are not used as food source by AttFN members.
De Beers continues to monitor this very localized effect. Monitoring results thus far are as
predicted in the CSR.
7.9
Business, Employment and Training
Business
The mine-related contract value to FN businesses and joint ventures, up to the end of 2014 is
estimated at approximately $328.5 million, which exceeds the FUPA criteria life-of-mine threshold
of $50 million.
Employment
FN success in obtaining and holding jobs in connection with the VDM has exceeded expectations.
The joint De Beers / FN Senior Implementation Management Committee (SIMC) annually reviews
the employment targets and makes any appropriate adjustments. The SIMC chose to keep the
employment target at 100 in 2014. Training initiatives such as the Victor Training Pipeline continue
to be implemented to further develop capacity of AttFN members so that they can compete for
employment vacancies as they arise. During 2014, there were a total of 195 members of the AttFN
employed by the mine directly or as contractors, of which 74 were De Beers’ employees.
Employment of individuals working for contractors related to the winter road and trucking are not
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included. It is estimated that 40 to 50 people are employed during the south winter road season
and approximately 200 during James Bay winter road season.
Training
VDM has developed a formal training program, the Victor Training Pipeline that offers a minimum
of 20 training positions each year dedicated to the communities that De Beers has signed IBA’s
with. The training pipeline commenced in 2013 with continued training in 2014. In 2014, 37 FN
members were employed as trainees / apprentices in various positions. The success of these
training programs is demonstrated by VDM employment statistics which consistently show greater
than 40% FN participation in the VDM workforce during 2014 (55.6% in 2014).
8.0
DETERMINATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF MITIGATION MEASURES
8.1
Atmospheric Systems
Principal mitigation measures involving the control of atmospheric emissions during 2014 were
the following:
Continued use of waste sorting and emission control systems on the incinerator;
Increased incinerator blow-down rate;
Dust suppression on gravel roads using watering trucks; and
Insulation of principal noise-generating equipment such as housings on the on-site diesel
generators.
The incinerator worked well during the reporting period, with the exception of elevated TSP, which
continues to be a concern and which De Beers continues to investigate. There are no adverse
environmental effects related to incinerator TSP emissions. Source segregation programs have
been effective in reducing lead and cadmium levels to within C. of A. limits. Road watering for
dust suppression also worked effectively during the reporting period. The self-contained on-site
generator units are very quiet and effective, and during 2014 functioned as emergency standby
power only, as well as for brief preventative maintenance testing (start-up tests).
8.2
Surface Water Systems
Principal mitigation measures involving the protection of surface water systems during 2014 are:
Continued use of a STP (membrane bioreactor) for the treatment of domestic sewage;
A change in the routing of pit well development water to the open pit, part way through
2014, where this water reports to the perimeter well field and is discharged directly to the
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Attawapiskat River, rather than being pumped to the Phase 1 Mine Water Settling Pond
and from there discharged to the NEF;
Continued use of passive wetland treatment (intact perimeter muskeg buffer) around
mineral stockpiles to prevent suspended solids in stockpile runoff from entering creeks;
Continued discharge of well field water to a point on the Attawapiskat River where optimal
mixing occurs;
Discharge of surplus water (when required) from the fine PKC facility primary polishing
pond to North Granny Creek or to the Attawapiskat River, in conjunction with the well field
water discharge, as dictated by related permits. Silt curtains are used in the polishing pond
to promote more effective settlement of TSS. During 2014 water was discharged from the
Polishing Pond to North Granny Creek from October 2 to November 8, and thus under
Condition 6 (3) the permit flow restriction was initiated. However, no water was discharged
to the Attawapiskat River from this source in 2014;
Provision of flow supplementation to maintain Nayshkootayaow River flows during low
flow conditions; and
Provision of flow supplementation to maintain Granny Creek flows and fish habitat during
low flow conditions.
All surface water protection measures defined above worked effectively as planned. The only
area where added improvements would be helpful would be in connection with sulphate
management in stockpile runoff, which is suspected to contribute to the localized generation of
methyl mercury in wetlands, principally in the NEF. Further measures to limit sulphate loadings to
local muskeg environments continue to be investigated.
8.3
Groundwater Systems
No mitigation measures were proposed or implemented for the operations phase related to
groundwater systems, and none are required.
8.4
Terrestrial Systems
Principal mitigation measures involving the protection of terrestrial systems during 2014 were the
following:
Continued use of minimum 200 m buffer zones along creeks and rivers, except where
otherwise unavoidable, to protect key wildlife areas and movement corridors;
Continued avoidance of major tree clearing and stockpile footprint expansion during the
bird nesting season (June 1 to July 23, annually);
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Continued use of winter roads to access the mine site;
Continued use of traffic control on winter roads (speed limits, convoys, wildlife right-ofway) to minimize potential for vehicle – wildlife interactions);
Continued use of a 300 m height restriction on aircraft travel to and from the site, except
for approach angles and emergency conditions;
Continued use of an incinerator to destroy food wastes, and other associated waste
management practices, so as not to attract wildlife to the mine site; and
Continued control of atmospheric emissions as per Section 8.1 to protect wildlife values.
All of the above mitigation measures were implemented during the 2006/2007 mine construction
phase, as per CSR commitments, and have been carried through as appropriate into the mine
operations phase.
8.5
Malfunctions and Accidents
Principal mitigation measures involving the prevention of malfunctions and accidents during 2014
were the following:
Application of spill prevention, protection and response procedures;
Application of fire prevention, protection and response procedures; and
Ensuring that design specifications for safe pit and stockpile slopes are adhered to.
All of the above mitigation measures were implemented during the 2006 / 2007 construction
phase, as per CSR commitments, and have been carried through as appropriate into the
operations phase. All measures appear to be working effectively.
8.6
Traditional pursuits, Values and Skills
Principal mitigation measures involving the protection of traditional pursuits, values and skills
during 2014 were the following:
Payment of compensation to the AttFN, as per IBA requirements and schedules, to offset
mine-related adverse effects to traditional lands and pursuits;
Continued implementation of cross-cultural awareness programs for site personnel;
General use of a two week in and two week out employment rotations to allow Aboriginal
persons the opportunity to continue to carry out traditional pursuits;
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Cultural Leave in addition to the above allows extended leave for aboriginal employees
for extra time if required for traditional pursuits;
Protection of wildlife resources as per Section 8.4; and
Ensuring compliance with water quality permit requirements for discharge to the
Attawapiskat River and other waterways, to facilitate continued traditional usage of water
and natural resources in the downstream ecosystem.
All of the above mitigation measures were implemented during the 2006 / 2007 mine construction
phase, as per CSR commitments, and have been carried through as appropriate into the mine
operations phase. All measures appear to be working effectively.
8.7
Heritage Resources
Principal mitigation measures involving the protection of heritage resources during 2014 are:
Continue to maintain in place procedures to assess work plans so as to avoid any areas
previously identified as likely to contain heritage resources, as well as to respond to the
inadvertent unearthing of cultural heritage values in the event that such values, features
or artefacts are encountered during construction or other types of activities.
No additional cultural heritage values were disturbed in 2014, as far as De Beers is aware.
8.8
Environmental Health
Principal mitigation measures involving environmental health during 2014 were the following:
Continue to ensure that winter roads are designed to acceptable standards of safety, and
strive for continual improvement;
Continue to implement policies and driver training to ensure safe road use;
Investigate all winter road accidents and make recommendations for improved road safety
based on each case; and
Implement mitigation measures related to air and water emissions as defined in
Sections 8.1 and 8.2, above.
All of the above mitigation measures were implemented during the 2014 operations phase, as per
CSR commitments, and all measures appear to be working effectively with the caveat that there
is always room for road safety improvements, and improvement to health.
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Business, Employment and Training
Principal mitigation measures involving business, employment and training during 2014 were the
same as described earlier as per the following:
Continued consultations with the AttFN and other FN communities to explore measures
to continually improve business opportunities;
Continue to encourage contractors to explore opportunities for FN joint venture
partnerships;
Continued consultations with the AttFN and other FN community leaderships to explore
measures to improve employment and training opportunities;
Continued efforts to match community member employment potentials with mine
employment needs;
Continued efforts to encourage contractors to employ AttFN and other FN members; and
Economic assessments were initiated in 2014 as required by the Anglo American Mine
Closure guidelines to identify and measure the economic impacts of mine closure on the
FN communities.
All of the above mitigation measures were in effect during the 2014 mine operations phase, as
per CSR commitments, and all measures appear to be working effectively with the caveat that
there is always room for optimization and improvement over the longer term.
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9.0
SUMMARY AND EVALUATION OF ADAPTIVE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
MEASURES
9.1
Atmospheric Systems
Adaptive management measures (AMM) employed for atmospheric emissions controls during
2014 are those defined in Section 8.1. Applied measures are still being explored for TSP
emissions control for the onsite incinerator. TSP concentrations are well within POI limits. With
respect to open pit and stockpile operations, optimization of road watering with increased pit depth
is evident in the long-term trend of reduced dustfall (Figure 4).
9.2
Surface Water Systems
Mitigation measures described in Section 8.2 were all anticipated within the CSR. Adaptive
management included changes to the sampling of sport fish and whitefish in 2012 in consultation
with the federal and provincial governments.
The release of sulphate in surface runoff and seepage from mineral stockpiles to the surrounding
muskeg environment is believed to be contributing to localized increases in mercury methylation
rates as described in Section 3.2.1.2. Further monitoring and AMM to limit such sulphate release
are under investigation as described in Section 5 of the Mercury Performance Monitoring 2014
Annual Report
9.3
Groundwater Systems
No AMM were deemed to be required for the protection and/or management of groundwater
systems during the 2014 reporting period.
9.4
Terrestrial Systems
No AMM were deemed to be required for the protection and/or management of terrestrial systems
during the 2014 reporting period.
9.5
Malfunctions and Accidents
No AMM were deemed to be required in relation to malfunctions and accidents during the 2014
reporting period.
9.6
Traditional pursuits, Values and Skills
The following text was provided in Section 9.6 of the First Annual FUPA Report, and is still
considered valid:
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Consideration was given to the possible use of controlled trapping studies focused
on marten and/or beaver, as an alternative means of monitoring potential minerelated effects on furbearers, as opposed to a continuation of earlier snow tracking
surveys. Various options have been discussed with members of the AttFN, but a
path forward has yet to be resolved. It is unclear at this time as to the need for
such studies, as it does not appear that mine site related activities are likely to
affect furbearer populations in any meaningful way, and there does not appear to
be any substantive concern from AttFN members in this regard. Subject to AttFN
concurrence, it is suggested that this component of the monitoring program be
deleted as being unnecessary.
Based on discussions held previously with the AttFN during 2014 there appeared to be little
interest in or support for such studies, and none are proposed at this time.
9.7
Heritage Resources
No AMM were deemed to be required for the protection and/or management of heritage resources
during the 2014 reporting period.
9.8
Environmental Health
No AMM were deemed to be required for the protection of environmental health, beyond those
already in place at the end of 2008, and as discussed in Section 9.8 of the Second Annual FUPA
report.
9.9
Business, Employment and Training
No AMM were deemed to be required in relation to business, employment and training aspects
during the 2014 reporting period.
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10.0
DRAFT
SUMMARY OF PUBLIC CONCERNS AND RESPONSES TO PUBLIC CONCERNS
This section summarizes concerns provided to De Beers from various parties in written form, or
verbally during meetings or other venues. In 2014, De Beers received comments from the AttFN
on the Sixth and Seventh Annual FUPA Reports. Comments generally included requests for more
detailed data, requests for alternative or additional depictions of data trends, requests for the
inclusion of additional maps, and other informational requests. Comments also included general
clarification requests and questions regarding occasional elevated results.
De Beers received comments from EC on the Sixth (2013) Annual Report in late February of
2014. Follow-up discussions were held with EC on these comments, including a meeting with EC
in March 2015. EC’s comments were focused on well field chloride discharge concentrations,
surface water quality, sewage treatment performance, and mercury.
Comments and concerns received are summarized in the relevant subsections below.
10.1
Atmospheric Systems
To De Beers’ knowledge, no general public or federal agency concerns have been expressed
during the reporting period regarding mine-related environmental effects on atmospheric systems.
The AttFN has questioned about in-stack TSP values generating results above MOECC limits.
While the POI concentrations are well within compliance, De Beers continues to evaluate and
optimize TSP in-stack concentrations.
10.2
Surface Water Systems
Concerns expressed to De Beers’ knowledge during the 2014 reporting period regarding minerelated environmental effects on surface water systems have been generally limited to an
increased awareness and concern among some AttFN community members of issues
surrounding mercury concentrations in water and fish. To date there has been no demonstrated
adverse effect of VDM activities on area receiving water mercury levels that have adversely
affected fish flesh mercury body burdens in the Attawapiskat and Nayshkootayaow Rivers.
However, small fish (Pearl Dace) from the Granny Creek system continue to show elevated body
burden mercury concentrations compared to the background condition and to the Tributary 5A
control station. It is also notable that small fish body mercury body burden concentrations are
showing a decreasing trend in North Granny Creek, indicating that the onset of a stabilizing trend
may be occurring.
There continues to be public interest expressed by community members from the AttFN, primarily
with respect to water quality and fish health in the area around the community of Attawapiskat
and in relation to waters fished by members of the AttFN. In the absence of environmental effects
being detected by the multitude of monitoring programs in the immediate area of the mine (apart
from the Granny Creek Pearl Dace population) and considerable distances downstream, these
concerns are likely to be the result of incorrect information or a lack of information. Also
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expressed, have been concerns about the availability of studies and scientific information. The
company continues to provide copies of every environmental report to the Lands and Resources
Director so that these are available in the community, and works through the joint EMC to
communicate about these and other questions that arise, including through multiple community
information meetings.
EC’s comments on well field chloride concentrations focused on observed values compared with
predicted values in the CSR. In particular, EC stated that 2012 average well field chloride
concentration of 1,223 mg/L was approximately double that predicted in the CSR, stating that the
original CSR predicted chloride values ranged from 600 to 830 mg/L. There was a
misinterpretation of values from the CSR. The CSR predicted that well field discharge chloride
concentrations were expected to be in the range of 800 to 1,000 mg/L, but that under more
conservative modeling assumptions, concentrations could be as high as 1,400 to 1,800 mg/L.
Observed well field chloride concentrations are therefore with the range of CSR predicted values.
The average chloride concentration for 2014 was 1,248 mg/L, essentially the same as for 2012.
EC was also concerned that the chloride discharged to the Attawapiskat River might meet the
definition of deleterious as used in the Fisheries Act. Deleterious as used in the Fisheries Act
applies to conditions in the receiving water, in this instance the Attawapiskat River, and has been
interpreted by EC as not providing any allowance for a mixing zone. While discussions around
mixing zones can be somewhat complex, De Beers has provided evidence showing that chloride
mixing to levels below that which would be considered potentially harmful to aquatic life occurs
essentially instantaneously in the Attawapiskat River at the pipeline discharge point and that there
is no threat to aquatic life under any river flow condition. The CEQG for the protection of aquatic
life for chloride are 120 mg/L for long-term exposure and 640 mg/L for short-term exposure. These
values are readily met under all river flow conditions as demonstrated by extensive river transect
and other monitoring over several years.
Relative to surface water quality EC observed that that are occasional exceedances of CEQG
and PWQO for the protection of aquatic life in some area water courses. As described in
Section 3.2.3 these exceedances are just as likely to occur upstream as downstream of the VDM,
and are a function of natural background conditions.
Relative to STP discharges and occasional exceedances of permit objectives, as opposed to
permit limits, for ammonia, phosphorus and nitrate, De Beers has clarified to EC that the treated
sewage effluent is discharged to the fine PKC facility (and not directly to the environment) where
additional effluent improvements are experienced through biological uptake, absorption /
adsorption to PK solids, etc. Concentrations of phosphorus and ammonia, the two parameters of
potential concern, are well below STP objectives in the fine PKC discharge, and are in fact below
CEQG and PWQO values for these parameters.
EC comments regarding methyl mercury were similar to those that have been expressed by
others. Methyl mercury concentrations in the Granny Creek system are well below CEQG, but
there has nevertheless been an observed increase in methyl mercury in downstream Granny
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Creek waters, and that this increase has resulted in increased body mercury concentrations in
small fish (Pearl Dace) in Granny Creek. EC has recognized that De Beers has taken some
actions to reduce methyl mercury concentrations in the Granny Creek system, and is continuing
to find further improvements. EC also noted the observed increase in small fish (Trout Perch)
body burden mercury concentrations in the Attawapiskat River near-field site in 2012, compared
to the upstream reference area. However with the addition of 2013 and 2014 data, it is apparent
that the 2012 values were an artifact of random variation in the data, and that when the data from
all years are viewed in their entirety, there has been no observed increase in Attawapiskat River
small fish, body burden mercury concentrations in the river. This observation is consistent with
methyl mercury water quality concentrations in the Attawapiskat River which are at low
background levels both upstream and downstream of the VDM.
10.3
Groundwater Systems
Comments received in 2014 were generally in relation to maximum allowable chloride
concentrations in well field and final discharge, and methods to ensure that the discharge remains
below the 1,500 mg/L monthly average limit. Questions were also raised about whether
groundwater model updates affect previously reached conclusions. The 2012 groundwater model
predicted that chloride concentrations could potentially exceed the 1,500 mg/L threshold for a
brief period (depending on model assumptions) before leveling off at approximately 1,500 mg/L.
The potential for temporary, slight exceedances of the 1,500 mg/L monthly average chloride
threshold relates to the proportional contributions from various dewatering wells and how the wells
are operated. The model essentially predicts that chloride concentrations are expected to reach
approximately 1,500 mg/L in late 2016 and remain more or less at that concentration for the
duration of the mine life. Monitoring will confirm whether or not the C. of A. monthly average
threshold is exceeded. De Beers has assumed that there is a potential for the threshold to be
exceeded, and has planned its operations accordingly to remain in compliance with the C. of A.
Condition 4 of C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G allows blending of the effluent with water from the
Attawapiskat River or other means deemed acceptable to the District Manager (in writing), to
achieve the 1,500 mg/L monthly average chloride value.
Additional questions were raised regarding dewatering effects on the terrestrial environment
(discussion below).
10.4
Terrestrial Systems
One AttFN community member expressed concern in 2014 about the drying of some muskeg
ponds and the development of some small surface subsidences (a few square metres in size) in
the VDM area; taking these as an indication of potential karst features developing. These
observations, which are surveyed and logged at least annually (helicopter survey), are
documented in a summary memo and are all in areas of limestone outcrops or sub-crops where
the CSR predicted that some localized effects might occur. Natural sinkholes outside the cone of
influence are not inventoried as part of this survey. In addition, a helicopter is used by trained
environmental personnel for sampling quite frequently. If any unusual features are observed
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during this work or en-route to sampling stations, the location is documented and the site is further
investigated. Where these small subsidences present a potential risk to people or wildlife, a
perimeter fence has been installed as a visual and physical barrier.
In addition to annual surveys, a more detailed study was undertaken in 2014 at the request of the
MOECC; the Victor Diamond Mine, James Bay Lowlands, Investigation of Sinkholes in the Vicinity
of the Victor Diamond Mine and Potential Effects on Muskeg (AMEC Foster Wheeler, 2015e). The
most recent annual survey was also included in this study. Community meetings were held in
Attawapiskat on May 27 and May 28, 2015 for the purpose of discussing the results of this study
as well as to provide updates on other activities at the site. During the karst investigation
presentation, it was clear that the presence of karst features in the area prior to mining was known
to the community. There were lengthy tangential discussions on several topics during the karst
presentation, but the mitigation measures proposed for the sinkholes (monitoring, and fencing
where necessary) were not challenged.
The dialogue with community members during these meetings revolved around VDM dewatering,
water quality, methyl mercury sources, mercury trends, differentiating types of water in traditional
knowledge, and wildlife sensitivity to water quality. Where these topics were in part triggered by
the presentation content, they were addressed during the meeting. These comments did not
directly relate to the karst study report being presented.
10.5
Malfunctions and Accidents
No FN or general public concerns have been formally expressed during the reporting period
regarding mine-related malfunctions and accidents.
10.6
Traditional Pursuits, Values and Skills
An Attawapiskat Community member has been hired by De Beers to work on their behalf in
Attawapiskat. Any concerns, comments or questions can be directed to the member who will
forward those comments to the De Beers Aboriginal Affairs and or the Environmental Department.
In addition, any comments, concerns or questions can be directed to any Attawapiskat EMC
member who will pass this information on to the De Beers Environmental Department. The EMC
consists of representatives from Attawapiskat and De Beers who meet regularly and discuss
various issues expressed by community members.
No FN or general public concerns have been formally expressed during the reporting period
regarding mine-related environmental effects on traditional pursuits, values and skills, with the
exception of concerns expressed regarding the potential for mercury contamination and
bioaccumulation in fish tissue, and hunter / trapper surveys. For the 2014 monitoring period, no
adverse effects were observed with respect to bioaccumulation of mercury body burdens in fish
tissues for fish from either the Attawapiskat or Nayshkootayaow Rivers. While body burden
concentrations have been observed above background levels in small fish (Pearl Dace) from the
Granny Creek system, this has been attributed to a localized area of elevated methyl mercury
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concentrations linked to sulphate loadings. This situation is taken seriously by De Beers who is
implementing corrective actions. Granny Creek does not support a subsistence or recreational
fisheries resource. The creek mainly supports minnow populations, with a few Brook Trout and
small Northern Pike.
The hunter / trapper surveys and tissue sample submissions are the responsibility of the AttFN.
This survey has been discussed at Environmental Management Committee (EMC) meetings and
De Beers understands that it has been a challenge to get FN resident participation.
10.7
Heritage Resources
No FN or general public concerns have been formally expressed during the reporting period
regarding mine-related environmental effects on heritage resources, with the exception of
questions raised by one family about the potential for vibrations from blasting to disturb grave
sites located greater than 10 km up river from the VDM. A planned site visit by Elders in August
2013, and at other times, to address this was not able to be completed until summer of 2014, at
which time the Elders determined that concern was no longer warranted.
Most recently, questions regarding procedural aspects for disturbance of cultural and heritage
resources were raised by AttFN in their review of the Seventh Annual FUPA report. Clarification,
and a summary of the procedures, involving both AttFN and De Beers, was provided. The VDM
policy is to immediately contact the site Environmental Coordinator (or designate) at the Victor
Mine or the Victor Mine contact in Attawapiskat. The area is to be isolated and all work stopped
and the disturbance / heritage resource will be reviewed by the Environmental Coordinator, or
designate and representatives of Aboriginal Affairs staff on site. In addition, the Attawapiskat Mine
Monitor will also review this location. If an agreement cannot be reached, Elders (AttFN) and/or
an archeological expert will be brought in to review the area. Work is not to progress until an
agreement is reached between De Beers and the AttFN.
10.8
Environmental Health
No environmental health concerns were formally submitted to De Beers in 2014. Concerns
expressed by FN are detailed above, in Section 10.6.
10.9
Business, Employment and Training
Prior training initiatives were conducted under the James Bay Employment and Training (JBET)
training program. With the JBET program funding coming to an end, De Beers implemented the
Victor Training Pipeline in 2013. The Victor Training Pipeline offers a minimum of 20 training
positions each year, dedicated to the communities that De Beers has signed IBAs with. The
training program is intended to further develop capacity of FN members so the trainees can
compete for employment vacancies as they occur. In recent meetings (2014), general concerns
have been expressed about the state of the relationship between De Beers and AttFN (e.g.,
fairness of hiring, wishing to renegotiate the benefits in the IBA). In comments from the AttFN on
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the Sixth Annual FUPA report, questions regarding the integration of the Attawapiskat Training
Centre into the Victor Training Pipeline were raised. De Beers responded that a full time Victor
Mine employee facilitates pre-Victor training in the Attawapiskat Training Centre, and that
De Beers is in the process of refining the scope of the program.
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11.0
DRAFT
SUMMARY OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES INVESTIGATED
No new technologies were investigated during 2014.
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DRAFT
REFERENCES
Abraham, K.F., B.A. Pond, S. Tully, V. Trim, D. Headman, C. Chenier and G. Racey. 2012. Recent
Changes in Summer Distribution and Numbers of Migratory Caribou on the Southern
Hudson Bay coast. Paper presented at the 13th North American Caribou Workshop,
Winnipeg. Rangifer, 20: 269 - 276.
AMEC Earth & Environmental. 2008. Victor Diamond Mine 2008 Annual Mercury Compliance
Report, 67 pp, incl. tables and figures.
AMEC Earth & Environmental. 2009a. Victor Diamond Mine Follow Up Program Agreement, First
Annual Report, Construction Period 2006 to 2007 (Draft). 84 pp, plus tables and figures.
AMEC Earth & Environmental. 2009b. Victor Diamond Mine Follow Up Program Agreement,
Second Annual Report, Commissioning and Operations Phase 2008 (Draft). 89 pp, plus
tables and figures.
AMEC Earth & Environmental. 2011. De Beers Canada Inc. Victor Mine Mercury Monitoring
Performance Monitoring 2010 Annual Report. 17 pp, plus tables and figures.
AMEC Earth & Environmental 2012. De Beers Canada Inc. Victor Mine Mercury Performance
Monitoring 2012 Annual Report as Per Conditions 7(5) and 7(6) of Certificate of Approval
No. 3960-7Q4K2G. 33 pp, plus tables and figures.
AMEC Environment & Infrastructure. 2013. Victor Diamond Mine Follow Up Program Agreement,
Sixth Annual Report, 2012 Reporting Period.
AMEC Environment and Infrastructure. September 2013. Victor Mine Site Area Muskeg Pond
Satellite Image Assessment: 2006 Compared with 2012.
AMEC Environment & Infrastructure. 2014. De Beers Canada Inc. Victor Mine Mercury
Performance Monitoring 2013 Annual Report as Per Conditions 7(5) and 7(6) of Certificate
of Approval #3960-7Q4K2G.
AMEC Environment & Infrastructure. 2014. De Beers Canada Inc. Victor Mine 2014 Caribou
Report.
AMEC Foster Wheeler, Environment & Infrastructure. 2015a. Annual Groundwater and
Subsidence Report for 2014 up to September 30 as per Condition 4.1.5 of Permit to Take
Water #6342-9NEJVH, Victor Mine.
AMEC Foster Wheeler, Environment & Infrastructure. 2015b. De Beers Victor Mine, North Granny
Creek Receiving Waters, 2014 Aquatic Environmental Effects Assessment and Benthic
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Invertebrate Monitoring Study, as Per Condition 8(6) of Certificate Of Approval #690976ZGYP.
AMEC Foster Wheeler, Environment & Infrastructure. 2015c. De Beers Victor Mine, North
Attawapiskat Receiving Waters, 2014 Aquatic Environmental Effects Assessment and
Benthic Invertebrate Monitoring Study, as Per Condition 6(16) of Certificate Of Approval
#3960-7Q4K2G.
AMEC Foster Wheeler, Environment & Infrastructure. 2015d. De Beers Canada Inc. Victor Mine
Mercury Performance Monitoring 2014 Annual Report as Per Conditions 7(5) and 7(6) of
Certificate Of Approval #3960-7Q4K2G.
AMEC Foster Wheeler, Environment & Infrastructure. 2015e. Victor Diamond Mine, James Bay
Lowlands, Investigation of Sinkholes in the Vicinity of the Victor Diamond Mine and
Potential Effects on Muskeg.
Benoit, J.M., C.C. Gilmour, R.P. Mason and A. Heyes. 1999. Sulphide Controls on Mercury
Speciation and Bioavailability to Methylating Bacteria in Sediment Pore Waters.
Environmental Science & Technology. 33: 951-957.
Cizdel, J., T. Hinners, C. Cross and J. Pollard. 2003. Distribution of mercury in the tissues of five
species of freshwater fish from Lake Mead, USA. J. Environ.; Monit. 5: 802 – 807.
Environment Canada. 2012. Metal Mining Technical Guidance for Environmental Effects
Monitoring.
Federal Authorities. 2005. Victor Diamond Project Comprehensive Study Report (CSR), June
2005 (draft prepared by AMEC Earth & Environmental Limited).
Health Canada. 2011. Food and Nutrition, Canadian Standards (Maximum Levels) for Various
Chemical Contaminants in Foods. Retrieved from: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fnan/securit/chem-chim/contaminants-guidelines-directives-eng.php
(Last
Updated:
September 16, 2011).
Hydrologic Consultants Inc. (HCI) 2004. Dewatering of Victor Diamond Project, Predicted
Engineering Cost, and Environmental Factors, Addendum I, Update of Ground-Water
Flow Model Utilising Flow Data from Nayshkootayaow River and Results of Sensitivity
Analyses. 26 pp. plus figures and tables.
Hydrologic Consultants Inc. (HCI) 2007. Dewatering of Victor Diamond Mine, Predicted
Engineering Cost, and Environmental Factors, June 2007. 69 pp. plus figures and tables.
Hydrologic Consultants Inc. (HCI) 2008. Dewatering of Victor Diamond Project, Predicted
Engineering Cost, and Environmental Factors, March 2008 Update of June 2007 Ground-
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Water Flow Model Based on Data from 60,000 m3/day Ramp-Up Pumping. 19 pp. plus
figures and tables.
ITASCA Denver, Inc. (ITASCA). 2012. Prediction of Chloride Concentrations in Mine Discharge
Water through Solute Transport Modeling at Victor Diamond Mine. 15 pp, plus tables and
figures.
ITASCA Denver, Inc. (ITASCA). 2014. Predicted Dewatering and Hydrogeological Effects: Victor
Mine Extension Project, May 2014.
Jeremaison, J. D., et al., 2006. Sulfate addition increases methylmercury production in an
experimental wetland. Enviro. Sci. Technol. 2006; 40, 3800 – 3806.
Neegan Naynowan Stantec. June 2015. De beers Canada – Victor Mine Acoustic Environment
Monitoring Report 2014/2015.
Ministry of Environment. May 2015. British Columbia Approved Water Quality Guidelines
Summary Report.
Ontario Ministry of the Environment. 2013. Guide to Eating Ontario Sport Fish 2013-2014,
Twenty-seventh Edition, Revised, Queens Printer for Ontario, 2013.
Ontario Ministry of the Environment. 2011. Guide to Eating Ontario’s Sportfish 2011 – 2012
Edition. Queen’s Printer for Ontario.
Ontario Ministry of the Environment. 1990. Environmental Protection Act, O. Reg. 419/05 Air
Pollution – Local Air Quality. Queen’s Printer for Ontario.
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) 2014. Integrated Range Assessment
for Woodland Caribou and their Habitat in the Far North of Ontario 2013. Species at Risk
Branch. Thunder Bay, Ontario xviii + 124.
Sacket, D.K., W.G. Cope, J.A. Rice, D.D. Aday. 2013. The influence of fish length on tissue
mercury dynamics: Implications for natural resource management and human health risk.
