How Does Land Reclamation Work

Land reclamation is common practice among energy companies and other related industries, and seeks to restore used or disturbed land to its original state.

Process of Land Reclamation

Land reclamation is an intensive practice involving well-outlined processes and high levels of expertise handling sophisticated resources. Typically, the land reclamation process can be broken down into three stages; pre-reclamation, reclamation and post reclamation.

Pre-Reclamation

This stage begins near the end of the project and outlines how the land will be reclaimed by the company. This strategy covers what’s needed to achieve their own goals and a legislated requirement for the approval to commence work. 

Pre-reclamation consists of the following operations;

• Mapping/survey of the site. Gathering data such as topography, soil type, landscape sequence, and contour pattern for subsurface studies.
• 3D model generation and interpretation to determine the exact anticipated reclamation method to utilize.
• Current and future environmental impact assessments are conducted to help build the reclamation plan and design that will be submitted for approval.

During reclamation

The execution of the predetermined reclamation depends on the needs of the land and the nature of the activity carried out by the company. Reclamation operation can be any of the following.

• Landfilling – this involves replacing the soil excavated from the site and restoring the fertility and competency of the area. 
• Revegetation- replanting the necessary seeds to restore or improve vegetation.
• Water quality testing - ensuring the quality of the water is sufficient to the needs of those relying on it
• Drainage - ensuring proper grading and drainage is in place to help avoid future floods or irrigation challenges. 
• Other specialized operations may occur depending on the reclamation goals.

Post-reclamation

During this inspection mode the appropriate bodies and the heads of the company come on-site to inspect if the reclamation is in compliance with governing policies and in sync with the approved reclamation plan.

The Laws Guiding Land Reclamation 

Land reclamation is bounded by several laws. The Bureau of Reclamation coupled with the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers spear head this task and ensure compliance. The break down of reclamation laws include;

• A baseline description of the activity that is to take place on the land must be given 
• The reclamation plan showing how the reclamation will be done must be provided prior to approval.
• Landowners have the right to negotiate compensation for activities that affect their land
• All equipment must be taken out of site before reclamation can begin and after its completed
• The water remaining in a drilling pit must be disposed of appropriately, according to law
• The operators of the site are responsible for reclaiming the land until it meets the satisfaction of those who mandate the improvement. 

These are just a few law highlights.

Importance of Land Reclamation 

Land reclamation holds a good measure of benefits to man and the entire ecosystem. Land reclamation facilitates.

• Biodiversity
• Habitats for man, plants, and animals
• Increase food production
• Boost climate and the environment 

If you’re looking for land reclamation in Fort McMurray, Nowhere Saskatchewan, Bella Coola, BC, and everywhere in between at Strongfield Environmental Solutions we know how to create your ideal solution for any job.

Schedule a meeting with us and you’ll see why we are the most reliable and successful land reclamation company in the industry. Contact us today!