Voice of Saskatchewan
Mining and Exploration

Event Details

Potash Saskatchewan
54th Emergency Response Mine Rescue Competition
June 1, 2024

The 54th Annual Emergency Response Mine Rescue Skills Competition will be held Saturday, June 1, 2024 at Prairieland Park, Saskatoon.

The Competition Guidelines 2024 can be found HERE.

 

 

Saskatchewan Mining Week
May 26, 2024

Saskatchewan Mining Week 2024

Saskatchewan Mining Week will be held May 26 - June 1, 2024.  The week will culminate with the 54th Emergency Response Mine Rescue Skills Compeition taking place at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon. 

 

Saskatchewan Mining Week 2023

Saskatchewan Mining Week was held May 28 - June 3, 2023.  The week culminated with the 53rd Emergency Response Mine Rescue Skills Competition at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon. 

Following are the presesentations that took place during Saskatchewan Mining Week.

 

Saskatchewan Mining Week 2022

Saskatchewan Mining Week was held May 29 - June 4, 2022. Click HERE for a Schedule of Mining Week Events.

Following are the presentations that took place during Saskatchewan Mining Week.

Foran Mining Corporation - Dan Myerson, Executive Chairman

Prairie Lithium - Zach Mauer, President and CEO

Saskatchewan Research Council - Mike Crabtree, President and CEO

Carbon Capture and Storage in Saskatchewan - Past, Present and Future  - Conway Nelson, Vice President Project Development & Advisory Services, International CCS Knowledge Centre, and Adlai Majer, Director of New Energy, Whitecap Resoruces Inc.

Saskatchewan's Critrical Minerals - Essential to Global Security and Supply Chains Podcast  - Panel moderated by Kelly Ogle CEO, Canadian Global Affairs Institute; Panel Members: Jerry Grandey, former CEO Cameco Corp and former Board member PotashCorp and Nutrien; Larry Long, Senior Vice President Operations, Potash, Nutrien; Alanna Koch, Board Chair, Global Institute for Food Security

Restart of Cameco McArthur River and Key Lake Operations - Brian Reilly, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Cameco Corporation

Mosaic K3 Project & Potash Market Update - Kelly Strong, Vice President Mining, North America, The Mosaic Company

 

 

16th Annual Saskatchewan Mining Supply Chain Forum
April 17, 2024

The 16th Annual Saskatchewan Mining Supply Chain Forum will be held April 17 & 18, 2024 at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon.

The Mining Supply Chain Forum, hosted by SMA, SIMSA and Ministry of Trade and Export Development is the primary mining supply chain event in western Canada that brings together the Saskatchewan mining industry and local suppliers to enhance their global competitiveness and expand markets.

 

Following is a Draft Agenda:

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

  • Tradeshow set up (no set up permitted on April 17)

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

  • Speakers will be from 8:00am - 12:00pm (subject to change)
  • Tradeshow open 10:00am - 6:00pm

Thursday, April 18, 2024

  • Speakers will be from 8:00am - 12:00pm (subject to change)
  • Tradeshow open 10:00am - 4:00pm
 


 

 

58th Annual General Meeting
March 27, 2024

The 58th Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at TCU Place in Saskatoon. 

Click HERE for the AGM Program.

SMA Mine Safety Summit 2024
March 26, 2024

The SMA Mine Safety Summit - Technical Aspects of Mine Safety will be held on Tuesday, March 26th, 2024.. The format of the Summit utilizes case studies from SMA member companies and includes reviews of incidents.

Mineral Exploration Expo
November 27, 2023

Mineral Exploration Expo 2023 was held Thursday, November 9 at the Art Hauser Centre in Prince Albert. MinExplo Expo is an opportunity for primarily northern-owned businesses and community economic development officers to learn about mineral exploration programs and related business and employment opportunities that SMA member companies are planning for the upcoming 2022/2023 year.

Following are the presentations from MinExplo Expo 2023:

 

 

Following is the Program and presentations for MinExplo Expo 2022:

 

 

 

5th Biennial SMA Environmental Forum
October 17, 2023

The 5th Biennial SMA Environmental Forum will be held October 17 - 19, 2023 at TCU Place in Saskatoon. 

Related Documents:

 

 

2023 SMA GeoVenture Blog
August 23, 2023

August 12 - 18

 

August 12 and 13, 2023

Spent a busy, informative, and fun, first afternoon and next morning learning about all that is geology, mining processes, and mining safety in Saskatchewan. Am suddenly proud of what the industry is doing and has to offer potential employees (ie. our students)! Thanks to our presenters for a relaxed day of learning.

Now it is time to load the bus and…..

Get our motor runnin'

Head out on the highway

Lookin' for adventure

At whatever mines come our way

Born to be wild……

First stop BHP Discovery Lodge

All I can say is wow they treat their employees well! Top grades for planning a home away from home. The whole facility is designed to allow all the amenities employees might use in their home communities but it is all in one location! Almost like an all inclusive resort, except you have to go to work each day….. Gym, training facilities, court sports, outdoor track and training area, lounges for recreation, garden plots for those with a green thumb, and a top-notch theatre! I am sure I missed a few details but was very impressed. Thanks to BHP for the hosting us and providing a great lunch!

Back on the bus and…..

Yeah, we’re gonna make it happen

Take mining in a love embrace

Fire up the bus at once and

Explode into Esterhazy

Born to be wild…….

Made our way to Esterhazy and were treated to a great homemade dinner of perogies, cabbage rolls, and sausage with salad at the local bowling alley. The meal set us up for a tour of the Saskatchewan Potash Interpretive Centre. Thanks to our guides, Richard and Oliver, who shared their vast knowledge of all the working parts and processes of the local mines while explaining the artifacts at the centre.

And, back on the bus to the hotel…..

Like a true teacher’s child

We were born, born to learn

Got to learn so much

But now we wanna rest

Born to be wild……

Thanks to Steppenwolf for the tune.

Day one complete!

August 14, 2023

Video Blog: Potash - Conventional Underground - Nutrien Rocanville (forthcoming)

August 15, 2023

Video Blog: Building connection between mining and education

The alarms were set this morning for our group to meet up at 6:15am for a quick visit to the old Willow Bunch Convent site (now a museum), as well as to view the life size statue of Edouard Beaupre, a gentlemen from the area in the 1900’s who was a whopping 8’ 2” tall. We followed his replica size 22 footprints along the sidewalk up to his statue for a group picture before making our way to the bus to take off for the day.

Our next stop was a short ways down the road to Deb’s Country Kitchen in Coronach for a delicious buffet breakfast. The small town diner is a gem and was worth getting out of bed before 6am all in itself. After Deb’s, we hit the road to Westmoreland Poplar River Coal Mine, where we would be until the early afternoon.

At Westmoreland Coal Mine, we were greeted before being shown to a board room where we took in a short orientation/safety video about the company and mine site. After being fitted with steel toe boots and the proper PPE we were on the bus and on our way to check out the sites. Site number one took us to the bottom of a pit where we were able to stretch our legs and grab ourselves coal samples while watching a monstrous drag line scoop away overburden and unearth coal to be excavated later on. The bucket on the drag line can remove a whopping 94 cubic yards per scoop! Site number two provided us with a 2nd drag line unearthing coal, as well as a loader, and multiple articulated haulers working to transport the freshly removed coal to the mill for crushing. An impressive feat of this company is their ability to reclaim the land that they have previously mined, to the point where it is nearly impossible to distinguish the reclaimed land from the virgin land in the area. Bravo!

Dragline exposing coal seam to be hauled by shovel and truck operation

After our mine site visits, we were taken back to the Westmoreland headquarters and provided lunch before we were virtually joined by two gentlemen from the Carbon Capture and Storage Knowledge Centre (CCS) who provided us with an eye opening presentation on the benefits and challenges of carbon capture. They focused on the Boundary Dam 3 CCS facility in Saskatchewan as an example in our area of the work being done to provide our province with a cleaner and more environmentally friendly way to produce energy and etter deal with the byproduct of carbon emissions.

