Industrial residues in Northern Ontario : A field study of wood ash and sludge for mine site soil rehabilitation and biodiversity in the Sudbury basin

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The present study is an examination into the viability of using a wood-ash treatment for the purpose of soil remediation on acidified soils resulting from smelting operations. The study follows a pilot project done between the Natural Sciences and Engineering Council of Canada, Atlantic Power Corporation and Collège Boréal. In a controlled greenhouse setting, wood-ash from Atlantic Power Corporation was found to have statistically significant and positive effects on soil nutrients and tree seedling growth. This study is meant to corroborate the results of the greenhouse research by conducting field trials to determine the effectiveness of the wood-ash on soil affected by a century of mining-related activities. The wood-ash from Atlantic Power also has a low nitrogen content. Therefore, in addition to corroborating the results of the greenhouse study, the purpose of the field trial will be to determine the most effective source of nitrogen (e.g., pulp sludge, N-Rich soil) and the appropriate concentration of nitrogen to be combined with wood-ash to maximize soil fertility and plant growth to achieve biodiversity. Glencore - Sudbury Integrated Nickel Operations has joined the partnership with hopes that the wood-ash could be used on its mining properties. The results could provide the multi-national mining company with an inexpensive and environmentally friendly alternative to liming and fertilising to reduce soil acidity and improve soil nutrients. For Atlantic Power Corporation, they will have empirical evidence supporting the efficacy of their ash on acidified mining land and one potential end-user (i.e., Glencore Sudbury INO) meaning that they no longer need to landfill their wood-ash. Lastly, the professors and students from Collège Boréal will enhance their research skill set with regards to establishing research protocols, data collection and analysis.