DNA-Based Technologies to Evaluate Successful Reclamation

The objective of this work was to explore the application of DNA-based technologies to evaluate reclamation efforts at various sites at Imperial’s Cold Lake Operations. Soils from several sites that have undergone various levels of reclamation, as well as undisturbed adjacent reference sites, were sampled and analyzed by next generation DNA sequencing. Biodiversity was studied at all ecological levels – bacteria, fungi, plants, animals. Results from the reclamation sites were compared to reference sites. Similarities and differences between biodiversity at each site were highlighted and the ecological status of the reclaimed sites assessed, and emerging indicators of ecosystem health were identified.

Biological communities in sites with newer reclamation practices were more similar to the communities in reference sites. Trends in fungi community analysis generally aligned with what was observed in the plant community. Specific individuals of both fungi and metazoans can be potential bioindicator species, as key taxa from these biological groups were consistently observed in undisturbed (reference) sites and emerged over time in reclaimed sites. One reclaimed site showed a higher similarity to reference among communities of plants, fungi and metazoans, indicating it is on the right trajectory. Continuous sampling and monitoring are needed to confirm trends. This work has shown that DNA-based tools can be useful for monitoring the status and trajectory of reclaimed sites.