After departing Westmoreland, we made a quick one hour stop at the Big Muddy Badlands. We were lucky enough to have Meagan Gilbert along (she is a guru in all things to do with geology, rocks, land formations…the list goes on). Meagan explained the formation of Big Muddy to us and how it came to be over the history of our earth, as well as explained all the layers that were visible in the land formation. We got in touch with our artistic side and all took a stab at sketching a land formation or item of interest at the badlands. Some very humorous attempts at drawing! Exploring was done, some braved their way climbing to the top of Big Muddy, some explored the caves, some hiked the trail around the formation, and some squeezed in all three! A very cool stop along our way to Moose Jaw.

Our final stop before checking into The Grant Hotel for the night in Moose Jaw was a road cut where we had the opportunity to collect some crystalized gypsum samples that are growing in the present day conditions of that warm, dry site.

       

August 16, 2023

August 17, 2023

Up early out of the hotel after breakfast and off to Rise Air terminal at the airport for our journey North to Cigar Lake uranium mine operated by Cameco! Off the plane at the air strip onto a bus to the mine site.

As we arrive and deplane on the tarmac, Elena attempts to speak to the pilot crew in French. Little does she know that the bilingual intercom messages in the air were prerecorded.

This author is surprised that the cell service seems to be as good or better than home.

As we load on the bus, Robert sits in the front seat, attempting to usurp an already known fact, that the real cool kids travel at the front of the bus.

Kristin gets audibly excited as well enter the camp grounds, and spots an excavator. This leads, once again, in to additional renditions of a children's song she seems to have permanently etched in her memory.

As we exit the bus and climb 3 flights of stairs, this author notes that literally everyone seems to have learned nothing from our previous days orientation, as not one person implemented 3 points of constant contact in their ascent.

In the board room, Tamara clamors for the coffee machines, exclaiming the amount of coffee stops on the plane was inadequate, by her opinion.

We meet our hosts, Smiling Trevor and local bodybuilder, the man, the myth, the Transylvanian legend: Imra.

After we confirm with our hosts that we have been trained on air ventilators, they are very disappointed to find out that we actually know next to nothing about these safety devices. After increasing our knowledge, we are happily informed that there may not be enough ventilators for all of us anyways.

Down the mineshaft we go, on a platform which we are informed allegedly can carry 22 miners down to the mining level. This author can't help but question the math behind that, unless there is a lot of miner piggybacking involved.

Once out at mining level, this author asks what kind of rollercoaster Cameco uses, given the tracks in the floor. The response given was that they were used a long time ago, possibly the 90s? Maybe to move around a precursor to the JBM?

Jola and this author reflect on the walls and how the concrete added to help hold back the rock face reminds us of the old restaurant The Cave. Later, Tamara will comment on how they reminded her of amusement parks.

Tanner worries about cracks in the walls of the JBM tunnel. Kim assures him it's probably fine and we won't die. Tanner has not been convinced.

Tamara asks how fast the JBM can race. She's informed that it takes over a day to move to a new tunnel. "That don't impress me much" she is thinks to herself in the singsong manner of a certain Canadian country music star.

Group 2 failed to do the tour in the right order. We fist bump them to help keep their spirits up despite their incompetencies.

Brad shows Imra our schedule to impress upon him that we need to move faster. Imra knows education is more important than schedules and assures Brad we will be on time.

Imra shows us the backup pumps for the mine, and once again assured us that they have way more mechanical means to remove water than the last time the mine flooded. This surely assures most in the group.

This author heavily suspects that the sadness draped across Meagan's complexion like a dark cloud is because of all of the shotcrete covering up every square inch of the otherwise pretty rock face. Here and there she steals away where bare rock face is exposed in small amounts. Brad and Pam will later confirm that 25% of Lafarge's production of this cement is used up here at Cigar Lake, and that some rock material refuse that's locally sourced may or will be used in cement creation.

Near the end of our underground tour, Trevor gives us the shakedown we are all too used to by this point in the tour. It isn't our wallets he's after, it's the much more in demand commodity of heavy duty mechanics. We pledge to him that we will procure as many as we can to appease their miner's insatiable appetite for HDMs.

Brad describes Trevor as an HR superhero, as he's the only HR guy he ever has seen down in a mine. Indeed, he has been our literal vanguard during the entire underground tour making sure not even the most attention deficit among us get distracted or lost. In talking to Trevor though, this author finds out that he has a gritty side as well, responsible for much of the firing of incompetent staff at this location. This author now knows that pain that lies behind the charming smile.

After ascending the 500ft (480m) level to surface, we wash our boots of potential contaminants and radioactive material. This author now wonders if Jola should really have been tasting all of the rock wall formations to see if they were better than the walls at Rocanville

After emerging from the Earth, we headed down the road ~75km on the bus to Orano’s Mcarthur River uranium mill to learn how the uranium ore shipped over from the mine is processed, packaged and shipped out as black calcined yellowcake.

Then back to Cigar Lake via bus for the flight back to Saskatoon. Enroute to Cigar we stopped the bus… no need for “Art”-istic backing up of the bus here! Just a quick scramble for one of natures sandstone art pieces… Or is it ballast for the plane? Perhaps our braking mechanism a la Flinstones style for landing.

A full and very exciting day!

 

GeoVenture 2022 Blog

Wednesday, August 17, 2022

K+S Potash Solution Mine - blog by Mitchell and Monica

Friday, August 19, 2022

Rising from the (pot)Ash with Lori and Carla. 

Our last full day of the GeoVenture 2022 tour began with a short rest in the beautiful rooms at the Canalta in Esterhazy and a nice assortment at the continental breakfast then we were ready to board the bus at 7:15 a.m. Our tour began with a trip out to visit the K3 mine and see it’s new headframe with conveyor belt system running to mills at K1 and K2. The Mosaic logo was proudly displayed at a new multi-million dollar investment in the community of Esterhazy, Saskatchewan. We were able to see the belt line moving between the new K3 shaft and the now flooded shafts of K1 and K2. The tailings ponds of the older ponds are utilized further to accommodate K3 product which reduces infrastructure costs as well as the need for more land usage and reclamation. We also viewed the vast water reservoir used in a recycled process to facilitate mine and milling operations.

After our quick drive-by tour we headed for Colonsay.

At 150 km SE we spotted the BHP Jansen mine out of our bus window. Although their operation is not scheduled to begin until 2027, they are hoping to push up that timeline. It will have an 8 million tone capacity by Stage 2 with an initial target of 4 million tones at Stage 1. BHP has designed the mine to operate remotely being handled through advanced technology from Saskatoon with a potentiometer to support jobs from different locations. This mine will operate as a conventional mine and involve a $7.5 million investment. Closer to Colonsay we passed the site of the Nutrien Lanigan mining operation. Nutrien has committed to increasing potash output by 40% to meet the rising demands imposed by sanctions on Russia and the uncertainty of European supplies. This will see Nutrien Lanigan boosting its production by $1 million tones annually.

Finally arriving at Mosaic in Colonsay, we were introduced to Trevor Tucker, Joe Winters, Nathan Karwandy, Scott Condliffe, Mike Wallace, and Dustin Orosz who would lead our tour for the day. Trevor started off by giving us a brief orientation and an overview of how things run at Mosaic. Mosaic holds safety as a huge priority and their safety program includes areas such as hazard recognition, risk assessment, environmental safety and psychological wellness. We were then showed the Marietta mining machine that is used to mine 600 to 700 tons per hour with a specific cutting style to maintain beam sustainability and product quality while watching for signs of bending and cracking as mining progresses. These stable areas allow for mining longer periods of time. The design of drifts work to protect and prevent pressure claps and ensures mining success.