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health. Feb 2013; 10(2): 638 – 659.
Stantec Consulting Ltd., December 2012. Victor Mine Project: 2012 Vegetation and Breeding-Bird
Assessment.
Ullrich, S.M., T.W. Tanton and S.A. Abdrashitova. 2001. Mercury in the Aquatic Environment: A
Review of Factors Affecting Methylation. Critical Reviews in Environmental Science and
Technology 31(3): 241-293.
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United States Environmental Protection Agency. December 1997. Mercury Study Report to
Congress, Volume VI: An Ecological Assessment for Anthropogenic Mercury Emissions
in the United States. Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards and Office of Research
and Development.
Webb, J.S., S. McGinness and H.M. Lappin-Scott. 1998. Metal removal by sulphate-reducing
bacteria from natural and constructed wetlands. Journal of Applied Microbiology.
84: 240-248.Whittington, P. and J. Price. 2012. Effect of mine dewatering on peatlands of
the James Bay Lowland: the role of bioherms. Hydrological Processes. 26: 1818-1826.
Whittington, P. and J. Price, 2012. Effect of Mine Dewatering on Peatlands of the James Bay
Lowland: the Role of Bioherms. Hydrological Processes. 26, 1818-1826.
Whittington, P. and J. Price, 2013. Effect of Mine Dewatering on Peatlands of the James Bay
Lowland: The Role of Marine Sediments on Mitigating Peatland Drainage. Hydrological
Processes. 27, 1845-1853.
Whittington, P., S. Ketcheson, J. Price, M. Richardson and A. Di Febo. 2012. Areal Differentiation
of Snow Accumulation and Melt Between Peatland Types in the James Bay Lowland.
Hydrological Processes. 26, 2663-2671.
Zuur, A.F., E.N. Leno, N.J. Walker, A.A. Saveliev and G.M. Smith. 2009. Mixed Effects Models
and Extensions in Ecology with R. Springer, London.
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TABLE 1
EMPLOYMENT STATISTICS 2014 SUMMARY
Company
Attawapiskat Catering Limited Partnership
De Beers
Frontline Medics
Ootahpan *
Orica
Fontain Tire
Toromont
MKS *
K-Corp (winter road) *
Paytahbun *
CMS
Wash Bay
Total
AttFN
34
74
0
5
1
2
1
36
27
11
0
4
195
FAFN
9
26
0
2
0
0
0
0
30
4
0
0
71
KFN
12
11
0
0
0
0
0
1
28
3
0
0
55
MCFN
8
37
0
5
0
0
0
0
25
24
0
0
99
Other-FN
26
48
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
13
1
0
90
Non-FN
31
328
2
5
7
7
14
0
0
29
22
0
445
Count
120
524
2
18
8
9
15
38
110
84
23
4
955
TABLE 2
IN-STACK LIMITS AND ANNUAL TEST RESULTS FOR 2014 AS DEFINED IN TABLE 1 OF CERTIFICATE OF APPROVAL
Compound
Limit
Testing Results
Oxygen
Min: 6%
9.41%
Sulphur dioxide
Max: 21 ppm
0.9 ppm
Nitrogen oxides
Max: 110 ppm
81.6 ppm
Total Hydrocarbons
Max: 100 ppm
1.5 ppm
Hydrogen Chloride
Max: 27 mg/m3
0.48 mg/m3
3
Dioxins and Furans
23.8 pg TEQ/m3
80 pg TEQ/m
Dioxins and Furans
Annual Emission Loading
*
3
Total Suspended Particulate
55.1 mg/m3
Max: 17 mg/m
3
Cadmium
2.57 µg/m3
Max: 14 µg/m
3
Lead
40.2 µg/m3
Max: 142 µg/m
3
3
Mercury
0.21 µg/m
Max: 20 µg/m
Mercury
Annual Emission Loading
*
Note: * Annual Emission Loading data (Dioxins and Furans, Mercury) not available for 2014
TC140504
% of Criteria
N/A
4.3%
74.2%
1.5%
1.8%
29.8%
N/A
324%
18.4%
28.3%
1.1%
N/A
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TABLE 3
INCINERATOR POINT OF IMPINGEMENT EMISSIONS SUMMARY (2014)
Parameter
Emission Rate
0.031 g/s
0.00012 mg/s
0.00150 mg/s
0.023 mg/s
0.00027 g/s
Total Suspended Particulate
Mercury
Cadmium
Lead
Hydrogen Chloride
POI* Conc.
(ug/m3)
0.53
0.0000021
0.000026
0.00039
0.0046
POI Criteria
(ug/m3)
100
5
0.075
1.5
60
% of POI Criteria
0.53%
0.00004%
0.034667%
0.02600%
0.0077%
Note: Nearest property line is 2,000 m from the incinerator stack
POI: Point of impingeme
TABLE 4
TOTAL DUSTFALL MONITORING (2014)
(results expressed in g/m2/30 days)
Month
May
June
July
August
September
October
Average
Minimum
Maximum
No. of Valid Samples
Limit*
7
7
7
7
7
7
DF J-1 East
0.208
0.148
0.010
0.066
0.049
0.093
0.096
0.010
0.208
6
Total Dustfall
DF J-2 South
DF J-3 West
0.010
0.143
0.153
0.115
0.713
0.247
0.099
0.077
0.010
0.100
0.115
0.120
0.183
0.134
0.010
0.077
0.713
0.247
6
6
DF J-4 North
0.038
0.094
0.154
0.088
0.088
0.433
0.149
0.038
0.433
6
Total Dustfall
Average
0.100
0.128
0.281
0.083
0.062
0.190
Total Monthly
Precipitation (mm)
22.1
42.4
35.1
14.1
1.9
90.9
34.4
1.9
90.9
Note: Total dustfall includes the water insoluable and soluable fractions
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TABLE 5
SNOW SAMPLING (2008 - 2014)
Total
Suspended
Solids
mg/L
Date
pH
DF-1 (East of Site)
DF-1 (East of Site)
DF-1 (East of Site)
DF-1 (East of Site)
26-Mar-08
6-Mar-09
13-Mar-10
8-Mar-11
7.97
8.21
7.05
8.71
413
415
1140
75.7
DF-1 (East of Site)
DF-1 (East of Site)
DF-1 (East of Site)
PWQO
9-Mar-12
17-Mar-13
21-Mar-14
7.10
8.03
7.54
6.5-8.5
28
306
DF-2 (South of Site)
DF-2 (South of Site)
DF-2 (South of Site)
DF-2 (South of Site)
DF-2 (South of Site)
DF-2 (South of Site)
26-Mar-08
6-Mar-09
13-Mar-10
8-Mar-11
9-Mar-12
17-Mar-13
7.42
6.60
6.74
6.88
7.19
7.12
179
16
65
14.2
20
17.8
0.60
0.10
<0.2
5.08
0.50
<0.2
2.1
0.3
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
0.2
0.1
<0.1
<0.1
0.2
<0.1
19.19
7.21
48.91
11.16
13.07
14.31
DF-2 (South of Site)
21-Mar-14
6.91
124.3
0.35
<1.0
<0.1
11.51
Station
PWQO
DF-3 (West of Site)
Chloride
Sulphate
Nitrate
Hardness**
Beryllium
Calcium
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
0.20
0.40
0.34
5.65
0.9
6.0
<1.0
<1.0
0.2
0.1
<0.1
0.12
0.25
<0.2
0.59
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
0.13
<0.1
<0.1
60.30
130.52
72.48
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
23.29
204.68
520.43
226.36
<0.0001
0.0002
0.0008
<0.0005
8.20
61.70
147.00
66.60
<0.0001
0.0002
0.0001
<0.0001
<0.001
0.003
0.0101
0.00374
<0.0005
<0.0005
<0.0005
0.01-1.1*
19.10
39.66
23.40
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.00009
0.001-0.005*
0.00045
0.0016
0.00117
0.0009
0.0019
0.0064
0.0200
0.0089
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.0005
<0.0005
<0.0005
<0.0005
7.10
2.00
12.10
2.74
3.62
4.05
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.001
<0.001
0.00127
0.0005
0.00025
0.00029
0.001
0.004
0.006
0.0031
0.0012
0.002
<0.0005
3.51
6.5-8.5
26-Mar-08
6.34
DF-3 (West of Site)
2-Mar-09
DF-3 (West of Site)
DF-3 (West of Site)
DF-3 (West of Site)
13-Mar-10
9-Mar-11
9-Mar-12
DF-3 (West of Site)
17-Mar-13
DF-3 (West of Site)
PWQO
21-Mar-14
DF-4 (North of Site)
DF-4 (North of Site)
0.01-1.1*
0.5
<0.1
6.78
<0.0001
2.50
Cadmium
Cobalt
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Magnesium
mg/L
mg/L
0.003
0.011
0.0383
0.0147
0.002
0.006
0.0188
0.0083
0.0095
0.006
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
1.43
5.50
21.5
5.42
0.001
0.003
0.010
0.0031
0.68
12.3
37.3
14.6
0.025
0.131
0.456
0.162
<0.002
<0.002
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
0.0015
0.063
0.001-0.005*
3.06
7.652
3.41
0.0251
0.0776
0.483
0.001 / 0.005*
0.686
2.347
1.517
0.3
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
0.04
0.002
0.001
0.002
0.0017
0.0044
0.0015
0.414
0.296
0.724
0.205
0.11
0.198
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
0.35
0.54
4.55
1.05
0.981
1.021
0.014
0.044
0.0239
0.0066
0.0078
0.017
0.667
0.0362
<0.00009
0.00098
0.0072
0.0014
0.508
0.018
0.001-0.005*
0.0009
0.0089
0.001-0.005*
0.3
0.001-0.005*
<0.0001
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
0.039
<0.001
0.13
Manganese
0.002
Molybdenum
Nickel
Silver
Sodium
Strontium
Titanium
Vanadium
Zinc
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
0.002
0.012
0.0424
0.0156
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.0001
0.00075
<0.5
0.6
3.06
1.96
0.008
0.050
0.1160
0.0788
0.063
0.040
0.927
0.413
0.003
0.013
0.0383
0.0146
0.005
0.017
0.0497
0.0254
0.0021
0.0093
0.0082
0.025
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.0001
0.0001
0.81
0.44
0.45
0.0160
0.0356
0.0147
0.0411
0.1477
0.0694
0.0016
0.0051
<0.001
0.005
0.01
0.0054
0.02
<0.002
<0.002
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
0.002
0.007
0.0169
0.0067
0.0027
0.0058
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.0001
0.00108
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.5
<0.5
0.7
0.15
0.49
<0.1
0.009
0.004
0.0123
0.0065
0.007
0.0065
0.010
0.009
0.0241
0.0073
0.0041
0.0086
<0.002
<0.002
0.0012
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
0.023
0.006
0.0089
0.0067
0.0043
0.0039
<0.001
0.0053
<0.0001
0.16
0.0035
0.0112
<0.001
0.0051
0.04
0.025
0.0001
<0.002
<0.001
<0.0001
<0.5
0.002
<0.002
<0.002
0.006
0.02
26
0.30
5.90
2
0.10
0.2
<0.1
1.66
<0.0001
0.50
<0.0001
<0.001
<0.001
0.001
0.036
<0.001
0.10
0.044
<0.002
<0.001
<0.0001
<0.5
<0.001
<0.002
<0.002
0.010
6.21
4.97
5.89
18
1.5
2.5
0.25
5.35
0.39
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
0.12
<0.1
0.14
8.89
8.52
24.82
<0.0005
<0.0005
<0.0005
2.74
2.44
6.60
<0.0001
0.0001
<0.0001
0.00023
0.00028
0.00076
0.0011
0.0021
0.0036
<0.001
0.0038
0.0034
0.094
0.17
0.455
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
0.497
0.591
2.03
0.0062
0.0055
0.0119
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
0.0019
0.0032
0.0088
<0.0001
0.00045
<0.0001
0.55
0.39
0.43
0.0031
0.0057
0.0112
0.0022
0.0037
0.0138
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
0.0065
0.0284
0.0133
6.21
2.2
<0.2
<1.0
<0.1
1.31
<0.0005
0.517
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.0009
0.0018
<0.02
<0.001
<0.004
0.0018
<0.001
<0.001
<0.0001
0.25
0.0027
0.0011
<0.001
0.006
5.71
6.5-8.5
68.2
0.59
<1.0
<0.1
0.75
<0.0005
0.01-1.1*
0.23
<0.00009
0.001-0.005*
0.00012
0.0009
0.0089
0.0089
<0.001
0.001-0.005*
<0.02
0.3
0.025
0.001-0.005*
0.043
0.0029
<0.001
0.04
<0.001
0.025
<0.0001
0.0001
0.26
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
0.0026
0.02
28-Mar-08
2-Mar-09
5.96
5.91
7
3
0.40
0.10
0.4
0.2
<0.1
<0.1
2.12
1.46
<0.0001
<0.0001
0.70
0.50
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
0.001
<0.001
0.013
0.038
<0.001
<0.001
0.09
0.05
0.003
0.005
<0.002
<0.002
<0.001
<0.001
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.5
<0.5
<0.001
<0.001
<0.002
<0.002
<0.002
<0.002
0.008
0.002
DF-4 (North of Site)
DF-4 (North of Site)
13-Mar-10
10-Mar-11
5.66
5.81
57.2
3.7
<0.2
<0.2
<1.0
<1.0
<0.1
<0.1
10.11
5.00
<0.0005
<0.0005
3.24
1.50
<0.0001
<0.0001
0.0002
0.00018
0.0012
0.00087
0.002
<0.001
0.1
0.055
<0.001
<0.001
0.49
0.306
0.0153
0.0068
<0.001
<0.001
0.0018
0.0013
<0.0001
<0.0001
0.32
0.11
0.0028
0.0034
0.0023
0.0016
<0.001
<0.001
0.011
0.0102
DF-4 (North of Site)
DF-4 (North of Site)
9-Mar-12
17-Mar-13
5.88
6.00
2
1.7
0.61
<0.2
<1.0
<1.0
0.18
<0.1
2.13
1.11
<0.0005
<0.0005
0.526
0.439
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.001
<0.0009
0.0038
<0.001
0.04
<0.03
<0.001
<0.001
0.199
<0.004
0.0019
0.0022
<0.001
<0.001
0.0017
<0.001
<0.0001
<0.0001
0.32
0.28
0.0012
<0.001
0.0016
0.0013
<0.001
<0.001
0.0079
0.0095
DF-4 (North of Site)
PWQO
21-Mar-14
5.73
6.5-8.5
41.6
0.44
<1.0
<0.1
1.78
<0.0005
0.01-1.1*
0.58
<0.00009
0.001-0.005*
0.00011
0.0009
0.0089
0.0089
<0.001
0.001-0.005*
0.106
0.3
0.029
0.001-0.005*
0.08
0.0089
<0.001
0.04
<0.001
0.025
<0.0001
0.0001
0.2
0.001
<0.001
<0.001
0.0059
0.02
Near Residence
30-Mar-08
6.43
29
0.30
0.5
<0.1
12.76
<0.0001
4.20
<0.0001
<0.001
0.001
0.006
0.13
<0.001
0.55
0.029
<0.002
0.003
<0.0001
<0.5
0.005
0.003
<0.002
0.003
Near Residence
2-Mar-09
6.84
14
0.20
0.4
<0.1
8.29
<0.0001
2.20
<0.0001
<0.001
0.005
0.002
0.531
<0.001
0.68
0.048
<0.002
0.014
<0.0001
<0.5
0.008
0.011
<0.002
0.004
Near Residence
Near Residence
13-Mar-10
8-Mar-11
6.90
6.54
16.6
44.5
0.29
<0.2
<1.0
<1.0
<0.1
<0.1
16.85
16.67
<0.0005
<0.0005
4.92
5.30
<0.0001
<0.0001
0.00047
0.00039
0.0027
0.0041
<0.001
<0.001
0.259
0.18
<0.001
<0.001
1.11
0.833
0.0073
0.0067
<0.001
<0.001
0.0068
0.0045
<0.0001
0.00014
0.27
0.55
0.0057
0.0062
0.0052
0.0057
0.0011
<0.001
0.0052
0.004
Near Residence
Near Residence
9-Mar-12
12-Mar-13
6.97
6.93
30
10.5
0.27
<0.2
<1.0
<1.0
0.16
<0.1
29.89
15.02
<0.0005
<0.0005
7.30
4.32
<0.0001
<0.0001
0.00134
0.00037
0.0073
0.0029
0.0028
0.0023
0.622
0.249
<0.001
<0.001
2.84
1.03
0.0173
0.0088
<0.001
<0.001
0.0188
0.0064
<0.0001
<0.0001
0.34
0.25
0.018
0.0061
0.0193
0.0064
<0.001
<0.001
0.0064
0.0097
Near Residence
PWQO
21-Mar-14
7.45
6.5-8.5
61.9
1.34
<1.0
<0.1
20.81
<0.0005
0.01-1.1*
7.26
<0.00009
0.001-0.005*
0.00048
0.0009
0.0055
0.0089
<0.001
0.001-0.005*
0.246
0.3
0.013
0.001-0.005*
0.649
0.0118
<0.001
0.04
0.0062
0.025
<0.0001
0.0001
0.59
0.0072
0.0042
<0.001
0.0036
0.02
* Value depends on hardness.
** Hardness value provided is calculated based on hardness (mg/L)=(2.5 X [Ca]) + (4.1 X[Mg])
PWQO: Provincial Water Quality Guidelines for the protection of aquatic life. Data are not subject to PWQO. PWQO is provided for comparison purposes only.
Exceeds PWQO
TC140504
Page 111
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 6
HI-VOL AND LO-VOL AMBIENT AIR SAMPLE RESULTS (2014)
Station and Metric
Hi-Vol-4
Number of Samples
Sample Dates
Mean Value
Observed Range
Lo-Vol-04
Number of Samples
Sample Dates
Mean Value
Observed range
Lo-Vol-02
Number of Samples
Sample Dates
Mean Value
Observed Range
Units
TSP
n
May 5 - Oct 26
µg/m3
24
9.54
µg/m3
n
May 5 - Oct 26
µg/m3
µg/m3
n
May 5 - Oct 26
µg/m3
µg/m3
Parameters and Concentrations
Hg
Cd
Pb
2.84-33.36
24*
<0.000011
<0.000011 0.000011
24*
<0.0011
<0.0011 <0.0011
24*
<0.0017
<0.0017 <0.0017
30
<6.98
-
<4.2 - 19.0
-
30*
<0.027
<0.026-<0.028
30*
<0.040
<0.039-<0.042
24
<6.23
<4.2 - 14.3
-
24*
<0.027
<0.0251-<0.028
24*
<0.040
<0.040-<0.041
O. Reg. 419/05 24-h Averaged Standards:
Total Suspended Particles (TSP) - 120 µg/m3; Mercury (Hg) - 2 µg/m3; Cadmium (Cd) - 0.25 µg/m3; Lead (Pb) - 2 µg/m3
Detection Limits:
TSP (Hi-Vol) - 2.8 µg/m3; TSP (Lo-Vol) - 4.2 µg/m3
Cd (Lo-Vol) <0.028 µg/m3, Pb (Lo-Vol) <0.041 µg/m3
* All samples were at or below method detection limit for given parameter
TC14504
Page 112
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
Table 7
PASSIVE SO2 and NO2 - DE BEERS VICTOR MINE - 2014
(Results expressed in ppb)
NO2
SO2
NO2
SO2
NO2
SO2
NO2
SO2
DUP 9
(PM-2)
NO2
May-14
Jun-14
Jul-14
Aug-14
Sep-14
Oct-14
0.1
0.4
<0.1
0.2
0.3
0.3
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
0.2
0.1
0.2
0.3
<0.1
0.2
0.2
0.3
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
0.1
<0.1
<0.1
0.2
0.3
<0.1
<0.1
0.3
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
0.1
0.4
<0.1
<0.1
0.3
0.3
<0.1
0.5
0.3
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
0.2
<0.1
<0.1
0.3
0.2
0.4
0.3
0.1
0.3
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
0.2
0.1
<0.1
0.05
0.08
0.09
0.05
0.04
0.08
0.09
0.12
0.03
0.13
0.04
0.06
Average
Maximum
Minimum
Detection Limit (mdl)
No. Samples < mdl
<0.2
0.4
<0.1
0.1
1
<0.1
0.2
<0.1
0.1
3
<0.2
0.3
<0.1
0.1
2
<0.1
0.1
<0.1
0.1
5
<0.2
0.3
<0.1
0.1
3
<0.2
0.4
<0.1
0.1
4
<0.3
0.5
<0.1
0.1
2
<0.1
0.2
<0.1
0.1
5
<0.3
0.4
0.1
0.1
0
<0.1
0.2
<0.1
0.1
4
0.07
0.09
0.04
0.1
0
0.08
0.13
0.03
0.1
0
Month
PM-1 East
PM-2 South
PM-3 West
PM-4 North
DUP 8
(PM-1)
SO2
Blank
Blank
NO2
SO2
Notes: S02: Sulphur dioxide
NO2: Nitrogen dioxide
TC140504
Page 113
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 8
NORTHEAST FEN COMPLIANCE PERFORMANCE (2014)
(data in mg/L)
Parameter
General Parameters
Lab pH
Field pH
Total suspended solids
Total dissolved solids
Ammonia (N mg/L)
Un-ionized Ammonia
Chloride
Sulphate
Total Phosphorus
Oil & grease
Metals
Beryllium Total
Beryllium Dissolved
Calcium Total
Calcium Dissolved
Cadmium Total
Cadmium Dissolved
Chromium Total
Chromium Dissolved
Copper Total
Copper Dissolved
Iron Total
Iron Dissolved
Lead Total
Lead Dissolved
Magnesium Total
Magnesium Dissolved
Manganese Total
Manganese Dissolved
Molybdenum Total
Molybdenum Dissolved
Nickel Total
Nickel Dissolved
Silver Total
Silver Dissolved
Sodium Total
Sodium Dissolved
Strontium Total
Strontium Dissolved
Titanium Total
Titanium Dissolved
Vanadium Total
Vanadium Dissolved
Zinc Total
Zinc Dissolved
Toxicity
Acute Toxicity – trout
Acute Toxicity – Daphnia
TC140504
Permit Limits
Monthly
Daily
Average
Number of
Samples
Average of all
Results
Number of
Exceedances
9.5
9.5
30 mg/L
15 mg/L
15 mg/L
-
132
132
132
43
43
43
43
43
10
130
7.74
7.35
4.05
480.23
0.09
0.002
57.4
60.2
0.013
1.0
0
0
4
na
na
na
na
na
na
0
-
-
10
10
43
43
10
10
10
10
10
10
43
43
10
10
43
43
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
42
42
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
<0.0005
<0.0005
74.75
72.03
<0.0001
<0.0001
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
0.56
0.24
<0.001
<0.0001
22.51
22.18
0.04
0.03
<0.001
<0.001
<0.004
<0.002
<0.0001
<0.0001
52.09
51.06
0.24
0.24
<0.004
<0.001
<0.001
<0.001
<0.005
<0.003
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
50% survival
50% survival
-
10
10
98%
100%
na
na
Page 114
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 9
TOTAL MERCURY - FENS (Unfiltered)
(concentrations in ng/L)
Southwest Fen
(SWF/F)
Northeast Fen
(NEF/F)
0.77
2.44
2.49
1.86
1.29
1.59
4.65
3.01
2.84
F
F
2.07
1.96
2.40
3.85
2.28
3.74
2.86
3.42
6.55
5.70
9.79
16.30
1.78
2.37
3.19
2.98
2.76
1.84
1.80
2.19
F
8.61
0.62
1.72
1.26
0.83
1.25
0.53
1.08
0.86
0.99
3.14
2.34
1.31
1.21
0.87
1.30
1.32
1.12
0.68
1.41
3.33
3.52
4.64
5.67
1.33
1.11
1.54
2.51
2.22
1.02
0.76
0.92
3.43
5.14
4.89
1.44
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
5.03
3.62
7.35
2.92
1.25
1.46
1.11
1.42
1.41
0.38
0.19
3.21
May-06
Jun-06
Jul-06
Aug-06
Sep-06
Oct-06
Dec-06
Jan-07
Feb-07
Mar-07
Apr-07
May-07
Jun-07
Jul-07
Aug-07
Sep-07
Oct-07
Nov-07
Dec-07
Jan-08
Feb-08
Mar-08
Apr-08
May-08
Jun-08
Jul-08
Aug-08
Sep-08
Oct-08
Nov-08
Dec-08
Jan-09
Feb-09
Mar-09
Apr-09
May-09
Jun-09
Jul-09
Aug-09
Sep-09
Oct-09
Nov-09
Dec-09
Jan-10
Feb-10
Mar-10
Apr-10
May-10
Jun-10
Jul-10
Aug-10
Sep-10
Oct-10
Nov-10
Dec-10
Jan-11
Feb-11
Mar-11
Apr-11
May-11
Jun-11
Jul-11
Aug-11
Sep-11**
Oct-11
Nov-11
Dec-11
Jan-12
Feb-12
Mar-12
Apr-12
May-12
Jun-12
Jul-12
Aug-12
Sep-12
Oct-12
Nov-12
Dec-12
Jan-13
Feb-13
Mar-13
Apr-13
May-13
Jun-13
Jul-13
Aug-13
Sep-13
Oct-13
Nov-13
Dec-13
Jan-14
Feb-14
Mar-14
Apr-14
May-14
Jun-14
Jul-14
Aug-14
Sep-14
Oct-14
Nov-14
Dec-14
*Average 2009
*Average 2010
*Average 2011
*Average 2012
*Average 2013
*Average 2014
Average All Years
1.03
0.70
0.74
1.34
1.76
1.15
0.78
0.56
0.98
1.26
F
F
2.81
1.23
1.05
3.18
3.29
1.68
1.23
1.17
5.31
1.88
2.06
0.68
1.16
3.59
4.93
3.79
0.60
2.70
2.37
3.30
7.39
0.64
0.26
1.52
2.29
3.06
1.34
Southeast Fen
(SEF/F)
Northwest Control
(HgCON)
2.51
2.64
1.09
1.70
1.51
2.77
1.43
1.25
1.57
2.87
3.57
4.51
13.30
4.36
F
2.80
2.42
3.47
1.44
1.60
1.83
2.66
FENS - TOTAL MERCURY CONCENTRATIONS (Unfiltered)
2.60
2.91
18.00
2.12
2.97
16.00
0.94
1.15
3.16
2.93
0.55
14.00
12.00
10.00
8.00
6.00
1.20
4.00
1.21
1.21
2.00
1.29
1.86
1.61
1.87
3.74
2.05
1.41
1.99
2.78
3.97
7.75
5.49
3.32
0.72
1.36
1.90
1.33
1.33
0.00
Southwest Fen
(SWF/F)
Northeast Fen
(NEF/F)
Southeast Fen
(SEF/F)
Northwest Control
(HgCON)
4.59
2.55
3.36
1.11
1.67
4.52
1.86
1.72
1.4
3.17
2.92
1.88
3.27
4.09
2.28
1.59
1.44
0.91
2.31
1.59
2.23
2.89
1.70
2.30
1.99
Concentration (ng/L)
Date
8.49
6.13
3.17
2.62
3.25
1.69
3.03
1.87
1.55
2.39
3.44
2.73
3.48
2.72
2.42
1.80
2.47
2.36
2.87
4.49
2.75
F = Frozen (no sample)
ND: not determined (C. of A. #3374-6G7J2Y was revoked)
Southwest Fen - Receives effluent from central quarry (2006 only)
Northeast Fen - Receives effluent from plant site excavation, sewage treatment plant and pit sump
Southeast Fen - Control site
Northwest Control - Control site
*Annual average values are only for dates when control samples were collected
** Samples discarded due to lab miscommunicaton
Annual average values for 2011 and 2013 have been corrected to include only those values when control samples were collected.
MDLs have been adjusted for all years for uniformity (0.1 ng/L for total mercury), as per Section 1.
Blank cells indicate concentration was not determined.
TC14504
Page 115
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 10
TOTAL MERCURY - FENS (Filtered)
(concentrations in ng/L)
May-06
Jun-06
Jul-06
Aug-06
Sep-06
Oct-06
Dec-06
Jan-07
Feb-07
Mar-07
Apr-07
May-07
Jun-07
Jul-07
Aug-07
Sep-07
Oct-07
Nov-07
Dec-07
Jan-08
Feb-08
Mar-08
Apr-08
May-08
Jun-08
Jul-08
Aug-08
Sep-08
Oct-08
Nov-08
Dec-08
Jan-09
Feb-09
Mar-09
Apr-09
May-09
Jun-09
Jul-09
Aug-09
Sep-09
Oct-09
Nov-09
Dec-09
Jan-10
Feb-10
Mar-10
Apr-10
May-10
Jun-10
Jul-10
Aug-10
Sep-10
Oct-10
Nov-10
Dec-10
Jan-11
Feb-11
Mar-11
Apr-11
May-11
Jun-11
Jul-11
Aug-11
Sep-11**
Oct-11
Nov-11
Dec-11
Jan-12
Feb-12
Mar-12
Apr-12
May-12
Jun-12
Jul-12
Aug-12
Sep-12
Oct-12
Nov-12
Dec-12
Jan-13
Feb-13
Mar-13
Apr-13
May-13
Jun-13
Jul-13
Aug-13
Sep-13
Oct-13
Nov-13
Dec-13
Jan-14
Feb-14
Mar-14
Apr-14
May-14
Jun-14
Jul-14
Aug-14
Sep-14
Oct-14
Nov-14
Dec-14
*Average 2009
*Average 2010
*Average 2011
*Average 2012
*Average 2013
*Average 2014
Average All Years
Southwest Fen
(SWF/F)
Northeast Fen
(NEF/F)
0.64
2.32
1.96
1.34
1.11
0.85
3.05
1.86
1.90
F
F
1.31
1.24
1.74
2.45
1.87
2.89
2.66
3.22
4.86
5.40
3.79
6.72
1.22
1.63
2.87
2.55
2.07
1.71
1.77
2.02
F
7.42
0.48
3.89
1.44
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
4.43
2.56
0.86
0.72
0.61
0.44
0.59
0.47
0.48
3.03
1.69
1.41
1.05
0.70
0.98
0.69
1.04
0.60
1.00
2.10
2.32
3.41
2.41
1.01
1.11
1.38
1.81
1.90
1.04
0.66
0.86
2.86
3.62
5.09
1.55
1.20
1.12
0.79
1.15
1.46
0.21
0.08
1.40
0.65
0.50
0.59
1.00
1.25
0.89
0.37
0.55
0.45
0.81
F
F
1.65
0.60
0.91
2.00
2.20
0.96
0.48
0.66
3.32
0.69
0.98
0.41
0.68
2.09
3.01
2.86
0.43
1.07
0.89
2.33
3.25
0.37
0.17
0.69
1.06
1.83
0.82
Southeast Fen
(SEF/F)
Northwest Control
(HgCON)
1.38
1.82
0.94
1.19
1.01
1.73
0.89
1.03
1.48
1.70
3.11
3.92
2.21
3.07
F
2.41
2.02
2.88
1.12
1.33
1.61
2.00
Fens - Total Mercury Concentrations (Filtered)
2.25
1.85
8.00
1.49
2.09
7.00
0.92
1.02
1.93
2.21
<0.1
0.76
6.00
5.00
4.00
3.00
2.00
1.00
0.80
0.95
1.35
0.64
0.95
1.37
0.79
0.53
1.16
1.57
1.59
2.89
2.00
4.73
2.06
0.25
1.11
1.56
0.85
0.96
0.00
Southwest Fen
(SWF/F)
Northeast Fen
(NEF/F)
Southeast Fen
(SEF/F)
Northwest Control
(HgCON)
2.19
1.83
2.32
0.70
1.00
1.44
1.27
1.60
0.86
1.32
0.72
1.19
2.1
2.13
1.36
<0.1
0.91
0.42
1.75
0.86
1.36
1.71
1.05
<0.95
<1.26
Concentration (ng/L)
Date
2.08
4.18
1.7
1.69
2.13
1.34
2.79
1.57
1.21
1.12
1.51
1.32
2.40
1.51
1.74
<0.98
1.59
1.88
1.70
2.18
<1.80
F = Frozen (no sample)
ND: not determined (C. of A. #3374-6G7J2Y was revoked)
Southwest Fen - Receives effluent from central quarry (2006 only)
Northeast Fen - Receives effluent from plant site excavation, sewage treatment plant and pit sump
Southeast Fen - Control site
Northwest Control - Control site
*Annual average values are only for dates when control samples were collected
** Samples discarded due to lab miscommunication
Annual average values for 2011 and 2013 have been corrected to include only those values when control samples were collected.
