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Oil Sands Environmental Management Bibliography

The Cumulative Environmental Management Association (CEMA)partnered with the Oil Sands Research and Information Network (OSRIN) to create the new Oil Sands Environmental Management Bibliography, which includes documents relevant to the environmental management of oil sands development in Alberta. The majority of the documents focus on the mineable oil sands in the Athabasca deposit, though some documents relate to in-situ developments. This bibliography was last updated in November 2014.

Fact or fiction: Oil sands reclamation

Authors Grant, J., Dyer S., & Woynillowicz D.
Year of Publication: 2008

Citation:
Grant, J., Dyer S., & Woynillowicz D. (2008).  Fact or fiction: Oil sands reclamation. 75 pages .
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Factors affecting ecological resilience of reclaimed oil sands uplands

Authors Welham, C.
Year of Publication: 2013

Citation:
Welham, C. (2013).  Factors affecting ecological resilience of reclaimed oil sands uplands.
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Factors affecting future development in key economic sectors in the Peace, Athabasca and Slave River Basins

Authors
Year of Publication: 1996

Abstract:
This report provides an initial overview of the key economic sectors that may have a particularly significant impact on the Northern River Basin study area over the next two decades. These sectors, agriculture, energy, forestry and manufacturing, form the current foundation of the northern economy

Citation:
[Anonymous] (1996).  Factors affecting future development in key economic sectors in the Peace, Athabasca and Slave River Basins. (Nichols Applied Management, Ed.). 28 pages . Abstract  Download: 0-662-24358-7.pdf (1.61 MB)
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Factors influencing the efficacy of human effigies in deterring waterfowl from polluted ponds

Authors Gulley, J. R.
Year of Publication: 1980

Citation:
Gulley, J. R. (1980).  Factors influencing the efficacy of human effigies in deterring waterfowl from polluted ponds. 75 pages .
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Factors that affect the degradation of naphthenic acids in oil sands wastewater by indigenous microbial communities

Authors Lai, J. W. S., Pinto L. J., Kiehlmann E., Bendell-Young L. I., & Moore M. M.
Year of Publication: 1996

Abstract:
The acute toxicity of wastewater generated during the extraction of bitumen from oil sands is believed to be due to naphthenic acids (NAs). To determine the factors that affect the rate of degradation of representative NAs in microcosms containing wastewater and the acute toxicity of treated and untreated wastewater, the effects of temperature, dissolved oxygen concentration, and phosphate addition on the rate of 14CO2 release from two representative naphthenic acid substrates, (linear) U-14C-palmitic acid (PA) and (bicyclic) decahydro-2-naphthoic acid-8-14C (DHNA), were monitored. Tailings pond water (TPW) contained microorganisms well adapted to mineralizing both PA and DHNA: PA was degraded more quickly (10–15% in 4 weeks) compared to DHNA (2–4% in 8 weeks). On addition of phosphate, the rate of NA degradation increased up to twofold in the first 4 weeks, with a concurrent increase in the rate of oxygen consumption by oil sands TPW. The degradation rate then declined to levels equivalent to those measured in flasks without phosphate. The observed plateau was not due to phosphate limitation. Decreases in either the dissolved oxygen concentration or the temperature reduced the rate. Phosphate addition also significantly decreased the acute toxicity of TPW to fathead minnows. In contrast, Microtox® analyses showed no reduction in the toxicity of treated or untreated TPW after incubation for up to 8 weeks at 15°C.

Citation:
Lai, J. W. S., Pinto L. J., Kiehlmann E., Bendell-Young L. I., & Moore M. M. (1996).  Factors that affect the degradation of naphthenic acids in oil sands wastewater by indigenous microbial communities. 15(9), 9 pages . Abstract
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Factors to consider in estimating oil sands plant decommissioning costs

Authors Morton Sr., M., Mullick A., Nelson J., & Thonton W.
Year of Publication: 2011