                                     

Current and plant mining areas are extensive and continue to be beneficial to Mosaic landowners and surrounding community. The underground operation includes mining staff areas and refuge stations which are strategically placed for longevity of design and to support safety as well as day-to-day workings underground. The underground flow sheet presented outlined the planned production path and promotes the efficiency of removing the most product safely. The Colonsay potash mine includes a large tailings management design as well as one of the largest product storage warehouses in the industry. Their storage infrastructure holds 6,000 tons in the mill with 145,000 tons of storage in the warehouse. At the Colonsay facility, potash goes through crushing, separation, washing, drying and packaging. Did you know that the potash from this facility is not died but naturally holds a pink or reddish tint?

  Video 1,     Video 2

Interesting fact: Himalayan sea salt lamps are not actually a treasured find but rather made from the cheapest grade of potash that you can find?

Another interesting fact: Secondary products are retrieved in the mining of potash, such as Aspire and Dyna K. Dyna K is used as an additive to animal food and therefore must have all impurities removed.

After the orientation we were were provided a phenomenal lunch, then herded to the change room to dress with PPE so we could go underground into the mine. We were given some rules to follow for moving down into the mine. Once we were all suited up and loaded onto the cage, we moved at 25 km/h to hit 3300 feet below surface. Our guides had each of us sit in one of the Toyota, Jurassic park like buggies. We toured all through the west seven driveline and saw a of number interesting fixtures that make working in the mine efficient and safe for all of its workers. Some sites included storage areas, drill and blast stations, construction shops, warehouse battery storage and diesel shop. One cool machine that I saw was the Rock Bolter which is used to stabilize the ground in different areas of the mine including the ceiling and the walls. Operators of the Rock Bolter have to be specifically trained in order to know how to utilize it properly and safely. It was interesting to see how they drilled stress ways on both sides of the drive area to allow for acceptable failures to occur and essentially make drilling in the areas that they want to safer. The mine operates on large cables that are filled with approximately 15,000 V.  In total each cable holds a proximately 5000 V and some of the cables are connected directly to the miner itself. The electricity for these cables is taken from electricity hubs distributed throughout the mine.

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The absolute best part of this tour was zipping through the tunnels in the buggies and reaching our destination where we were able to collect samples, talk with the miners themselves, and see all of the different strata in the mineral formations. Once back on the surface we were able to sit down and chat a little bit longer with our tour guides and say goodbye and thank them for the wonderful, unique opportunity. You were outstanding hosts Mosaic!

          

Our bus driver, George, was initially overwhelmed at seeing how many potash samples we were going to be loading onto the bus with us, as if the experience with the coal samples and black mess the day before wasn’t enough. Thanks George, you “rock”!! To end the day, SK Mining Association treated us all to a wonderful last night celebration at the Cactus Club where we were able to chat and laugh about all of the incredible experiences we’ve had this week.

Saturday, August 20, 2022

This is our last day on GeoVenture… and what an adventure! Today we had three culminating sessions that helped us see how we might use what we learned through GeoVenture and the Saskatchewan Mining Association online resources with our students. Below is a short description of the sessions.

Mining Inquiry Project with an Indigenous Lens

Hilary Roemer,geoscientist and educator with the SMA Education Outreach Program, gave an overview of “Indigenization of SMA Lesson Plans: Mining Inquiry Project” available on the SMA website. Terry Johanson, former SMA Education Outreach Coordinator, led a well-rounded team in the creation of this 85-page document consisting of lessons connected to many curricular outcomes in grades four through nine. Beginning with Elders’ stories about the significance of place, an Indigenous perspective permeates throughout many lessons within the unit’s four themes: Place Matters, Building a Habitat, Mineral Exploration & Mining, and Mining Resources. We did many of the hands-on activities within the lessons including the final cookie mining simulation on land to which we each previously said to have a special connection. SMA encourages educators to use the resource and provide feedback.

Indigenous Engagement within the Resource Sector

Dr. Ken Coates virtually spoke with our group about Indigenous engagement within the resource sector. Raised in Whitehorse, Dr. Coates has worked for Indigenous groups and governments in Canada and internationally and is author of  many publications on the subject. Due to memories of past experiences, it is reasonable that some Indigenous communities are suspicious of resource activity that may negatively affect land or way of life even if it may bring economic initiatives. In his presentation, Dr. Coates compared the relationships between Indigenous communities, the resource sector and various levels of government from the 19th century to current day with a focus on specific positive examples within the last couple of decades. In Canada, resource companies and governments must now consult Indigenous communities upon whose land they plan to work and then accommodate appropriately This is partially thanks to the 1982 Constitution (Section 35) on Indigenous and treaty rights and the 2004 Supreme Court case between a provincial government and local Indigenous communities. Even before it became law to consult and accommodate, many resource companies were aware of the reciprocal benefits to ensure good relationships with regional Indigenous communities. Dr. Coates spoke of agreements made to ensure local service and supply companies such as transportation, cleaning and meals are contracted out to local companies and that the resource company’s labour force consists of mainly regional employees trained locally. He gave examples of a deeper level of Indigenous engagement and participation through Indigenous-owned corporations that make significant economic decisions and receive revenue from resource activity. Dr. Coates is hopeful for continued positive relationships and authentic engagement between Indigenous communities and the resource sector.

For more on this subject, read “New Beginnings: How Canada’s Natural Resource Wealth Could Reshape Relations with Aboriginal People” by Coates and Crowley.

Brainstorming Curricular Outcome Connections

GeoVenture 2022 consists of teachers with knowledge of most Saskatchewan curriculums from primary to high school. With such varied teaching experiences, Pam and Hilary led and recorded a “lesson plan connection discussion” that had curricular outcome connections to many subjects in most grades.

 

 

 

 

SMA Environmental Forum 2021
October 20, 2021
The 4th Biennial SMA Environmental Forum was held virtually on October 20 & 21, 2021.

The Environmental Forum provided a professional development opportunity for environmental practitioners in the mining industry, consulting businesses, post-secondary researchers and government. With changing regulations and evolving technology it is important for environmental professionals to keep current, and move forward, in developing and identifying best practices related to environmental sustainability. The Forum agenda offered high quality technical presentations on a diverse range of topics.

Related Documents:

Presentations:

 

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Saskatchewan Mining Week 2021
May 30, 2021
SMA Statement- Supreme Court of Canada's decision on carbon pricing
March 25, 2021
The Saskatchewan Mining Association Statement on the Supreme Court of Canada's decision on carbon pricing.  Click here for the Statement.
Introduction to the Industrial Supervisor Course
December 8, 2020

Due to COVID-19 We are conducting our final "Introduction to the Industrial Supervisor Training" Until Further Notice!

COVID-19 Precautions Will Apply. Seating is Limited - Book Now!

 

 

D. B. Safety Solutions Inc.’s final “Introduction to the Industrial Supervisor” until further notice, none are scheduled for 2021.

To register, simply email db.safetysolutions@sasktel.net

Or call direct to 306-861-7093

December 8, 9, 10, 2020 Saskatoon

$839 + GST

Location: Saskatoon Inn, 2002 Airport Dr.

Class Times: 08:00 - 16:00 Days One and Two

08:00 - 15:00 Day Three

 

Virtual Saskatchewan Mining Supply Chain Forum
December 2, 2020

The Saskatchewan Mining Association, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Trade and Export Development and the Saskatchewan Industrial and Mining Suppliers Association presents the Virtual Saskatchewan Mining Supply Chain Forum, on the rescheduled dates of December 2 & 3, 2020.

This Forum is the primary mining supply chain event in Western Canada that brings together the Saskatchewan mining industry and local suppliers to enhance their global competitiveness and expand markets.

Click here for more information and to register for the Forum. 

