Germination and identification of indigenous plant species in Albian Sands Energy Inc. stripped soil used for reclamation of mined site & Effects of smoke water application on germination of seeds of selected boreal forest plant species

This study explores the viability of native seed banks in topsoil used for reclamation at mined sites in Fort McMurray, Alberta, with a focus on the potential of smoke water to stimulate seed germination. Reclaimed land is typically covered with stored topsoil containing indigenous seeds and microorganisms, but prolonged storage may reduce seed viability. Research has shown that plant-derived smoke, particularly the compound butenolide, can promote germination across various species by mimicking scarification and enhancing water and oxygen uptake. Preliminary tests at Albian Sands indicated that both commercial and homemade smoke water improved germination, prompting further investigation into its effects on selected boreal forest species to identify those that are smoke-responsive.

Germination tests showed that smoke water can moderately enhance seed emergence in some boreal species, particularly under normal moisture conditions and with ARC/Albian homemade smoke water. However, overall germination rates were low across both natural and stripped soils, and results lacked strong statistical significance due to variability and technical limitations. Dominant species in natural soils included Epilobium angustifolium and Thlaspi arvense, while Cornus stolonifera showed the best response in follow-up tests. Poor germination may be linked to untested seed viability and long-term storage. The study recommends pre-testing seed viability, refining stratification protocols, conducting further research on smoke water’s effects on viable seeds, and increasing seed stocks under nursery conditions to support revegetation and maintain genetic diversity.