Abstract:
This report provides a number of cost estimating factors, common terminology and common practices derived from industrial decommissioning projects, international cost estimating practices and the outcome of a joint university, industry and regulator workshop. The cost estimation factors identified in this report represent common practice in the decommissioning industry and are intended to cover the key cost components for a detailed oil sands plant decommissioning cost estimate. This report also identifies factors that may affect the reliability of the estimates (i.e., the level of uncertainty and therefore an indication of the contingency factors that may need to be applied to the estimate). Significant factors contributing to a detailed oil sands facility Mine Financial Security Program (MFSP) Liability project cost estimates include: • Scope Definition • Assumptions • Basis of Estimate • Site Environmental Assessment(s)/Physical Plant/Residual Materials/Hazards • Shutdown/Isolation/Hazards Removal • Demolition/Dismantling/Salvage/Recycle • Remediation/Decontamination • Risk Analysis • Long Term Monitoring • Liability Estimate Revisions The intent of this document is to supplement the existing guidance on the content of the MFSP Liability value that is in the Guide to the Mine Financial Security Program. The report does not prescribe what needs to be included at any point in the Approval Holder’s MFSP estimate. Included in the report are the things one should consider at some point in the life cycle of the oil sands plant (especially close to the time the Operating Life Deposit is made) and some information on the methodology and accuracy of estimates. Similarly, the intent is not to prescribe when the Approval Holder chooses to include increased detail or accuracy to the estimates – this is the Approval Holder’s decision. The report does offer suggestions (e.g., estimate methods, content, and when and why the accuracy of the estimate might be updated, etc.) to assist in developing an estimate.

Citation:
Morton Sr., M., Mullick A., Nelson J., & Thonton W. (2011).  Factors to consider in estimating oil sands plant decommissioning costs. 62 pages . Abstract
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Facts about Alberta's oil sands and its industry

Authors
Year of Publication: 1985

Citation:
[Anonymous] (1985).  Facts about Alberta's oil sands and its industry. (Oil Sands Discovery Centre, Ed.). 48 pages .
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Fall fish collections from the Peace, Athabasca and Slave River drainages

Authors Jacobson, T. - L., & Boag T. D.
Year of Publication: 1995

Abstract:
The purpose of this project was to collect and prepare fish from 23 sites on the Peace, Athabasca and Slave River drainages for conducting physical, physiological, contaminant and biophysical analyses. Sites were located on the Peace, Smoky, Little Smoky, Wapiti, Wabasca, Athabasca, McLeod, Pembina, Lesser Slave and Clearwater Rivers. The fish species targeted for collection and analyses were burbot (primary target species), northern pike, longnose sucker and flathead chub. The sampling and handling protocols for the collection of fish tissues were designed to allow for a wide range of contaminant and biochemical analyses on an individual fish. There analyses included gross pathology, contaminant, metals (e.g., mercury), liver mixed function oxygenase induction, sex steroids and gonad morphology, retinols (Vitamin A), metallothioneins (proteins produced by exposure to heavy metals) and basic life history information.

Citation:
Jacobson, T. - L., & Boag T. D. (1995).  Fall fish collections from the Peace, Athabasca and Slave River drainages. 194 pages . Abstract  Download: 0-662-24483-4.pdf (28.93 MB)
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Fall fisheries investigations in the Athabasca and Clearwater Rivers upstream of Fort McMurray: Volume I

Authors Jones, M. L., Mann G. J., & McCart P. J.
Year of Publication: 1978

Abstract:
Fisheries investigations were undertaken in the Athabasca and Clearwater rivers upstream of Fort McMurray in the fall of 1977. The major emphasis of these studies was to delineate actual and potential spawning areas for lake whitefish in the Athabasca and Clearwater rivers. Lake whitefish were found to spawn during mid-October in the mainstem of the Athabasca River from Fort McMurray upstream to Cascade Rapids, a distance of approximately 32 km. The major concentrations of spawning lake whitefish were immediately below Mountain Rapids (24 km upstream of Fort McMurray). There was no evidence of lake whitefish spawning in the Clearwater River. Spawning generally occurred in fast water over broken rock, rubble, and coarse gravel substrates. While recaptures were insufficient to calculate a population estimate by scientific means, the spawning population is large, certainly numbering tens of thousands of fish. Post-spawning tag returns indicate that the lake whitefish spawners moved downstream immediately after spawning, returning to the Peace-Athabasca Delta. The Athabasca River upstream of Fort McMurray provides critical spawning habitat for lake whitefish. Other important fish species, including goldeye, longnose sucker, walleye, and northern pike, also occur in the project study area.

