Abstract:

Mine reclamation and closure plans have historically focused on returning disturbed lands to a vegetative community, often without consideration of the pre-existing natural vegetation, resulting in sites dominated by non-native agronomic species. Once established, agronomic grass communities often dominate, restricting native species, and enter a stable state with little successional advancement. Regulatory standards, local community engagement and mines operating on Indigenous territories have now shifted their closure objectives towards community-engaged closure which places more value on ecosystem function and native biodiversity. Large scale disturbances, notably fire, have historically structured grasslands both naturally and through Indigenous cultural use, and can alter successional trajectory. We tested the effects of prescribed burning in a 24-year old mine-reclaimed, agronomic-dominated closed tailings storage facility as a means of shifting an agronomic community to a native grassland. Our objectives were to test the effects of prescribed burning in the field and in a controlled greenhouse experiment to assess: a) if prescribed fire can transition low diversity agronomic driven communities to a native plant community ; b) the role fire severity plays in the vegetative community under mesocosm conditions; c) plant biodiversity. Semi-structured interviews were also completed to assess: d) what level of involvement, and what role the Nlaka’pamux peoples had in the field portion of the prescribed fire project. Fire severity was modified within the greenhouse trial at three levels (high, moderate, low) and held constant (moderate) in the field. Fire severity adjustments were made via modifying the fuel load and time of burning per treatment. Plant community composition shifted as a result of the burning treatment. Greater effects were found in the greenhouse trial, likely due to better control of the burn, such that native species colonization was observed. Our experiment provides a novel approach in mine reclamation.

Biography of the presenter: My name is Brandon Williams and I am a biologist and ecologist committed to research and the application and enrichment of these subjects for future generations. I have a strong drive to succeed in all facets of my life whether it be by conducting sound science or mastering the art of my fly-fishing hobby. I am a steward of the earths ecosystems and am motivated by the vision of being able to pass on the same experiences to my children as I have had with nature. I am a self motivated, driven, and self starting individual that has the capacity to lead others, inspire and think creatively. My passion for studying the three R's (Reclamation, Restoration & Rehabilitation) is guided by my strong commitment as a biologist and professional practitioner to leave behind a legacy in which I have contributed positively towards sustaining nature that can continue to support future generations. My current research as a graduate student examines a unique collaboration and partnership between Teck Highland Valley Copper mine and the Nlaka’pamux first nation. The building and foundation of this relationship rests on the intent to collaborate on the goal of reclaiming ecosystem function to mined landscapes, by reintroducing traditional Indigenous knowledge of prescribed burning.

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Lauchlan Fraser