NOTE:  SMA Members will be sent a separate link to self-register for a complimentary registration.

Media Release: SMA Supports Saskatchewan's Growth Plan
November 14, 2019
The Saskatchwan Mining Association (SMA) supports Saskatchewan's Growth Plan The Next Decade of Growth / 2020 - 2030, including their support of a globally competitive mining sector.  Read the full News Release here.
2019 SMA GeoVenture Blog
August 17, 2019

Following is the 2019 SMA GeoVenture Blog that took place August 17 - 22.

Day 1 Orientation and Welcome BBQ, August 17, 2019 - Terry Johanson, SMA Education Outreach

GeoVenture 2019 has officially launched! Our first day included our orientation workshop, getting to know each other and our first meal together at the Saskatoon Inn. Our travelling group this year includes 13 teachers, Dillon Johnstone from the Saskatchewan Geological Survey, and the SMA Team – Pam Schwann (president), Brad Sigurdson (vice-president) and Terry Johanson (Education Outreach Coordinator). Our workshop also included Jessica Theriault from Mosaic.

GeoVenture is a cornerstone of the SMA’s Education Outreach programs, which also include lesson plans, workshops, resources and a new teacher Catalyst program. The catalyst program gives GeoVenture alumni the chance to share their new knowledge with other teachers!

Our group learned so much from Dillon about the geological events that formed our province. Saskatchewan is pretty flat today, but our land was formed from huge mountain-building events and erosion. Dillon showed us that the mineral resources we mine were formed millions of years ago – the metals in the north are embedded in rock 1 to 2 billion years ago, while the potash in the south was formed less than a half a billion years ago. Dillon and Pam capped his presentations off by teaching us how to classify rocks using our rock identification kits.

Did you know that you are more likely to have a lost-time safety incident working in health care than if you work in the mining industry? We were surprised to learn that government workers also have a poorer safety rating than mining! Pam, Brad and Jessica Theriault introduced us to the mining industry in Saskatchewan. Some fun facts are that mining is the fourth highest mineral producer in Canada, we produce 32% of the world’s potash and 22% of the world’s Uranium, the mining sector is the #1 industrial employer of indigenous people, and Saskatchewan is the #1 mineral investment attraction in Canada. Most of us had no idea that mining has such a huge impact on our economy. The future of mining in Saskatchewan is strong, despite current commodity prices. Our world’s future population will require more food and more clean energy, which means more potash and more uranium demand. This means that the sector continues to invest in exploration to ensure long-term availability and access to resources.

It is pretty easy to see how we can include information and activities about mining into science classes, but today we were able to see how important mining is to our society as a whole. Infusing discussions and decision-making ideas into social studies is just as important. Our minds are already full of possibilities – we can’t wait to learn more through the week on this grand GeoVenture!

     

                             

Day 2 Uranium and Potash Presentations, Touring BHP Jansen Discovery Lodge and Potash Interpretive Centre, August 18, 2019 -Shana Timoruski (Central Collegiate), Leslie Gardypie (Constable Robin Cameron School) and Christine Matus (Ituna School)                                                                                        

We started the day learning about solution mining in Saskatchewan. Our potash samples, that we had previously started to dissolve the night before, had supersaturated the water. We needed to filter off the impurities (clay, iron oxide, and other excess undiscovered matter) to gain a purer product. After filtering, we took a sample of water and recrystallized the potash, using an ice-water bath. Potash crystallizes as a lower temperature than sodium chloride, so we could extract the potash in crystal form. This is similar to how they extract potassium chloride in solution mines. They collect the solution into tailing ponds and as the temperatures drop in they are able to scoop the crystallized potassium chloride off the bottom of the pond and recycle the water for future solutions. For further enrichment in a class (Chemistry 30 and Physical Science 20) it could be possible to test the crystallized potash to confirm it is potassium and not sodium through a flame test.

We then learned about uranium and uranium mining from NexGen. Troy Boisjoli (Vice President, operations and project development) and James Hatley explained how Uranium is discovered in Saskatchewan and the financial and scientific effort it takes for Uranium exploration. He also focused on the impact NexGen is having in Saskatchewan and how all of the funding being put into Saskatchewan is completely sourced out of Province. NexGen is also working with the Dene community very closely, forming strong relationships with its members. NexGen has a strong program that lets 20 young people working in all of the different facets of mining so they can experience many different careers. From this group of individuals, they award bursaries for schooling and have sent many kids to university. They have also given much back to the community by providing jobs and providing a breakfast program to the school. Uranium mining and exploration have excellent curriculum connections to waves (EM radiation and gravity) and chemical equilibrium(redox reactions).

Wrapping up our initial learning time in Saskatoon, we set out for BHP Jansen Discovery Lodge and started our adventure. Maury Simoneau led us on a tour of the state-of-the-art Discovery Lodge and WOW. It was massive. It had a gym, a theatre, and you could order almost anything that you wanted to eat! So amazing. BHP has invested 250 million dollars into this site without a cent of potash being taken from the ground. The site can hold 2500 people when moving into stage one of setting up the potash mine. They pride themselves on their accommodations and forward thinking in the company.

A long bus ride took us to Esterhazy’s potash interpretive centre next. John and Richard lead us through this museum in great detail. It was very interesting and really helped us learn about potash before we could take our mine tour in Rocanville. We finished off the day with an amazing Ukrainian supper of sausage, perogies and cabbage rolls and called it a night at the Canalta in Esterhazy.

        

Day 3 Underground Tour of Nutrien Scissors Lake and Coal Presentation, August 19, 2019 - Cindy Yanko (Ituna School) and Jaimie Mack (Churchill High School)

We had a great sleep and a bright and early breakfast at the Canalta Hotel in Esterhazy before hitting the road towards Rocanville at 6:45 am. Along the way, Pam showed us the new K3 site near Esterhazy, which has an exceptionally tall and impressive head frame. Once operational, potash from this new facility will be transported by conveyor belt to the K1 or K2 sites to be milled. As we continued our journey, Pam briefed us on the geological features in the area such as the Qu'Appelle Valley, which developed as the ice melted and retreated during the end of the last ice age.

We arrived at the Scissors Creek site at the Nutrien Rocanville mine around 7:45 am and were informed of the history of the mine and welcomed by Calvin, Amanda, and Leland, who would be leading us on our tour underground. Safety in the mines is of utmost importance, so we suited up into our safety gear first thing. We all looked great in our reflective vests, steel toe boots, goggles, hardhats, and gloves. In addition to the safety clothing, we also had earplugs for hearing protection, and each wore an oxygen breathing apparatus around our waist for use in case of emergency.

After getting geared up, it was time to load into the cage to proceed underground. The cage is like a giant elevator that can comfortably carry 40 people down into the mine. The spectacular ride down took about three minutes and brought us a kilometre below the surface. The size of the underground portion of the mine is massive, taking up about the same amount of space as the city of Saskatoon and boasting the title of the largest potash mine in the world! Approximately two kilometres of fresh ground is opened every day and 200 train cars full of potash are removed - amazing!

During our tour, our guides told us that the mine houses twelve miner machines, each worth 15 million dollars. We had a chance to watch the "Leopard" miner in action as it worked on drilling out a new room in the mine. Afterwards, we had the opportunity to gather samples of potash to bring back to our communities and show to our students. We also checked other areas in the mine, such as the shops where equipment is assembled and maintained, and the refuge areas where workers go in case of emergencies or power failures.

After coming back to the surface, we were treated to a delicious lunch on the mine site and had the chance to learn more from our guides and other experts from the mine. One interesting conversation that came up was about the recent 4.1 magnitude earthquake that occurred nearby. Contrary to what was said on T.V., the tremor wasn't felt underground at the mine, and the power outage on site occurred because of an automatic breaker jump.