Citation:
Jones, M. L., Mann G. J., & McCart P. J. (1978).  Fall fisheries investigations in the Athabasca and Clearwater Rivers upstream of Fort McMurray: Volume I. 71 pages . Abstract
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Fate and transport of naphthenic acids in glacial aquifers

Authors Gervais, F. J. M.
Year of Publication: 2004

Abstract:
Naphthenic acids (NAs) are carboxylated alkanes and cycloalkanes concentrated in wastewater during oil sands processing. The general chemical formula is CnHn+Z O2, where n represents the number of carbon atoms and Z specifies a homologous family with 0-6 rings (Z=0 to Z=-12). The wastewater is acutely toxic to surface water organisms and is stored in tailings ponds with over 230 million m3 of fines tailings and free water. The purpose of this thesis was to provide a preliminary evaluation of the potential attenuation of NAs during groundwater flow from the ponds. Laboratory studies were conducted to evaluate possible attenuation mechanisms. Aerobes from aquifer material degraded 60% of the NAs over 20 weeks in laboratory microcosms. The greatest decrease occurred in the low molecular weight bicyclic homologues with 12 to 16 carbons. The microbial activity confirms that aerobic naphthenate-degrading bacteria occur naturally in the glacial aquifer near Suncor’s Pond 2/3. These results support the hypothesis that limited aerobic biodegradation of the smaller components of NAs could occur relatively rapidly under field conditions. There was no measurable decrease in NA concentration over six months in anaero- bic microcosms, although microbial activity did lead to sulfate-reducing and methano- genic conditions. The theoretical retardation in glacio-fluvial sands was calculated using soil-water partitioning coefficients (Kd) determined by batch equilibration experiments using a mixture of naturally occurring naphthenic acids as well as the nine surrogates. The retardation (porosity of 0.3, bulk density of 1.5 g/mL) ranged from 1.2 to 2.6. However, no measurable sorption was seen at the field sites. Detailed characterization allows us to examine how the proportions of homologue, or groups of molecules with the same molecular weight and number of cycloalkane rings, vary. Aerobic biodegradation favoured removal of low molecular weight NAs. A 15% mass loss attributed to sorption caused no changes in the 3D signature. Thus, changes in NA “signature” in groundwater systems were then attributed to aerobic biodegradation. Three plumes were examined for evidence of attenuation of NAs via biodegrada- tion. First, the individual samples were classified as background, possibly process- affected or process-affected using a combination of Piper diagrams, the stable isotopes oxygen-18 and deuterium, dissolved chloride and sodium, as well as the total naph- thenic acids concentration. Second, in order to estimate attenuation due to dispersive dilution, a linear correlation line was drawn between various conservative tracers and the naphthenic acids concentration. This allowed the identification of certain samples as possibly having a lower concentration of NAs than could be expected from simple dispersive dilution. Third, the 3D signature of certain samples were examined for the presence of the aerobic biodegradation 3D signature. One site showed good evidence for aerobic biodegradation of naphthenic acids. A second site showed some evidence for biodegradation under methanogenic conditions but the evidence was not definitive. The evidence at the third site was contradictory and no conclusions could be drawn from it. This research suggests some attenuation of NAs by biodegradation may be possible during groundwater flow.

Citation:
Gervais, F. J. M. (2004).  Fate and transport of naphthenic acids in glacial aquifers. 530 pages . Abstract
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Fate and transport of oil sand process-affected water into the underlying clay till: A field study

Authors Abolfazlzadehdoshanbehbazari, M., Birks S. J., Moncur M. C., & Ulrich A. C.
Year of Publication: 2013