MDLs have been adjusted for all years for uniformity (0.1 ng/L for total mercury), as per Section 1.
Blank cells indicate concentration was not determined.
TC14504
Page 116
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 11
METHYL MERCURY - FENS (Unfiltered)
(concentrations in ng/L)
Southwest Fen
(SWF/F)
Northeast Fen
(NEF/F)
Southeast Fen
(SEF/F)
Northwest Control
(HgCON)
Jul-06
Oct-06
Jan-07
May-07
Jul-07
Oct-07
Jan-08
Mar-08
Apr-08
Jul-08
Oct-08
Jan-09
Apr/May-09
Jul-09
Oct-09
Jan-10
Apr-10
Jul-10
Oct-10
Jan-11
Apr-11
Jul-11
Oct-11
Jan-12
Apr-12
Jul-12
Oct-12
Jan-13
Apr/May-13
Jul-13
Oct-13
Jan-14
Apr/May-14
Jul-14
Oct-14
Average 2009
Average 2010
Average 2011
Average 2012
Average 2013
Average 2014
Average all Data
0.16
0.20
0.97
0.14
0.68
0.81
5.58
F
8.37
0.69
0.27
4.59
2.79
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
3.69
2.10
0.10
0.02
0.07
0.07
0.10
0.15
1.72
2.07
2.90
0.40
0.50
1.99
5.08
0.34
0.12
2.38
0.21
1.10
0.24
0.65
0.13
1.03
0.23
8.09
0.49
1.74
0.15
1.18
6.05
0.68
0.48
0.49
1.55
1.56
0.17
1.88
0.98
0.51
2.62
2.10
0.94
1.26
0.03
0.02
0.07
<0.02
0.02
0.08
1.07
F
0.07
0.11
0.05
0.12
0.05
<0.02
0.03
0.06
0.04
0.03
0.03
0.08
0.18
0.03
0.07
0.94
0.10
0.03
0.02
0.06
0.05
0.16
0.04
0.05
0.09
0.34
F
0.65
0.12
0.04
0.19
0.04
0.03
0.04
0.18
0.06
0.08
0.07
0.06
0.18
0.04
0.07
0.47
0.05
0.07
0.03
0.19
0.04
0.11
0.03
0.50
0.06
0.19
0.09
0.07
0.10
0.09
0.16
0.09
0.21
0.13
0.08
0.07
<0.02
0.04
0.05
0.08
<0.05
0.04
0.09
0.27
<0.06
0.06
<0.12
FENS - METHYL MERCURY CONCENTRATIONS (Unfiltered)
9.00
8.00
Concentration (ng/L)
Date
7.00
6.00
5.00
4.00
3.00
2.00
1.00
0.00
Southwest Fen
(SWF/F)
Northeast Fen
(NEF/F)
Southeast Fen
(SEF/F)
Northwest Control
(HgCON)
F = Frozen (no sample)
ND: not determined (C. of A. #3374-6G7J2Y was revoked)
Southwest Fen - Received effluent from the Central Quarry
Northeast Fen - Receives effluent from plant site excavation, sewage treatment plant and pit sump
Southwest Fen - Control site
Northwest Control - Control site
CEQG for Protection of Aquatic Life; 4 ng/L (unfiltered)
Quarterly sampling in accordance with Amended C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G
MDLs have been adjusted for all years for uniformity (0.02 ng/L for methyl mercury), as per Section 1.
Blank cells indicate concentration was not determined.
TC14504
Page 117
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 12
METHYL MERCURY - FENS (Filtered)
(concentrations in ng/L)
Southwest Fen
(SWF/F)
Northeast Fen
(NEF/F)
Southeast Fen
(SEF/F)
Northwest Control
(HgCON)
Jul-06
Oct-06
Jan-07
May-07
Jul-07
Oct-07
Jan-08
Mar-08
Apr-08
Jul-08
Oct-08
Jan-09
Apr/May-09
Jul-09
Oct-09
Jan-10
Apr-10
Jul-10
Oct-10
Jan-11
Apr-11
Jul-11
Oct-11
Jan-12
Apr-12
Jul-12
Oct-12
Jan-13
Apr/May-13
Jul-13
Oct-13
Jan-14
Apr/May-14
Jul-14
Oct-14
Average 2009
Average 2010
Average 2011
Average 2012
Average 2013
Average 2014
Average All Data
0.13
0.15
0.68
0.08
0.30
0.63
3.48
F
3.42
0.58
0.29
3.03
1.85
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
2.44
1.22
0.08
0.02
0.04
0.06
0.10
0.12
1.29
1.34
1.73
0.41
0.39
0.89
3.32
0.16
0.13
0.76
0.12
0.59
0.23
0.40
<0.02
0.88
0.04
4.09
0.27
1.18
0.11
0.97
2.85
0.45
0.18
0.31
1.09
0.68
0.11
1.12
0.43
<0.33
1.41
1.11
0.55
<0.73
0.02
<0.02
0.06
0.02
0.02
0.04
0.39
F
0.03
0.08
0.02
0.09
0.05
0.07
0.05
0.11
0.03
0.02
0.03
0.03
0.04
0.02
0.03
0.17
0.07
0.02
<0.02
<0.02
0.02
0.10
0.04
0.04
0.09
0.17
F
0.37
0.07
0.04
0.14
0.05
0.08
0.06
0.07
0.05
0.04
0.06
0.03
0.06
0.04
<0.02
0.20
<0.02
0.04
0.03
0.24
0.04
0.09
<0.02
0.07
0.04
0.19
0.05
0.08
0.06
<0.04
<0.07
<0.10
0.09
<0.08
<0.02
0.06
<0.02
0.04
0.03
0.03
0.07
0.05
0.03
<0.07
<0.03
0.03
<0.06
FENS - METHYL MERCURY CONCENTRATIONS (Filtered)
4.50
4.00
Concentration (ng/L)
Date
3.50
3.00
2.50
2.00
1.50
1.00
0.50
0.00
Southwest Fen
(SWF/F)
Northeast Fen
(NEF/F)
Southeast Fen
(SEF/F)
Northwest Control
(HgCON)
F = Frozen (no sample)
ND: not determined (C. of A. #3374-6G7J2Y was revoked)
Southwest Fen - Received effluent from the Central Quarry
Northeast Fen - Receives effluent from plant site excavation, sewage treatment plant and pit sump
Southwest Fen - Control site
Northwest Control - Control site
CEQG for Protection of Aquatic Life; 4 ng/L (unfiltered)
Quarterly sampling in accordance with Amended C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G
MDLs have been adjusted for all years for uniformity (0.02 ng/L for methyl mercury), as per Section 1.
Blank cells indicate concentration was not determined.
TC14504
Page 118
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 13
PROTOTYPE WELL AND WELL FIELD DISCHARGE COMPLIANCE PERFORMANCE (2006 – 2014)
Permit Limits
Parameter
Daily
Prototype Well – 2006
pH
6.0 – 9.5
TSS
30 mg/L
Chloride
AT – trout
50% survival
AT – daphnia
50% survival
Well Field Discharge – 2007
pH
6.0 – 9.5
TSS
30 mg/L
Chloride
AT – trout
50% survival
AT – daphnia
50% survival
Well Field Discharge – 2008
pH
6.0 – 9.5
TSS
30 mg/L
Chloride
AT – trout
50% survival
AT – daphnia
50% survival
Final Discharge – 2009
pH
6.0 – 9.5
TSS
30 mg/L
Chloride
AT – trout
50% survival
AT – daphnia
50% survival
Well Field Discharge - 2010
pH
6.0 - 9.5
TSS
30 mg/L
Chloride
AT - trout
50% survival
AT - daphnia
50% survival
Well Field Discharge - 2011
pH
6.0 - 9.5
TSS
30 mg/L
Chloride
AT - trout
50% survival
AT - daphnia
50% survival
Well Field Discharge - 2012
pH
6.0 - 9.5
TSS
30 mg/L
Chloride
AT - trout
50% survival
AT - daphnia
50% survival
Well Field Discharge - 2013
pH
6.0 - 9.5
TSS
30 mg/L
Chloride
AT - trout
50% survival
AT - daphnia
50% survival
Well Field Discharge - 2014
pH
6.0 - 9.5
TSS
30 mg/L
Chloride
AT - trout
50% survival
AT - daphnia
50% survival
Monthly Average
Number of
Samples
Average of all
Results
Number of
Exceedances
15 mg/L
1500 mg/L
-
26
24
63
2
2
7.42
7
425
95%
100%
0
3
0
0
0
15 mg/L
1500 mg/L
-
151
152
352
11
11
7.55
5.7
598
100%
100%
0
4
0
0
0
15 mg/L
1500 mg/L
-
410
366
326
12
12
7.62
4.3
713
100%
100%
0
0
0
0
0
15 mg/L
1500 mg/L
-
151
143
151
12
12
7.76
4.5
831
100%
100%
0
0
0
0
0
15 mg/L
1500 mg/L
-
158
155
157
12
12
7.90
2.5
963
100%
100%
0
1
0
0
0
15 mg/L
1500 mg/L
-
157
157
157
12
12
7.87
2.8
1054
100%
100%
0
0
0
0
0
15 mg/L
1500 mg/L
-
158
158
158
12
12
7.82
2.8
1223
100%
100%
0
0
0
0
0
15 mg/L
1500 mg/L
-
156
156
156
12
12
7.68
2.7
1264
100%
100%
0
0
0
0
0
15 mg/L
1500 mg/L
-
158
157
158
12
12
7.705
1.99
1248.0
100%
100%
0
0
0
0
0
AT = acute toxicity;
Well field discharge for 2008 measured at the combined well field discharge from January 1 to March 15 and at the Final Discharge Pumphouse
(FDPH) from March 16 to December 31 (the FDPH well field effluent includes both well field and fine PKC discharges)
Well field discharge for 2009 was measured at the combined well field discharge from January 1 to March 15 and at the Final Discharge
Pumphouse (FDPH) from March 16 to December 31 (the FDPH well field effluent includes both well field and inputs from the central quarry pond)
Well field discharge from 2010 through 2014 was measured at the Final Discharge Pumphouse (the FDPH well field effluent includes both well
field and intermittent inputs from the central quarry pond)
TC140504
Page 119
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 14a
MERCURY CONTENT IN WELL FIELD DISCHARGE
(concentrations in ng/L)
Total Mercury
Methyl Mercury
Wells in Production
Date
Unfiltered
Filtered
Unfiltered
Filtered
Nov-07
1.33
1.32
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-6, 11 and 22
Dec-07
1.33
0.95
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-6, 11 and 22
Jan-08
0.87
0.61
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-6, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Feb-08
1.55
1.27
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-6, 11 and 22
Mar-08
0.70
0.69
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-6, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Apr-08
0.84
0.69
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
May-08
0.78
0.63
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Jun-08
0.72
0.60
VDW-7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Jul-08
0.65
0.47
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-6, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Aug-08
2.63
0.99
VDW-6, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Sep-08
0.67
0.57
VDW-6, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Oct-08
2.20
2.01
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Nov-08
1.00
0.92
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Dec-08
1.34
1.07
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Jan-09
1.01
1.13
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Feb-09
1.45
1.18
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Mar-09
1.49
1.32
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Apr-09
1.21
1.11
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
May-09
1.49
0.83
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Jun-09
1.99
0.67
0.04
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Jul-09
1.41
0.64
0.09
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Aug-09
0.05
<0.1
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Sep-09
1.25
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Oct-09
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Nov-09
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Dec-09
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 15, 17 and 22
Jan-10
0.93
0.4
0.04
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 14, 15, 17 and 22
Feb-10
1.65
<0.1
0.04
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 14, 15, 17 and 22
Mar-10
1.6
0.36
0.03
0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 14, 15, 17 and 22
Apr-10
0.72
<0.1
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 14, 15, 17 and 22
May-10
1.25
<0.1
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 14, 15, 17 and 22
Jun-10
<0.1
<0.1
0.04
0.03
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 14, 15, 17 and 22
Jul-10
1.04
0.15
0.02
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 14, 15, 17 and 22
Aug-10
1.61
<0.1
<0.02
0.03
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 14, 15, 17 and 22
Sep-10
1.23
<0.1
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 14, 15, 17 and 22
Oct-10
1.19
<0.1
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 14, 15, 17 and 22
Nov-10
1.44
<0.1
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 14, 15, 17 and 22
Dec-10
0.88
0.43
0.03
<0.02
VDW-3, 6, 7, 11, 14, 15, 17 and 22
Jan-11
1.01
0.10
0.04
VDW-6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18 and 22
Feb-11
1.49
1.29
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18 and 22
Mar-11
1.22
0.63
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18 and 22
Apr-11
0.85
<0.1
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18 and 22
May-11
1.55
<0.1
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18 and 22
Jun-11
0.96
0.82
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18 and 22
Jul-11
1.96
0.37
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18 and 22
Aug-11
0.89
0.38
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18 and 22
Sep-11
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18 and 22
Oct-11
11.65
0.60
0.04
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18 and 22
Nov-11
3.1
0.45
0.04
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18 and 22
Dec-11
1.07
0.24
0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18 and 22
Jan-12
1.17
<0.1
0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Feb-12
0.62
0.24
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Mar-12
0.51
0.11
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Apr-12
1.33
0.26
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
May-12
2.11
0.18
0.27
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Jun-12
1.38
0.15
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Jul-12
0.8
0.27
0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Aug-12
1.69
0.19
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Sep-12
3.55
1.31
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Oct-12
0.74
0.22
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Nov-12
1.87
1.02
0.04
VDW-2, 6, 7, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Dec-12
2.45
0.88
0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Jan-13
1.46
0.32
<0.02
0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Feb-13
5.51
0.98
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Mar-13
2.63
0.94
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Apr-13
2.03
0.71
0.03
0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
May-13
2.12
0.99
0.04
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Jun-13
1.84
0.72
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Jul-13
0.99
0.2
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22
Aug-13
2.69
0.83
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23 and 25
Sep-13
3.16
1.2
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23 and 25
Oct-13
2.97
0.8
0.04
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23 and 25
Nov-13
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23 and 25
Dec-13
2.46
0.42
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23 and 25
Jan-14
7.40
1.05
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23 and 25
Feb-14
2.53
0.29
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23 and 25
Mar-14
3.33
1.05
0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23 and 25
Apr-14
3.19
1.50
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23 and 25
May-14
4.54
1.75
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23 and 25
Jun-14
4.73
1.07
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 25 and 31
Jul-14
3.35
1.54
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 25 and 31
Aug-14
3.56
0.78
0.05
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 25 and 31
Sep-14
3.19
0.96
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 25 and 31
Oct-14
2.95
1.12
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 25 and 31
Nov-14
2.55
0.47
0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 25 and 31
Dec-14
2.52
0.72
<0.02
<0.02
VDW-2, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 25 and 31
Average 2009
1.26
<0.91
<0.03
<0.02
Average 2010
<1.14
<0.18
<0.03
<0.02
Average 2011
2.34
<0.50
<0.03
<0.02
Average 2012
1.52
<0.41
<0.05
<0.02
Average 2013
2.53
0.74
<0.02
<0.02
Average 2014
3.65
1.03
<0.02
<0.02
Average All Years
<1.95
<0.67
<0.03
<0.02
Blank cells indicate concentration was not determined.
CEQG for Protection of Aquatic Life: total mercury; 26 ng/L and methyl mercury; 4 ng/L
*Samples excluded from plots below
MDLs have been adjusted for all years for uniformity (0.02 ng/L for methyl mercury and 0.1 ng/L for total mercury), as per Section 1.
TC140504
Page 120
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 14b
MERCURY CONTENT IN WELL FIELD DISCHARGE GRAPHICAL PRESENTATION
(concentrations in ng/L)
Well Field Total Mercury Concentrations (filtered)
Concentration (ng/L)
2.50
2.00
y = 1E-05x + 0.0821
R² = 0.0006
1.50
1.00
0.50
0.00
Date
Well Field Methyl Mercury Concentrations (filtered)
Concentration (ng/L)
0.060
0.050
y = -5E-08x + 0.023
R² = 1E-04
0.040
0.030
0.020
0.010
0.000
Date
TC140504
Page 121
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 15
SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT COMPLIANCE PERFORMANCE (2014)
1
Permit Limits / Objectives
Parameter
Monthly
Daily
Average
650 Person Bioreactor
1
25 mg/L
BOD5
15 mg/L
TSS
30 mg/L
15 mg/L
1
TP
0.3 mg/L
1
NH3-N
2 mg/L
1
Nitrite
1 mg/L
1
Nitrate
10 mg/L
E. coli
200/100 ml
100/100 ml1
1
Number of
Samples
Average of
Results
53
53
53
53
53
53
52
1.3
1.4
0.3
4.1
0.04
8.9
0
Number of Exceedances
Daily Limit /
Monthly
1
Average
Limit
Objective
0
0
1
g6
1
g21
1
g0
1
g20
1
g0
0
0
NA
NA
NA
NA
0
Effluent objective, as opposed to an effluent limit
TC140504
Page 122
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 16a
TOTAL MERCURY - RIBBED FEN SURFACE WATERS (Sampled as Peat Pore Water 2007-2014) (Filtered)
(concentrations in ng/L)
Date
MS-1-R
(ES1-R)
MS-2-R
(ES2-R)
MS-7-R
(NS7-R)
MS-8-R
(NS8-1R)
MS-9(1)-R
(SS9-1R)
MS-9(2)-R
(SS9-2R)
MS-13-R
(WS13-R)
MS-15-R
(WS15-R)
MS-V(1)-R
(ES2-R)
MS-V(2)-R
(SSV2-R)
MS-V(3)-R
(SSV3-R)
Aug / Sep-07
Nov-07
May-08
Aug-08
Oct-08
Jan-09
May-09
Aug-09
Oct-09
Jan-10
May-10
Aug-10
Oct-10
Jan / Feb-11
Apr-11
Jul-11
Oct-11
Jan-12
Apr-12
Jul-12
Oct-12
Jan / Feb-13
Apr / May-13
Jul-13
Oct-13
Mar-14
May / Jun-14
Aug-14
Oct-14
2009 Average
2010 Average
2011 Average
2012 Average
2013 Average
2014 Average
Average All Years
1.81
1.67
2.86
2.27
1.52
F
2.90
1.00
1.19
0.65
1.86
1.24
1.11
F
1.07
2.10
2.52
1.68
2.00
1.70
2.05
F
2.43
1.00
1.64
F
3.00
2.70
3.69
1.70
1.22
1.90
1.86
1.69
3.13
1.91
1.56
2.30
5.56
2.02
1.07
F
1.98
0.95
1.01
<0.1
1.75
1.43
1.24
0.60
0.83
1.23
2.07
F
2.28
0.66
1.76
F
1.56
1.00
1.01
F
2.14
2.27
2.07
1.31
<1.13
1.18
1.57
1.19
2.16
<1.62
0.62
0.82
F
0.52
0.72
F
1.92
0.95
1.15
<0.1
0.74
0.44
0.81
0.41
0.84
1.20
4.43
0.84
1.03
0.76
2.89
F
1.92
0.50
0.52
F
5.18
1.07
2.71
1.34
<0.52
1.72
1.38
0.98
2.99
<1.32
1.00
1.36
0.91
0.98
1.26
F
3.25
1.38
1.19
2.45
1.32
1.60
1.79
1.42
1.35
1.52
2.73
4.44
0.87
1.18
1.87
F
1.12
1.00
1.12
F
2.19
1.63
2.87
1.94
1.79
1.76
2.09
1.08
2.23
1.68
0.72
1.11
0.53
1.26
1.26
F
2.10
1.01
1.18
1.17
1.32
0.47
1.25
0.94
0.92
1.52
2.00
1.98
1.21
1.23
1.34
2.09
1.66
0.4
1.2
1.93
1.82
1.34
2.41
1.43
1.05
1.35
1.44
1.34
1.88
1.33
1.29
1.01
F
0.90
0.70
F
2.40
1.44
1.24
<0.1
1.40
0.72
1.05
0.54
0.84
1.04
2.01
0.94
1.37
1.70
0.71
1.58
1.35
0.40
0.85
F
1.77
1.36
2.42
1.69
<0.82
1.11
1.18
1.05
1.85
<1.20
0.40
1.70
0.42
0.95
1.22
F
4.08
2.54
2.54
1.21
0.93
<0.1
3.03
1.92
2.63
3.06
3.43
4.84
2.09
2.97
3.25
F
2.59
1.7
3.31
F
2.92
2.35
3.51
3.05
<1.32
2.76
3.29
2.53
2.93
<2.30
0.43
1.11
0.38
0.92
0.37
F
2.19
0.86
0.75
<0.1
2.68
<0.1
0.68
0.49
0.63
0.51
1.02
0.73
0.69
0.62
0.67
0.66
1.23
0.4
0.48
0.78
1.15
1.51
1.02
1.27
<0.89
0.66
0.68
0.69
1.12
<0.83
1.56
2.30
5.56
2.02
1.07
F
1.98
0.95
1.01
<0.1
1.75
1.43
1.24
0.60
0.83
1.23
2.07
F
2.28
0.66
1.76
F
1.56
1.00
1.01
F
2.14
2.27
2.07
1.31
<1.13
1.18
1.57
1.19
2.16
<1.62
<0.1
<0.1
F
0.60
0.41
F
2.38
0.94
0.86
<0.1
0.83
0.85
1.03
F
0.47
1.36
1.45
1.70
0.49
1.24
0.76
F
3.14
0.60
0.84
F
3.83
1.31
1.81
1.39
<0.70
1.09
1.05
1.53
2.32
<1.13
<0.1
<0.1
F
1.69
1.33
F
3.19
1.78
2.01
F
2.06
0.76
1.67
F
1.01
1.38
3.92
1.95
0.71
2.87
2.61
F
2.76
0.8
0.91
F
3.82
0.88
2.17
2.32
1.50
2.10
2.04
1.49
2.29
1.76
MS-2-R and MS-V(1)-R are the same stations
Frozen (no sample)
Stations located at or inside the Upper Bedrock 2 m drawdown contour
Stations located outside the Upper Bedrock 2 m drawdown contour
Amended C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G provides for annual sampling of peat pore water and quarterly sampling of ribbed fen surface water (the
previous C. of A. #4111-7DXKQW provided for the same sampling frequency).
MDLs have been adjusted for all years for uniformity (0.1 ng/L for total mercury), as per Section 1.
F=
TC14504
Page 123
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 16b
METHYL MERCURY - RIBBED FEN SURFACE WATERS (Sampled as Peat Pore Water 2007-2014) (Filtered)
(concentrations in ng/L)
Date
MS-1-R
(ES1-R)
MS-2-R
(ES2-R)
MS-7-R
(NS7-R)
MS-8-R
(NS8-1R)
MS-9(1)-R
(SS9-1R)
MS-9(2)-R
(SS9-2R)
MS-13-R
(WS13-R)
MS-15-R
(WS15-R)
MS-V(1)-R
(ES2-R)
MS-V(2)-R
(SSV2-R)
MS-V(3)-R
(SSV3-R)
Aug / Sep-07
Nov-07
May-08
Aug-08
Oct-08
Jan-09
May / June-09
Aug-09
Oct-09
Jan-10
May-10
Aug-10
Oct-10
Jan / Feb-11
Apr-11
Jul-11
Oct-11
Jan-12
Apr-12
Jul-12
Oct-12
Jan / Feb-13
Apr / May-13
Jul-13
Oct-13
Mar-14
May-14
Aug-14
Oct-14
2009 Average
2010 Average
2011 Average
2012 Average
2013 Average
2014 Average
Average All Years
0.02
0.02
0.11
0.07
0.02
F
0.07
0.03
0.05
0.07
0.04
0.06
0.03
F
<0.02
0.05
0.07
0.29
0.06
0.04
0.04
F
<0.02
0.12
<0.02
F
0.07
0.03
0.03
0.05
0.05
<0.05
0.11
<0.05
0.05
<0.06
<0.02
<0.02
0.07
0.04
<0.02
F
0.05
0.05
0.03
<0.02
0.04
0.08
0.04
0.03
<0.02
0.07
0.06
F
0.06
0.05
0.02
F
<0.02
0.05
<0.02
F
0.06
0.02
0.03
0.04
<0.05
<0.04
0.04
<0.03
0.04
<0.04
<0.02
<0.02
F
<0.02
<0.02
F
0.02
0.03
0.05
<0.02
0.03
0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
0.03
0.08
0.03
0.03
<0.02
0.02
F
<0.02
0.03
<0.02
F
0.07
0.02
0.02
0.03
<0.02
<0.04
<0.02
<0.02
0.04
<0.03
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
F
0.08
0.09
0.06
0.10
0.03
<0.02
0.08
0.03
<0.02
0.05
0.14
0.95
0.05
0.11
0.03
F
0.05
0.09
<0.02
F
0.06
0.03
0.04
0.08
<0.06
<0.06
0.28
<0.05
0.04
<0.08
0.02
<0.02
<0.02
0.03
0.02
F
0.02
0.02
0.04
<0.02
0.04
0.02
0.03
0.09
<0.02
0.03
0.03
0.02
0.04
<0.02
<0.02
0.05
0.03
0.04
<0.02
0.20
0.03
0.02
0.04
0.03
<0.03
<0.04
<0.02
<0.04
0.07
<0.04
<0.02
0.02
F
0.06
0.04
F
<0.02
0.04
0.04
<0.02
0.03
0.05
0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
0.04
0.13
0.06
0.05
0.02
0.09
0.03
0.03
0.04
F
0.04
0.02
0.03
<0.03
<0.03
<0.03
0.06
0.05
0.03
<0.04
0.13
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
F
0.08
0.04
0.09
0.05
0.02
<0.02
0.12
0.04
<0.02
0.16
0.15
0.63
0.10
0.20
0.06
F
<0.02
0.21
0.09
F
0.12
0.14
0.09
0.07
<0.05
<0.09
0.25
<0.11
0.11
<0.10
0.02
<0.02
0.02
0.02
0.02
F
<0.02
0.11
0.02
0.02
0.07
0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
0.07
0.02
<0.02
<0.02
0.04
0.03
<0.02
<0.02
0.03
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.05
<0.03
<0.02
<0.03
<0.03
<0.02
<0.03
<0.02
<0.02
0.07
0.04
<0.02
F
0.05
0.05
0.03
<0.02
0.04
0.08
0.04
0.03
<0.02
0.07
0.06
F
0.06
0.05
0.02
F
<0.02
0.05
<0.02
F
0.06
0.02
0.03
0.04
<0.05
<0.05
0.04
<0.03
0.04
<0.04
<0.02
<0.02
F
<0.02
<0.02
F
0.04
0.04
0.05
<0.02
0.03
0.04
<0.02
F
<0.02
0.03
0.05
0.18
<0.02
0.03
<0.02
F
0.06
<0.02
<0.02
F
0.12
<0.02
0.06
0.04
<0.03
<0.03
<0.06
<0.03
<0.07
<0.04
<0.02
<0.02
F
0.02
<0.02
F
0.04
<0.02
0.14
F
0.06
0.02
0.07
F
<0.02
0.03
0.23
0.10
0.03
<0.02
0.10
F
0.04
0.05
<0.02
F
0.07
0.02
0.04
<0.07
0.05
<0.09
<0.06
<0.04
0.04
<0.05
MS-2-R and MS-V(1)-R are the same stations
Frozen (no sample)
Stations located at or inside the Upper Bedrock 2 m drawdown contour
Stations located outside the Upper Bedrock 2 m drawdown contour
Amended C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G provides for annual sampling of peat pore water and quarterly sampling of ribbed fen surface water (the
previous C. of A. #4111-7DXKQW provided for the same sampling frequency).
MDLs have been adjusted for all years for uniformity (0.02 ng/L for methyl mercury), as per Section 1.
