Pierre River Mine Project

TERRESTRIAL AENV SIRS 44 – 78
Reference
Section 13.1
reclamation salvage programs. Reclamation suitability ratings are correlated to
the soil and terrain mapping by the monitoring personnel and implemented
during the direction of soil salvage operations. Operational scale assessments of
reclamation suitability are confirmed using soil classification (soil series) and
texture as guiding principles.
As described in the response to the December 2009 Jackpine Mine Expansion,
Supplemental Information, Volume 2, SIR 383a, soil salvage planning includes
soil test pitting sample collection and lab analysis (in addition to field tests for
calcareous materials, texture and pH) during the 100 m by 100 m test pitting
process carried out one year ahead of salvage activities. The test pits are typically
up to 2.5 m deep in peat areas and 1.5 m deep in upland areas. Lab analyses of
soil samples help to determine surface soil and subsoil reclamation suitability
using the Soil Quality Criteria Relative to Disturbance and Reclamation –
Revised (Alberta Agriculture 1987). Results of the field and lab analyses are
reviewed and integrated into salvage planning for the subsequent year to ensure
that soil quality assessments are proactive and consistent.
Alberta Agriculture. 1987. Soil Quality Criteria Relative to Disturbance and
Reclamation – Revised. Prepared by the Soil Quality Working Group for
Alberta Agriculture. Edmonton, AB.
Request 45b Describe the field methods that will be used to identify surface and subsoil
reclamation suitability during soil salvage operations, including any sampling
and analysis programs that may be used.
Response 45b See the response to AENV SIR 45a.
Question No. 46
Request Volume 2, SIR 422a-b, Page 23-41.
Shell indicates that they have not studied the areas associated with diversion
channels C6 and C11 as part of the EIA. Shell also states that their size is such
that they will not materially affect the results of the EIA.
46a Confirm that there are no other areas outside of the LSA that have not been
studied (e.g., diversion channel C4).
Response 46a Portions of drainage channels C4, C6 and C11 (see EIA, Volume 5, Appendix 5-
2, Figure 4) are outside of the terrestrial resources local study area. The total area
associated with these portions, including the channel, assumed construction areas
and dykes, is 599 ha.
April 2010 Shell Canada Limited 13-3
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