We are now en route for Willowbunch where we will have a BBQ supper, get an overview on coal mining, and have a good night's sleep before another jam-packed day tomorrow at the Poplar River mine and Castle Butte!

        

Day 4 - Coal Strip Mine, CCS Presentaiton and Castle Butte, August 20 - Janna Varga (Air Ronge) and Matthew Kampman (Regina)

Today we continued our Geoventure across Saskatchewan. Yet another early morning began as we loaded the bus at 6:30am in Willow Bunch, SK. A last minute walk brought us to an interesting local museum. There we learned of Edouard Beaupre, a local Métis man who had grown to be 8’3”. Edouard was also known as the Willow Bunch Giant... be sure to check out the museum if you’re ever in the area. We then continued on to Coronach for a breakfast at Deb’s kitchen. The cozy dining area, company from Poplar River employees and a hot buffet was well received by all GeoVenturers and Mine employees.

8:00am Upon our arrival at Poplar River Mine we geared up in our PPE (personal protective equipment) and headed to the main building. Ready to learn, explore and sample all that this coal mine had to offer. After a few more introductions we were directed to a meeting room. We settled in for a short, animated safety video that was quite engaging, and then filled out our visitor forms. The mine sites’ employees were obviously proud and ready to share their profession with us, so we all moved on with the tour.

We toured the main building, learning of a mammoth tusk that was found on one of Poplar River sites. Fossils are always cool and they had their fossil proudly on display. We then moved on to their enormous shop.

Pictures were taken and everyone was interested and excited. Everyone loves massive equipment and Poplar Ridge mine has some of the best I’ve ever seen! A giant caterpillar that was having the tracks replaced, 2 loaders with tires 10’ tall and 2 massive coal haulers that you would have to see to believe! This equipment did not disappoint.

Next we headed to the bus to view the Dragline in action, see the reclamation on past sites and of course tour the open pit. Our Poplar Ridge tour guides took turns handling the bus mic and described and pointed out reclaimed fields, past areas that were mined and other interesting facts along the way. We watched the Dragline in action and I’m sure more than a few of us wished we could operate that machine. At the pit we were encouraged to ask questions, explore and collect our own coal samples.

After filling our pockets (Ziploc bags) we headed back for lunch with the crew and a Carbon Capture presentation... more on that from Matthew Kampman of Regina, SK.

Our tour of the Poplar River Mine was capped off with a scrumptious lunch courtesy of the mine, and an engaging presentation from Corwyn Bruce, one of the lead engineers of the carbon capture and storage (CCS) project at Boundary Damn 3. Since the project’s success Corwyn has taken his expertise to an international audience; consulting with coal fired power plants in other countries who stand to benefit from CCS facilities.

Through CCS, Corwyn's team has reduced the CO2 emissions of BD3 by 80 - 90% depending on operating conditions. What an achievement! It remains to be seen whether Bruce's team will be given the green light to outfit the Shand coal fired power station outside of Estevan with the same technology. Nonetheless, CCS has the potential to be implemented in coal fired power plants all around the world. A CCS facility that is bigger than BD3's has already been implemented in Texas. It was a pleasure to hear Corwyn speak and we wish him the best in his efforts to implement CCS technology at home and abroad, helping to both protect the environment and create meaningful employment for those who work at CCS facilities.

After the Poplar River tour we headed east to Castle Butte, part of the Big Muddy. Since I don’t want to ruin your first experience seeing this geographical sight, I’ll simply quote a tour mate...According to James Armstrong of La Ronge, SK, “Castle Butte is cool in every single way. Erosion can’t bring it down.”

Looking forward to Day 5 a potential Uranium filled wonder.

                    

Day 5: Cigar Lake Mine Tour and McLean Lake Mill Tour, August 21 – Al Wandler (Assiniboia), Adam Halyk (Prince Albert) and Kelly Ljunggren (Moose Jaw)

After an early morning wake up call, we met in the lobby at 6AM to head over to Westwind Air terminal to catch our 6:30 flight up to Cigar Lake to begin our day learning about Uranium. Our pilots were very friendly and had breakfast provided on the hour and forty-five minute flight into Northern Saskatchewan. Upon landing we boarded the bus that then took us to Cigar Lake mine. Once there we had a safety orientation and a quick presentation about how the mine operated from the mine operations manager as we had our morning coffee. After the presentation we left to get geared up so we would be safe when we went underground. This included white Tyvek overalls, little cloth booties to make the steel toed rubber boots more bearable, hardhat with lamp, gloves and of course safety goggles. Our guides Stephanie and Imre then took us to the cage that would take us down 480m into the mining tunnels. Although a bit cramped the ride down was quick and cozy. What a difference between the uranium mine and the potash mine. Instead of a dry, warm environment like the potash mine, this was wet and cold. All of the walls were reinforced with concrete and we got a close up view of the New Austrian Tunneling Method. We then got to see the uranium miner (in fact were on it!) and got an outstanding explanation of how it worked. The miner blasts the uranium out of its cavities with water pressured at 15 000 PSI. That’s enough pressure to cut steel! The slurry is then pumped to the surface where it is loaded into specially designed containers that are then trucked to McLean Lake Mill for processing. After returning to the surface we got bussed back to the airport and had a quick lunch on our 15 minute flight to Points North.

At Points North we had a bus waiting for us that took us to McClean Lake Mill. After yet another safety presentation, we got our safety equipment and began our tour of the mill. We broke up into two groups and the general manager, Vincent, and the operations manager, Todd, did a great job of showing us how the milling process works in a short period of time. Essentially, the mill concentrates the uranium that arrives from Cigar Lake and prepares it for transport for refinement in Ontario. Another significant role of the McClean Lake mill is to manage the tailings that are produced from the milling process and we visited the tailing management facility. It was obvious that Vincent was very proud of this facility and he said that no other mine in the world is using these techniques. It was an impressive operation. We went back to the safety station, returned our equipment and then had some light refreshments before jumping back on the bus for the bouncy bus ride back to the air field. We boarded the plane and were back in Saskatoon by 6:30 to conclude our whirlwind day.

There was so much information provided on this day that could be used in the science classroom – especially in chemistry – but when one considers all of the economics that are involved in this industry and the socioeconomic impacts that uranium has on local, provincial and world communities, one could use this information in the social studies classroom as well. It was a great way to end our last full day of the tour!

                              

Day 6: Diamond Lab and Presentation, August 22 - Cindy Weeks (Balgonie), Jocelyn Clark (Unity) and James Armstrong (La Ronge)

After an amazing and exhausting week blitzing around Saskatchewan's major mining operations, it was time for "Diamond Day". We started the day with yet another delicious breakfast, after which we were treated to a nerdtastic presentation on kimberlite mining, courtesy of Rio Tinto and Warren Riemer, one of two impressively tall geologists in the room.

What is kimberlite you ask? In addition to being the likely name of the next Kardashian baby, it's an igneous rock that can contain diamonds; the hypothetical Kardashian baby would likely have its diamonds on the outside. 

We learned that the diamonds in kimberlite were formed some time in the late Cretaceous. The hardness of diamonds, setting the high-bar of 10 for the hardest mineral known, is one of its coolest properties! Even though it makes perfect sense, it blew my mind to learn a 30 centimeter drop is enough for one diamond to chip another...completely shatters the trope of a jewel thief doing high impact acrobatics with a pilfered sack of jostling diamonds at their side - they would be ruined!   

The value of diamonds comes from their aesthetic, and more importantly, their rarity. Unusual size or rare color can greatly increase value. For instance, Argyle diamonds have a slight twist in their carbon matrix, giving them a rare pink hue. This makes them incredibly rare and valuable!

A portion of the talk was about the FalCon Diamond Project, the exploration of the Fort al a Corne site to determine the grade and quality of the kimberlite 400 meters below. Princess Leia was instrumental in this - her ability to extract 1 ton of ore every 2 minutes made her uniquely suited to the job. She didn't use the Force to do this, she used quality engineering, since she happens to be the "industrial mining cutter" Leia, not the "Han Solo's crush" Leia.