Abstract:
The South Tailings Pond (STP) is a ~ 2300-ha tailing pond operated by Suncor Energy Inc. that has received oil sand process-affected (PA) water and mature fine tailings since 2006. The STP is underlain by a clay till, which is in turn underlain by the Wood Creek Sand Channel (WCSC). The sandy deposits of the WCSC provide greater geotechnical stability but could act as a potential flow pathway for PA water to migrate off site and into the Athabasca River. Preliminary modeling of the STP suggests that PA water from the pond will infiltrate into the underlying sand channel, but the extent and development of this impact is still poorly understood. Suncor Energy Inc. built interception wells and a cut-off-wall to control any potential seepage. Here we present the results of an investigation of the fate and transport of PA water in clay till underlying a 10 m × 10 m infiltration pond that was constructed on the southeastern portion of the STP. The geochemistry of pore water in the till underlying the infiltration pond was determined prior to filling with process-affected water (2008) and two years after the infiltration pond was filled with PA waters (2010). Pore water was analyzed for metals, cations, anions, and isotopes (2H and 18O). The distribution of conservative tracers (18O and chloride) indicated migration of the PA waters to approximately 0.9 m, but the migrations of major ions and metals were significantly delayed relative to this depth. Uptake of Na and Mo and release of Ca, Mg, Mn, Ba, and Sr suggest that adsorption and ion exchange reactions are the foremost attenuation processes controlling inorganic solutes transport.

Citation:
Abolfazlzadehdoshanbehbazari, M., Birks S. J., Moncur M. C., & Ulrich A. C. (2013).  Fate and transport of oil sand process-affected water into the underlying clay till: A field study. 151, 9 pages . Abstract
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Fate of naphtha components in oil sand tailings

Authors Kasperski, K., Wan X., Wu J., & Dabros T.
Year of Publication: 2012

Citation:
Kasperski, K., Wan X., Wu J., & Dabros T. (2012).  Fate of naphtha components in oil sand tailings.
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Fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) reproduction is impaired in aged oil sands process-affected waters

Authors Kavanagh, R. J., Frank R. A., Oakes K. D., Servos M. R., Young R. F., Fedorak P. M., et al.
Year of Publication: 2011

Abstract:
Large volumes of fluid tailings are generated during the extraction of bitumen from oil sands. As part of their reclamation plan, oil sands operators in Alberta propose to transfer these fluid tailings to end pit lakes and, over time, these are expected to develop lake habitats with productive capabilities comparable to natural lakes in the region. This study evaluates the potential impact of various oil sands process-affected waters (OSPW) on the reproduction of adult fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) under laboratory conditions. Two separate assays with aged OPSW (>15 years) from the experimental ponds at Syncrude Canada Ltd. showed that water containing high concentrations of naphthenic acids (NAs; >25 mg/l) and elevated conductivity (>2000 μS/cm) completely inhibited spawning of fathead minnows and reduced male secondary sexual characteristics. Measurement of plasma sex steroid levels showed that male fathead minnows had lower concentrations of testosterone and 11-ketotestosterone whereas females had lower concentrations of 17β-estradiol. In a third assay, fathead minnows were first acclimated to the higher salinity conditions typical of OSPW for several weeks and then exposed to aged OSPW from Suncor Energy Inc. (NAs ∼40 mg/l and conductivity ∼2000 μS/cm). Spawning was significantly reduced in fathead minnows held in this effluent and male fathead minnows had lower concentrations of testosterone and 11-ketotestosterone. Collectively, these studies demonstrate that aged OSPW has the potential to negatively affect the reproductive physiology of fathead minnows and suggest that aquatic habitats with high NAs concentrations (>25 mg/l) and conductivities (>2000 μS/cm) would not be conducive for successful fish reproduction.

Citation:
Kavanagh, R. J., Frank R. A., Oakes K. D., Servos M. R., Young R. F., Fedorak P. M., et al. (2011).  Fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) reproduction is impaired in aged oil sands process-affected waters. 101(1), 6 pages . Abstract
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Feasibility of electrolytic flotation for the treatment of production recycle water at heavy oil extraction facilities

Authors Nagendran, J.
Year of Publication: 1980

Citation:
Nagendran, J. (1980).  Feasibility of electrolytic flotation for the treatment of production recycle water at heavy oil extraction facilities. 109 pages .
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Fen mosses can tolerate some saline conditions found in oil sands process water

