In preparation for remediation and closure of the Faro Mine Complex (FMC), significant work has
been completed to develop and test revegetation methods at the mine site. Development and
implementation of various revegetation field trials and strategies has been occurring since 2007 to
gain knowledge on successful revegetation techniques at this challenging northern site. This paper
focuses on revegetation efforts and subsequent monitoring at the Grum Overburden slope and Grum
Sulphide Cell (GSC).
Grum Overburden site revegetation activities involved the implementation of trials
covering approximately two hectares on soils to be used as a reclamation cover. Different grass
seed mixes were applied with and without fertilizer, and woody species (alder, willow, and poplar)
were planted in the seeded plots. Four years of monitoring have demonstrated that revegetation
success was primarily dependant on fertilization and erosion protection was heavily influenced by
site preparation method.
Revegetation at the GSC will provide ground cover for erosion protection and develop a long-term,
self- sustaining system integrated with the mine surroundings. Building on results from Grum
Overburden site, the 2012 revegetation prescriptions included hydroseeding, fertilization, planting
of woody species, and hydration-paks. Early monitoring results from the summer of 2013 will
provide insight on the success of the revegetation works at the GSC site.