We learned the biggest obstacle for making a profitable mine was the removal of the overburden (that’s the technical term for all the earth on top of the desired ore).  Here's hoping the exploration goes well, and the tens of millions of dollars Rio Tinto spends on the site bears fruit!

 In the afternoon we went over to SRC Diamond Lab to meet a third impressively tall geologist. It's at this point that I start wondering if geologists are a tall alien species that came to earth to study it. It casts the Willow Bunch giant in a new light… I feel he was likely one of the early alien explorers.  

It was incredible to learn that the Saskatoon SRC Diamond Lab is the world's largest diamond lab! Kimberlite from all over the world is assessed there, at an even greater efficiency than the lab in Kimberley South Africa, kimberlite's namesake! Without going into too much detail, this facility is a hotbed of expertise and innovation. I loved seeing the diamond indicator minerals under the microscope - gimmie shinies! 

On that note, it was interesting to put the entire vast scope of global diamond production in terms of "finding rare shiny pretties". Every other mining industry we observed revolved around immediate pragmatic use. The diamond market's premium on aesthetic and rarity make their economics closer to a type of collecting, as exists with comics, baseball cards, and stamps: their value is almost entirely subjective!  When squaring the colossal efforts and costs with the final product, it's surreal... and worth thinking about.

After the tour was done, our week-long Geoventure tour was concluded. It was a wonderful experience from top to bottom, filled with hospitality and good faith. 

     

 

 

 

51st Emergency Response Mine Rescue Competition Results
June 2, 2019
SMA Emergency Response Mine Rescue Competition
June 1, 2019

The 51st Annual SMA Emergency Response Mine Rescue Skills Competition was held Saturday, June 1, 2019 at Prairieland Park, Saskatoon.  Click here for the 2019 Competition Guidelines.

Click here for the Competition results.

Click here to read the The Scoop - 2019 SMA ERMRC Newsletter

Saskatchewan Mining Week 2019 Official Launch
May 27, 2019
Saskatchewan Mining Week 2019
May 26, 2019

Saskatchewan Mining Week May 26 - June 1, 2019.  Theme - Mining: Supporting Local and Global Communities

Click here for a schedule of Mining Week events.

Mining Week Presentations included WIM/WiN Saskatchewan Networking Event

11th Annual Saskatchewan Mining Supply Chain Forum
April 3, 2019

The 11th Annual Saskatchewan Mining Supply Chain Forum co-hosted by the Saskatchewan Mining Association, the Saskatchewan Industrial and Mining Suppliers Association and the Saskatchewan Ministry of Trade and Export Development took place April 3 and 4, 2019 at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon, SK.

The Forum provided information on current mining operations and projects in Saskatchewan and the related supply chain opportunities for manufacturing companies.

Click here for the Agenda.

Following are presentations from the Forum:

Tom Olson, The Mosaic Company - Next Generation Technology and Innovation

Mike Elliott, BHP - Jansen Project digital strategy

Jeff Wagner and Josh Dodd, Nutrien - Potash Operations, Capital and Procurement

Peter Haugen, The Mosaic Company - Operations/Project Updates

Matthew Wood, Western Potash Corp. - Western Potash Milestone Project

Rhea Brown, SaskPower - SaskPower's Path to 2030

Thomas Papst, K+S Potash Canada - The Saskatchewan Mining Supply Chain Forum

Brian Beverage, MNP - Block Chain Technology Overview for Mining Industry

Diane Cameron, Natural Resources Canada - Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)

Terence Stechysin, Competition Bureau Canada - Bid-Rigging, Collusive Behavour & Compliance

Troy Baril, Miller Thomson - Prompt Payment Workshop

Brian Warbey, Saskatchewan Ministry of Finance - PST Workshop

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SMA Responds to Federal Carbon Pricing Announcement
October 23, 2018
SMA Environmental Forum 2018
October 16, 2018

SMA Environmental Forum 2018 is a professional development opportunity for environmental practitioners in the mining industry, consulting businesses, post-secondary researchers and government. With changing regulations and evolving technology it is important for environmental professionals to keep current, and move forward, in developing and identifying best practices related to environmental sustainability.

Following is the Agenda along with the presentations:

2018 Environmental Forum Agenda

Ayres-Oct 18 B-10:30-1100

Banks_Lamb-Oct 17-A-1530-1600

Bellmore-Oct 18-B-1600-1630

Boisjoli-Oct 18-1100-1130

Borchardt-Oct 17-A-900-930

Brehm_Judd-Henrey-Oct 17-A-1400-1430

Cator-Oct 18-A-1030-1100

Chad-Oct 18-A-1530-1600

Chambers-Oct 17-A-1030-1130

Drake-Oct 17-B-1600-1630

Etmanski-Oct18-A-0930-1000

Fernandes_Lucas-Oct 18-A-1400-1430

Ferris_Ferguson-Oct 18-A-1430-1500

Freistadt-Oct 18-B-0800-0830

Han-Oct 18-B-1530-1600

Hecker-Oct 17-A-1100-1130

Heffner_Skinner-Oct 17 -B-0830-0930

Hinz_Fullarton-Oct 17-A-1130-1200

Jean-Oct 17 B-1500-1530

Jeerakathil-Keynote-Oct 17-1200-1230

Kambeitz-Oct 17-B-1100-1130

Kempenaar-Oct 18-A-0830-0900

Kenke-Oct 17-B-1130-1200

Ketilson-Oct 18-B-1130-1200

Larsen-Oct 18-A-1600-1630

LePoudre-Oct 18-B-0900-0930

McCullum-Oct 17-A-0830-0900

McLoughlin-Oct 17-B-1030-1100

Nikl-Oct 18-B-0930-1000

Page_MacBride-Oct 17-B-0930-1000

Pedler and Meadows 2018 SMA paper_FINAL

Pedler_Meadows-Oct 17-A-1330-1400

Podaima-Oct-18-B-0830-900

Pollock-Oct-17-B-1530-600

Povalyaev-Oct 17-B-0900-0930

Proulx-Oct 18-A-1330-1400

Riess-Oct 17-A-1600-1630

Rykaart-Oct 18-A-0900-0930

Schabert-Oct 17-A-1500-1530

Searcy_Benson Oct 17-0930-1000

Tallon-Oct 18-A-1100-1130

Traylor-Oct 17-B-1330-1400

Webster-Oct 18-B-1330-1400

Wittrup-Oct 18-A-0800-0830

Wittrup-Oct 18-B-1400-1430

Yates-Oct 18-A-1130-1200

Zwarich_Message-Oct 17-B-1400-1430

 

 

 

 

SMA Supports Next Step in SK Prairie Resilience Strategy
August 29, 2018
2018 SMA GeoVenture Blog
August 19, 2018

Following is the 2018 SMA GeoVenture Blog August 19 - 24
Day 1 Orientation and Welcome BBQ, August 19, 2018

GeoVenture 2018 kicked off with an Orientation Workshop which included Introductions; Itinerary review; Curriculum Link Outline; Introduction to Rocks and Minerals; Overview of Saskatchewan Mining Industry; distribution of curriculum-related material.

The day finished off with a Drill and Grill dinner at Saskatoon Inn attended by SMA Board members.

                   

Day 2 Potash - Solution (Mosaic Belle Plaine and Potash Interpretive Centre), August 20, 2018
By John Nicholson, St. Joseph High School, Saskatoon and Majak Mapiour, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon

We had a nice breakfast at the Saskatoon Inn and boarded the bus for the Mosaic potash mine at Belle Plaine. This mine is the largest solution mine in the world and produces more potash per year than the United States. It also generates its own electricity and consumes as much natural gas per year as the city of Moose Jaw. The 64 km2 mine site has about 1900 km of underground pipes that pump hot water down 1500 m to dissolve the potash. Belle Plaine mine consumes 19 000 L per minute (24/7) and all is kept on site.