Authors Pouliot, R., Rochefort L., & Graf M. D.
Year of Publication: 2013

Abstract:
Mosses are keystone species in peatlands and are an important part of the vegetation of the pre-mined peatlands. Therefore, mosses should be included in rehabilitation projects following oil sands exploitation in north-western Canada. However, mosses growing in post-mined landscapes must tolerate elevated salinity levels found in oil sands process water (OSPW). Knowledge of salinity tolerance and thresholds for fen mosses is needed to place these mosses in the newly created landscapes. We tested the effects of NaCl and Na2SO4 on four fen moss species growing in Petri dishes in growth chambers. We simulated two scenarios: (1) four immersion times (¼, 1, 3 and 7 days) in NaCl (0%, 20%, 60% or 100% of the concentration found in OSPW) mimicking periodic flooding and (2) a permanent saline influence (NaCl or Na2SO4 alone or in combination at 0%, 30%, 50% or 70% of the concentrations found in OSPW) mimicking situations of high water tables with different contamination levels. The effects on moss growth were estimated by counting new innovations of Bryum pseudotriquetrum, Campylium stellatum, Sphagnum warnstorfii and Tomenthypnum nitens. All tested mosses tolerated saline levels typically found in post-mined landscapes (up to 500 mg L−1 of NaCl and 400 mg L−1 of Na2SO4) for up to 100 days of exposure. Short periods of immersion (up to 7 days independently of salt concentrations) induced the production of innovation in non-Sphagnum species, but S. warnstorfii was more rapidly impacted at higher salt concentrations. Short pulses of salt (from 6 h to 7 days) did not influence the formation of new innovations for C. stellatum and T. nitens. Salt type (NaCl and/or Na2SO4) had no effect on moss growth. However, a longer exposure (100 days) with saline water, even at low concentrations, diminished the formation of new innovations for B. pseudotriquetrum and T. nitens. C. stellatum was the least affected by salinity and thus we suggest it is the best species to reintroduce in constructed fens.

Citation:
Pouliot, R., Rochefort L., & Graf M. D. (2013).  Fen mosses can tolerate some saline conditions found in oil sands process water. 89, 6 pages . Abstract
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Field performance of alder-Frankia symbionts for the reclamation of oil sands sites

Authors Lefrançois, E., Quoreshi A., Khasa D., Fung M., Whyte L. G., Roy S., et al.
Year of Publication: 2010

Abstract:
The Canadian province of Alberta is the world's largest producer of petroleum products from oil sands exploitation. Oil sands process-affected materials (OSPM), such as tailings sand, produced as a result of bitumen extraction, has low fertility, low organic matter content, it is alkaline, compactable, and contains residual hydrocarbons, making it a very inhospitable growth environment. The petroleum industry is currently involved in efforts to revegetate and remediate the tailings sand. One approach used is revegetation of the reclamation sites with Frankia-inoculated alders. Alders are primary succession trees that have the ability to grow in nutrient poor and waterlogged environments, in part because they form a symbiotic relationship with the nitrogen-fixing Actinobacteria, Frankia. In 2005, field trials were established at Syncrude Canada Ltd. The effect of Frankia-inoculated alders on soil quality was evaluated by monitoring the chemical and microbiological characteristics of the soil. The impact on the indigenous microbial community was also studied using hydrocarbon mineralization assays, and molecular approaches, such as denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). Plant parameters (biomass, nitrogen content) were measured to evaluate the impact of Frankia on alder health and growth. After two growth seasons, Frankia-inoculated and non-inoculated alders yielded comparable amounts of plant biomass and there was an increase in hydrocarbon (hexadecane, naphthalene and phenanthrene) mineralization where the reclamation site had been planted with alder-Frankia. The alder rhizosphere samples all had comparable hydrocarbon mineralization rates. DGGE profiles confirmed a change in the microbial communities of the bulk soil between unplanted and alder-Frankia treatments. Soil tests showed that alder-Frankia decreased soil pH (from 7.5 to 6.6, in 2006, and from 8.2 to 7.2 in 2007) and plant-available sodium content (70% reduction), and had a positive impact on soil organic matter content (increase in up to 6 times in alder-Frankia plots). The field results have confirmed that the alder-Frankia combination results in improved remediation capabilities and enhances soil quality. These improvements in soil quality of the reclamation site provide evidence of the potential of alder-Frankia symbionts to be part of a reclamation strategy for the reforestation of the site, and the re-establishment of a balanced ecosystem.

