RECLAMATION: Geoscience BC funds pair of studies

VANCOUVER – Geoscience B.C. has agreed to fund two new research projects to improve mine site reclamation. The work will be carried out in  partnership with the new federally funded Chair in Ecosystem Reclamation at Thompson Rivers University (TRU). The first project is called Soil Amendments in Mine Closure. The soil microbiota will be measured through DNA sequencing. The results will be used to determine the soil health of various topsoil stockpiles at mines throughout the province. The effectiveness of soil amendments that may improve the health of topsoil will also be tested. The second project is Understanding Invertebrate Dynamics Using DNA Barcoding. Invertebrate species diversity and composition will be used as a measure of biodiversity at mine sites in the province. Commenting on the news, Geoscience BC president and CEO Gavin C. Dirom said, “Geoscience BC is excited that Dr. Lauchlan Fraser is the new chair in Ecosystem Reclamation, and we are proud to be involved in the partnership. We know that new science to improve mine reclamation is important to the mining sector, communities, First Nations and government.” More information on these projects are available on the Geoscience BC website www.GeoscienceBC.com or click on one of the links below. Soil Amendments in Mine Closure. Understanding Invertebrate Dynamics Using DNA Barcoding.