What is potash?
Potash is the name given to potassium compounds and potassium containing materials, the most common of which is KCl. The name comes from the middle Dutch potaschen which means pot ash, referring to its original production of soaking wood ash in pots. The name of the element potassium comes from potash. Potash ore is a mixture of KCl, NaCl, Fe2O3, clay and other trace salts.

Potash Mining
There are two ways to mining potash: conventional mining and solution mining. In Mosaic Belle Plaine solution mining is used. Natural gas is burned to turn water to steam. The steam is put through two turbines to generate electricity. 90% of power needed to run the plant is produced on site and the rest is supplied by SaskPower. The steam exits the turbines as hot water, which is then pumped into the cavern to mine KCl. The recovered brine solution from underground is sent to either the refinery or the cooling ponds.


In the refinery, the brine solution is pumped to the evaporators (8 in total), where steam is used to evaporates some of the water causing the NaCl to settle out of the solution. Then the stream is directed to the crystallizers to recover KCl.  Subsequently, the wet KCl is dewatered, dried, sized, compacted, and/or stored. The cooling ponds use natural evaporation to settle out the KCl. Two dredges are used to recover the KCl from the ponds.

                           

Potash Interpretive Centre, Esterhazy, SK
After our drive from Belle Plaine Potash Mine, we arrived in Esterhazy at about 7:00.  We were treated to a wonderful, homemade Ukrainian supper of perogies, cabbage rolls, and Grayson sausage at the Esterhazy Bowl Arena. Socializing and interacting with the others in our group was a very nice touch to the evening as we all sat together at one large, square table, where we were served our supper.

We then walked over to the Potash Interpretive Centre. Outside of the centre there was a tall, 20 foot statue of a miner and an old train car out on the front lawn.  When we entered the centre, we were greeted by our tour guides who were retired employees of the mine.  We learned about the backbone of the Esterhazy economy, which is potash.  

The interpretive centre is a great place to go to learn about the history of the potash industry and how it is important not only to the people of the area, but also all around the world.  The information was displayed through murals, maps of the local mines and the patterns they used for mining, a life-sized diorama of the area being mined, miniature models of the equipment used, and videos.  

We learned about the construction of the mines and how the technology has changed throughout the years. Where once there was a lot more physical labour, many of the mines operations are carried through by computers and automation. Safety measures are also considered more effectively than in the past.

The Potash Interpretive Centre is an excellent place to visit to experience what a working potash mine is like, without actually being able to visit a mine.
          

Day 3 Potash – Conventional Underground (Mosaic Esterhazy K1 & K2), August 21, 2018
A Mine Called K1

By Melanie Charnetski, Eaton School, Eatonia; Lanna Abbott, Lumsden High School; Violet Dubitz, SMA

Now this is the story all about how,
We learned about mining underground.
We’d like to take a minute,
Just sit right down,
We’ll tell you how we became the queens of a mine called K1.

In Southeast Saskatchewan, born and praised,
In Esterhazy is where spent one full day.
Gearing up, maxin’, descending all cool,
Traversing the tunnels, gettin’ all schooled,
When a couple of guys, who were up to some good,
Took us on a tour of their neighbourhood.
We got in some good sights, and we weren’t even scared,
Brad said, “Take as many potash samples as you dare.”

We whistled for a ride, and when it came near,
We thought to ourselves, “What a career!”
If anything we could say this trip was rare,
And we thought, “Time for the mill, yo holmes, to the stairs!”

We arrived at the mill around 12:08,
And we learned about size and importance of grade.
They showed us their kingdom, our tour was done,
Thank you, best wishes to the mine called K1!

         

Mosaic Esterhazy K2
Michelle Peters, Thom Collegiate High School, Regina and I (Mick Rissling, Martin Collegiate High School, Regina) decided to express the processes we learned about traditional underground potash mining and potash chemistry from the Esterhazy K2 mine in song form. You may wish to listen to it by itself or as an accompaniment (or epic song battle) to the song done by our colleagues in their K1 mine experience. Enjoy!

Esterhazy Rhapsody (sung more-or-less to the tune of Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen)
Is this the real life?
Is this nerd fantasy?
Down in K2 mine,
3.3 x 103 feet from reality.
Open your eyes,
there are no skies to see.
I am just a poor teacher,
I need some good PD.
Because it’s easy come, easy go,
we’ll again be high but now we’re low.
The one way that the fans blow really, really matters to breathe.
To breathe.

Mosaic, protects a man.
Put a hard hat on his head,
Safety trained so he’s not dead.
Mosaic, K3 just begun,
To no longer have to throw water all away
Mosaic, oooooh
Still need to make it dry.
If I’m not up the shaft this time tomorrow
Come on down, come on down, I’ll be in the refuge.

Clocked in, time to descend
My ears poppin’ all the time.
Steel-toe boots caked with brine.
Good-bye everybody, I’ve got to go
Gotta leave surface behind and face the face.
Mama, ooo (there is no way the wind blows)
The pressure is real high,
I sometimes wish I’d never come down at all.

We see high-grade potash in the rock,
Dig it out, send it up, will you do the miners’ tango?
Blades spin as fast as lightning, with PPE it’s not frightening
Esterhazy, Esterhazy,
Esterhazy, Esterhazy,
Esterhazy Mosaic Co. Mosaic Co.!

It’s just a mixture, gotta separate it
it’s just a mixture, from the Elk Point Sea.
crystalline compounds, evaporation processes.
K-C-L , K-2-O, just let it go.
so-di-um - electrons let it go - let it go!
so-di-um - electrons let it go - let it go!
so-di-um - electrons let it go - let it go!
We will not let you go (never)
Never let you go let me go
Never let me go ooo
No, no, no, no, no, no, no
O chemistry-a differential density-a help-a-me-a let it go!
Flotation has aeration and ions for me.
For me
For me

So you think you can split me and sell me by size?
So you think you can dissolve me and leave me to dry?
Oh baby, I just need to be compacted, baby.
Just gotta get sold, just gotta get shipped outta here.

Ooh yeah, ooh yeah,
Potash really matters,
Botanists can see,
Potash really matters, to plant chemistry.

All the ways the food grows.

                      

Day 4 Coal  - Westmoreland Coal Poplar River Mine and Castle Butte, August 22, 2018

The sleepy group of 2018 GeoVenture participants awoke to a beautiful crisp yet sunny day in the lovely community of Willow Bunch, Saskatchewan.  After a brief meal at the local restaurant we ventured out to ‘meet the giant’ nearby, Mr. Edouard Beaupre.  Standing over 8 feet tall was an impressive statue of his likeness, but nowhere near the size of ‘Great Gus’.

Great Gus is the smaller of two giant draglines that are the backbone of the Westmoreland Poplar River coal mine.  With a boom arm measuring 140 meters and a reach of 110 meters, this behemoth moves earth like a champ.  If this were parked at one end of Mosaic stadium it could reach the goal post at the other end! It has the power to dig a typical basement in two swipes of its giant bucket, with each swipe carrying 70 cubic meters.

  

Upon arriving at the Westmoreland facility, we signed in and were given a very thorough orientation and safety talk, complete with a professionally produced animated video.  We all donned our Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and off we went to board the bus.  The first stop was to see the coal seam and get out to walk in the pit.  We were treated to seeing the water truck go by and water the coal in an effort to keep the dust down.  We were also given bags to collect our very own coal samples, and had a group picture taken in front of the coal.

