The contract is worth an aggregate of C$3.5 million (US$2.9 million) and will be delivered over a two-year term in partnership with Det'on Cho Management, the economic development arm of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation.
Operation of the effluent treatment plant involves treatment of water that is pumped from the mine and all surface water that is directed to and collected in tailings ponds. Crews treat the water continuously throughout the day and night during the treatment season, which is generally from July to September.
The treatment works to remove contaminants from the water through a settling process prior to environmental release. Water discharged to the environment must meet stringent criteria established by regulatory authorities for the protection of human health and the environment.
The effluent treatment plant is an important component of the overall Giant mine remediation project, a government-funded initiative with Parsons as the main construction manager. BluMetric and Det'on Cho successfully concluded a one-year contract delivering these same services for the 2020 season.
BluMetric stated that work during the 2020 season highlighted the company's adaptability and knowledge in dealing with operating conditions in the Northwest Territories, as well as its ability to deliver quality service under stringent and controlled conditions required for the effluent treatment plant.
Service delivery also addressed the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Health and safety restrictions and protocols required to protect against COVID-19 are expected to remain in place for the short- to mid-term.
Scott MacFabe, CEO of BluMetric, said: "We're proud to build on our existing service success at Giant Mine and strong track record in Canada's North to deliver on this important remediation project. We're looking forward to leveraging our experience and versatility, and that of our valuable partner, Det'on Cho, to continue to support the people and environment of the North."
