History and future of mine reclamation in British Columbia

In British Columbia, environmental protection and reclamation is a major component of all mineral exploration and mine development activity. Since 1969 mining companies have been required by law to reclaim all lands disturbed by mining. B.C. was one of the first jurisdictions in Canada to enact mine reclamation legislation, and the first to extend this policy to exploration sites. Mining companies are also required to obtain a reclamation permit and place a security deposit with the Province. These deposits are held until reclamation is completed. The duties of the Reclamation Section include: review and issue mine reclamation permits; inspection of reclamation at mines; administration of reclamation security deposits on behalf of the provincial government; and participation in selected committees and activities to enhance mine reclamation in the province, including the Technical and Research Committee on Reclamation, the British Columbia Acid Mine Drainage Task Force, and the national Mine Environment Neutral Drainage committee.Non UBCUnreviewedOthe