ABSTRACT
The term rehabilitation is less commonly used in Canada, but implies that the land is returned to a form and productivity in conformity with a prior land use plan. This chapter discusses three broad classes of mine operations in Canada- oil sands, metals, and coal. It focuses on specifics of each mine type, with case studies of successful mine reclamation practices to address relevant environmental impacts. Sustainable resource development goes beyond addressing environmental impacts of mining operations through reclamation after the mining ceases. It requires that the mining operations themselves be conducted with a minimal impact on the environment. Canadian mining procedures and reclamation approaches attain this sustainable state through implementing various impact mitigation practices at all stages of mining operations, and balancing the utilization of resources for economic gain with the protection of the environment. The criteria for mine reclamation should be clearly defined at the initial phase of mining planning and possibly incorporated into best management practices (BMP).
