Cameco, Key Lake Operation is located in North-Central Saskatchewan, on the southern boundaries of Athabasca formation. Exploration in the early seventies led to the discovery, development and mining (1982-1997) of two uranium ore bodies, the Gaertner and Deilmann pits. The regreening of the disturbed areas at Key Lake started in late seventies when numerous experimental plots were set up to study the establishment and survival of various agronomic species and their adaptability to the harsh environmental conditions in the Athabasca Region of northern Saskatchewan.
To date, research and experiences gained, indicate that the best method to stabilize a site is to follow a methodology which is similar to the pattern in nature and utilize native species from the surrounding area. To enhance the process, native or imported pioneering species capable of stabilizing and paving the way for the climax species must be used. The research also indicates that even though the slope areas pose similar challenges as the flat areas, the issue of erosion control on slopes is far more complex than on flat areas.