Mine Reclamation

We fully incorporate land reclamation into our long-term plans for all our mines. Mine activities are designed to prevent erosion, conserve topsoil, where possible, and restore the area in a way that allows the previous land use to be continued. The reclamation process is closely monitored and reported against regulations and our own standards.

Our programs to reclaim and improve mined land are adapted to local ecosystems and stakeholders needs. At our mines around Wabamun Lake much of the reclaimed land is used for agriculture and recreation, while at Centralia reclaimed land is used for timberland and wetlands development.

36% of land reclaimed

There are 9,112 hectares (22,516 acres) of land at the Whitewood, Highvale and Centralia mine sites. At the end of 2004, 36 per cent, or 3,256 hectares (8,046 acres), of this land was reclaimed.

Creating wetlands at Centralia

At Centralia, we finished the first phase of converting a former mining pit to a permanent wetland. The shoreline surrounding the 33-hectare (81-acre) pit was contoured and topsoil applied. We plan to replant the area with native vegetation in 2005. In converting the area to a natural wetland ecosystem, we consulted with a leading environmental consultant to determine the appropriate characteristics of the landscape.

During the year, we also submitted a revised mining and land reclamation plan for our Centralia mine to the U.S. Office of Surface Mining. The new plan is designed to improve operating efficiencies while reducing environmental risks. The plan’s recommendations include improved storage of mine tailings and designing the post-mine landscape to closely emulate natural conditions so as to reduce erosion and other environmental risks. Parts of the plan, including tailings storage, have been approved by the regulator for construction in 2005.

Whitewood Conservation Properties opened

We partner with local conservation groups to create lasting environmental legacies. In 2004, we participated, along with the Alberta Fish and Game Association, in the official opening of the Wabamun Whitewood Conservation Properties, at Wabamun, Alberta.

The properties have been established for wildlife and habitat conservation, education and recreation, and include over 170 hectares (420 acres) of reclaimed land from our Whitewood coal mine, and nearly 200 hectares (490 acres) of untouched native parkland. The area is home to white-tail deer, mule deer, moose, elk, ruffed grouse, ducks, geese, woodpeckers and songbirds, as well as a variety of fish in East Pit Lake.

Protecting habitat at Centralia

In 2004, TransAlta purchased the Skookumchuck Dam. This dam and reservoir complex supplies water to our power plant and mine operation at Centralia, Washington state. As part of this purchase, we acquired a 380-hectare (960-acre) wildlife area downstream from the dam. Working in cooperation with the state Department of Fish and Wildlife, we manage this area, a mix of forests, meadows and wetlands, which provides protective cover and nesting habitat for many species of wildlife, including deer, elk, waterfowl and upland game birds.