F=
TC14504
Page 124
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 17
MUSKEG SYSTEM RIBBED FEN GENERAL CHEMISTRY RESULTS - ALL YEARS
Parameter
Station
MS-1V-R
(ES2-R)
MS-2V-R
(SSV2-R)
MS-3V-R
(SSV3-R)
MS-1R
(ES1-R)
MS-7R
(NS-7-R)
MS-8R
(NS-8-1R)
MS-9(1)R
(SS9-1R)
MS-9(2)R
(SS9-2R)
MS-13R
(WS-13R)
MS-15R
(WS15-R)
MS-8R
TC14504
Year
Number
of
Samples
Chloride
(mg/L)
Cond
(µs/cm)
Nitrate
(mg/L)
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2
3
3
4
4
3
1
1
1
2
3
4
4
4
1
1
1
2
3
3
4
4
2
1
2
3
3
4
4
4
1
1
2
2
2
4
4
4
1
1
2
3
2
4
4
4
1
1
2
3
3
4
4
4
1
1
2
2
3
4
4
4
1
1
2
3
3
3
4
4
1
1
2
3
3
4
4
4
1
1
0.6
0.6
0.4
0.6
5.7
0.5
4.6
2.1
1.2
0.9
0.4
0.5
2.1
2.5
1.3
0.8
1.8
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.5
2.3
1.0
0.6
0.6
0.8
0.5
0.4
0.7
2.3
0.9
2.0
1.1
0.8
0.6
0.6
0.6
2.5
1.2
0.9
85.8
52.5
1.2
4.2
4.6
8.9
3.9
2.3
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.3
0.4
1.5
0.8
0.5
0.7
0.4
0.5
0.7
0.7
0.8
0.9
<0.2
1.2
0.8
0.4
0.9
2.6
1.4
2.0
0.9
0.8
0.7
0.4
0.7
0.5
0.7
0.9
0.7
44
37
19
27
60
26
126
36
131
91
19
70
84
194
41
38
141
68
18
20
37
75
63
48
98
47
26
34
43
82
249
69
246
198
31
76
67
78
154
148
591
452
28
82
80
147
230
252
199
77
22
32
32
37
60
52
70
79
30
58
70
60
184
103
248
203
21
31
51.6
42.0
98.9
160
172
191
50
86
86
98
163
174
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
0.16
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.2
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
0.2
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
Dissolved
Organic
Carbon
(mg/L)
16.7
23.3
10.0
22.2
23.7
36.0
35.7
21.6
29.0
35.1
14.8
18.7
18.9
38.3
53.6
42.5
51.6
59.2
20.8
23.6
22.9
38.0
59.7
39.5
21.0
20.2
18.9
22.6
24.8
44.7
18.1
38.4
28.7
14.9
13.6
16.6
21.4
18.3
15.5
18.1
28.1
33.2
16.4
35.3
30.5
72.1
46.7
31.4
19.8
16.7
14.6
19.4
18.0
20.9
20.3
18.0
17.8
17.2
13.0
19.2
18.3
19.1
13.7
13.0
20.9
67.0
22.9
26.0
50.9
66.2
107.0
31.6
11.6
11.5
9.8
12.7
10.2
13.4
15.7
11.5
pH
(units)
6.06
5.68
6.43
5.84
6.41
6.09
6.14
6.03
6.18
5.87
6.52
6.93
7.53
7.28
6.63
5.58
6.23
5.75
5.34
5.08
6.07
6.48
5.89
5.77
6.17
5.98
6.47
6.22
6.77
6.66
7.06
6.56
6.33
6.40
7.14
6.83
6.92
6.92
6.72
6.93
6.98
7.13
6.81
6.40
6.95
7.00
7.28
7.92
6.65
5.87
6.56
6.14
6.73
6.57
6.40
6.29
6.28
6.26
6.98
6.66
7.12
7.02
6.87
6.81
6.25
5.91
4.53
4.34
4.30
4.75
5.89
6.31
6.43
6.44
7.27
7.12
7.49
7.30
6.79
7.08
Dissolved Dissolved Dissolved
Total
Dissolved
Magnesium
iron
Sulphate Phosphorus Calcium
Sodium
(mg/L)
(mg/L)
(mg/L)
(mg/L)
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<1.0
7.5
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
0.2
<0.1
<0.1
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
0.3
<0.1
<0.1
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<0.2
<0.1
<0.1
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
7.0
<0.2
<0.2
<1.0
<1.0
1.25
5.5
23.7
<0.3
<0.1
<0.1
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<1.0
1.4
1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
0.10
0.21
<0.01
0.01
0.03
0.01
0.07
0.01
1.81
0.06
<0.01
0.02
0.08
0.05
0.07
0.14
2.47
0.09
<0.01
0.01
0.01
0.04
0.32
0.08
0.20
0.13
<0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.03
0.06
0.14
0.03
<0.01
0.01
0.01
0.07
0.03
0.04
0.46
0.08
<0.01
0.02
0.01
0.03
0.10
0.07
0.22
0.02
<0.02
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.16
0.05
<0.02
0.03
0.01
0.01
0.05
0.01
0.07
0.06
<0.01
0.00
0.02
0.01
0.03
0.03
0.04
0.04
<0.01
0.00
0.01
0.01
0.33
0.04
7.2
4.6
3.4
3.7
5.0
3.2
8.5
4.4
24.4
11.6
18.9
12.4
11.8
32.8
6.4
4.7
50.2
9.5
1.0
1.8
3.6
11.1
8.9
6.0
11.3
5.5
3.4
5.6
5.7
13.1
43.0
11.9
47.4
20.5
2.6
11.2
9.9
10.1
18.1
15.1
28.6
10.8
1.9
8.4
8.2
15.3
9.0
13.3
38.5
9.8
2.5
5.5
5.0
5.8
10.1
7.31
12.7
10.4
3.6
10.1
10.5
8.9
19.2
15.3
47.9
33.1
0.7
0.9
2.5
2.4
20.4
14.7
36.8
24.0
6.8
15.7
12.9
15.5
25.7
21.0
0.660
1.132
0.320
0.860
1.292
1.064
1.380
0.853
1.910
0.557
0.107
0.568
0.070
0.950
0.425
0.340
5.540
0.457
0.100
0.161
0.108
0.318
0.394
0.361
0.340
0.340
0.136
0.499
0.317
2.578
1.310
0.799
1.350
1.775
0.165
1.966
2.187
0.892
1.310
1.870
0.078
0.053
0.119
0.993
1.313
7.257
0.044
0.264
0.245
0.241
0.670
0.238
0.114
0.392
0.390
0.333
0.398
0.847
0.087
0.881
1.618
1.278
0.850
0.603
1.360
1.357
0.067
0.090
0.351
0.458
1.050
1.120
0.769
0.666
0.019
0.344
0.499
0.263
0.530
1.200
0.7
0.3
0.4
0.3
0.8
0.4
0.7
0.4
1.6
0.5
2.8
0.7
0.9
3.1
0.3
0.6
12.0
1.3
0.1
0.2
0.5
1.4
1.8
1.1
0.8
0.4
0.3
0.4
0.5
1.3
2.5
0.9
3.6
2.1
0.3
1.1
0.7
1.2
1.8
2.5
10.2
5.8
0.5
1.4
1.4
3.0
5.1
9.7
1.0
0.7
0.2
0.4
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.5
1.7
1.1
0.4
1.1
1.0
1.2
2.1
1.8
3.7
2.5
0.1
0.1
0.4
0.3
1.2
1.4
2.6
1.9
0.5
1.3
1.0
1.3
2.2
2.3
<0.8
<0.5
<0.4
0.4
3.2
0.4
1.1
1.3
0.8
0.7
7.1
0.5
0.7
1.8
0.6
0.4
0.8
<0.5
<0.5
0.2
0.4
0.7
0.2
0.2
1.5
1.2
<0.6
0.8
1.1
2.1
8.4
1.8
4.6
5.8
0.9
1.5
1.5
1.9
4.6
4.3
92.8
57.6
2.3
7.2
73.1
11.4
32.1
26.1
1.4
<0.6
<0.5
0.4
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.3
<1.1
1.4
<0.5
0.7
1.1
1.3
2.6
1.5
4.9
0.7
<0.5
0.3
0.4
0.4
0.5
0.6
1.3
1.0
<0.5
0.6
0.7
0.9
1.0
1.1
This station stands out as being influenced by natural groundwater upwellings, as evidenced by elevated Cl and Na
Beyond zone of dewatering influence
Page 125
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
Table 18: Receiving Water Quality (2014)
PWQO
Location
Station Units (ug/L or mg/L)
NGC US
Average
NWF
North Granny Creek
A
J
0.2
8.9 (as CrIII)
0.9
1/5
pH
°C
mg/L
mg/L
µs/cm
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
µg/L
mg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
11/1,100
6.5-8.5
7.1
6.4
23.1
211.3
153.4
57.1
63.4
9.7
5.0
18.3
<0.50
18.60
<0.0909
<1.757
7.2
1.0
4
155
126
51
42
4.0
2.0
16.1
<0.5
12.4
<0.090
<1.00
Maximum
8.3
24.3
268
660
248
99
338
108.0
81.7
34.6
<0.5
91.6
0.100
6.50
Minimum
4.9
-1.2
<0.7
90
29
15
9
1.1
1.0
2.9
<0.5
2.7
<0.090
<0.80
Number of Samples
47
47
47
8
7
7
47
47
47
47
7
47
7
7
% Exceeding CEQG
19
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
% Exceeding PWQO
19
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
7.3
5.6
3.4
165.5
170.9
69.2
72.3
9.5
4.4
18.9
<0.50
18.80
<0.0909
<1.000
<0.144 <1.19
mg/L
µg/L
Methyl Mercury
(filtered)
30
Total Mercury
(filtered)
Silver
Zinc
Vanadium
Strontium
1-7E
26
4
25
5/10/20/25 B
30
0.1
200
mg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
ng/L
40
mg/L
25-150D
Titanium
Sodium
73
300
µg/L
Molybdenum
Manganese
300
Mercury
Lead
2-4I
Magnesium
Iron
Copper
Cobalt
Chromium
Cadmium
Calcium
Beryllium
Dissolved Organic
Carbon
Sulphate
Chloride
Hardness
Alkalinity
Conductivity
Total Dissolved
Solids
Total Suspended
Solids
0.04-0.37 C 8.9 (as CrIII)
6.5-9.0
Median
NGC DS
Average
NWF
ng/L
678
4.12
0.0238
<1.00
7.37
<1.47
<1.00
3.39
46.64
<1.00
<4.06
<0.10
1.78
0.11
<1.0
544
3.14
0.0188
<1.00
4.04
1.2
<1.0
3.1
37.2
<1.0
2.7
<0.10
1.58
0.08
0.23
1.8
3140
26.70
0.0498
<1.00
77.50
2.5
<1.0
6.6
124.0
<1.0
13.2
<0.10
3.54
0.31
<0.10
<1.0
148
0.47
0.0058
<1.00
1.50
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
6.8
<1.0
<1.0
<0.10
0.70
0.03
7
7
47
47
7
7
47
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
8
7
-
0
81
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
0
0
81
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
0
0
-
534
5.48
0.0293
<1.00
8.52
<1.33
<1.00
3.32
53.39
<1.00
<2.83
<0.10
1.88
0.14
0.11
<0.171 <1.03
Median
7.4
0.4
2
140
202
57
89
5.2
3.4
17.3
<0.5
14.8
<0.090
1.00
0.11
<1.0
496
4.34
0.0205
<1.00
6.18
1.2
<1.0
2.2
38.7
<1.0
1.8
<0.10
1.76
0.12
Maximum
8.7
22.2
20
550
265
121
124
39.3
15.5
46.5
<0.5
67.7
0.100
1.80
0.37
1.2
988
30.00
0.0666
<1.00
33.00
2.1
<1.0
12.8
124.0
<1.0
11.9
<0.10
3.44
0.33
Minimum
5.1
-1.8
<0.6
30
36
24
15
1.1
1.0
4.0
<0.5
3.2
<0.090
<0.80
<0.10
<1.0
206
0.65
0.0076
<1.00
1.63
<1.0
<1.0
1.4
9.9
<1.0
<1.0
<0.10
0.62
0.02
Number of Samples
52
52
52
51
11
11
11
51
52
52
12
51
12
12
12
12
51
51
12
12
50
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
% Exceeding CEQG
13
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
-
0
88
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
0
0
% Exceeding PWQO
NGC DS
Average
NEF
15
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
7.3
5.8
2.4
124.8
182.4
67.7
73.1
9.6
6.1
17.9
<0.50
20.36
<0.1370
<1.000
<0.174 <1.086
88
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
0
0
-
543
4.67
0.0322
<1.00
8.30
<1.39
<1.00
4.59
55.36
<1.00
<3.20
<0.10
1.69
0.13
Median
7.5
0.5
1
115
197
67
73
6.2
4.2
15.9
<0.5
18.2
<0.090
1.00
0.17
<1.00
519
4.57
0.0405
<1.00
7.02
1.0
<1.0
2.9
50.3
<1.0
2.1
<0.10
1.62
0.11
Maximum
7.9
22.8
17
510
255
106
115
41.3
53.9
28.4
<0.5
67.3
0.410
1.20
0.35
1.4
975
16.30
0.0641
<1.00
42.10
2.3
<1.0
16.8
112.0
<1.0
9.8
<0.10
3.12
0.28
Minimum
5.4
-1.9
<0.7
30
40
12
17
1.7
1.0
4.0
<0.5
4.0
<0.090
<0.80
<0.10
<1.00
203
0.83
0.0031
<1.00
1.89
<1.0
<1.0
1.1
10.6
<1.0
<1.0
<0.10
0.58
0.04
Number of Samples
48
48
48
48
7
7
7
48
48
48
7
48
7
7
7
7
48
48
7
7
48
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
8
8
% Exceeding CEQG
10
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
14
-
-
0
92
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
% Exceeding PWQO
10
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
14
0
0
0
92
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
0
0
-
NGC US
Average
CONF
TC14504
ICP Metals
Nickel
CEQG
Temperature
Parameter
pH
General Parameters
7.5
5.9
126.0
NS
174.7
70.3
85.8
7.0
3.6
17.1
<0.50
25.89
<0.1030
<2.375
Median
7.6
2.7
2
NS
177
75
73
5.7
3.9
14.7
<0.5
20.4
<0.090
1.70
<2.433 <1.73
2705
5.20
0.2503
2.2
7.10
<6.13
<2.33
17.45
50.13
<3.23 <12.93 <0.10
1.1
783
4.50
0.0413
1.1
7.00
3.8
<1.0
6.5
51.1
<1.0
Maximum
7.8
19.1
499
NS
251
103
156
13.1
5.4
26.1
<0.5
55.9
0.140
5.30
Minimum
7.2
-1.0
<0.7
NS
95
29
40
3.6
1.2
13.1
<0.5
6.9
<0.090
<0.80
5.15
3.8
8790
9.34
0.9120
5.6
10.00
15.9
6.3
55.3
73.2
<0.10
<1.0
466
2.47
0.0066
<1.0
4.39
<1.0
<1.0
1.6
25.1
Number of Samples
4
4
4
0
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
% Exceeding CEQG
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
-
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
25
100
-
-
0
-
0
25
-
-
% Exceeding PWQO
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
50
0
100
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
2.24
1.52
0.15
4.8
<0.10
1.07
0.14
9.9
41.2
<0.10
3.33
0.29
<1.0
<1.0
<0.10
0.62
0.03
4
4
4
4
4
-
25
-
0
0
-
25
0
0
-
Page 126
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
Table 18: Receiving Water Quality (2014) (continued)
PWQO
Location
South Granny Creek and Confluence
11/1,100
6.5-8.5
A
0.2
8.9 (as CrIII)
0.9
1/5
J
300
40
25
5/10/20/25
30
B
30
0.1
Methyl Mercury
(filtered)
Silver
Zinc
Vanadium
1-7E
Strontium
25-150D
Total Mercury
(filtered)
73
Titanium
Sodium
Molybdenum
Manganese
300
Lead
2-4I
Magnesium
Iron
Copper
Cobalt
Chromium
Cadmium
Calcium
Beryllium
Dissolved
Organic Carbon
Sulphate
Chloride
Hardness
Alkalinity
Conductivity
Total Dissolved
Solids
Total
Suspended
Solids
0.04-0.37 C 8.9 (as CrIII)
6.5-9.0
Mercury
26
4
200
Station Units (ug/L or mg/L)
pH
°C
mg/L
mg/L
µs/cm
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
µg/L
mg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
mg/L
mg/L
µg/L
mg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
ng/L
ng/L
SGC US
Average
SWF
6.7
4.5
3.1
111.7
121.0
46.4
48.3
6.1
2.0
19.4
<0.50
11.25
<0.0920
<1.008
0.298
<1.03
1378
2.23
0.1024
<1.01
4.92
<1.18
<1.00
<2.57
25.5
<1.00
4.3
<0.10
1.67
0.06
Median
6.9
-0.4
2
90
122
44
47
3.6
1.0
20.1
<0.5
7.2
<0.090
<1.00
0.11
<1.0
580
1.49
0.0209
<1.0
3.79
1.0
<1.0
1.9
15.4
<1.0
2.1
<0.10
1.48
0.05
Maximum
7.5
16.9
15
360
191
81
78
19.4
8.8
28.8
<0.5
23.1
0.100
1.50
1.24
1.2
6860
5.30
0.5440
1.1
14.90
1.7
<1.0
7.1
75.90
<1.0
16.4
<0.10
3.27
0.15
Minimum
4.8
-1.5
<0.7
30
50
18
21
1.5
1.0
4.0
<0.5
2.5
<0.090
<0.80
<0.10
<1.0
264
0.39
0.0067
<1.0
1.00
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
4.1
<1.0
1.2
<0.10
0.31
0.02
Number of Samples
12
13
12
12
4
4
4
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
7
% Exceeding CEQG
25
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
8
-
-
0
92
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
% Exceeding PWQO
25
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
8
0
92
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
0
0
-
6.8
4.1
2.4
89.2
130.3
50.1
62.2
4.9
2.4
17.4
<0.50
14.24
<0.0920
<1.025
459
3.01
0.0157
<1.24
4.76
<1.17
<1.00
1.48
28.73
<1.00
3.6
<0.10
1.64
0.10
SGC DS
Average
SWF
<0.106 <1.26
Median
7.2
-0.5
1
95
113
47
48
3.6
1.7
16.2
<0.5
9.5
<0.090
1.00
<0.10
<1.0
465
2.45
0.0163
<1.0
3.85
<1.0
<1.0
1.2
20.6
<1.0
2.9
<0.10
1.74
0.05
Maximum
7.8
16.7
7
160
265
99
138
13.1
6.0
30.4
<0.5
42.4
0.100
1.30
0.13
3.6
674
7.69
0.0291
3.9
13.50
1.6
<1.0
3.5
63.3
<1.0
8.2
<0.10
3.19
0.32
Minimum
5.3
-1.2
<0.7
30
30
8
14
1.2
1.0
4.0
<0.5
3.5
<0.090
<0.80
<0.10
<1.0
189
0.49
0.0052
<1.0
1.46
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
7.2
<1.0
1.0
<0.10
0.64
0.02
Number of Samples
12
13
12
12
4
4
4
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
7
% Exceeding CEQG
33
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
-
8
92
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
% Exceeding PWQO
33
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
0
0
92
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
0
0
-
SGC US
Average
CONF
7.5
5.8
5.3
NS
163.6
67.7
72.1
6.3
3.0
16.8
<0.50
21.46
<0.0900
<1.525
Median
7.6
2.5
5
NS
166
71
69
4.5
2.7
14.5
<0.5
20.4
<0.090
1.40
Maximum
7.7
18.9
10
NS
250
104
124
13.4
5.5
25.2
<0.5
37.3
<0.090
Minimum
7.1
-0.8
<0.7
NS
73
24
27
2.8
1.0
12.9
<0.5
7.7
<0.090
Number of Samples
4
4
4
0
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
% Exceeding CEQG
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
% Exceeding PWQO
GC
CONF
TC14504
ICP Metals
Nickel
CEQG
Temperature
Parameter
pH
General Parameters
<0.183 <1.000
762
4.50
0.0333
<1.30
5.79
<1.40
<1.00
4.50
43.03
<1.00
<2.68
<0.10
1.08
0.31
0.18
<1.0
740
4.41
0.0340
<1.0
5.27
1.4
<1.0
4.8
45.8
<1.0
2.6
<0.10
1.06
0.08
2.30
0.27
<1.0
1090
7.43
0.0566
2.2
9.35
1.8
<1.0
7.2
64.3
<1.0
4.6
<0.10
1.70
1.06
<1.00
<0.10
<1.0
479
1.75
0.0086
<1.0
3.29
<1.0
<1.0
1.3
16.3
<1.0
<1.0
<0.10
0.49
0.03
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
-
-
0
100
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
0
0
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
Average
7.7
5.3
6.6
190.0
430.5
131.4
112.88
18.65
4.50
14.98
<0.50
33.50
<0.0900
<1.000
Median
7.8
0.8
4
170
382
138
86
8.1
2.3
14.4
<0.5
26.1
<0.090
<1.00
0.18
<1.0
Maximum
8.0
20.3
18
340
778
162
221
56.2
12.5
18.3
<0.5
64.7
<0.090
<1.00
0.32
1.5
Minimum
<0.195 <1.13
100
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
0
0
-
798
7.11
0.0258
<1.00
18.28
<1.65
<1.00
8.13
65.88
1.05
<2.43
<0.10
1.00
0.05
774
4.98
0.0228
<1.0
8.05
1.3
<1.0
7.7
55.5
<1.0
1.9
<0.10
0.88
0.03
1200
14.50
0.0451
<1.0
53.40
3.1
<1.0
13.8
124.0
1.2
5.0
<0.10
1.86
0.09
7.1
-0.8
1.2
80
181
88
59
2.3
1.0
12.9
<0.5
17.1
<0.090
<1.00
<0.10
<1.0
446
3.98
0.0127
<1.0
3.63
<1.0
<1.0
3.3
28.5
<1.0
<1.0
<0.10
0.39
0.03
Number of Samples
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
% Exceeding CEQG
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
-
0
100
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
% Exceeding PWQO
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
0
0
100
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
0
0
-
Page 127
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
Table 18: Receiving Water Quality (2014) (continued)
Nayshkootayaow River
°C
mg/L
mg/L
µs/cm
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
µg/L
mg/L
µg/L
µg/L
4.9
5.8
170.0
333.5
109.0
134.05
28.99
6.90
15.25
<0.50
40.68
<0.0900
<1.025
Vanadium
Strontium
Titanium
Sodium
Molybdenum
Manganese
Magnesium
Methyl Mercury
(filtered)
pH
7.8
26
4
0.1
200
µg/L
µg/L
ng/L
ng/L
4.3
<0.12
0.93
0.03
73
25-150D
1-7E
30
300
40
25
5/10/20/25 B
30
0.9
1/5
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
mg/L
mg/L
µg/L
mg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
<0.143 <1.33
874
7.86
0.0306
<1.35
24.85
<1.60
<1.00
5.20
70.38
<1.00
Zinc
300
Iron
Copper
Cobalt
Cadmium
Calcium
Beryllium
Dissolved
Organic Carbon
Sulphate
Chloride
Hardness
Alkalinity
Conductivity
Total Dissolved
Solids
Total
Suspended
Solids
Chromium
8.9 (as CrIII)
J
Median
7.8
0.9
6
200
361
115
129
29.8
7.2
15.1
<0.5
40.4
<0.090
<1.00
0.14
1.1
820
6.93
0.0318
<1.0
21.90
1.6
<1.0
5.3
65.7
<1.0
4.6
<0.10
0.80
0.02
Maximum
8.0
19.1
9
250
530
164
225
54.2
12.2
17.9
<0.5
65.8
<0.090
1.10
0.19
2.1
1450
14.70
0.0348
2.4
52.70
2.3
<1.0
8.0
125.0
<1.0
7.0
0.18
1.70
0.03
Minimum
7.6
-1.3
1.6
30
83
43
52
2.1
1.0
13.0
<0.5
16.2
<0.090
<1.00
<0.10
<1.0
406
2.87
0.0238
<1.0
2.89
<1.0
<1.0
2.3
25.2
<1.0
1.1
<0.10
0.40
0.02
Number of Samples
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
3
% Exceeding CEQG
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
-
0
100
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
% Exceeding PWQO
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
0
0
100
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
25
0
-
<1.47
<1.00
8.37
66.27
<1.00
1.53
<0.10
1.24
0.03
1.7
<1.0
10.0
47.3
<1.0
1.5
<0.10
1.03
0.03
NR DS of
Average
Site
7.7
7.3
5.8
86.7
266.3
91.6
119.53
22.36
5.87
15.60
<0.50
35.73
<0.0900
<1.800
0.170
<1.03
674
7.330
0.02237 <1.23 21.903
Median
7.7
2.3
4
110
188
71
90
10.0
3.1
15.4
<0.5
28.6
<0.090
<1.00
0.18
<1.0
613
4.47
0.0233
Maximum
7.9
20.3
12
120
526
162
221
54.3
13.5
18.3
<0.5
64.1
<0.090
3.40
0.19
1.1
950
14.70
Minimum
7.6
-0.7
1.2
30
85
42
48
2.8
1.0
13.1
<0.5
14.5
<0.090
<1.00
0.14
<1.0
459
2.82
Number of Samples
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
% Exceeding CEQG
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
-
0
100
-
% Exceeding PWQO
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
0
0
100
7.6
5.6
8.5
235.0
306.1
103.8
124.3
25.09
5.48
15.18
<0.50
36.98
<0.0900
<1.100
606
NR US of
Average
Attaw. R.
TC14504
0.2
2-4I
Total Mercury
(filtered)
Station Units (ug/L or mg/L)
NR US of
Average
Site
11/1,100
6.5-8.5
A
Silver
Location
0.04-0.37 C 8.9 (as CrIII)
6.5-9.0
Mercury
Lead
PWQO
ICP Metals
Nickel
CEQG
Temperature
Parameter
pH
General Parameters
<0.163 <1.05
1.0
10.20
0.0279
1.7
52.20
1.7
<1.0
10.8
126.0
<1.0
2.1
<0.10
2.18
0.03
0.0159
<1.00
3.31
<1.0
<1.0
4.3
25.5
<1.0
<1.0
<0.10
0.50
0.02
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
0
0
-
7.81
0.0202
<1.03
22.97
<1.60
<1.00
7.50
77.3
<1.00
1.5
<0.100 0.95
0.04
Median
7.6
1.9
7
240
297
103
110
20.0
4.2
14.7
<0.5
33.4
<0.090
<1.00
0.18
1.0
551
6.45
0.0193
<1.0
17.07
1.6
<1.0
6.6
76.55
<1.0
1.5
<0.10
1.02
0.03
Maximum
7.8
19.8
20
310
544
166
229
57.6
12.5
18.9
<0.5
66.5
<0.090
1.40
0.20
1.2
880
15.40
0.0250
1.1
54.10
2.3
<1.0
10.8
131.0
<1.0
1.9
<0.10
1.56
0.07
Minimum
7.4
-1.3
<0.7
150
87
43
49
2.8
1.0
12.5
<0.5
14.7
<0.090
<1.00
<0.10
<1.0
443
2.92
0.0173
<1.0
3.64
<1.0
<1.0
6.1
25.1
<1.0
1.3
<0.10
0.19
0.03
Number of Samples
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
% Exceeding CEQG
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
-
0
100
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
% Exceeding PWQO
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
0
0
100
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
0
0
-
Page 128
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
Table 18: Receiving Water Quality (2014) (continued)
Total Mercury
(filtered)
Methyl Mercury
(filtered)
30
0.1
200
µg/L
µg/L
ng/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
mg/L
<0.133 <1.00
Zinc
5/10/20/25B
1/5
Vanadium
4
25
0.9
Strontium
26
40
8.9 (as CrIII)
Titanium
30
300
0.2
Sodium
1-7E
Molybdenum
25-150D
Manganese
73
Magnesium
300
Iron
Cobalt
Chromium
Cadmium
Calcium
Beryllium
Dissolved
Organic Carbon
Sulphate
Chloride
Hardness
Alkalinity
Conductivity
Total Dissolved
Solids
Total Suspended
Solids
Copper
J
pH
°C
mg/L
mg/L
µs/cm
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
µg/L
mg/L
µg/L
µg/L
AR US
#2
Average
7.6
5.6
6.5
72.5
139.0
69.6
76.45
1.58
1.05
14.53
<0.50
22.98
<0.0900
<1.000
Median
7.6
1.6
4
65
140
69
67
1.6
1.0
13.5
<0.5
20.0
<0.090
<1.00
Maximum
7.9
20.5
18
130
204
96
127
2.5
1.2
18.9
<0.5
39.4
<0.090
Minimum
7.2
-1.2
0.8
30
72
45
44
0.7
1.0
12.3
<0.5
12.5
<0.090
Number of Samples
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
% Exceeding CEQG
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
-
0
50
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
% Exceeding PWQO
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
0
0
50
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
7.6
7.4
6.7
104.2
131.5
66.4
69.73
1.25
1.04
14.21
<0.50
21.09
<0.0900
<3.161
1.890
<2.94
<13.15
6.09
28.55
AR DS
of Site
mg/L
µg/L
mg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
µg/L
ng/L
311
4.63
0.0178 <1.00
2.038
<1.15
<1.00
4.28
31.18
<1.00 <2.98 <0.100 1.23
0.03
0.13
<1.0
283
4.26
0.0182
<1.0
1.89
<1.0
<1.0
4.5
30.9
<1.0
<1.00
0.18
<1.0
466
6.90
0.0313
<1.0
3.37
1.6
<1.0
7.1
42.4
<1.00
<0.10
<1.0
211
3.09
0.0035
<1.0
1.00
<1.0
<1.0
1.0
20.6
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
<0.213 <1.39 415.9
4.146
0.02013 <1.14
<1.0
<0.10
1.23
0.03
<1.0
8.9
<0.10
2.10
0.04
<1.0
<1.0
<0.10
0.38
0.02
4
4
4
4
4
-
0
0
0
0
<1.00 <2.64 <0.133 1.41
0.03
Median
7.6
3.8
4
90
115
59
61
0.9
1.0
13.7
<0.5
18.9
<0.090
<1.00
0.17
<1.0
371
3.88
0.0205
1.0
1.82
1.1
1.0
4.5
28.1
<1.0
1.5
<0.10
1.32
0.03
Maximum
8.0
20.7
29
220
205
98
132
2.4
1.3
18.9
<0.5
40.9
<0.090
27.10
0.78
3.0
713
7.27
0.0387
2.7
3.61
20.6
129.0
15.5
43.4
<1.0
9.5
0.50
2.28
0.05
Minimum
7.3
-1.2
<0.7
30
77
46
47
0.4
1.0
11.4
<0.5
13.2
<0.090
<0.80
<0.10
<1.0
237
2.60
0.0038
<1.0
0.81
<1.0
<1.0
1.5
14.6
<1.0
<1.0
<0.10
0.65
0.02
Number of Samples
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
11
% Exceeding CEQG
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
-
17
75
-
-
0
-
0
17
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
% Exceeding PWQO
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
0
8
0
0
75
-
-
0
-
0
8
-
-
-
0
8
0
-
Average
7.6
8.2
9.0
114.5
175.1
64.9
78.15
9.65
4.23
13.68
<0.50
22.35
<0.0909
<1.845
378
5.432
0.02120 <2.01
7.443
<2.50
<2.06
Median
7.6
10.3
5
150
131
54
64
4.6
1.8
13.1
<0.5
19.1
<0.090
<1.00
<1.0
286
4.57
0.0187
<1.0
3.98
1.2
<1.0
3.2
38.9
Maximum
7.9
20.1
35
190
318
99
149
25.0
10.2
16.6
<0.5
43.2
0.100
10.90
0.40
13.2
746
10.10
0.0454
12.1
19.70
13.1
12.7
19.9
108.0
1.2
Minimum
7.0
-1.2
<0.8
30
80
36
47
0.6
1.0
11.5
<0.5
13.9
<0.090
<0.80
<0.10
<1.0
162
2.87
0.0040
<1.0
0.99
<1.0
<1.0
<1.0
17.1
<1.0
Number of Samples
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
% Exceeding CEQG
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
-
9
45
-
-
0
-
0
9
-
-
% Exceeding PWQO
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
0
9
0
9
45
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
AR DS of
Average
NR
<0.205 <2.17
0.16
<1.02 <2.67 <0.144 1.437 0.028
<1.0
1.4
<0.10
1.50
0.03
6.7
0.58
2.42
0.04
<1.0
<0.10
0.51
0.02
11
11
11
9
-
0
-
0
0
-
0
9
0
-
7.5
5.9
3.9
85.0
186.2
67.7
86.48
10.11
4.38
14.15
<0.50
25.08
<0.0900
<0.985
306
5.81
0.01780 <1.00
7.725
<1.25
<1.00
4.35
60.83
<1.00 <1.00 <0.100 1.270 0.025
7.5
2.1
3
85
188
66
76
9.8
4.4
13.2
<0.5
21.9
<0.090
<1.00
0.11
1.2
259
5.26
0.0174
<1.0
6.77
1.3
<1.0
4.1
60.7
<1.0
<1.0
<0.10
1.33
0.02
Maximum
7.6
20.7
10
140
284
98
144
18.2
7.8
17.7
<0.5
42.5
<0.090
<1.00
0.22
1.6
506
9.24
0.0326
<1.0
15.10
1.5
<1.0
7.9
94.0
<1.0
<1.0
<0.10
1.98
0.03
Minimum
7.4
-1.4
<0.8
30
85
41
49
2.6
1.0
12.5
<0.5
14.0
<0.090
0.94
<0.10
<1.0
198
3.48
0.0038
<1.0
2.26
<1.0
<1.0
1.4
27.9
<1.0
<1.0
<0.10
0.45
0.02
Number of Samples
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
3
% Exceeding CEQG
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
-
0
50
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
% Exceeding PWQO
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
0
0
50
-
-
0
-
0
0
-
-
-
0
0
0
-
Notes
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
NS
<0.133 <1.23
<5.72 56.08
Median
Abbreviations
PWQO
Provincial Water Quality Objectives
CEQG
Canadian Environmental Quality Guidelines
N/A
Not Applicable
NGC - North Granny Creek
SGC - South Granny Creek
GC - Granny Creek
NR - Nayshkootayaow River
AR - Attawapiskat River
NWF - Northwest Fen
NEF - Northeast Fen
SWF - Southwest Fen
US - upstream
DS - downstream
TC14504
2-4I
Station Units (ug/L or mg/L)
AR US of
Average
Site
Attawapiskat River
11/1,100
6.5-8.5
A
Silver
Location
0.04-0.37C 8.9 (as CrIII)
6.5-9.0
Mercury
Lead
PWQO
ICP Metals
Nickel
CEQG
Temperature
Parameter
pH
General Parameters
11 µg/L when hardness is ≤ 75 mg/L; 1100 µg/L when hardness is > 75 mg/L.
