Hydrogeological Investigations of a Mine Containing Arsenic-Trioxide Waste Repositories

Giant Mine Hydrogeology Study

A project funded by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada

Collaborators: Mr. G.G. Bursey, Dr. J. Gale, Fracflow Consultants Inc.

The Giant Mine is located near Yellowknife NWT, and has been in operation for about 50 years. The issue being addressed is the underground storage of 280,000 tonnes of arsenic trioxide, a by-product of the ore refining process. Our study team is working with DIAND to address practical issues related to the safety of the waste, including physical, geochemical, and isotopic tracing of the groundwater regime and fate of potential arsenic contamination. The mine is situated within the Baker Creek watershed.