Citation:
Lefrançois, E., Quoreshi A., Khasa D., Fung M., Whyte L. G., Roy S., et al. (2010).  Field performance of alder-Frankia symbionts for the reclamation of oil sands sites. 46(2), 8 pages . Abstract
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Field performance of Elaeagnus commutata and Shepherdia canadensis (Elaeagnaceae) inoculated with soil containing Frankia and vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi

Authors Visser, S., Danielson R. M., & Parkinson D.
Year of Publication: 1991

Abstract:
A field trial was conducted to determine if containerized silverberry (Elaeagnus commutata) and buffalo-berry (Shepherdia canadensis), inoculated with pot culture soil containing vesicular–arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and Frankia, would outperform uninoculated seedlings when outplanted on oil sands tailings for two growing seasons. The effect of peat versus peat plus mineral soil treatment of the tailings sand on shrub growth and symbiont development was also addressed. Mortality over the first winter was higher for inoculated seedlings than for uninoculated seedlings. After 1 year, shoot height and weight, root weight, nodule weight, and mycorrhizal root length of the inoculated silverberry were approximately two, five, four, six and five times greater, respectively, than those measured in the uninoculated treatment. The same parameters, respectively, for buffalo-berry were approximately one and one-half, four, two, six and two times greater for the inoculated seedlings than for their uninoculated counterparts. The superior growth of the inoculated seedlings was continued over the 2nd year. Soil amendment effects on plant growth and symbiont development over the 1st year were minimal for silverberry but significant for buffalo-berry. Shoot productivity of both shrub species was highly correlated with nodule status.

Citation:
Visser, S., Danielson R. M., & Parkinson D. (1991).  Field performance of Elaeagnus commutata and Shepherdia canadensis (Elaeagnaceae) inoculated with soil containing Frankia and vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. 69(6), 7 pages . Abstract
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Field performance of in-line flocculated fluid fine tailings using thin lift deposition

Authors Wilson, G. W., Kabwe L. K., Donahue R., & Lahaie R.
Year of Publication: 2011

Citation:
Wilson, G. W., Kabwe L. K., Donahue R., & Lahaie R. (2011).  Field performance of in-line flocculated fluid fine tailings using thin lift deposition.
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Field protocol for assessing characteristic species thresholds in polygons on reclamation areas

Authors
Year of Publication: 2011

Citation:
[Anonymous] (2011).  Field protocol for assessing characteristic species thresholds in polygons on reclamation areas. (Stantec Consulting Ltd., Ed.).
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Field testing of spigoting techniques for oil sands tailings disposal

Authors Marsh, C. R.
Year of Publication: 1991

Citation:
Marsh, C. R. (1991).  Field testing of spigoting techniques for oil sands tailings disposal. 16 pages .
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Field tests evaluating freeze-thaw dewatering of fine tailings

Authors Proskin, S. A., Sego D. C., & Burns R.
Year of Publication: 1996

Citation:
Proskin, S. A., Sego D. C., & Burns R. (1996).  Field tests evaluating freeze-thaw dewatering of fine tailings. 9 pages .
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Fifteen-year trends in criteria air pollutants in oil sands communities of Alberta, Canada

Authors Bari, M., & Kindzerski W. B.
Year of Publication: 2015

Abstract:
An investigation of ambient air quality was undertaken at three communities within the Athabasca Oil Sands Region (AOSR) of Alberta, Canada (Fort McKay, Fort McMurray, and Fort Chipewyan). Daily and seasonal patterns and 15-year trends were investigated for several criteria air pollutants over the period of 1998 to 2012. A parametric trend detection method using percentiles from frequency distributions of 1 h concentrations for a pollutant during each year was used. Variables representing 50th, 65th, 80th, 90th, 95th and 98th percentile concentrations each year were identified from frequency distributions and used for trend analysis. Small increasing concentration trends were observed for nitrogen dioxide (< 1 ppb/year) at Fort McKay and Fort McMurray over the period consistent with increasing emissions of oxides of nitrogen (ca. 1000 tons/year) from industrial developments. Emissions from all oil sands facilities appear to be contributing to the trend at Fort McKay, whereas both emissions from within the community (vehicles and commercial) and oil sands facility emissions appear to be contributing to the trend at Fort McMurray. Sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions from industrial developments in the AOSR were unchanged during the period (101,000 ± 7000 tons/year; mean ± standard deviation) and no meaningful trends were judged to be occurring at all community stations. No meaningful trends occurred for ozone and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) at all community stations and carbon monoxide at one station in Fort McMurray. Air quality in Fort Chipewyan was much better and quite separate in terms of absence of factors influencing criteria air pollutant concentrations at the other community stations.