5 µg/L when alkalinity is < 20 mg/L; 10 µg/L when alkalinity is ≥ 20 to ≤ 40 mg/L; 20 µg/L when alkalinity is > 40 to ≤ 80 mg/L; 25 µg/L when alkalinity is > 80 mg/L.
0.04 µg/L when hardness is < 17 mg/L; 0.37 µg/L when hardness is > 280 mg/L; calculated from 10 {0.83(log[hardness]) – 2.46} for hardness ≥ 60 and ≤ 280 mg/L. (Long term guideline)
25 µg/L when hardness is ≤ 60 mg/L; 150 µg/L when hardness is > 180 mg/L; and calculated from e{0.76[ln(hardness)]+1.06} for hardness > 60 and ≤ 180 mg/L.
1 µg/L when hardness is ≤ 60 mg/L; 7 µg/L when hardness is > 180 mg/L; and calculated from e{1.273[ln(hardness)}-4.705} for hardness > 60 and ≤ 180 mg/L.
Some results are shown with ug/L for ease of reading.
Cadmium CEQG guidelines (0.04-0.37 µg/L, Note A) are often below the method detection limit
100% of Be, 98% Cd, 96% Ag, 93% V, 86% Pb, 75% of Cr are below method detection limit.
2 µg/L when hardness is ≤ 82 mg/L; 4 µg/L when hardness is > 180 mg/L; and calculated from 2*e{0.8545[ln(hardness)]+1.465} for hardness > 82 and ≤ 180 mg/L.
Interim PWQO is 1 ug/L when hardness is 0 to 20 mg/L; 5 ug/L when hardness is > 20 mg/L
No Sample
Where cell is denoted with'-', there is no regulatory limit available for comparison. Where cell is denoted by'0', there is a limit, and no samples exceeded the limit for the given parameter.
For all hardness dependent regulatory limits/objectives, the average hardness for the respective parameter data set was used.
Percent exceedance from > 0 to < 5
Percent exceedance from ≥ 5 to < 20
Percent exceedance from ≥ 20 to 100
Page 129
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 19
TOTAL MERCURY - GRANNY CREEK (Unfiltered)
(concentrations in ng/L)
May-06
Jun-06
Jul-06
Aug-06
Sep-06
Oct-06
Dec-06
Jan-07
Feb-07
Mar-07
Apr-07
May-07
Jun-07
Jul-07
Aug-07
Sep-07
Oct-07
Nov-07
Dec-07
Jan-08
Feb-08
Mar-08
Apr-08
May-08
Jun-08
Jul-08
Aug-08
Sep-08
Oct-08
Nov-08
Dec-08
Jan-09
Feb-09
Mar-09
Apr-09
May-09
Jun-09
Jul-09
Aug-09
Sep-09
Oct-09
Nov-09
Dec-09
Jan-10
Feb-10
Mar-10
Apr-10
May-10
Jun-10
Jul-10
Aug-10
Sep-10
Oct-10
Nov-10
Dec-10
Jan-11
Feb-11
Mar-11
Apr-11
May-11
Jun-11
Jul-11
Aug-11
**Sep-11
Oct-11
Nov-11
Dec-11
Jan-12
Feb-12
Mar-12
Apr-12
May-12
Jun-12
Jul-12
Aug-12
Sep-12
Oct-12
Nov-12
Dec-12
Jan-13
Feb-13
Mar-13
Apr-13
May-13
Jun-13
Jul-13
Aug-13
Sep-13
Oct-13
Nov-13
Dec-13
Jan-14
Feb-14
Mar-14
Apr-14
May-14
Jun-14
Jul-14
Aug-14
Sep-14
Oct-14
Nov-14
Dec-14
Average 2009
Average 2010
Average 2011
Average 2012
Average 2013
Average 2014
Average All Data
N. Granny Creek
Upstream
(NGC/UP/NWF)
1.18
3.55
2.92
4.21
2.37
N. Granny Creek
Downstream
(NGC/DN/NEF)
1.66
7.17
8.82
3.01
3.34
3.16
3.10
1.96
5.91
3.19
2.42
2.95
2.19
0.46
11.90
3.54
3.06
3.28
2.71
1.76
1.37
3.20
1.82
1.41
1.18
1.48
3.19
5.18
2.95
3.62
2.07
1.45
1.47
1.70
1.11
1.46
1.49
1.64
1.56
1.99
0.93
0.92
3.90
2.44
1.46
1.94
1.50
1.31
1.77
1.56
0.92
3.58
2.99
1.51
1.81
2.80
3.77
2.26
1.61
4.58
2.35
2.02
F
5.87
3.02
2.99
2.23
1.94
2.04
5.67
3.00
2.60
2.42
2.29
2.66
F
3.73
3.08
1.61
2.69
2.32
1.57
2.39
1.83
1.54
1.34
2.26
1.41
3.81
2.72
3.48
2.08
1.82
1.38
1.79
1.02
1.03
1.36
1.78
2.05
1.80
0.97
1.04
3.15
2.71
1.81
2.10
1.62
1.24
1.64
1.36
1.04
3.75
2.65
2.03
1.92
4.36
3.12
1.82
4.11
3.45
2.05
0.78
0.78
0.81
1.15
2.08
3.96
1.94
1.48
1.71
2.23
4.06
2.29
1.75
2.15
3.76
5.12
3.31
2.53
2.02
1.72
1.39
1.27
3.68
3.48
1.30
1.49
1.75
2.04
1.09
1.12
1.36
1.84
1.42
2.25
2.26
4.25
3.41
3.09
2.96
4.76
3.62
2.23
1.77
2.25
2.06
1.85
2.84
2.55
1.69
1.31
1.24
3.6
3.53
1.55
1.54
2.25
0.99
1.29
1.19
1.16
1.20
0.79
2.69
3.37
3.85
3.03
1.91
6.33
3.34
3.48
4.91
2.06
1.79
2.29
2.54
1.83
3.01
2.39
S. Granny Creek
Upstream
(SGC/UP/SWF)
0.86
3.37
2.72
2.57
2.28
1.34
2.23
16.20
3.57
F
3.72
2.46
2.49
2.73
1.84
4.42
2.22
2.56
2.19
3.31
2.65
2.70
2.06
1.47
1.40
3.65
1.08
0.94
1.89
2.14
1.68
1.90
0.83
0.70
3.06
2.21
1.59
1.82
1.59
1.50
1.70
2.55
2.40
2.98
2.34
2.08
2.42
S. Granny Creek
Downstream
(SGC/DS/SWF)
1.26
3.16
3.08
2.6
2.74
1.30
2.08
4.52
3.16
7.43
3.76
2.08
3.04
2.03
2.17
1.61
3.79
2.49
2.61
2.94
2.91
3.35
2.91
3.42
2.81
2.68
2.38
2.78
1.83
1.81
1.88
1.64
1.52
1.45
2.98
3.82
2.76
2.69
2.05
1.39
1.05
0.98
0.96
1.89
2.03
1.84
1.90
2.13
0.78
1.28
3.37
2.00
1.55
1.86
1.67
1.46
1.42
1.11
1.38
3.53
2.36
2.00
2.28
3.67
3.00
2.32
2.33
2.06
29.4*
2.72
2.13
3.36
2.42
2.28
2.77
2.63
2.33
3.26
2.49
2.53
2.14
2.35
3.33
2.84
1.58
2.95
2.16
1.41
1.96
1.87
0.88
1.51
2.40
3.19
4.25
2.67
2.48
2.22
2.16
3.52
3.36
3.57
2.72
1.97
1.56
0.95
0.82
2.41
2.42
2.95
2.68
1.74
2.61
2.34
3.53
3.31
2.10
2.14
1.32
1.64
3.16
2.68
1.88
2.43
1.71
0.86
2.51
0.95
0.79
1.39
1.20
0.98
4.43
3.38
2.85
1.96
4.96
3.59
5.30
2.48
1.70
2.45
2.57
2.30
2.60
2.61
1.94
1.86
2.16
2.28
1.95
2.80
2.35
4.41
5.16
2.74
2.67
2.97
3.76
3.06
2.19
3.37
2.55
3.60
2.63
1.94
2.14
Granny Creek Total Mercury Concentrations - Unfiltered
18.00
16.00
14.00
Concentration (ng/L)
Date
12.00
10.00
8.00
6.00
4.00
2.00
0.00
N. Granny Creek
Upstream
(NGC/UP/NWF)
N. Granny Creek
Downstream
(NGC/DN/NEF)
S. Granny Creek
Upstream
(SGC/UP/SWF)
S. Granny Creek
Downstream
(SGC/DS/SWF)
* Samples excluded from annual average calculation
** Samples discarded due to lab miscommunication
F = Frozen (no sample)
CEQG for Protection of Aquatic Life; 26 ng/L
MDLs have been adjusted for all years for uniformity (0.1 ng/L for total mercury), as per Section 1.
Blank cells indicate concentration was not determined.
TC14504
Page 130
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 20
TOTAL MERCURY - GRANNY CREEK (Filtered)
(concentrations in ng/L)
May-06
Jun-06
Jul-06
Aug-06
Sep-06
Oct-06
Dec-06
Jan-07
Feb-07
Mar-07
Apr-07
May-07
Jun-07
Jul-07
Aug-07
Sep-07
Oct-07
Nov-07
Dec-07
Jan-08
Feb-08
Mar-08
Apr-08
May-08
Jun-08
Jul-08
Aug-08
Sep-08
Oct-08
Nov-08
Dec-08
Jan-09
Feb-09
Mar-09
Apr-09
May-09
Jun-09
Jul-09
Aug-09
Sep-09
Oct-09
Nov-09
Dec-09
Jan-10
Feb-10
Mar-10
Apr-10
May-10
Jun-10
Jul-10
Aug-10
Sep-10
Oct-10
Nov-10
Dec-10
Jan-11
Feb-11
Mar-11
Apr-11
May-11
Jun-11
Jul-11
Aug-11
* Sep-11
Oct-11
Nov-11
Dec-11
Jan-12
Feb-12
Mar-12
Apr-12
May-12
Jun-12
Jul-12
Aug-12
Sep-12
Oct-12
Nov-12
Dec-12
Jan-13
Feb-13
Mar-13
Apr-13
May-13
Jun-13
Jul-13
Aug-13
Sep-13
Oct-13
Nov-13
Dec-13
Jan-14
Feb-14
Mar-14
Apr-14
May-14
Jun-14
Jul-14
Aug-14
Sep-14
Oct-14
Nov-14
Dec-14
Average 2009
Average 2010
Average 2011
Average 2012
Average 2013
Average 2014
Average All Data
N. Granny Creek
Upstream
(NGC/UP/NWF)
N. Granny Creek
Downstream
(NGC/DN/NEF)
S. Granny Creek
Upstream
(SGC/UP/SWF)
S. Granny Creek
Downstream
(SGC/DS/SWF)
0.87
2.91
2.33
3.43
1.64
0.90
0.55
7.05
4.19
2.40
2.51
2.96
1.52
1.96
5.19
2.91
2.05
1.42
1.91
1.76
1.84
3.16
2.74
2.95
2.39
1.35
1.19
2.28
1.30
1.33
1.15
1.15
1.56
2.43
3.24
2.57
1.66
1.54
1.45
1.51
0.97
1.07
0.88
0.96
0.97
1.43
1.47
0.89
3.33
1.66
1.38
1.59
0.98
0.82
1.30
0.94
0.69
2.24
2.94
1.19
0.73
2.22
3.03
1.70
1.30
3.98
1.40
0.75
F
2.50
2.56
2.64
2.10
1.81
1.75
5.60
2.74
2.18
1.63
1.60
1.63
F
3.21
2.72
1.49
2.34
1.88
1.40
2.15
1.65
1.27
1.05
1.40
1.09
2.34
3.19
2.93
1.69
1.63
1.38
1.45
0.68
1.11
1.05
1.02
1.10
1.11
0.87
0.65
2.10
1.57
0.54
1.63
0.92
0.81
1.44
0.70
0.73
1.95
2.45
1.85
0.84
2.07
2.07
1.34
1.11
1.92
2.01
0.79
F
1.96
2.40
2.26
2.32
1.77
2.05
1.68
1.75
1.34
1.98
2.75
2.20
1.80
1.39
1.01
2.01
0.95
1.29
1.37
1.11
1.14
1.54
0.68
0.50
2.72
1.69
1.71
1.61
1.08
1.07
1.65
0.75
0.77
1.85
2.13
1.72
1.09
0.90
2.83
1.94
1.94
2.11
0.97
1.58
3.37
1.90
2.92
1.84
1.83
1.79
2.01
1.70
1.49
3.42
2.16
2.61
2.33
2.08
1.98
2.06
2.97
2.36
2.32
2.06
1.60
1.27
1.73
1.71
1.34
1.19
1.22
1.78
2.19
2.71
1.96
1.59
1.39
1.08
0.80
0.75
1.31
1.32
1.23
1.07
1.45
0.60
0.70
2.25
1.48
1.61
1.54
0.95
1.02
1.02
0.69
0.76
1.83
2.16
1.16
1.10
2.96
2.53
1.05
2.36
2.40
1.20
0.46
0.42
0.38
0.34
1.66
3.47
1.54
0.86
1.13
1.56
3.16
1.60
0.98
1.46
1.59
3.10
1.88
2.71
2.45
1.67
1.68
1.03
0.41
1.84
1.58
2.63
1.57
1.30
2.09
2.13
1.94
1.67
1.50
1.56
1.08
0.70
2.05
2.58
1.00
0.73
1.10
0.69
1.00
0.63
0.59
0.78
0.31
0.44
3.27
2.51
1.47
1.13
1.49
3.27
2.68
2.30
1.95
1.21
0.99
0.49
0.38
1.44
1.52
2.28
1.61
1.02
2.09
1.48
1.81
1.49
1.10
1.29
0.81
0.82
2.59
2.20
1.20
1.09
1.37
0.85
0.10
0.72
0.64
0.85
0.65
0.70
2.76
2.81
1.99
0.75
1.65
3.19
1.87
1.74
1.37
1.62
1.66
1.22
1.63
1.70
1.50
1.29
1.38
1.38
1.18
1.62
1.59
1.98
1.06
1.27
0.86
0.82
3.25
2.86
0.80
0.79
1.27
0.83
0.76
0.72
0.68
0.82
0.70
0.90
2.19
3.54
1.94
0.99
1.61
4.04
2.84
1.71
1.38
1.58
1.39
1.29
1.84
1.82
1.13
0.79
0.82
2.86
2.72
0.90
0.82
1.69
0.91
0.71
0.56
0.63
0.8
0.58
0.46
1.21
3.12
2.07
0.87
2.16
2.67
2.73
2.02
1.68
1.14
1.52
1.61
1.26
1.61
1.67
3.87
4.76
2.45
2.35
2.21
2.24
1.76
1.63
2.90
2.29
2.84
2.23
1.62
1.88
Granny Creek Total Mercury Concentrations - Filtered
8.00
7.00
Concentration (ng/L)
Date
6.00
5.00
4.00
3.00
2.00
1.00
0.00
N. Granny Creek
Upstream
(NGC/UP/NWF)
N. Granny Creek
Downstream
(NGC/DN/NEF)
S. Granny Creek
Upstream
(SGC/UP/SWF)
S. Granny Creek
Downstream
(SGC/DS/SWF)
* Samples discarded due to lab miscommunication
F = Frozen (no sample)
CEQG for Protection of Aquatic Life; 26 ng/L
MDLs have been adjusted for all years for uniformity (0.1 ng/L for total mercury), as per Section 1.
Blank cells indicate concentration was not determined.
TC14504
Page 131
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 21
METHYL MERCURY - SOUTH GRANNY CREEK
(concentrations in ng/L)
Upstream
SGC/UP/SWF
Date
Jul-06
Oct-06
Jan-07
May-07
Jul-07
Oct-07
Feb-08
Apr-08
Jul-08
Oct-08
Jan-09
Apr-09
Jul-09
Oct-09
Jan-10
Apr-10
Jul-10
Oct-10
Jan-11
Apr-11
Jul-11
Oct-11
Jan-12
Apr-12
Jul-12
Oct-12
Jan-13
Apr-13
Jul-13
Oct-13
Jan-14
Apr-14
Jul-14
Oct-14
2009 Average
2010 Average
2011 Average
2012 Average
2013 Average
2014 Average
Average All Years
Downstream
SGC/DS/SWF
US Unfiltered
US Filtered
DS Unfiltered
DS Filtered
0.06
0.03
0.10
0.04
0.05
0.05
0.17
0.06
0.06
0.02
<0.02
0.08
<0.02
0.02
0.06
0.05
0.06
0.04
0.03
0.09
0.05
0.04
0.25
0.08
0.07
0.03
0.06
0.09
0.08
0.06
0.11
0.08
0.19
0.14
<0.03
0.05
0.05
0.11
0.07
0.13
<0.07
0.05
0.03
0.08
0.04
0.05
0.04
0.10
0.04
0.04
0.02
0.06
0.02
0.04
0.05
0.04
0.04
0.02
0.04
0.03
0.04
0.05
<0.02
0.10
0.03
0.05
0.03
0.04
0.03
0.05
0.05
0.08
<0.02
0.15
0.07
0.04
0.04
<0.03
0.05
0.04
<0.08
<0.05
0.04
0.11
0.13
0.06
0.05
0.07
0.11
0.15
0.07
0.04
0.06
0.06
0.05
<0.02
0.07
0.08
0.08
0.07
0.17
<0.02
0.14
0.23
0.07
0.07
0.17
0.09
0.08
0.10
0.49
0.25
0.06
0.03
0.06
0.04
<0.05
0.08
<0.14
0.10
0.23
0.05
<0.10
0.02
0.08
0.10
0.06
0.04
0.05
0.07
0.09
0.06
0.03
0.04
0.02
0.05
0.02
0.02
0.05
0.06
0.07
0.11
<0.02
0.11
0.08
0.04
0.07
0.12
0.08
0.06
0.08
0.33
0.16
<0.02
<0.02
0.05
0.03
0.03
0.05
<0.08
0.08
0.16
<0.03
<0.07
CEQG for Protection of Aquatic Life; 4 ng/L (unfiltered)
Quarterly sampling in accordance with Amended C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G
MDLs have been adjusted for all years for uniformity (0.02 ng/L for methyl mercury), as per Section 1.
0.35
SOUTH GRANNY CREEK - METHYL MERCURY
CONCENTRATIONS (Filtered)
Concentration (ng/L)
0.30
0.25
0.20
0.15
0.10
0.05
0.00
Date
US Filtered
TC14504
DS Filtered
Page 132
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 22
METHYL MERCURY - NORTH GRANNY CREEK
(concentrations in ng/L)
Jul-06
Oct-06
Jan-07
May-07
Jul-07
Oct-07
Jan-08
Feb-08
Mar-08
Apr-08
Jul-08
Oct-08
Jan-09
Apr-09
Jul-09
Oct-09
Jan-10
Apr-10
Jul-10
Oct-10
Jan-11
Apr-11
May-11
Jun-11
Jul-11
Aug-11
Oct-11
Nov-11
Dec-11
Jan-12
Feb-12
Mar-12
Apr-12
May-12
Jun-12
Jul-12
Aug-12
Sep-12
Oct-12
Dec-12
Jan-13
Feb-13
Mar-13
Apr-13
May-13
Jun-13
Jul-13
Aug-13
Sep-13
Oct-13
Nov-13
Dec-13
Jan-14
Feb-14
Mar-14
Apr-14
May-14
Jun-14
Jul-14
Aug-14
Sep-14
Oct-14
Nov-14
Dec-14
2009 Average
2010 Average
2011 Average
2012 Average
2013 Average
2014 Average
Average All Years
Downstream
NGC/DN/NEF
US Unfiltered
US Filtered
DS Unfiltered
DS Filtered
0.11
<0.02
0.12
0.07
0.09
0.09
<0.02
0.09
<0.02
0.44
0.09
0.04
0.04
0.04
0.06
<0.02
0.19
0.06
0.06
0.07
0.07
<0.02
0.05
0.07
0.06
0.10
<0.02
0.11
0.08
0.05
<0.02
0.08
0.06
0.06
0.09
<0.02
0.06
<0.02
0.08
0.09
0.05
0.03
0.02
0.06
0.04
0.05
0.03
0.05
0.05
0.03
<0.02
0.04
<0.02
0.04
0.09
<0.02
0.07
0.05
0.10
0.13
0.18
0.09
0.10
0.10
0.26
<0.02
0.29
0.13
0.52
0.11
0.08
<0.02
0.02
0.07
0.11
0.10
0.19
0.16
0.09
0.06
0.08
0.14
0.13
0.09
0.10
0.07
0.15
<0.02
0.17
0.05
0.49
0.11
0.06
<0.02
0.12
0.04
0.04
0.05
0.10
0.13
<0.02
0.03
0.35
0.53
0.39
0.21
0.18
0.03
0.03
<0.02
<0.02
0.05
0.05
0.06
0.02
0.07
0.04
0.04
0.05
<0.02
0.04
0.18
0.07
0.04
0.22
0.11
0.12
0.24
0.06
0.02
<0.02
0.15
0.09
0.10
0.18
0.19
0.16
0.12
0.05
0.04
0.04
0.11
0.06
0.06
0.07
0.08
0.14
0.22
0.05
0.03
<0.02
0.05
0.05
0.15
0.10
0.08
0.17
0.32
0.50
0.14
0.08
0.04
0.03
0.04
<0.02
0.05
0.03
0.07
0.09
0.06
<0.02
0.02
<0.02
<0.02
0.03
<0.02
0.03
0.07
0.12
0.16
0.31
0.12
0.08
0.09
0.09
0.14
0.08
0.06
0.10
<0.04
0.09
<0.06
0.05
0.08
<0.15
<0.09
0.04
0.04
<0.04
<0.03
<0.04
<0.09
<0.05
0.30
0.52
0.43
0.30
0.16
0.14
0.11
0.05
0.08
0.05
0.26
0.18
0.31
0.24
0.41
0.18
0.15
0.13
<0.05
0.14
0.26
0.14
0.24
0.18
<0.18
0.22
0.37
0.05
0.25
0.11
0.09
0.05
0.04
0.06
0.03
0.09
0.17
0.27
0.17
0.28
0.13
0.12
0.10
<0.06
0.08
<0.17
<0.10
0.15
0.12
<0.12
NORTH GRANNY CREEK - METHYL MERCURY
CONCENTRATIONS (Filtered)
0.60
Concentration (ng/L)
Date
Upstream
NGC/UP/NWF
0.50
0.40
0.30
0.20
0.10
0.00
Date
US Filtered
DS Filtered
CEQG for Protection of Aquatic Life; 4 ng/L (unfiltered)
Quarterly sampling in accordance with Amended C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G
MDLs have been adjusted for all years for uniformity (0.02 ng/L for methyl mercury), as per Section 1.
Blank cells indicate concentration was not determined.
TC14504
Page 133
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 23a
TOTAL MERCURY - NAYSHKOOTAYAOW AND ATTAWAPISKAT RIVERS (Unfiltered)
(concentrations in ng/L)
Date
Nayshkootayaow River
Upstream
(Naysh Riv up)
Nayshkootayaow River
Middle
(Naysh Riv dn)
Nayshkootayaow River
Downstream
(Naysh Riv up Att Riv)
Monument
Channel
(Naysh Riv
Control)
Attawapiskat River
A-1
(Att Riv up 2)
Attawapiskat River
A-2
(Att Riv up A2-1)
Attawapiskat River
A-5
(Att Riv dn 500(40))
Attawapiskat River
A-3
(Att Riv dn A3-1)
Attawapiskat River
A-4
(Att Riv dn Naysh Riv)
Feb-08
May-08
Aug-08
Oct-08
Jan-09
Feb-09
Mar-09
Apr-09
May-09
Jun-09
Jul-09
Aug-09
Sep-09
Oct-09
Nov-09
Dec-09
Jan-10
Feb-10
Mar-10
Apr-10
May-10
Jun-10
Jul-10
Aug-10
Sep-10
Oct-10
Nov-10
Dec-10
Jan-11
Feb-11
Mar-11
Apr-11
May-11
Jun-11
Jul-11
Aug-11
Sep-11*
Oct-11
Nov-11
Dec-11
Jan-12
Feb-12
Mar-12
Apr-12
May-12
Jun-12
Jul-12
Aug-12
Sep-12
Oct-12
Nov-12
Dec-12
Jan-13
Feb-13
Mar-13
Apr-13
May-13
Jun-13
Jul-13
Aug-13
Sep-13
Oct-13
Nov-13
Dec-13
Jan-14
Feb-14
Mar-14
Apr-14
May-14
Jun-14
Jul-14
Aug-14
Sep-14
Oct-14
Nov-14
Dec-14
Average 2009
Average 2010
Average 2011
Average 2012
Average 2013
Average 2014
Average All Years
1.48
4.31
1.98
2.30
1.39
5.26
2.80
0.80
1.39
2.54
1.28
1.27
0.86
0.69
1.16
1.90
1.53
2.22
2.00
1.82
2.13
0.82
0.77
0.96
0.69
0.98
1.71
2.24
2.56
1.62
1.15
1.89
1.17
1.41
1.76
1.47
4.58
2.14
2.31
1.19
1.00
2.58
0.70
1.11
2.21
1.10
1.35
0.86
0.66
1.46
2.53
1.28
1.86
1.79
1.80
6.63
0.88
0.76
1.16
0.30
0.81
1.81
2.75
1.37
1.44
1.38
1.68
2.36
1.42
1.75
5.33
3.30
2.28
2.53
2.00
1.47
2.47
1.33
1.50
2.17
1.12
1.28
0.98
1.30
1.67
2.09
1.47
2.06
1.77
1.91
1.47
0.78
0.84
1.12
0.63
1.32
2.07
3.62
1.82
1.52
1.51
1.80
1.05
1.91
1.85
0.81
3.15
2.13
1.86
1.07
0.69
2.83
1.07
1.03
1.60
1.10
1.30
0.74
0.68
2.14
2.99
0.94
2.54
2.39
2.56
3.72
2.79
0.99
1.08
<0.1
0.52
1.74
2.23
1.42
1.26
1.64
2.11
2.15
<1.15
<1.67
8.75
3.41
1.91
1.93
1.39
1.36
3.58
1.58
1.76
2.58
1.40
1.31
1.07
0.70
1.36
1.27
1.80
2.27
1.30
1.58
1.77
1.04
1.08
0.31
0.82
2.54
4.81
1.98
1.76
1.04
1.66
1.37
2.12
2.03
2.19
3.64
2.32
1.25
2.09
2.17
1.36
1.26
4.17
2.81
3.23
1.69
1.56
1.25
1.07
0.81
1.20
1.43
1.67
2.13
2.68
0.70
1.08
2.50
1.23
1.71
1.52
2.17
1.31
1.12
2.67
2.18
3.20
1.76
1.42
1.48
2.85
1.79
3.51
1.16
0.85
0.73
1.62
3.59
2.93
1.76
1.43
1.08
2.11
3.14
2.00
1.24
1.09
3.11
3.06
1.16
1.90
1.70
1.03
1.14
0.82
0.81
1.10
0.87
1.42
4.02
2.69
2.59
1.94
3.00
2.01
1.83
1.59
1.96
1.67
2.12
1.73
1.78
1.99
1.90
0.98
1.48
1.63
1.22
2.11
3.03
1.29
1.33
2.14
1.68
10.50
3.64
2.09
1.72
2.35
1.84
1.28
1.93
3.19
2.57
3.48
1.79
1.56
1.39
1.13
0.96
1.52
1.93
1.80
2.31
2.82
0.94
0.87
1.89
1.12
1.24
1.28
1.35
1.10
1.39
1.22
0.93
3.83
1.90
1.43
1.55
1.99
2.09
1.23
1.28
0.88
0.75
1.51
4.00
2.20
1.51
1.88
1.03
2.24
2.63
1.89
1.36
1.01
2.43
2.48
0.95
1.34
1.60
1.21
0.97
0.82
0.43
1.35
1.09
2.05
6.34
2.80
2.42
1.58
2.25
1.38
1.85
1.96
1.59
1.70
1.73
1.56
2.14
1.93
2.20
3.61
1.82
1.79
1.34
1.22
3.50
1.35
1.52
2.77
0.90
1.26
1.05
0.77
1.44
1.95
1.15
1.61
2.37
1.09
1.32
0.83
1.06
1.35
0.55
2.38
2.84
3.28
1.85
1.61
1.30
1.56
1.14
2.26
1.73
- : total mercury concentration not determined
CEQG for Protection of Aquatic Life; 26 ng/L
Sampling locations and frequency governed by Amended C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G.
