Instrumented Slope Facet Reclamation Research Trial

Shell Canada Energy (formerly Albian Sands Energy Inc.) launched a reclamation trial in 2003 at the Muskeg River Mine to evaluate the performance of soil cover systems on a constructed slope. The trial site includes three sections—Upper Tier, 4H:1V Slope, and Lower Tier—and features a layered cover system of reclamation material over tailings sand and a compacted lean oil sand base. A 15 cm LFH layer was added in 2007 to support vegetation growth. The scope of work includes monitoring climate, in situ temperature and moisture, runoff and interflow volumes, erosion, and vegetation development. The project aims to assess slope performance, compare water dynamics between slope positions, and develop annual water balances to inform long-term reclamation strategies.

From 2004 to 2009, the reclamation trial at the Muskeg River Mine provided consistent insights into slope performance under site-specific climate conditions. Monitoring showed that moisture was generally higher at the lower slope due to lateral water movement, with the LFH layer added in 2007 beginning to influence moisture retention. Temperature patterns were consistent across slope positions, and freezing reached the LOS base annually. Vegetation began to establish in 2008–2009, though plant water demand remained low. Actual evaporation accounted for 56–73% of annual precipitation, while runoff ranged from 25–44%. Interflow volumes fluctuated, declining over time before increasing again in 2009. Recommendations across all reports emphasized continued monitoring, regular maintenance of instruments and weirs, erosion control, and promoting vegetation growth to improve moisture retention and reduce runoff.