Citation:
Bari, M., & Kindzerski W. B. (2015).  Fifteen-year trends in criteria air pollutants in oil sands communities of Alberta, Canada. 74, 8 pages . Abstract
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Filterability of oil sands tailings

Authors Xu, Y., Dabros T., & Kan J.
Year of Publication: 2008

Abstract:
In Canadian oil sands mining operations, bitumen is extracted from oil sands using the hot water extraction process, which produces tremendous amounts of tailings. Currently, these tailings are disposed of in large ponds, in which coarse particles settle out relatively quickly and fine particles remain suspended in water and settle very slowly. After years of settling, the fine particles form a stable suspension in water known as mature fine tailings (MFTs). Long-term storage of the MFT is costly and poses a major environmental liability.Oil sands companies are now actively investigating different approaches to replace or reduce the use of oil sands tailings ponds. Filtration of the tailings to produce “dry tailings” for stacking is now being investigated as an alternative by a number of companies. Fast water drainage is a critical step for the filtration process. In this paper, we use simple laboratory-scale filtration tests to evaluate the filterability of the oil sands tailings and to generate a parameter that can be used in filtration scale-up. It was found that the filterability of the original coarse oil sands tailings was relatively low. However, after the fines are flocculated with the coarse particles to form uniform flocs the filterability was improved by several orders of magnitude. The results demonstrate that filtration of the flocculated coarse tailings to produce the “dry” stackable tailings may be viable. Filterability of Oil Sands Tailings. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/244692655_Filterability_of_Oil_Sands_Tailings [accessed Jan 26, 2016].

Citation:
Xu, Y., Dabros T., & Kan J. (2008).  Filterability of oil sands tailings. 86(4), 8 pages . Abstract
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Filtration tests on PVD filter jackets in fine oil sands tailings

Authors Yao, Y., van Tol A. F., Everts B., & Mulder A.
Year of Publication: 2011

Citation:
Yao, Y., van Tol A. F., Everts B., & Mulder A. (2011).  Filtration tests on PVD filter jackets in fine oil sands tailings. 10 pages .
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Final report of the Research on Avian Protection Project (2010 - 2014)

Authors St. Clair, C. C.
Year of Publication: 2014

Abstract:
Despite the single authorship of this report, the Research on Avian Protection Project was conducted as a collaborative, multidisciplinary project that involved dozens of other individuals in academia, industry, and government who worked toward a common goal of increasing bird protection in the oil sands region of Alberta. This report synthesizes the results of that work, which includes several independent components completed over the past few years by me and other members of the RAPP team. These other components include (a) reports on specific incidents or programs that have been submitted previously to government and industry, (b) protocols or training material for use by industry, (c) manuscripts that have been or will be submitted to peer-reviewed journals, and (d) theses by graduate students. Associated documents are introduced in the chapters that follow. Most documents are already available in their entirety on the RAPP website (http://rapp.biology.ualberta.ca/), but others will appear there later. In particular, manuscripts intended for peer-reviewed journals will be posted after acceptance of their final versions. Theses submitted to the University of Alberta library may be embargoed for six months to protect primacy of publication. Some of the information contained in this final report is new, but much of it summarizes the preceding documents described above. Anyone making reference to the information contained in this report should cite the titles and authors of the original documents when possible. Information that is not contained in other documents and the entire report can be cited as follows.

Citation:
St. Clair, C. C. (2014).  Final report of the Research on Avian Protection Project (2010 - 2014). 95 pages . Abstract
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