Bracketed sampling notations are field identifications.
* Samples discarded as a result of lab miscommunication.
MDLs have been adjusted for all years for uniformity (0.1 ng/L for total mercury), as per Section 1.
TC14504
Page 134
Victor Diamond Mind
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 23b
TOTAL MERCURY - NAYSHKOOTAYAOW AND ATTAWAPISKAT RIVERS (Filtered)
(concentrations in ng/L)
Date
Nayshkootayaow River
Upstream
(Naysh Riv up)
Nayshkootayaow River
Middle
(Naysh Riv dn)
Nayshkootayaow River
Downstream
(Naysh Riv up Att Riv)
Monument
Channel
(Naysh Riv
Control)
Attawapiskat River
A-1
(Att Riv up 2)
Attawapiskat River
A-2
(Att Riv up A2-1)
Attawapiskat River
A-5
(Att Riv dn 500(40))
Attawapiskat River
A-3
(Att Riv dn A3-1)
Attawapiskat River
A-4
(Att Riv dn Naysh Riv)
Feb-08
May-08
Aug-08
Oct-08
Jan-09
Feb-09
Mar-09
Apr-09
May-09
Jun-09
Jul-09
Aug-09
Sep-09
Oct-09
Nov-09
Dec-09
Jan-10
Feb-10
Mar-10
Apr-10
May-10
Jun-10
Jul-10
Aug-10
Sep-10
Oct-10
Nov-10
Dec-10
Jan-11
Feb-11
Mar-11
Apr-11
May-11
Jun-11
Jul-11
Aug-11
Sep-11*
Oct-11
Nov-11
Dec-11
Jan-12
Feb-12
Mar-12
Apr-12
May-12
Jun-12
Jul-12
Aug-12
Sep-12
Oct-12
Nov-12
Dec-12
Jan-13
Feb-13
Mar-13
Apr-13
May-13
Jun-13
Jul-13
Aug-13
Sep-13
Oct-13
Nov-13
Dec-13
Jan-14
Feb-14
Mar-14
Apr-14
May-14
Jun-14
Jul-14
Aug-14
Sep-14
Oct-14
Nov-14
Dec-14
Average 2009
Average 2010
Average 2011
Average 2012
Average 2013
Average 2014
Average All Years
1.15
2.71
1.66
1.79
0.96
2.40
1.49
0.80
0.85
1.28
0.74
1.07
0.62
0.68
1.15
1.35
1.47
1.07
0.99
1.08
1.58
0.40
0.40
0.82
0.45
0.40
1.15
1.70
1.41
0.99
0.95
1.15
0.80
0.93
1.15
1.12
2.71
1.71
1.79
0.99
0.78
1.43
0.68
0.65
1.59
0.74
1.08
0.59
0.46
1.15
1.53
0.68
1.06
0.99
0.96
1.62
0.44
0.40
0.25
0.25
0.50
1.03
2.18
0.97
1.01
0.93
0.92
0.68
0.99
1.05
2.31
2.35
1.89
1.90
1.99
0.76
1.50
0.86
1.06
1.28
0.73
1.10
0.62
1.12
1.28
1.51
0.84
1.23
1.02
1.08
0.63
0.47
0.50
0.68
0.19
0.75
1.28
1.56
1.28
1.04
1.13
1.04
0.57
0.95
1.16
0.69
2.57
1.68
1.72
0.80
0.67
1.75
0.80
0.50
1.05
0.70
1.09
0.51
0.37
0.94
1.72
0.43
1.49
1.46
1.57
1.73
0.41
0.40
1.07
0.15
0.34
1.56
1.21
1.01
0.83
0.89
1.24
0.90
0.82
1.05
2.36
2.62
1.57
1.60
1.14
1.08
2.36
1.05
1.21
1.69
0.77
1.17
0.92
0.67
1.28
1.35
0.77
0.94
1.23
0.78
1.24
0.63
0.70
0.73
0.38
0.70
1.75
2.10
1.41
1.21
1.06
0.93
0.83
1.23
1.24
2.12
2.58
1.53
1.24
1.58
1.11
2.11
1.93
1.82
1.20
1.32
1.05
0.76
0.67
1.41
1.47
1.30
1.45
1.77
0.60
0.72
1.62
0.86
1.24
1.04
0.98
0.98
0.85
1.05
0.78
1.99
1.18
0.93
<0.1
1.73
1.28
1.00
0.72
0.49
0.49
0.81
1.68
1.28
0.81
1.05
0.80
1.26
1.98
1.29
0.91
0.74
1.65
1.61
0.70
0.82
1.31
0.78
0.10
0.59
0.74
0.94
1.30
0.65
1.81
2.28
1.68
1.24
2.26
1.22
1.33
1.44
1.36
1.21
<1.08
0.94
1.04
1.41
<1.21
0.6
0.79
1.28
1.03
1.28
2.12
1.24
0.93
1.55
1.19
1.73
2.80
1.53
1.39
1.49
1.36
2.07
1.84
2.03
1.22
1.53
1.02
0.69
0.68
1.49
1.64
1.30
1.58
1.29
0.69
1.55
1.59
0.71
1.27
1.39
0.94
0.89
0.94
0.98
0.73
2.06
1.21
0.88
0.98
1.31
1.23
0.91
0.75
0.52
0.45
0.86
1.62
1.18
0.82
1.23
0.69
1.20
1.94
1.18
0.87
0.75
1.23
1.64
0.60
0.80
1.32
0.73
0.71
0.78
0.51
1.94
0.95
0.74
2.11
2.42
1.56
1.16
1.60
1.32
1.50
1.39
1.29
1.10
0.93
1.05
1.44
1.24
1.97
2.64
1.49
1.39
1.17
1.06
2.34
0.94
1.49
1.84
0.63
1.30
0.99
0.94
0.90
1.33
0.73
0.87
1.03
0.66
0.82
0.48
0.60
0.76
0.45
0.92
1.73
1.98
1.38
1.32
1.04
0.82
0.67
1.27
1.19
- : total mercury concentration not determined
CEQG for Protection of Aquatic Life; 26 ng/L
Sampling locations and frequency governed by Amended C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G.
Bracketed sampling notations are field identifications.
* Samples discarded as a result of lab miscommunication.
TC14504
Page 135
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 24a
METHYL MERCURY - NAYSHKOOTAYAOW AND ATTAWAPISKAT RIVERS (Unfiltered)
(concentrations in ng/L)
Date
Nayshkootayaow River
Upstream
(Naysh Riv up)
Nayshkootayaow River
Middle
(Naysh Riv dn)
Nayshkootayaow River
Downstream
(Naysh Riv up Att Riv)
Monument
Channel
(Naysh Riv
Control)
Attawapiskat River
A-1
(Att Riv up 2)
Attawapiskat River
A-2
(Att Riv up A2-1)
Attawapiskat River
A-5
(Att Riv dn 500(40))
Attawapiskat River
A-3
(Att Riv dn A3-1)
Attawapiskat River
A-4
(Att Riv dn Naysh Riv)
Feb-08
May-08
Aug-08
Oct-08
Jan-09
Feb-09
Apr-09
May-09
Jun-09
Jul-09
Oct-09
Nov-09
Dec-09
Jan-10
Feb-10
Mar-10
Apr-10
May-10
Jun-10
Jul-10
Aug-10
Sep-10
Oct-10
Nov-10
Dec-10
Jan-11
Feb-11
Mar-11
Apr-11
May-11
Jun-11
Jul-11
Aug-11
Sep-11*
Oct-11
Nov-11
Dec-11
Jan-12
Feb-12
Mar-12
Apr-12
May-12
Jun-12
Jul-12
Aug-12
Sep-12
Oct-12
Nov-12
Dec-12
Jan-13
Feb-13
Mar-13
Apr-13
May-13
Jun-13
Jul-13
Aug-13
Sep-13
Oct-13
Nov-13
Dec-13
Jan-14
Feb-14
Mar-14
Apr-14
May-14
Jun-14
Jul-14
Aug-14
Sep-14
Oct-14
Nov-14
Dec-14
Average 2009
Average 2010
Average 2011
Average 2012
Average 2013
Average 2014
Average All Years
0.03
0.04
0.06
0.06
0.03
0.03
0.05
0.06
0.20
0.05
0.02
0.04
0.03
0.07
0.27
0.08
0.05
0.07
0.03
<0.02
0.04
0.02
0.18
0.03
0.04
0.07
0.07
0.04
0.08
0.12
0.06
<0.07
0.05
<0.06
0.03
0.04
0.07
0.05
0.02
0.03
0.05
0.05
0.04
<0.02
0.10
0.05
0.03
0.06
0.08
0.09
0.05
0.07
0.04
0.03
0.03
<0.02
0.08
<0.02
<0.02
0.07
0.04
0.04
<0.05
0.05
0.06
<0.04
<0.04
<0.05
0.09
<0.02
0.11
0.07
0.04
0.02
0.03
0.05
0.03
0.05
0.11
0.05
<0.02
0.08
0.08
0.06
0.05
0.08
0.06
<0.02
0.03
0.04
0.05
0.04
0.03
0.09
0.08
0.03
0.06
<0.06
0.06
<0.03
0.06
<0.05
0.04
0.08
0.14
0.06
0.05
0.02
0.03
0.10
0.02
0.07
0.14
0.14
0.05
0.13
0.12
0.12
0.10
0.17
0.07
0.10
0.09
0.03
0.11
0.05
0.05
0.18
0.08
0.05
0.09
0.10
0.11
0.08
0.09
0.09
0.14
0.06
0.06
0.04
0.02
0.03
0.04
0.09
0.04
<0.02
0.15
0.03
0.04
0.05
0.06
0.07
0.06
<0.02
<0.02
0.05
<0.02
0.04
<0.02
0.03
0.06
0.05
0.04
<0.06
0.05
<0.05
<0.03
<0.04
<0.05
0.03
0.07
0.05
0.02
0.04
0.02
0.02
0.10
0.04
0.06
0.04
0.08
0.09
0.05
0.06
0.06
0.02
0.08
0.04
0.08
0.04
0.03
0.07
<0.02
0.04
<0.02
0.03
0.06
0.07
0.03
0.05
0.07
0.10
0.07
0.07
0.06
0.06
0.03
0.06
<0.02
0.07
0.05
0.04
0.02
0.05
0.04
0.04
0.03
0.08
0.04
0.07
0.04
0.05
0.07
0.04
0.03
<0.02
0.03
0.03
0.02
0.02
0.06
0.06
0.06
0.06
0.09
0.05
0.04
0.05
0.05
<0.05
<0.06
<0.05
<0.05
0.05
<0.05
0.05
0.06
0.05
<0.02
0.05
0.08
0.10
<0.04
0.08
<0.06
0.20
0.05
0.03
0.03
0.03
<0.02
0.02
0.07
0.10
0.05
0.05
0.10
0.08
0.07
0.03
0.06
0.05
0.05
0.12
0.07
0.04
0.04
0.04
0.04
0.03
<0.02
<0.02
0.03
0.05
0.03
0.05
0.07
0.07
0.06
0.04
0.08
<0.02
0.03
0.06
0.08
0.04
0.03
0.04
<0.02
0.05
0.04
0.04
0.04
0.03
0.09
0.06
0.02
0.07
0.05
0.02
0.04
<0.02
<0.02
0.05
0.03
0.05
0.06
0.08
0.05
0.06
0.05
0.06
0.04
<0.06
0.06
<0.04
<0.04
<0.04
<0.05
<0.05
0.04
0.04
0.04
0.02
0.02
0.03
0.02
0.10
0.03
<0.02
0.09
0.03
0.04
0.03
0.04
0.06
0.04
0.06
0.04
0.04
0.02
0.08
0.02
0.04
0.04
0.07
0.05
0.04
<0.04
0.04
0.05
0.04
0.05
<0.04
- : methyl mercury concentration not determined
CEQG Protection of Aquatic Life; 4 ng/L (unfiltered)
Sampling locations and frequency governed by Amended C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G.
Bracketed sampling notations are field identifications.
* Samples discarded as a result of lab miscommunication.
MDLs have been adjusted for all years for uniformity (0.02 ng/L for methyl mercury), as per Section 1.
TC14504
Page 136
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 24b
METHYL MERCURY - NAYSHKOOTAYAOW AND ATTAWAPISKAT RIVERS (Filtered)
(concentrations in ng/L)
Date
Nayshkootayaow River
Upstream
(Naysh Riv up)
Nayshkootayaow River
Middle
(Naysh Riv dn)
Nayshkootayaow River
Downstream
(Naysh Riv up Att Riv)
Monument
Channel
(Naysh Riv
Control)
Feb-08
May-08
Aug-08
Oct-08
Jan-09
Feb-09
Apr-09
May-09
Jun-09
Jul-09
Aug-09
Oct-09
Nov-09
Dec-09
Jan-10
Feb-10
Mar-10
Apr-10
May-10
Jun-10
Jul-10
Aug-10
Sep-10
Oct-10
Nov-10
Dec-10
Jan-11
Feb-11
Mar-11
Apr-11
May-11
Jun-11
Jul-11
Aug-11
Sep-11*
Oct-11
Nov-11
Dec-11
Jan-12
Feb-12
Mar-12
Apr-12
May-12
Jun-12
Jul-12
Aug-12
Sep-12
Oct-12
Nov-12
Dec-12
Jan-13
Feb-13
Mar-13
Apr-13
May-13
Jun-13
Jul-13
Aug-13
Sep-13
Oct-13
Nov-13
Dec-13
Jan-14
Feb-14
Mar-14
Apr-14
May-14
Jun-14
Jul-14
Aug-14
Sep-14
Oct-14
Nov-14
Dec-14
Average 2009
Average 2010
Average 2011
Average 2012
Average 2013
Average 2014
Average All Years
0.03
<0.02
0.05
0.03
0.03
0.09
0.04
0.07
<0.02
0.04
0.05
0.05
<0.02
0.04
0.06
<0.02
0.04
0.04
0.02
0.06
<0.02
<0.02
0.03
0.02
0.02
<0.02
0.03
0.06
<0.04
<0.04
<0.03
<0.03
<0.02
<0.04
0.02
0.03
0.05
0.02
0.03
<0.02
0.10
0.04
0.05
0.12
0.06
0.04
<0.02
0.05
0.06
0.02
0.02
0.05
0.02
0.04
<0.02
<0.02
0.05
0.03
0.02
0.03
0.03
<0.05
0.07
<0.04
0.03
<0.03
0.03
<0.04
0.03
0.02
0.06
0.03
0.03
<0.02
0.11
0.06
0.09
0.04
0.03
0.05
<0.02
0.05
0.07
0.04
0.04
0.05
0.04
0.02
<0.02
0.04
0.04
0.04
0.03
0.07
0.03
<0.05
0.05
<0.05
0.04
<0.03
0.04
<0.04
0.03
0.06
0.10
0.04
0.02
<0.02
0.07
0.04
0.03
0.05
0.07
0.10
0.03
0.03
0.11
0.08
0.08
0.09
0.04
0.02
0.04
<0.02
0.04
0.03
<0.02
0.11
0.04
<0.04
0.06
0.06
0.07
<0.03
<0.05
<0.05
Attawapiskat River
A-1
(Att Riv up 2)
Attawapiskat River
A-2
(Att Riv up A2-1)
Attawapiskat River
A-5
(Att Riv dn 500(40))
Attawapiskat River
A-3
(Att Riv dn A3-1)
Attawapiskat River
A-4
(Att Riv dn Naysh Riv)
0.04
<0.02
0.04
0.03
0.02
0.02
0.15
0.04
0.04
0.05
<0.02
0.04
0.02
0.02
0.05
<0.02
0.03
0.05
0.03
0.02
0.02
0.02
0.02
0.03
0.03
0.03
0.05
0.05
0.03
0.08
<0.02
0.07
0.05
0.04
0.03
<0.02
0.03
0.04
0.03
0.03
0.02
0.04
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
0.02
<0.02
0.02
0.07
0.06
0.04
<0.02
0.04
0.05
<0.02
0.04
<0.02
0.05
0.04
0.03
0.03
0.06
0.03
0.04
<0.02
0.04
0.03
<0.02
<0.02
0.18
0.06
0.04
<0.02
<0.02
0.03
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
0.03
0.04
0.03
0.04
0.05
0.03
0.03
0.04
0.04
<0.03
<0.03
<0.04
<0.04
<0.03
<0.04
0.03
<0.02
0.02
<0.02
0.03
0.05
0.02
<0.02
0.04
<0.03
0.03
0.02
0.03
0.02
0.02
0.03
0.03
0.03
0.02
0.03
0.06
0.15
0.09
0.04
0.05
0.03
0.03
0.04
0.02
0.04
0.05
0.02
0.04
<0.02
0.02
0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
0.02
0.02
0.07
0.04
0.04
0.03
0.05
<0.02
0.03
0.02
0.04
0.02
0.03
0.03
<0.02
0.04
0.03
0.02
<0.02
<0.02
0.04
0.03
0.02
<0.02
0.04
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
0.02
0.03
0.04
0.03
0.03
0.03
<0.02
0.03
0.05
<0.03
<0.03
<0.03
<0.03
<0.03
<0.03
0.04
0.03
0.03
0.02
0.02
<0.02
0.03
0.07
0.04
0.05
0.04
0.03
<0.02
0.03
0.04
0.02
0.02
0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
0.03
<0.02
<0.03
0.04
<0.03
<0.02
<0.02
<0.02
<0.03
0.03
<0.02
<0.02
0.02
<0.02
<0.02
0.03
0.02
0.04
0.04
0.06
<0.04
0.03
<0.03
<0.02
0.03
<0.03
- : methyl mercury concentration not determined
CEQG Protection of Aquatic Life; 4 ng/L (unfiltered)
Sampling locations and frequency governed by Amended C. of A. #3960-7Q4K2G.
Bracketed sampling notations are field identifications.
* Samples discarded as a result of lab miscommunication
MDLs have been adjusted for all years for uniformity (0.02 ng/L for methyl mercury), as per Section 1.
TC14504
Page 137
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 25
GRANNY CREEK MEASURED AVERAGE ANNUAL AND MONTHLY FLOWS - STATION 04FC011
(data expressed as m3/day)
Month
Year
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008*
2009*
2010*
2011*
2012*
2013*
2014*
Mean
Jan
NA
R
14,729
7,769
67
3,526
13,398
2,512
2,377
7,299
9,912
12,700
5,443
8,554
4,752
7,157
Notes:
Feb
NA
R
7,888
3,902
151
1,659
4,402
0
475
6,067
11,113
9,763
9,331
6,305
3,835
4,992
Mar
NA
R
4,327
1,837
0
D
3,022
0
0
7,825
8,426
10,282
62,813
5,866
3,197
8,966
Apr
NA
R
47,178
1,517
3,158
D
D
NA
NA
46,992
54,345
64,714
235,526
113,492
5,827
63,639
May
NA
R
480,255
143,646
D
D
D
69,837
191,789
366,791
34,557
127,181
80,525
293,629
280,440
206,865
D - Station damaged, no data available
R - Station removed, no data available
NA - Insufficent data
Jun
103,165
104,314
164,818
44,747
D
39,872
52,042
63,919
141,831
170,546
29,294
49,162
67,046
61,295
76,399
83,461
Mean
Jul
41,986
123,299
11,766
23,859
D
98,789
32,825
38,707
88,500
139,003
35,208
28,253
24,365
20,288
23,799
52,189
Aug
25,576
56,431
106,829
5,347
D
48,879
31,660
28,512
49,579
167,864
65,168
33,696
20,822
24,094
26,000
49,318
Sep
24,848
105,222
137,110
21,866
D
66,306
40,501
165,888
30,154
89,696
36,841
99,101
32,832
27,212
63,110
67,192
Oct
50,567
117,805
61,484
60,879
D
97,112
100,421
260,928
39,796
98,948
29,890
98,150
54,346
21,516
113,108
86,068
Nov
R
163,573
31,188
12,621
D
48,178
54,558
52,324
32,597
146,029
29,756
50,285
48,557
14,117
133,272
62,850
Dec
R
27,869
15,465
947
D
26,149
12,631
8,726
15,184
21,619
18,845
12,182
16,416
7,075
32,215
16,563
49,228
99,788
90,253
27,411
N/A
47,830
34,546
62,850
53,844
105,723
30,280
49,622
54,835
50,287
63,830
59,105
Average annual runoff: 248 mm (Based on years 2000 to 2014. Annual average is based on monthly data averages)
3
3
Average annual flow predicted in CSR was 32,000 m /day for each branch, or 64,000 m /day combined system
2
Watershed area: 87 km (at flow monitoring station)
*Supplementation occurred for a period during given year
TABLE 26
TRIBUTARY 5A MEASURED AVERAGE ANNUAL AND MONTHLY FLOWS - STATION TRIB-5A
(data expressed as m3/day)
Year
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
Mean
Month
Jan
NA
726
0
1,248
13,046
432
3,183
25
2,666
Notes:
TC14504
Feb
NA
86
0
0
13,824
0
1,445
0
2,194
Mar
NA
0
0
0
7,258
NA
808
0
1,344
Apr
NA
TD
91,927
25,370
31,018
76,118
14,515
0
39,825
NA - No data. Station established June 2007
TD - Transducer destroyed
May
NA
TD
204,038
20,052
72,403
37,757
142,386
106,410
97,174
Jun
15,811
65,291
52,128
9,637
15,638
26,698
36,398
40,001
32,700
Jul
10,428
37,301
36,567
31,546
2,074
3,110
1,028
6,843
16,112
Aug
8,312
18,905
49,108
54,618
3,283
605
661
3,612
17,388
Sep
53,482
6,853
40,056
30,963
38,794
11,146
3,953
25,579
26,353
Oct
75,535
14,753
65,083
13,026
41,299
35,597
4,549
49,075
37,365
Nov
19,699
6,200
65,678
13,832
20,390
32,486
1,976
26,037
23,287
Dec
1,771
1,617
5,669
7,223
2,592
11,146
233
6,405
4,582
Mean
26,434
15,173
50,855
17,293
21,802
21,372
17,595
21,999
25,083
Average annual runoff: 306.2 mm (Based on years 2007 to 2014. Annual average is based on monthly data averages)
Watershed area: 29.9km 2
Page 138
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 27
NAYSHKOOTAYAOW RIVER MEASURED AVERAGE ANNUAL AND MONTHLY FLOWS - STATION 04FC010
(data expressed as m3/day)
Year
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007*
2008*
2009*
2010*
2011*
2012*
2013*
2014*
Mean
Month
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
NA
107,212
388,704
200,743
139,662
175,541
382,377
85,104
133,488
125,937
205,304
378,567
123,654
240,159
165,494
NA
53,819
167,296
112,321
88,543
85,541
154,747
50,890
100,010
80,656
138,780
229,817
101,713
146,253
85,629
NA
36,201
98,166
61,091
77,490
90,865
111,661
32,918
97,204
63,751
402,653
243,221
274,376
128,684
67,121
NA
514,375
350,866
53,067
90,692
5,320,161
D
D
4,452,590
D
1,388,430
2,377,869
3,749,384
794,594
152,938
NA
4,443,850
11,888,050
3,662,257
9,949,048
3,180,671
D
3,190,855
5,890,856
9,424,174
1,578,449
4,780,018
2,853,712
7,446,025
7,781,475
2,446,390
1,906,975
3,468,702
1,044,901
4,029,705
1,181,461
995,124
1,843,776
4,895,694
3,347,983
615,896
1,110,879
2,196,945
1,892,934
3,039,926
1,189,755
4,325,761
434,497
931,924
1,812,173
2,658,145
563,913
988,416
2,800,576
3,824,046
636,616
199,016
388,821
121,158
439,903
715,583
2,159,135
1,951,250
298,442
562,318
1,406,524
437,723
956,448
1,124,561
5,403,309
2,032,366
758,222
127,587
182,707
230,868
391,782
2,516,656
2,643,217
541,064
4,651,914
2,090,061
229,189
3,845,664
482,180
2,604,505
1,201,319
2,568,723
328,409
250,385
2,725,573
819,864
2,415,004
1,352,735
1,497,555
5,202,311
2,964,534
327,730
6,341,760
1,495,938
2,542,656
889,727
3,052,196
1,186,666
360,813
3,291,853
1,622,043
3,112,149
776,015
660,679
2,528,612
1,304,777
514,944
1,632,960
1,336,051
3,410,212
881,096
1,414,052
919,332
384,523
1,657,934
412,904
1,035,706
353,279
329,988
648,358
692,875
208,742
416,880
405,614
430,979
552,538
345,467
478,265
312,059
594,196
203,710
114,001
127,529
1,749,542
5,851,495
2,267,819
1,420,981
1,223,136
1,804,709
2,249,423
1,477,025
481,190
Notes:
D - Station damaged, no data available
NA - Insufficient data
Mean
1,085,474
1,885,570
1,989,398
782,836
2,481,736
1,762,596
NA
1,762,334
1,934,563
2,841,655
876,931
1,454,837
1,060,739
1,021,691
1,686,076
1,616,174
Average annual runoff (mm): 320.6 (Based on 2000 to 2014. Annual average is based on monthly data averages)
Average annual flow predicted in CSR was 1,353,700 m3/day
Watershed Area: 1840 km2 (at station 04FC010)
*Supplementation occurred for a period during given year
TABLE 28
SUMMARY OF MONITORING WELLS AND END FORMATIONS
Monitoring Network
Central Quarry
Prototype Well (2006)2
Well Field Dewatering (2007)3
Well Field Dewatering (2008)4
Well Field Dewatering (2009)5
Well Field Dewatering (2010)
Well Field Dewatering (2011)
Well Field Dewatering (2012)
Peat
32
40
45
48
51
52
52
52
End Formation1
Mineral
Bedrock
Sediments
2
10
12
71
45
81
53
56
56
56
48
58
45
58
45
58
All End
Formations
44
123
171
157
163
158
155
155
Notes:1 Each level of a multi-level well was counted as one well.
2 The Prototype and well field dewatering networks have five bedrock monitoring locations that are also part of the Central Quarry
3 The Well Field monitoring network includes all wells that were part of the Prototype Well monitoring network, plus additional wells drilled in 2007.
4 Program modified to remove dry wells, wells destroyed during construction and wells with duplicate coverage.
5
Program modified add new wells as per Permit To Take Water Requirements. Does not include eight multi-level muskeg piezometers (each
consisting of three screens in upper, middle and deep horizons of the muskeg) drilled for PK Cell and Low Grade Stockpile constructed for water
No new data for 2014
TC14504
Page 139
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 29
SUMMARY OF VICTOR SITE AREA MONITORING PROGRAMS INVOLVING
MUSKEG SYSTEMS
Approximate Coordinates
System /
Easting
Northing
Location
Muskeg Monitoring Program – Piezometer Water
Groundwater Sampling
Frequency
Surface Water Sampling
Frequency
Cluster 1
MS-1-D
312376
5862048
Annually
-
MS-1-F
313720
5862550
Annually
-
MS-1-H
MS-1-R
314926
314107
5862785
5862951
Annually
Annually
Quarterly
MS-2-D
312604
5857473
Annually
-
MS-2-F
MS-2-R
313440
307520
5858030
5857800
Annually
Annually
Quarterly
MS-7-D
298460
5862200
Annually
-
MS-7-F
299180
5862458
Annually
-
MS-7-H
MS-7-R
398820
701593
5865293
5862531
Annually
Annually
Quarterly
MS-8-D
302822
5860398
Annually
-
MS-8-F
303100
5859600
Annually
-
MS-8-H
MS-8-R
303200
302232
5858384
5858645
Annually
Annually
Quarterly
MS-9(1)-D
299240
5847200
Annually
-
MS-9(1)-F
299196
5848137
Annually
-
MS-9(1)-H
MS-9(1)-R
300551
300760
5845677
5848462
Annually
Annually
Quarterly
MS-9(2)-D
308710
5847680
Annually
-
MS-9(2)-F
307915
5847679
Annually
-
MS-9(2)-H
MS-9(2)-R
310243
309566
5847142
5847400
Annually
Annually
Quarterly
MS-13-D
679692
5860993
Annually
-
MS-13-F
680119
5860918
Annually
-
MS-13-H
MS-13-R
680724
679990
5858613
5861750
Annually
Annually
Quarterly
MS-15-D
685685
5845879
Annually
-
MS-15-F
690392
5844380
Annually
-
MS-15-H
MS-15-R
689226
691010
5844185
5843829
Annually
Annually
Quarterly
304750
307520
5858600
5857880
Annually
Annually
Quarterly
306075
305970
5854950
5855110
Annually
Annually
Quarterly
307280
307230
5853390
5853220
Annually
Annually
Quarterly
Cluster 2
Cluster 7
Cluster 8
Cluster 9(1)
Cluster 9(2)
Cluster 13
Cluster 15
Cluster V(1)
MS-V(1)-D
1
MS-V(1)-R
Cluster V(2)
MS-V(2)-D
MS-V(2)-R
Cluster V(3)
MS-V(3)-D
MS-V(3)-R
D = domed bog; F = flat bog; H = horizontal fen; R = ribbed fen
TC14504
Page 140
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 30
ELEVATION MONITORING STATIONS - GROUND SETTLEMENT TO THE END OF 2014
Station
ID
Northing
(m)
Elevations (masl)
Static
05-Jun-08
21-Sep-08
24-Nov-08
14-Mar-09
10-Sep-09
16-Mar-10
02-Dec-10
08-Sep-11
22-Jun-12
13-May-13
07-Sep-13
155
0.05
83.62
83.59
83.57
83.54
83.50
83.45
83.42
83.38
83.35
83.33
83.31
83.30
83.28
SS-2
18
0.1
84.18
84.20
84.20
84.20
84.22
84.22
84.20
84.21
84.22
84.20
84.20
84.21
84.20
0.02
SS-5
23
2.1
82.79
82.81
82.76
82.82
82.80
82.81
82.80
82.82
82.80
82.81
82.82
82.82
82.79
-0.001
SS-7
Unknown
3.3
86.47
86.49
86.42
86.50
86.49
86.49
86.48
86.46
86.50
86.52
86.51
86.50
86.52
0.05
6.1
3.4
86.82
86.88
86.75
86.86
86.87
86.85
86.84
86.81
86.87
86.83
86.86
86.80
86.89
0.07
Static
30-Apr-08
07-May-08
11-Jun-08
03-Aug-08
30-Sep-08
26-Oct-08
25-Nov-08
14-Mar-09
10-Sep-09
13-Mar-10
10-Oct-10
07-Sep-11
24-Jun-12
18-May-13
01-Sep-13
30-Jul-14
Easting
(m)
06-Jul-14
Year End
Differential
from Static
(m)
SS-1
SS-7A
SS-8
Series
Station ID
Estimated Distance from
Edge of Pit
Overburden
(km)
Thickness (m)
-0.34
Elevations (masl)
Year End
Differential
from Static
(m)
VM ED1
5,857,237
306,341
82.58
82.58
82.59
82.57
82.60
82.57
82.57
82.56
82.55
82.56
82.56
82.44
82.50
82.49
82.60
82.57
82.49
-0.09
VM ED2
5,857,152
306,601
85.22
85.19
85.19
85.13
84.80
84.73
84.70
84.69
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-0.53
VM ED3
5,857,132
306,590
82.65
82.63
82.62
82.63
82.63
82.63
82.62
82.64
82.71
82.76
82.84
82.84
82.87
82.90
82.24
83.21
83.16
0.53
VM ED4
5,857,103
306,836
84.71
84.70
84.70
84.64
84.37
84.20
84.17
84.15
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-0.56
VM ED5
5,857,076
306,832
82.63
82.62
82.61
82.60
82.61
82.59
82.60
82.61
82.69
82.71
82.75
82.76
82.68
82.66
-
-
-
0.03
VM ED6
5,857,067
306,978
84.59
84.57
84.57
84.46
84.22
84.04
84.00
83.99
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-0.60
VM ED7
5,857,050
306,962
82.61
82.60
82.60
82.59
82.59
82.59
82.59
82.59
82.61
82.61
82.61
82.63
82.62
82.59
-
-
-
-0.03
VM ED8
5,856,965
307,124
83.58
83.56
83.56
83.42
83.00
82.82
82.79
82.79
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-0.79
VM ED9
5,856,951
307,118
81.91
81.90
81.90
81.90
81.89
81.88
81.88
81.89
82.02
82.09
82.09
82.08
82.05
82.04
-
-
-
0.13
VM ED10 5,856,953
307,361
81.66
81.65
81.64
81.64
81.68
81.64
81.66
81.66
81.63
81.67
81.61
81.61
81.61
81.63
-
-
-
-0.02
Notes:
TC14504
SS-3 and SS-4 stations were destroyed.
