Field Trips
Field Trips
ICARD 2024 promises an exciting post-technical program experience with captivating field trips scheduled for the day after the conference.
The field trip organizer can cancel the tour if the minimum number of participants is not reached one month prior to the departure.
EAST KEMPTVILLE MINE - OVERNIGHT TOUR
Departure: Friday, September 20
Return: Saturday, September 21
Minimum of participants: 15
Maximum of participants: 30
Fee: $750
Description
Embarking on a picturesque journey, we began our adventure with a delightful lunch at a charming winery, savoring the finest local flavors and wines. Following this, we checked into the luxurious Digby Pines Resort and Spa, where relaxation and comfort awaited us. As the sun rose the next morning, we set out on a 1.5-hour drive from the resort to East Kemptville, where we had the unique opportunity to witness mining under reclamation activities. The industrial marvel unfolded as we explored the water treatment facility, WR Storage, TMF, and holding ponds, each showcasing the intersection of technology and environmental responsibility. The tour, estimated to take 2-3 hours, left us in awe of the meticulous reclamation process. In the evening, we savored a delectable dinner in the charming town of Lunenburg, completing our enriching and memorable journey.
SYDNEY COALFIELDS - OVERNIGHT TOUR
Departure: Friday, September 20
Return: Saturday, September 21
Minimum of participants: 15
Maximum of participants: 30
Fee: $750
Description
Embarking on a fascinating exploration, the Sydney Coalfields tour promises an insightful journey into reclamation efforts within the coal mining industry. Located a scenic 5-hour drive away from Halifax, this excursion offers a unique opportunity to witness reclaimed sites. The tour includes visits to Victoria Junction, where a former wash plant has been transformed with a small treatment system and the WR Pile. Princess is another stop on the itinerary, showcasing the impressive HDPL Liner and a small treatment system. Furthermore, the Gardiner wetland passive treatment system unveils the innovative approaches to environmental stewardship in the coalfields.
The New Victoria Treatment Plant stands as a beacon of innovation and environmental responsibility within the coal mining industry. Located in the heart of the Sydney Coalfields, it represents a cutting-edge approach to water treatment and reclamation. This facility exemplifies the industry’s commitment to sustainability, demonstrating advanced techniques for managing the environmental impact of mining activities. The New Victoria Treatment Plant serves as a testament to ongoing efforts in responsible resource extraction, ensuring that natural habitats are preserved and safeguarded for generations to come. A visit to this facility provides a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the evolution of environmental practices in the coal mining sector and the crucial role they play in today’s world.
AIRPORT WATER TREATMENT FACILITY & MONTAGUE GOLD MINES – ONE DAY TOUR
Departure and Return: Friday, September 20
Minimum of participants: 15
Maximum of participants: 30
Fee: $250
Description
This day trip will depart from downtown Halifax and begin with a 35-minute drive to the water treatment facility at the Halifax Stanfield International Airport. This facility has been in operation since 2002 and treats acidic runoff from sulphide-bearing slate that was used for airport construction beginning in the late 1950s. Following a two-hour tour of the treatment plant and discussion of ARD management by airport staff, the group will depart for lunch. In the afternoon, we will head to the historical Montague Gold District where gold was mined and milled from 1865 to 1940. Today, this former mine is located adjacent to a residential community and efforts are underway to develop a site remediation plan. The two-hour tour will be led by government staff who will highlight the history of the district, characteristics of the mine wastes, and ongoing efforts to assess and reduce risks to human and ecosystem health. The trip will conclude in downtown Halifax in the late afternoon.
