The Aquatic Effects Monitoring Program (AEMP) plays a crucial role in assessing the health of aquatic ecosystems surrounding Ekati mine. This year’s program ran from July through September and involved Burgundy’s environmental department collaborating with Tłı̨chǫ Logistics Inc., a labour management and site services provider that works primarily with northern companies, government, and industry to supply skilled Tłı̨chǫ workers for various client projects and contracts. Their combined efforts reflect Burgundy’s dedication to environmental stewardship and collaboration with its community partners.
As one third of the Ekati mine claim block is covered with water, the AEMP is designed to monitor the short- and long-term effects of mining activities on lakes and streams near the mine. This year’s program focused on 14 water bodies, where fish species such as Slimy Sculpin, Lake Trout, and Round Whitefish were sampled. Gillnetting was used to provide sample fish data to assess the ecological effects of mining operations. By gathering this information, the program determines where mitigation efforts are needed to minimize environmental impacts and ensures the mine’s activities align with Burgundy’s sustainability goals.
A key strength of the program lies in the involvement of the Tłı̨chǫ Logistics Inc. team, who actively participated in the sampling process, supporting fieldwork activities by operating boats, deploying gillnets, and carefully handling fish. They also shared their knowledge insights into fish health and lake conditions. Their advice on where to set gillnets ensured efficient sample collection, which improved the program’s overall effectiveness. Community consultations, workshops, and traditional knowledge-sharing sessions, further shaped the program’s design by blending Indigenous expertise with scientific methods, resulting in an enhanced holistic approach to environmental monitoring efforts.
“The AEMP is a great example of how Burgundy works together with community partners to develop Ekati mine in a way that is protective of the environment and in alignment with our sustainability commitments,” said Sheila Chernys Head of Health, Safety, Environment, Communities and Training at Burgundy.
“The program demonstrates the collaboration between traditional knowledge and scientific research in fostering environmental stewardship. This partnership highlights Burgundy’s dedication to safeguarding the land and water while strengthening connections with the local communities that inhabit the region.”
The data collected during the AEMP will undergo a detailed evaluation, with findings to be compiled and submitted in an annual report for stakeholder review and approval to the Wek’èezhìi Land and Water Board. The results will provide insight into biological trends that will inform future environmental management strategies to confirm Ekati mine continues to meet its sustainability comm\itments.