SS-6 stataion is monitored by the University of Waterloo.
VM ED2, 4, 6, and 8 are located on top of a constructed berm and are not reported as they are strongly affected by slumping and settlement within the berm.
VM ED5, 7, 9 and 10 were destroyed after 2012.
Page 141
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report - 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
TABLE 31: 2012 BREEDING BIRD SURVEY RESULTS
Location
S-1
S-2
S-7
S-8
S-9(1)
S-9(2)
S-13
S-15
TC14504
Vegetation Type
Total Number of
Observed Species both
Visits
Number of Species
Observed during both
June visits
(June 16-18 and June 2627)
Distance from the Mine
Site Centroid
(km)
Domed Bog
8
3
10.00
Ribbed Fen
13
6
11.9
Domed Bog
12
5
8.4
Ribbed Fen
13
6
3.6
Domed Bog
13
7
8.6
Ribbed Fen
17
8
9.5
Domed Bog
13
3
4.8
Ribbed Fen
20
6
3.6
Domed Bog
14
5
10.4
Ribbed Fen
15
2
9.5
Domed Bog
13
3
9.3
Ribbed Fen
17
8
10.00
Domed Bog
17
6
29.6
Ribbed Fen
17
6
29.5
Domed Bog
11
6
25.5
Ribbed Fen
13
3
22.1
Page 142
84°
82°
53°
Akimiski Island
Attawapiskat
VICTOR
SITE
Attawapiskat - Victor
South Winter Road
J a m e s
B a y
James Bay
Winter Road
Kashechewan
Fort Albany
52°
James Bay
Winter Road
Moosonee
Moose Factory
51°
P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\CDR\Project_Location.cdr
Otter Rapids
50°
Constance Lake
New Post
0
LEGEND:
20
40
80
SCALE (Km)
South Winter Road
James Bay Winter Road
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Project Location
SCALE: AS SHOWN
DATE: June 2015
PROJECT No: TC140504
FIGURE: 1
302000
303000
304000
305000
306000
307000
MINE FEATURES
at R
ive
r
37
33
5861000
w ap
i sk
5860000
Atta
5862000
1 - Airstrip
2 - Airstrip Muskeg / Overburden Stockpile
3 - Polishing Pond (Former Central Quarry)
4 - Polishing Pond Discharge Ditch
5 - Fine Processed Kimberlite Containment Facility Cell 1
6 - Fine Processed Kimberlite Containment Facility Cell 2
7 - Fine Processed Kimberlite Containment Collection Ditch
8 - West Muskeg Stockpile
9 - Coarse Processed Kimberlite and Overburden Stockpile
10 - Mine Rock Stockpile
11 - Low-grade Ore and Coarse Processed Kimberlite Stockpile
12 - Construction Accommodation Complex
13 - Permanent Accommodation Complex
14 - Process Plant
15 - Crusher
16 - Fuel Storage Tanks
17 - Services (Potable Water, SewageTreatment Plant, Incinerator)
18 - Landfill
19 - Open Pit
20 - Southwest Overburden Stockpile
21 - Northeast Overburden Stockpile
22 - Overburden Dyke
23 - Phase 1 Mine Water Settling Pond
24 - North Muskeg Stockpile
25 - 115 kV Transmission Line
26 - South Quarry
27 - Southeast Fen
28 - Exploration Camp
29 - South Winter Road
30 - Bulk Emulsion Plant
31 - Ammonium Nitrate Storage
32 - Explosives Magazine
33 - Attawapiskat River Intake Road
34 - Attawapiskat River Pumphouse
35 - Northwest Fen
36 - Northeast Fen
37 - Nayshkootayaow River Flow Supplementation Pipeline
38 - North Granny Creek Supplementation Pipeline
39 - South Granny Creek Supplementation Pipeline
34
5859000
38
32
31
5858000
30
2
4
1
No
rth
Gr
29
an
35
7
ny C
reek
22
10
24
5857000
36
23
5
21
3
12
ee k
18
13
Cr
14
S
y
!
15
8
6
ran n
th G
ou
5856000
19
17
P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\General_Site_Plan_6.mxd
!
!
!
!
20
16
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
9
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
5855000
11
!
!
!
25
10
26
Ri v
27
28
N
a
koota
ya o
w
5854000
39
h
ys
er
NOTES:
- Site plan extracted from as built
De Beers CAD drawing 130916
- Imagery current as of
September 7, 2014
(Pleides satellite platform)
LEGEND
Watercourse
Mine Feature
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
General Site Plan
Datum: NAD83
Projection: UTM Zone 17N
0
0.25
0.5
1
1.5
2
Kilometres
²
PROJECT No: TC140504
FIGURE: 2
SCALE: 1:24,000
DATE: June 2015
!
!
295000
300000
305000
310000
315000
HV-4A
*
LV-4 #
!
(
DF-4
PM-4 "
)
(north)
Y
X
5 kilometre
Marker
West Winter Road
DF-3
PM-3
"
) (west)
ec
t
WS-2
inte
South W
2.5 kilometre
Marker
.
!
r Road
WS-1
/
"
Y
X
/ WS-3
"
DF-1
"
) PM-1
NOISE CENTRE
Y (east)
X
(
!
Victor Mine
East Tran
sect
.
!
5 kilometre
Marker
2.5 kilometre
Marker
.
!
7.5 kilometre
Marker
.
!
5855000
Path: P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\NoiseMonitoringStations_and_AirQualityStations_June2009_2.mxd
No !
.
rth
we
st
Tr
an
s
/
"
5860000
.
!
7.5 kilometre
Marker
WS-4
DF-2
LV-2
"
)
PM-2 !
(
(south)
Y
X
/
"
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
LEGEND
Y
X
"
)
Dustfall Sampling
"
/
(
!
*
#
High Volume Sampling
.
!
!
(
Low Volume Sampling
Passive (SOx, NOx) Sampling
Noise Transect Lines
Air Quality Station (snowpack)
2.5km Incremental Noise Monitoring Sites (Along Transects)
Noise Central Point
Winter Roads
7.5km Buffer Zone (from noise centre)
Property Boundary
0
0.5
1
1.5
2
Kilometers
NAD83 UTM Zone17N
Satellite Image: Mine Site: Pleiades Sept 7, 2014;
Surrounding Area: GeoEye-1 Sept 20, 2012
²
Air Quality and Noise Monitoring Sites
Around Victor Mine
SCALE: As Shown
DATE: June 2015
PROJECT No: TC140504
FIGURE: 3
DFJ‐3 West
DFJ‐2 South
DFJ‐4 North
DFJ‐1 East
O. Reg. 419/05 limit
Oct‐2014
Jul‐2014
Apr‐2014
Jan‐2014
Oct‐2013
Jul‐2013
Apr‐2013
Jan‐2013
Oct‐2012
Jul‐2012
Apr‐2012
Jan‐2012
Oct‐2011
Jul‐2011
Apr‐2011
Jan‐2011
Oct‐2010
Jul‐2010
Apr‐2010
Jan‐2010
Oct‐2009
Jul‐2009
Apr‐2009
Jan‐2009
Oct‐2008
Jul‐2008
Apr‐2008
Jan‐2008
Oct‐2007
Jul‐2007
Apr‐2007
Jan‐2007
Oct‐2006
Jul‐2006
Apr‐2006
Jan‐2006
Dustfall (g/m2/30 days)
Figure 4: Dustfall Measurements at Victor Diamond Mine - 2006 to 2014
10.0
9.0
8.0
7.0
6.0
5.0
4.0
3.0
2.0
1.0
0.0
Figure 5: Ratio of NEF / HgCON ‐ Methyl Mercury (filtered ) July / October Combined Data
20
Ratio of Methyl Mercury Concentrations
18
16
14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
Year
2012
2013
2014
2015
Figure 6: Pumping Rates and Chloride Concentration at VDW Wells
After Aug 15/2012 Chlorides in VDM Well
Discharge are not displayed - discharge line
was twinned and the former well discharge
sampling port is on one of the two lines and
no longer representative of mixed well
discharge from all dewatering wells. In 2012,
only very limited water from other sources
is directed to the final discharge, and as such
final discharge is representative of undilute
mixed well discharge after Aug 2012.
V-05-437
B1-07-008C
@
A
MS-8-4CL&WBR
@
A
MS-8-3CL&WBR
MS-8-2CL&WBR
MS-8-R
MS-8-2
BR
Atta
wap
is
HCI-05-2
@
A
@
A
MS-8-1BR
@ MS-8-F
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
@ MS-8-H
A
MS-8-1CL&WBR
HCI-05-4
@
@A
A
@
A
@
@ A
A
@
A
NQ-500NW
NQ-165NW
!
A
Riv
NQ-500E
er
@
A
V-05-434
MS-V-1-D
@
A
@
A
@ HCI-05-13 HCI-05-11
A
MS-2-R
@
A
V-03-300E
@
A
@
A
@
A
CQ-165N
!
CQ-100N
VDW-CH-A
A
@
@
A
A
!
A
@
@
A
A
@
CQ-SE-1
!
!A
@
@
A
@
A
A
A
A
@
A
!
@A
@
A
A
@
A
A
!
MS-V-2-CL
@
A
@
!A
CQ-100SE CQ-165SE
A
!
MS-V-2-D
@
A
!
A
@
!
A
A
A
HCI-03-02
@
A
CQ-250SE
@
A
@
A
CQ-SE-2
@
A
DW-1 MS-V-2-R
@ HCI-03-03
A
@
@ A
A
@
A
@A
A
@
South Granny Creek
DAS-1(MS-2BR)
Na
@
A
ysh
w
er
Riv
HCI-05-4
@A
@
A
@
A
MS-8-4 CL & WBR
@
A
MS-8-3 CL & WBR
@
@A
A
MS-8-2 BR
@
A
NQ-500NW
NQ-165NW
CQ-250N
2
4
CQ-165SE
CQ-250SE
CQ-SE-2
@
A
@
A
@
A
MS-9(2)-BR
@
@A
A
HCI-05-9
0
MS-9-1-CL&WBR
Ribbed Fen Station (Clay/Peat
@ Piezometer)
A
@
A
Pumping Wells
Bedrock Monitoring Well
2
4
@
A
@
A
@
@ A
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
hk
a ys
ta
oo
Riv
MS-9-2D
@
A
MS-9-2R
@
A
@
A
MS-9-2H
@
A
8
Kilometres
@
A
HCI-05-1c DAS-1 (MS-2 BR)
@
A
@
A
MS-2D
MS-2-CL & WBR
HCI-03-11
HCI-03-9
HCI-03-6
X-07-014C
HCI-03-10
@A
@
A
X-07-014C
@
A
HCI-05-20
MS-V-3-CL
@
A
MS-V-3-R
er
@
A
Y-07-007C
MS-9-1F
MS-9(1)-BR
MS-9-1-CL & WBR
@
A
@
A
@
A
MS-9-2F
MS-9-2D
MS-9(2)-BR
MS-9-1D
@
A
@
@A
A
@
A
MS-9-2-CL & WBR
HCI-05-7
NOTES:
2013 Panel Imagery:
- Mine site features current as of of
September 13, 2013
(GeoEye-1 satellite platform)
- Area surrounding mine site features
current as September 20, 2012
(GeoEye-1 satellite platform)
2014 Panel Imagery:
- Mine site features current as of
September 7, 2014
(Pleides satellite platform)
- Area surrounding mine site features
current as September 20, 2012
(GeoEye-1 satellite platform)
Datum: NAD83
Projection: UTM Zone 17N
6
MS-2F
HCI-05-1a
HCI-03-04
@ W-07-008C
A
HCI-03-7
HCI-03-8
MS-V-3-D
@
A
w
ya o
@
A
@
A
HCI-05-5
@
A
Drawdown in Upper Bedrock Aquifer Unit
(2 m or 10 m Contour Interval)
1
MS-V-2-R
V-03-321E
SGC
SQ-WL-2(M, C, BR)
HCI-05-8
HCI-03-01
NQ-500E
@A
A
@
South Granny Creek
HCI-05-7
Clay/Peat/Bedrock Piezometer
@
A
V-03-334E
@
A
@
A
SQ-WL-4(M, C, BR)
@
A
MS-9-2-CL&WBR
Clay/Peat Piezometer
@
A
@
A
NGC Well
MS-2-R
NQ-165E
@
A
HCI-05-12
@
A
V-03-300E
@
A
@
A
@
A
HCI-05-11
!
A
@
@
A
A
!
A
@
@
A
A
@
!
!A
@
@
A
@
A
A
A
A
@
A
!
@A
@
A
A
@
A
A
!
@
A
@
!A
VDW-CH-I
A
!
@
A
!
A
@
!
A
AA
MS-V-2-CL
@A
HCI-03-02
@
A
@A
@
A
DW-1
@ VDW-22 MS-V-2-D
A
HCI-05-20
MS-V-3-D
MS-9-2F
Monitoring Locations
!
A
MS-8-H
!
A
@ V-05-434
A
MS-V-1-D
MS-V-1-CL
MS-9-1R
@
A
LEGEND
MS-8-1 CL & WBR
HCI-03-03
N
Trib 5
MS-9-1D
MS-8-F
@
A
MS-1-BR
@
A
@
A
HCI-03-12
MS-8-1 BR
@ CQ-N1
@ A
A
@
A
@
@A
A
CQ-100N
CQ-SE-1
CQ-100SE
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
CQ-165N
HCI-05-13
5848000
MS-9(1)-BR
MS-8-D
MS-8-R
MS-9-1R
MS-9-1F
5864000
@
A
@
A
MS-1D
Atta
@ HCI-05-3
A
wap
iska
HCI-05-2
t Ri
ver
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
MS-8-2 CL & WBR
5850000
HCI-05-5
@
A
@
A
@
A
MS-V-3-R
B1-07-008C
MS-2-CL&WBR
Y-07-007C
ya o
South Unnamed Creek
HCI-03-04
@ W-07-008C
A
HCI-03-7
MS-V-3-CL
@
A
ota
ko
MS-2D
HCI-03-9
SQ-WL-4(M,C,BR)
HCI-03-10
SQ-WL-2(M,C,BR)
HCI-03-6
X-07-014C
HCI-03-8 HCI-03-11
HCI-05-8
V-05-437
MS-7 BR
5852000
@
A
@
A
SGC
@
A
HCI-05-1c
20
V-03-321E
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
HCI-03-01
NQ-165E
@
A
MS-2F
HCI-05-1a
V-03-334E
@
A
MS-1R
MS-1F
MS-1-CL & WBR
MS-7D
@
A
@
A
Cre
ek
HCI-05-3
kat
HCI-03-12
MS-V-1-CL
NGC
Well
@
@A
A
CQ-N1
CQ-250N
HCI-05-12
HCI-05-9
MS-1-BR
MS-7F
@
A
MS-8-D
@
A
@
A
@
A
314000
5850000
South Unnamed Creek
@
A
@
A
312000
5862000
MS-1D
5860000
MS-7F
@
A
ame
d
5858000
MS-7
BR
@
A
MS-7R
5854000
@
A
10
MS-7R
@
A
310000
5860000
@
A
@
A
@
A
308000
5858000
MS-1-CL&WBR
Unn
MS-7-CL & WBR
5862000
MS-1F
Tri b
306000
DAS-2
5856000
MS-7D
MS-7-CL&WBR
@
A
ame
d
MS-1R
304000
MS-7H
5864000
DAS-2
@
A
302000
5854000
2014
@
A
MS-7H
300000
5856000
298000
314000
5852000
312000
²
MS-9-2R
@
A
@
A
5848000
310000
@
A
Unn
Path: P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\UpperBR_drawndown_RibbedFenStation_2013_2014_2.mxd
308000
2
306000
4
304000
10
302000
20
2013
300000
Trib 5
298000
MS-9-2H
@
A
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Interpreted Drawdown Contours
in Upper Bedrock Aquifer
(2013 and 2014 data)
PROJECT N : TC140504
FIGURE: 7a
SCALE: 1:90,000
DATE: June 2015
o
285000
290000
295000
300000
305000
310000
MS-7H A
@
@
A
A
@
MS-13R
MS-7-CL
+ WBR
MS-7D
@
A
@
MS-13D A A
MS-13F
MS-13 BR
T-13-012C
TE-3
V-05-437
MS-1R A
@
MS-1F A
@
MS-7RA
TE-10-066C
@
@
A
@A
A
@
MS-7F A
@
@
@
A
@
MS-7 BR D A
@ TE-10-030C A
A
@ TE-P
@ A
TE-10-056C
TE-10-055C A
A
@
@
A
TE-13-059C
B1-07-008C
TE-4
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
@A
A
@
@!
U
@
@ A
A
A
@A
A
@
@A
@
A
rR
oad
ta r
y3
@
A
U
A
@!
R!
!
U
R!
R!
R!
R!
R!
A
A
R
!
R
!
A
!
U
@
A
A
@
A
!A
@
! A
!A
A
A
<
&
A
A
!
A
A
!
!
A
<
&
!
!
<
&
!
A
AA
A A
<
&
@
!A
!
<
&
@
A
!! &
<
&
@
A
!
<
@
A
@
A
!
@
A
!
<
&
! !!
!
<
!
<
@
A
HCI-05-8
@
A
!
@
A
@
@ A
@A
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
!
MS-9-1R
@
A
MS-9-1F A
@
MS-9-2-CL
+ WBR
HCI-05-20L
HCI-05-20U
MS-9-2D
@
MS-9-2R
MS-9-2F A
@ A
@
HCI-05-7L A
@A
@
A
HCI-05-7U
MS-9-2H
MS-9-1H
MS-15F
@ MS-15CL
A
@
A
MS-15H A
@
@
A
@
MS-15 BR A
@
A
TRIB-5
MS-9-1-CL
@ MS-9-1D
A
+ WBR
@ MS-15D
A
Refer to Figure 25
Y-07-007C A
@
ry 5
TRIB-4
ow
TRIB-7
!
r
ve
Tribu
ta
ry 4
!
<
Tributa
!
<
@
HCI-05-5U A
HCI-05-5L
a
ay
ot
ko
Ri
South W
inter Ro
ad
5850000
h
ys
Na
!
<
UNNAMED
TRIB
@
A
@
A
!
<
Z-07-014H
TRIB-5A
MS-15R
TRIB5A-D/S
5840000
ry 5A
!
U
Tribu
ta
TRIB5A-U/S
LEGEND
NOTES:
Existing Winter Road
!
Central Quarry / Polishing Pond
115 kV Transmission Line
Watercourse
Granny Creek Pipeline
Nayshkootayaow River Pipeline
Mine Feature
Stockpile Areas
@
A
Attawapiskat River
Tributary 5A Watershed
Granny Creek Watershed
Monitoring Stations
Well Type / Description
Bedrock Monitoring Well
!
<
!
Clay/Peat/Bedrock Piezometer
R
!
Clay/Peat Piezometer
@
A
@
A
!
A
<
&
Pit Extent
!
U
Flow Monitoring Station
2.5
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Surface water Monitoring Station
Subsidence Monitoring Station
Pumping Wells
Distal Monitoring Well Locations
Other Well
South Quarry
0
!
U
5835000
P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\Well_Locations_Regional_Scale.mxd
!
@
@A
A
@
A
NR-002
@
A
@
A
@
A
NR-003
MS-2F
!
<
!
<
@A
A
@
!
U
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
R
!
r
@
A
@
A
R
!
@
A
@
A
!
U
@
A
TRIB-3
Rive
!
@@
A
A
!
HCI-05-9U
HCI-05-9L A
@
NR-001
iska
t
!
<
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
@
A
Atta
wap
@
A
@
A
!
<
!
<!
<
Tr
i bu
Win
te
MS-1D
@ HCI-05-3U
A
!
<
We
st
HCI-05-4L
@
A
HCI-05-4U
@ MS-1H
A
@ MS-1-CL + WBR
A
HCI-05-3L
@
A
MS-13H
325000
DAS-2U
@
A
DAS-2L
!
<
!
<
@
A
320000
5855000
MS-13CL
315000
5865000
280000
5860000
275000
5845000
270000
Datum: NAD83
Projection: UTM Zone17N
5
10
15
20
25
Kilometres
²
PROJECT N : TC140504
FIGURE: 7b
SCALE: 1:145,000
DATE: June 2015
o
295000
300000
305000
310000
315000
320000
325000
A-1
5865000
!
A
!
A
A-4
A-2
!
A
!
A
A-3
N-3
Gr
an
n
yC
r ee
iska
5860000
Atta
wap
t R
iver
k
S-4
! A
!
A
G-1
!
A
VICTOR SITE
G-2
S-2
G-3
!
!A
A
G-4
!
A
!
A
G-8
!
A
G-7
STATION ID
A-1
A-2
A-3
A-4
N-1
N-2
N-3
G-1
G-2
G-3
G-4
G-5
G-6
G-7
G-8
S-1
S-2
S-3
S-4
S-1
!
A
G-5
h
ut
So
!
A
N
o
ko
sh
ay
!
A G-6 A
a
tay
ow
k
ee !
Cr
y
n
an
Gr
!
A
N-2
S-3
r
ve
Ri
!
A
N-1
LOCATION
Attawapiskat River
Attawapiskat River
Attawapiskat River
Attawapiskat River
Nayshkootayaow River
Nayshkootayaow River
Nayshkootayaow River
North Granny Creek
North Granny Creek
North Granny Creek
North Granny Creek
South Granny Creek
South Granny Creek
South Granny Creek
Granny Creek Confluence
Southwest Fen
Northeast Fen
Southeast Fen
Northwest Control Fen
DESCRIPTION
upsteam #2
upstream of site
downstream of site
downstream of Nayshkootayaow River
upstream of site
downstream of site (US of Granny Creek)
upstream of Attawapiskat River
N. Granny Creek-upstream NW fen
N. Granny Creek-downstream NW fen
N. Granny Creek-downstream NE fen
N. Granny Creek-downstream
S. Granny Creek-upstream SW fen
S. Granny Creek-downstream SW fen
S. Granny Creek-downstream
Granny Creek confluence
Southwest fen
Northeast fen
Southeast fen
Northwest control fen
NOTES:
- Mine site features current as of
September 7, 2014
(Pleides satellite platform)
- Area surrounding mine site features
current as of September 20, 2012
(GeoEye-1 satellite platform)
LEGEND
Surface Water Monitoring Station Location
! Attawapiskat River
A
! Nayshkootayaow River
A
! Granny Creek
A
! Fens
A
3
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Surface Water Monitoring Stations
Datum: NAD83
Projection: UTM Zone 17N
0
Hg SAMPLING FREQUENCY
Quarterly
Quarterly
Quarterly
Quarterly
Quarterly
Quarterly
Quarterly
Quarterly
Monthly, Quarterly
Monthly, Quarterly
Quarterly
Monthly, Quarterly
Monthly, Quarterly
Quarterly
Quarterly
Monthly, Quarterly
Monthly, Quarterly
Quarterly
Quarterly
6
9
12
15
Km
²
PROJECT No: TC140504
FIGURE: 8
SCALE: 1:86,000
DATE: June 2015
5855000
No
r th
5850000
Path: P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\Surface_Water_Monitoring_Stations_3.mxd, 10 September 2015
!
A
Figure 9 Nayshkootayaow and Attawapiskat River Total and Methyl Mercury Trends (filtered values)
Attawapiskat River Total Mercury Values (filtered)
3.00
2.50
2.50
Concentration (ng/L)
Concentration (ng/L)
Nayshkootayaow River Total Mercury Values (filtered)
3.00
2.00
1.50
1.00
0.50
1.50
1.00
0.50
0.00
0.00
Naysh. R. Up
Naysh. R. Mid
Atta. R. Up A1
Naysh. R. Dn
0.16
0.14
0.14
0.12
0.12
Concentration (ng/L
0.16
0.10
0.08
0.06
0.04
0.02
Atta. R. Up A2
Atta. R. Dn A5
Atta.R. Dn A3
Atta. R. Dn A4
Attawapiskat River Methyl Mercury Values (filtered)
Nayshkootayaow River Methyl Mercury Values (filtered)
Concentration (ng/L)
2.00
0.10
0.08
0.06
0.04
0.02
0.00
0.00
Naysh. R. Up
Naysh. R. Mid
Naysh. R. Dn
Atta. R. Up A1
Atta. R. Up A2
Atta R. Dn A3
Atta. R. Dn A4
Atta. R. Dn A5
340000
330000
320000
310000
300000
290000
280000
270000
5880000
NT-002
NOR
TH R
NT-001
IVER
5870000
AR-004
ATTAWAPISKAT
ER
V
I
R
5860000
ESKER
NG-001
NGC-1US
NGC-2ML
NGC-3DS
SGC-3DS
Construction Camp
NR-001
SGC-2ML
SGC-1US
04FC011
NR-002
NAYS
HKOO
TAYA
OW
TRIB-7
SG-001
04FC010
Climate Station
TRIB-3
NR-003
R
VE
I
R
Exploration Camp
5850000
TRIB-5
UNNAMED TRIB
60m
TRIB-4
TRIB-5A
TRIB5A-D/S
5840000
TRIB5A-U/S
Flow Monitoring Station
Other Structure
Water Station
Mine Site
NOTE:
THIS DRAWING IS IN UTM NAD 83 ZONE 17
WATER STATION COORDINATES (UTM Nad 83)
Station
Easting
Northing
Zone
17
5,854,251
306,278
04FC010
5,856,565
309,290
04FC011
17
5,861,949
17
AR-004
303,226
5,856,686
308,888
17
NG-001
17
SG-001
5,856,541
308,950
16
NR-001
5,853,074
681,906
16
NR-002
5,851,989
696,296
17
NR-003
5,859,098
320,325
5,872,017
314,391
17
NT-001
NT-002
5,879,970
304,252
17
5,852,883
693,219
TRIB-3
16
5,849,762
301,079
17
TRIB-5
TRIB-5A
5,845,106
301,176
17
17
5,857,341
TRIB-7
315,275
UNNAMED TRIB
5,850,777
293,512
17
17
5,849,433
TRIB-4
298,699
UNNAMED TRIB
5,850,427
698,287
16
16
5,849,520
TRIB-4
703,568
WATER STATION COORDINATES (UTM Nad 83)
Station
Easting
Northing
Zone
17
5,858,365
303,949
NGC-1US
5,857,535
305,359
17
NGC-2ML
17
5,857,171
NGC-3DS
307,432
17
5,854,071
304,107
SGC-1US
5,854,955
17
305,005
SGC-2ML
17
SGC-3DS
5,856,417
307,471
17
5,838,341
302,745
TRIB5A-U/S
17
5,841,688
302,702
TRIB5A-D/S
0
5
10
WATER STATION COORDINATES (Lat, Long)
Station
Latitude
Longitude
04FC010
04FC011
AR-004
NG-001
SG-001
NR-001
NR-002
NR-003
NT-001
NT-002
TRIB-3
TRIB-5
TRIB-7
80m
LEGEND:
20
Victor Diamond Mine
Water Flow and Level Monitoring Stations
Site Locations
30
40
Km
SCALE: AS SHOWN
DATE: JUNE 2015
PROJECT NUMBER: TC140504
FIGURE: 10
Figure 11 - Granny Creek Flow Station 04FC011 - Flows for 2006 to 2014
900,000
800,000
Daily Discharge (m3/day)
700,000
600,000
500,000
400,000
300,000
200,000
100,000
0
Frozen to channel bottom. Data starts on first day
the transducer comes back online (April 28,2008)
Figure 12 - North Granny Creek Water Level Station Data (2007-2014)
89
87
Elevation (masl)
85
83
81
79
77
75
NGC-1US
NGC-2ML
NGC-3Ds
Figure 13 - South Granny Creek Water Level Station Data (2007-2014)
105
Elevation (masl)
100
95
90
85
80
75
SGC-1US
SGC-2ML
SGC-3Ds
294000
298000
302000
314000
318000
²
+
U
S-1
S-8-1
S-8-2
NGC Discharge Point
Nayshkootayaow River
Discharge Point
310000
+
U
5860000
S-7
306000
+
U
+
U
5860000
290000
Attawapiskat River
!
?
+
U
S-2(DAS-1)
5856000
5856000
Victor Mine
SGC Discharge Point
LEGEND
General Flow Direction
!
?
!
?
+
U
North and South Granny Creek Discharge Points
Muskeg Monitoring Station Cluster
5852000
Property Line
Nayshkootayaow River Supplementation Pipeline
N ays
Watercourse
hkoo
t
aya o
w Ri
5852000
Granny Creek Supplementation Pipeline
Granny Creek Watershed Boundary
PIT/QUARRY
ver
Pit Extent
South Quarry
Central Quarry
S-9-1
+
U
5848000
5848000
Satellite Imagery: Mine Site: Pleiades Sept 7, 2014;
Surrounding Area: GeoEye-1 Sept 20, 2012
S-9-2
+
U
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Nayshkootayaow River and Granny Creek
Flow Supplementation Systems
SCALE: 1:75,000
0
1
2
4
6
(NAD83 UTM Zone17N)
8
Kilometers
Path: P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\Water_Supplementation_Plan_GrannyCreek_2.mxd
PROJECT N o: TC140504
DATE: June 2015
FIGURE: 14
Figure 15 - Nayshkootayaow River Flow Station 04FC010 - Flows for 2006 - 2014
25,000,000
Daily Discharge (m3/day)
20,000,000
15,000,000
10,000,000
5,000,000
0
Figure 16 - Prorated Attawapiskat River Flows Calculated for the Victor Site
(prorated from Station 04FC001, Attawapiskat River Below Muketei River)
300,000,000
250,000,000
Flows (m3/day)
200,000,000
150,000,000
100,000,000
50,000,000
0
302500
303000
303500
304000
Flow Supplementation
Discharge
Easting: 303603
Northing: 5858554
NGC-REF-2
NGC-REF-3
!
? !(!(
304500
305000
305500
NGC-REF-1
5858500
302000
(
!
NGC-REF-4
(
!
NGC-REF-5
(
!
No r
th
Gr
5858000
Cre ek
anny
!
?
AIRSTRIP
Dra
inag
e
(
!
(
!
NGC-EXP-2
NGC-EXP-3
(
!!
(
(
!
NGC-EXP-5
5857500
e
harg
Disc
NGC-EXP-1
Way
NGC-EXP-4
om
Fr
F
e
in
PK
C
c
Fa
ty
ili
E
MINE ROCK
STOCKPILE
Water Quality and Aquatic
Toxicity Sampling Station
Easting: 302991
Northing: 5856880
FINE PKC FACILITY
CELL 1
!
?
CENTRAL
QUARRY/
POLISHING
POND
LEGEND
!
?
!
?
!
?
Flow Supplementation Discharge
Processed Kimberlite Containment (PKC) Discharge Drainage Way
Processed Kimberlite Containment (PKC) Discharge
Watercourse
Water Quality and Aquatic Toxicity Sampling Station
NGC-EXP Replicate Sample Station
!
(
(
!
NGC-REF Replicate Sample Station
0
5857000
Document Path: P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\NGC_Sample_Locations_2.mxd
PKC Discharge
Easting: 304605
Northing: 5857793
100
200
400
600
800
1,000
Metres
Sample ID Zone Easting Northing
NGC-REF-1 17 303605 5858569
NGC-REF-2 17 303624 5858518
NGC-REF-3 17 303664 5858506
NGC-REF-4 17 303716 5858430
NGC-REF-5 17 303822 5858399
NGC-EXP-1 17 34697 5857745
NGC-EXP-2 17 34745 5857716
NGC-EXP-3 17 34835 5857724
NGC-EXP-4 17 34879 5857740
NGC-EXP-5 17 34905 5857653
NOTES:
- Imagery current as of
September 7, 2014
(Pleiades satellite plateform)
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
North Granny Creek
Exposure Area and Reference Area
Sampling Stations
Datum: NAD83
Projection: UTM Zone 17N
/
PROJECT N : TC140412
FIGURE: 17
SCALE: 1:10,000
DATE: June 2015
o
Hg (mg/kg)
Hg (mg/kg)
Hg (mg/kg)
Figure 18
Total Mercury Body Burden Data General Additive Model for Pearl Dace
Granny Creeks and Tributary 5A
Hg (mg/kg)
Figure 19
Total Mercury Body Burden Data General Additive Model
For Trout Perch - Nayshkootayaow River
292000
296000
300000
304000
308000
312000
316000
320000
324000
5868000
288000
5864000
ATT-US
ATT-REF2
Gr
an
n
y
C
NGC
!
>
NAY
!
>
NAY-DS6
Na y s
hk o
y aow R
ota
iv e
r
5856000
Victor Mine
South Gr an n y C
k.
>
!!
>
wapiskat Rive
n um e nt C
h a n n el
Mo
r
Monume
nt
C
5848000
Atta
20
30
40
Drainage Inflow Point
Flow Supplementation Discharge
Leachate Discharge
Processed Kimberlite Containment Discharge
Well Field Dewatering Discharge
Fish Sampling Area
Overlapping Fish Sampling Area:
NAY & NAY-DS6
Attawapiskat
0
50
Km
1
2
²
3
Km
r y 5A
u ta
LEGEND
!
>
!
>
!
>
!
>
!
>
ne
l
n
0 5 10
ha
MC
Attawapiskat
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Fish Sampling Areas 2007 - 2014
ST-5A
Datum: NAD83
Projection: UTM Zone 17N
Imagery: Mine Site - Pleides Sept 7, 2014
Surrounding Area - GeoEye 1, Sept 20, 2012
0
1
2
3
4
5
PROJECT No: TC140504
Km SCALE: 1:155,000
FIGURE: 20
DATE: June 2015
5844000
Sampling Areas Overview
5852000
SGC
5840000
NAY-US3
ib
Tr
Path: P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\Fish_Sampling_Mercury_3.mxd
k a t River
ATT-FF
k.
!
>
!
>
apis
NAY
5860000
No
rt h
At t
aw
!
>
ATT-NF
Total Hg (mg/kg) adjusted for total length
Figure 21
Least Square Plots of Total Mercury Body Burden Data
For Trout Perch - Attawapiskat River
ATT-FF
0.4
ATT-NF
ATT-US
0.3
0.2
0.1
0
2009
2014
Year
Hg (mg/kg)
Hg (mg/kg)
Hg (mg/kg)
Figure 22
Total Mercury Body Burden Data General Additive Model
For Trout Perch - Attawapiskat River
FIGURE 23
COMPARISON OF TOTAL MERCURY IN YOY TROUT PERCH - ATTAWAPISKAT RIVER
Comparison of total Hg levels (mg/kg) for YOY Trout Perch in the Attawapiskat River from 2008 to 2014. Age class was determined by
otolith aging structures in 2001, 2013 and 2014, and length frequency distributions from 2008-2010 and 2012. Each box shows the first
quartile, median and third quartile. Whiskers show minimum and maximum values. Black dots represent outliers. Y-axis is log
transformed.
FIGURE 24
COMPARISON OF TOTAL MERCURY IN AGE 1+ TROUT PERCH - ATTAWAPISKAT RIVER
Comparison of total Hg levels (mg/kg) for age 1+ Trout Perch in the Attawapiskat River from 2008 to 2014. Age class was determined by otolith
aging structures in 2001, 2013 and 2014, and length frequency distributions from 2008-2010 and 2012. Each box shows the first quartile, median,
and third quartile. Whiskers show minimum and maximum values. Black dots represent outliers.
304000
306000
MS-8-D
@
A
308000
HCI-05-2L
MS-8-1 BR I
HCI-05-2U
@
A
HCI-03-12
@
A
310000
Attaw
MS-8-1 BR D A
@
MS-8-4 CL + WBR
@A
A
@ MS-8-F
V-05-434
MS-8-1
@ CL + WBR
A
MS-8-3
CL + WBR
!
U
r th
Muskeg / Overburden
Stockpile
NQ-165E A
@
@
A
NQ-500E
Airstrip
ra
nn
yC
re
ek
MS-2-R
HCI-03-1A
@
@ CQ-N1b
A
A
SS-8 Transect
R
!
! R
R
!!
R
@
A
@
A
!
!
! !
R
R
!
!
NG-001
!
!
!
U
HCI-03-3aL
!
SG-001
04FC011
!
!
!
HCI-03-3
!
!
@
A
@
A
SGC
SQ-WL-2 L
SQ-WL-2 U
!
South Granny Creek
ow
aya
R
@
A
HCI-03-6
HCI-03-8
@
HCI-03-10A
04FC010
!
<
SGC-1US
@
A
t
oo
!
!
@ MS-V-2-R
A
!
!
PZ-2-09 PT
!
!
PZ-2-09 SC
HCI-03-4 L
PZ-2-09 DC
W-07-008C
@
A
PZ-2-09 MC SQ-WL-4 U
@
A
SQ-WL-4 L
HCI-03-7
@ HCI-03-9
A
HCI-03-11
MS-V-3-D
MS-V-3-CL
MS-V-3-R
@
A
@ X-07-014C
A
@
A
NOTES:
Selected Well Locations
Well Type / Description
Pit Extent
Granny Creek Pipeline
Central Quarry / Polishing Pond
115 kV Transmission Line
Mine Feature
Stockpile Areas
South Quarry
@
A
Watercourse
@
A
@
A
Attawapiskat River
@
A
!
A
Granny Creek Watershed
<
&
Monitoring Stations
!
<
Existing Winter Road
Nayshkootayaow River Pipeline
Bedrock Monitoring Well
!
U
Clay/Peat Piezometer
R
!
Clay/Peat/Bedrock Piezometer
Flow Monitoring Station
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Surface water Monitoring Station
Subsidence Monitoring Station
Infrastructure and Monitoring
Locations Near the PIt
Pumping Wells
Other Well
Datum: NAD83
Projection: UTM Zone17N
0
MS-2D
!
<
@
A
U SGC-2ML
@!
A
!
NGC-3DS
!
<
A
!
!
MS-2-CL
+ WBR
!
!
U
A
A A
A
A
AA
!
!
U
@
A
!
R
!
!
SS-7A
@
A
!
A A
!
V-03-321E
DAS-1
(MS-2 BR)
!
!
A
A
A
A
A
A
CQ-SE-2a
!
@ HCI-05-1c
A
!
<
RA
A!
CQ-SE-2b
@
A
R
!
SS-1
HCI-05-19
SS-2
HCI-05-17
! !
< VDW-17
HCI-05-18
@&
A
!
< V-09-559H
&
@ HCI-05-15
A
HCI-05-16U
@
SGC-3DS
@A
A
OPW-1L
HCI-05-11
VDW-7C
VDW-25
VDW-11
VDW-14
!
!
@
A
!
@ V-03-300E
A
HCI-05-14
HCI-05-16L
HCI-03-2
@ PZ-3-09 SC
VDW-CH-A
! VDW-15 PZ-3-09 DCA
<
&
PZ-3-09 PT
!
@!
A
!
!
VDW-21
VDW-CH-E
<
&
VDW-3
In-Pit
!
PZ-3-09 MC
VDW-8 !
VDW-6
DW-1
(NIPW-1.8)
VDW-18
!
VDW-CH-B &
<
!!V-09-560H
<
! VDW-CH-D
!&
VDW-12
!
VDW-CH-I
<
&
@
VDW-22
A
!
!
<
!
VDW-CH-C &
!
MS-V-2-CL
VDW-23
@!
A
!
V-09-561H
MS-V-2-D
!
HCI-03-3aU
Plant
@
A
!
!
VDW-CH-H VDW-2
@
A
@
A
CQ-250SE
@
A
HCI-05-1a
NGC-2ML
PZ-1-09 DC
PZ-1-09 PT
CQ-SE-1b
@ CQ-SE-1a
A
CQ-165SE
CQ-100SE
0.5
1
2
3
4
5
Kilometres
!
!
PZ-1-09 SC
@ PZ-1-09
A
MC
HCI-05-13aL
HCI-05-13bU
HCI-05-12aM
@CQ-250N
A
HCI-05-12aL A
@ @ CQ-165N
A
@
A
HCI-05-12aU
@CQ-100N
A
!
!
SS-5
!
U
West Winter Road
P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\Well_Locations_Local_Scale_2.mxd
G
!
5856000
No
@ NQ-165NW
A
V-03-334E
@
A
Road
!
!
!
5854000
@ MS-8-H
A
@
NQ-500NW A
!
!
!
er
@
A
!
!
inter
South W
!
@
A
@
NGC Well MS-V-1-CL A
NGC-1US MS-V-1-D
!
iv
MS-8-2
MS-8-2
@
BR D A
LEGEND
@
A
@
A
@ CL + WBR
A
R
!
apisk
at Riv
er
Na ys
hk
MS-8-R A
@
312000
5860000
302000
5858000
300000
²
PROJECT N : TC140504
FIGURE: 25
SCALE: 1:35,000
DATE: June 2015
o
Figure 26: Groundwater Elevation in Pit Perimeter Monitoring Wells
Figure 27: Groundwater Elevation at Muskeg Monitoring Site MS-8
285000
290000
295000
300000
305000
310000
315000
320000
325000
330000
335000
340000
MS-7H
MS-7D
Cluster MS-8-1
MS-7F
MS-7 BR
MS-13H
MS-8-F
MS-8-D
MS-8-3 CL & WBR
MS-8-R
MS-8-2 CL & WBR
MS-8-2 BR
MS-8-H
MS-2-R
5850000
Cluster MS-15
MS-15F
5845000
MS-15H
MS-9(1)-BR
MS-15CL
MS-9-1-CL & WBR
MS-15 BR
MS-9-1H
5865000
MS-V-3-R
MS-9-2D
MS-9(2)-BR
MS-9-1D
MS-2-CL & WBR
MS-V-2-D
Cluster MS-9-1
MS-15D
MS-2D
Cluster MS-2
MS-V-3-CL
MS-V-3-D
MS-9-1R
MS-1-BR
MS-V-2-CL
MS-V-2-R
MS-9-1F
MS-1R
MS-1H
DAS-1 (MS-2 BR)
MS-2F
Open Pit
Cluster MS-8-2
5855000
MS-1-CL & WBR
MS-8-1 BR
MS-8-4 CL & WBR
MS-8-1 CL & WBR
MS-V-1-CL
MS-V-1-D
MS-1F
5860000
MS-7R
MS-13CL
MS-1D
MS-7-CL & WBR
5855000
MS-13 BR
MS-13F
MS-9-2F
Cluster MS-9-2
MS-9-2-CL & WBR
MS-9-2R
MS-9-2H
5840000
5840000
MS-15R
5835000
LEGEND
2006 IKONOS
Satellite Image
Coverage Boundary
Muskeg Monitoring Stations
²
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Muskeg Monitoring Cluster Locations
and 2006 IKONOS
Satellite Image Coverage
Bedrock Monitoring Well
Clay/Peat/Bedrock Piezometer
5830000
Clay/Peat Piezometer
*Imagery current as of 2006
(IKONOS satellite platform)
0
1
2
5835000
5860000
Cluster MS-1
Cluster MS-7
MS-13R
5850000
Cluster MS-13
5845000
MS-13D
4
6
8
PROJECT N : TC140504
FIGURE: 28
SCALE: 1:175,000
DATE: June 2015
o
Kilometres
Path: P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\muskeg_monitoring_cluster_locations_2.mxd
5830000
5865000
5870000
280000
5870000
275000
285000
290000
295000
300000
305000
310000
315000
320000
325000
330000
335000
340000
MS-7D
MS-7F
MS-7 BR
MS-13H
MS-1-CL & WBR
Cluster MS-8-1
MS-8-F
MS-8-D
MS-8-3 CL & WBR
MS-8-R
MS-8-1 BR
MS-8-4 CL & WBR
MS-8-1 CL & WBR
MS-V-1-CL
MS-V-1-D
MS-8-2 CL & WBR
MS-8-H
5855000
Cluster MS-8-2
5850000
MS-15D
Cluster MS-15
MS-15F
MS-V-3-R
5845000
MS-15H
MS-9-1-CL & WBR
MS-15 BR
MS-9-2D
MS-9(2)-BR
MS-9-1D
MS-15CL
MS-9-1H
MS-9-2F
Cluster MS-9-2
MS-9-2-CL & WBR
MS-9-2R
MS-9-2H
2006 IKONOS
Satellite Image
Coverage Boundary
Muskeg Monitoring Stations
5840000
5840000
MS-15R
LEGEND
5835000
MS-9(1)-BR
Cluster MS-2
MS-V-2-D
Cluster MS-9-1
MS-9-1R
MS-2D
MS-2-CL & WBR
MS-V-3-CL
MS-V-3-D
²
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Bedrock Monitoring Well
2014 Pleiades Satellite Imagery
Coverage and Muskeg
Monitoring Locations
Clay/Peat/Bedrock Piezometer
5830000
MS-2-R
MS-V-2-CL
MS-V-2-R
MS-9-1F
DAS-1 (MS-2 BR)
MS-2F
Open Pit
MS-8-2 BR
MS-1-BR
5860000
5860000
MS-13CL
MS-1R
MS-1H
5855000
MS-7R
MS-13F
MS-1D
MS-7-CL & WBR
5850000
MS-13 BR
Cluster MS-1
MS-1F
5845000
Cluster MS-7
MS-13R
5865000
MS-7H
Clay/Peat Piezometer
*Mine site imagery current as of September 7, 2014
(Pleiades satellite platform)
Area surrounding site site current as of September 20, 2012
(GeoEye-1 satellite platform)
5835000
Cluster MS-13
MS-13D
0
1
2
4
6
8
PROJECT N : TC140504
FIGURE: 29
SCALE: 1:175,000
DATE: June 2015
o
Kilometres
Path: P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\Muskeg Overview_MuskegMonitoringStations_2.mxd
5830000
5865000
5870000
280000
5870000
275000
297000
(
!
298000
299000
300000
301000
302000
303000
304000
5864000
5865000
296000
re e
k
MS-7D
(
!
MS-7-CL & WBR
MS-7F
(
!
!
(
2
(
!
5862000
MS-7 BR
(
!
4
5861000
P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\Site_7_4.mxd
River
MS-7R
ed
C
5863000
at
apisk
Attaw
MS-7
Un
nam
LEGEND
Bedrock Monitoring Well
!
(
(
!
(
!
NOTES:
- Imagery in bottom of the map
current as of September 7, 2014
(Pleides satellite platform)
- Imagery in top of the map current
as September 20, 2012
(GeoEye-1 satellite platform)
Label Key
MS-7 F
Clay/Peat/Bedrock Piezometer
Clay/Peat Piezometer
Drawdown in Upper Bedrock Aquifer Unit
(2 m or 10 m Contour Interval)
Large River
D - Domed Bog
F - Flat Bog
H - Horizontal Fen
R - Ribbed Fen
BR - Bedrock
Typical Muskeg Monitoring Program
Cluster Arrangement (MS-7)
Datum: NAD83
Projection: UTM Zone17N
0
0.5
1
2
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
3
4
5
Kilometres
²
PROJECT N : TC140504
FIGURE: 30
SCALE: 1:20,000
DATE: June 2015
o
302000
303000
304000
305000
306000
pisk
a
(
!
308000
t Ri
ver
MS-8-D
5860000
4
2
Atta
wa
307000
5861000
301000
MS-8-1 BR
MS-8-F
MS-8-4 CL & WBR
(!
!
(
(
!
MS-8
MS-8-3 CL & WBR
5859000
MS-8-1 CL & WBR
10
(
!
P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\Site_2_2.mxd
20
(
!
MS-8-R
(
!
MS-8-2 CL & WBR
(
!
(
!
MS-8-2 BR
( MS-8-H
!
(
!
No
rth
LEGEND
!
(
(
!
(
!
MS-7 F
Clay/Peat/Bedrock Piezometer
Clay/Peat Piezometer
Drawdown in Upper Bedrock Aquifer Unit
(2 m or 10 m Contour Interval)
Large River
an
ny
C
re
ek
NOTES:
- Imagery current as of
September 7, 2014
(Pleides satellite platform)
Label Key
Bedrock Monitoring Well
Gr
D - Domed Bog
F - Flat Bog
H - Horizontal Fen
R - Ribbed Fen
BR - Bedrock
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Muskeg Monitoring at MS-8
Datum: NAD83
Projection: UTM Zone17N
0
0.5
1
2
MS-2-R
3
4
5
Kilometres
²
PROJECT N : TC140504
FIGURE: 31
SCALE: 1:20,000
DATE: June 2015
o
5858000
300000
84°0'0"W
83°0'0"W
82°0'0"W
James
Bay
12
Attawapiskat
11
!
.
1
Missisa
Lake
LEGEND
!
.
Community
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Victor Diamond Mine
Flight Lines (Labelled with ID at east end)
0
15
30
60
90
Kilometres
120
150
Datum: NAD83
²
Aerial Survey Flight Line Transects
SCALE: 1:600,000
DATE: June 2015
PROJECT No: TC140504
FIGURE: 32
52°30'0"N
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Path: P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\Flight_Line_Transect.mxd
w
Atta
iv e r
at R
k
s
i
ap
53°0'0"N
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
85°0'0"W
85°0'0"W
84°0'0"W
83°0'0"W
82°0'0"W
53°0'0"N
Path: P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\Caribou_Density_Avg_2005_to_2014.mxd
James
Bay
52°30'0"N
Attawapiskat
Missisa
Lake
LEGEND
Average General Caribou Density
Low
Victor Diamond Mine
Medium Low
Community
!
H
NOTES:
- Relative observation density values
within the aerial survey study area
were classified into five ordinal
categories based on the Jenks
optimization/natural breaks
classification technique
- There was no weighting applied
to survey points for track sightings
or animal sightings.
Medium
Flight Lines (Labeled with ID at east end)
Medium High
High
0
12.5
25
50
Datum: NAD83
Projection: UTM Zone 17N
75
100
125
Kilometres
²
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Average of all Aerial Survey
Density Surfaces of Caribou Sightings and
Tracks (December 2005 - March 2014)
PROJECT N : TC140504
FIGURE: 33
SCALE: 1:600,000
DATE: June 2015
o
85°0'0"W
84°0'0"W
83°0'0"W
82°0'0"W
53°0'0"N
Path: P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\Moose_Density_Avg_2005_to_2014.mxd
James
Bay
52°30'0"N
Attawapiskat
Missisa
Lake
LEGEND
Average General Moose Density
Low
Victor Diamond Mine
!
H
NOTES:
- Relative observation density values
within the aerial survey study area
were classified into five ordinal
categories based on the Jenks
optimization/natural breaks
classification technique
- There was no weighting applied
to survey points for track sightings
or animal sightings.
Medium Low
Community
Medium
Flight Lines (Labeled with ID at east end)
Medium High
High
0
12.5
25
50
Datum: NAD83
Projection: UTM Zone 17N
75
100
125
Kilometres
²
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Average of all Aerial Survey
Density Surfaces of Moose Sightings and
Tracks (December 2005 - March 2014)
PROJECT N : TC140504
FIGURE: 34
SCALE: 1:600,000
DATE: June 2015
o
92°0'0"W
88°0'0"W
80°0'0"W
Fort Severn
s
e
56°0'0"N
Hay
84°0'0"W
ds
Go
Winisk
54°0'0"N
S ev ern
James Bay
A
apiskat
tt a w
Akimiski
Island
Attawapiskat
Fort Albany
O t os kwin
ba
Al
Alban
ny
y
LEGEND
52°0'0"N
P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\Calving_Areas_and_PP_CollarSet_Summary_Map_1.mxd
Polar Bear Provinical Park
Victor Mine
(
!
Combined Calving Areas, based on 70% kernel contours for all collared caribou (Fourth set of collars: 2013 - Present)
(
!
Combined Calving Areas, based on 70% kernel contours for all collared caribou (Third set of collars: 2010 - 2013)
(
!
Combined Calving Areas, based on 70% kernel contours for all collared caribou (Second set of collars: 2007 - 2010)
(
!
Combined Calving Areas, based on 70% kernel contours for all collared caribou (First set of collars: 2004 - 2007)
Probable Parturition Locations, based on the minimum distance travelled over 3 successive days in May and June
0
75
150
300
Kilometres
450
Datum: NAD83
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
²
Caribou Calving Areas Combined and
Probable Parturition Locations
for All Sets of Collars (2004 - 2014)
SCALE: 1:3,400,000
DATE: June 2015
PROJECT No: TC140504
FIGURE: 35
96°0'0"W
Th o m
88°0'0"W
84°0'0"W
80°0'0"W
p so n
ITOB
A
For t Severn
y
Ha
56°0'0"N
es
MAN
92°0'0"W
G od s
Win isk
P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\Wintering_Areas_CollarSet_Summary_Map_2.mxd
Polar Bear Provinical Park
54°0'0"N
C o bha m
Se v e rn
James Bay
A tt a
wa
pisk at
Akimiski
Island
Attawapiskat
in
W
En
LEGEND
any
y
Re d L
ak e
eg
n ip
A lb
Al ban
52°0'0"N
Fort Albany
O t o sk win
gli s h
Moosonee
Victor Mine
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Combined Overwintering Areas, based on 70% kernel contours for all collared caribou (First set of collars: 2004 - 2007)
Combined Overwintering Areas, based on 70% kernel contours for all collared caribou (Second set of collars: 2007 - 2010)
Caribou Overwintering Areas
for All Sets of Collars (2004 - 2015)
Combined Overwintering Areas, based on 70% kernel contours for all collared caribou (Third set of collars: 2010 - 2013)
Combined Overwintering Areas, based on 70% kernel contours for all collared caribou (Fourth set of collars: 2013 - 2015)
0
100
200
400
Kilometres
600
Datum: NAD83
²
SCALE: 1:4,400,000
DATE: June 2015
PROJECT No: TC140504
FIGURE: 36
85°0'0"W
84°0'0"W
83°0'0"W
82°0'0"W
53°0'0"N
Path: P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\Wolf_Density_Avg_2005_to_2014.mxd
James
Bay
52°30'0"N
Attawapiskat
Missisa
Lake
LEGEND
Average General Wolf Density
Low
Victor Diamond Mine
H
!
NOTES:
- Relative observation density values
within the aerial survey study area
were classified into five ordinal
categories based on the Jenks
optimization/natural breaks
classification technique
- There was no weighting applied
to survey points for track sightings
or animal sightings.
Medium Low
Community
Medium
Flight Lines (Labeled with ID at east end)
Medium High
High
0
12.5
25
50
Datum: NAD83
Projection: UTM Zone 17N
75
100
125
Kilometres
²
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Average of all Aerial Survey
Density Surfaces of Wolf Sightings and
Tracks (December 2005 - March 2014)
PROJECT No: TC140504
FIGURE: 37
SCALE: 1:600,000
DATE: June 2015
96°0'0"W
Th o m
88°0'0"W
84°0'0"W
80°0'0"W
p so n
ITOB
A
For t Severn
y
Ha
56°0'0"N
es
MAN
92°0'0"W
G od s
Win isk
P:\2014\Projects\TC140504_De_Beers_Victor_Mine_2014\09_GIS\FUPA_Report_2014\MXD\HomeRange_Areas_CollarSet_Summary_Map_1.mxd
Polar Bear Provinical Park
54°0'0"N
C o bha m
Se v e rn
James Bay
A tt a
wa
pisk at
Akimiski
Island
Attawapiskat
in
W
En
LEGEND
any
y
Re d L
ak e
eg
n ip
A lb
Al ban
52°0'0"N
Fort Albany
O t o sk win
gli s h
Moosonee
Victor Mine
VICTOR DIAMOND MINE
Combined Home Range Areas, based on 90% kernel contours for all collared caribou (First set of collars: 2004 - 2007)
Combined Home Range Areas, based on 90% kernel contours for all collared caribou (Second set of collars: 2007 - 2010)
Caribou Overall Home Range Areas
Combined Home Range Areas, based on 90% kernel contours for all collared caribou (Third set of collars: 2010 - 2013)
Combined Home Range Areas, based on 90% kernel contours for all collared caribou (Fourth set of collars: 2013 - end of April 2015)
0
100
200
400
Kilometres
600
Datum: NAD83
²
SCALE: 1:4,400,000
DATE: June 2015
PROJECT No: TC140504
FIGURE: 38
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eighth Annual Report – 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
DRAFT
APPENDIX A
LIST OF ACRONYMS
TC140504
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eight Annual Report – 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
DRAFT
LIST OF ACRONYMS
AMM
AMS
ANCOVA
AttFN
BACI
BCI
BOD5
CEAA
CEM
CEMI
CEQG
CES
COC
C. of A.
CPUE
CQ
CSR
dBA
DFO
EA
EC
EEM
EMC
FAFN
FN
FUPA
GPS
HCl
IBA
ICP
JBET
KFN
LOA
MBR
MCFN
MCP
MERC
MMER
MNDM
MNRF
MOECC
NEF
NRCan
NSERC
NWF
PC
PKC
POI
PTTW
PWQO
ROW
Adaptive management measure
Adaptive management strategy
Analysis of Covariance
Attawapiskat First Nation
Before-After-Control-Impact
Bray-Curtis Index
5-day biological oxygen demand
Canadian Environmental Assessment Act
Continuous emission monitoring
Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation
Canadian Environmental Quality Guidelines
Critical Effect Size
Contaminants of Concern
Certificate of Approval
Catch per unit effort
Central Quarry
Comprehensive Study Report
A-weighted decibels
Department of Fisheries and Oceans
Environmental Assessment
Environment Canada
Environmental Effluent Monitoring
Environmental Management Committee
Fort Albany First Nation
First Nation (or First Nations)
Follow up Program Agreement
Global positioning system
Hydrogen chloride
Impact Benefit Agreement
Inductively coupled plasma
James Bay Employment and Training
Kashechewan First Nation
Letter of Authorization
Membrane bioreactor
Moose Cree First Nation
Minimum convex polygon
Mushkegowuk Environmental Research Centre
Metal Mining Effluent Regulations
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry
Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change
Northeast Fen
Natural Resources Canada
Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council
Northwest Fen
Processed kimberlite
Processed kimberlite containment
Point-of-impingement
Permit to Take Water
Provincial Water Quality Objectives
Right-of-way
Victor Diamond Mine
Follow Up Program Agreement
Eight Annual Report – 2014 Reporting Period
September 2015
SAC
SEF
SIMC
SQ
STP
SWF
TC
TEK
THC
TID
TSP
TSS
TTN
US EPA
VDM
VDW
VTS
WSC
WHMIS
YOY
ZOI
DRAFT
Spills Action Centre
Southeast Fen
Senior Implementation Management Committee
South Quarry
Sewage treatment plant
Southwest Fen
Transport Canada
Traditional Ecological Knowledge
Total hydrocarbons
Total Invertebrate Density
Total suspended particulate
Total suspended solids
Taykwa Tagamou Nation
United States Environmental Protection Agency
Victor Diamond Mine
Victor dewatering well
Victor Tyrrell Sea
Water Survey Canada
Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System
Young-of-year
Zone of Influence