   

The seam of coal is typically about 4 meters deep, and is covered by about 30 meters of overburden.  It is the job of Great Gus to remove this overburden.  The giant loaders and haul trucks do the rest.  We watched a truck get loaded while we were there, hauling away about 140 tons of coal which is about 5 bucket loads from the loader.  We then followed the truck out of the pit up a ramp that has a maximum grade of 6 percent.  This means that for every 100 meters of travel, the ramp can only rise by 6 meters…but when you are hauling that much weight it is a pretty good feat.  Upon leaving the coal pit, the trucks travel approximately 5-10 minutes to the hopper where they unload all that coal so it can be loaded into the train for delivery to the power plant.

At the loading station, trains come to the plant to be loaded with coal destined for the power plant.  After the coal is hauled from the pit to the hopper, the truck unloads the coal and it is crushed to a more uniform size around 6 inches.  Then it is loaded onto a series of train cars (21 in total), and hauled to the Sask Power coal generating power plant.  This plant has two turbines and each one has a capacity of 315 megawatts.  The 630 megawatts of power generated at this plant represents about 20 percent of the total power that the province of Saskatchewan uses.  Two locomotives are owned by the company, and each of the rail cars holds about 90 tons for a combined total of about 2000 tons per train.  That coal is typically used by the power plant in about 3 hours, after its been crushed at the plant into a fine dust so it can be sent to the furnaces for combustion to power the turbines.

Our bus headed out to take us to see the dragline next, appropriately named Great Gus.  Another dragline is the 400 foot dragline, but at the time was undergoing an 18 million dollar service and was not operational, but it is the largest dragline operated in Saskatchewan.  The main purpose of the draglines are to remove the approximately 30 meters of overburden, and access the coal seam, but the dragline doesn’t actually dig the coal.  We all had an opportunity to see the spare 100 ton dragline bucket, and had another group picture done in front of this giant ‘shovel’.

We were able to see the dragline from two angles, and after leaving the second pit we headed to the main facility again to tour the maintenance shop.  Maintenance is one of the largest expenses for the company (after wages) and preventative maintenance is performed on all the equipment regularly.  All equipment is washed before it is worked on, and the mechanics are generally all journeymen heavy duty mechanics.  The last part of our tour consisted of a lunch with many of the company leaders and it gave us an opportunity to ask many great questions. The knowledgeable staff made the tour not only safe and informative, but also exciting.  We learned about their drone technology for mapping the site, the GPS technology that the operators use, and some more history of the company, both at this mine and others that they operate.

One thing that was stressed throughout our entire tour was the importance of site remediation and reclamation.  Westmoreland works consistently with local land owners and government to ensure all regulations are being met.  They reclaim all land to a state very similar to what it was prior to the mining, and most of it is returned to farmland and eventually sold to local farmers once the coal has been removed.  The entire operation was impressive to see, very educational, and certainly gives us educators who were on the tour a lot to talk to our students about.

Castle Butte
By Debbie Peterson, Kyle Composite School and Lee Jacobson, North Park Wilson School, Saskatoon

Coming across the flat prairie from the southern part of Saskatchewan, we followed the long road into a wide open valley formed by glacier melt water channels. It was flat except for a tall castle which appeared before our eyes. It was in the middle of nowhere and rose up tall, dry, orange, brown, and beige with sage, dust, and some grass around it. It was full of horizontal and vertical lines covering the whole surface. Upon further examination, there were some caves around the base. Why was it here? What made the lines crossing the surface of the castle? We needed to interpret the geology of this formation.

Our guides Svieda and Pam were a wealth of information sharing that the Castle was indeed formed during the Upper Cretaceous period where the land was mostly covered by rivers, streams and swamps. Sediments deposited at the bottom of the water 75-55 million years ago created the sedimentary rock. As the surrounding rocks were eroded away, a butte was left behind (a butte is a flat-topped hill of soft rock with a hard-protective rock on top). The soft rock does not erode due to the hard-top surface. In the sedimentary rock, there is sandstone and traces of iron. The iron shows up in horizontal bands that create protruding ledges as the sandstone erodes. The vertical lines covering the butte are a result of water and weather eroding the sandstone. 

Some of our group walked around the circumference, some explored the caves, and others climbed the top to enjoy the beautiful vista. There was an opportunity to express our artistic talents on paper showing our impressions of the wonderful Castle Butte.

                           

Day 5 Uranium - Cameco Cigar Lake and Orano Canada McClean Lake Mill, August 23, 2018

Cameco Cigar Lake Mine
By Karen Kennedy-Allin, Weyburn Comprehensive and Shelly Stamm, Central Collegiate, Moose Jaw

We started the day by meeting down in the lobby of the Saskatoon Inn at 5:45 am.  Even though it was so early, we were all on time!  We divided ourselves into cars and Pam lead us in a convoy to Westwind Airlines.  We checked in and waited our turn to board.  Breakfast was waiting for us on the planes.

 
The flight was beautiful, although it was a bit smokey to start with due to the fires in BC.

  

Pam gave us a lesson about the Athabasca basin while we were on our way.  Click here  and here to see geological maps of Saskatchewan and the Athabasca Basin similar to what Pam was showing us. 

We arrived at our northern destination about an hour and a half later.  It was interesting to note that the runway was a dirt runway, but it was a smooth landing nonetheless.  At that point, we were welcomed by a friendly employee of Cigar Lake Mine.

A school bus was waiting to take us to the mine site.  The views were spectacular!  We had seen many of the lakes from the airplane, but it was even better up close.  We noticed that the trees were not quite as tall as trees further south.  This is likely due to the colder climate and soil conditions compared to further south.

Our orientation was led by the manager of the site, Jeremy Breker. During the presentation he emphasized safety above all.   

Cigar Lake has a unique resource.  It has the highest grade uranium mine in the world.

Jeremy gave us an overview of what we would be seeing and we were on our way to put on or PPE.  We had booties, steel toed rubber boots, a white Tyvex jumpsuit, helmet and safety glasses.


All of our tours have involved two people from the mine to lead our groups.  One person describes what we are seeing and the other person follows behind answering questions and makes sure no one gets left behind.   

We were taken to the elevator shaft which was also referred to as “the cage”.  The ride down was exciting and quite smooth.  Our tour guides took us to several places including a refuge station that also serves as a lunch room.  Workers must clean their boots before entering and remove their safety helmets, gloves and wash their hands before entering the eating area.  

The ore is mined from underneath the ore body using high pressure water jets.  This was developed by Cameco and is referred to as the jet boring system or JBS.  More detailed information on this method can be found here. We got to see exactly where this occurs while we were touring underground.  We also got to see the area where the engine for the jets of water are kept.  They use 15000 psi to retrieve the ore.

Once the ore is removed from the ore body it goes to a slurry tank – which we also got to see.  From there it is ground up more to make it easier to move to the surface. Once we returned to the surface, we were taken to the building that the trucks enter to load the slurry that is then moved by truck to McClean Lake for milling.

Our tour guides answered all of our questions and were very patient when they had to re-explain some of the processes more than once. After the tour we loaded up the bus and headed to McClean Lake to see the milling process.

Orano McClean Lake Mill
by: Michelle Wall, Scott Collegiate, Regina and Carolyn Bowler, Sask Polytech, Moose Jaw

After waking up bright and early, the group split up to get on our planes for the ride to Cigar Lake. The tour of the uranium mine was fantastic as you just read above.

A delicious lunch was provided, and then we were on our way to the Orano Processing Facility located at McCLean Lake.
 
Our bus driver took us through some beautiful countryside full of lakes and black spruce/jack pine forest.
 
We arrived at the plant, and had coffee and the best fruit tray and snacks while the entertaining Monsieur Vincent Laniece (Gen. Mgr.) gave us an overview of the facility in his charming French accent.
 
Having a Frenchman in charge ensured that we were dressed to the nines in the latest safety fashions. Red coats, baby blue hats and purple gloves rounded out our ensembles.
 
Then we were off to the JEB Tailings Management Facility, an impressive 120m hole in the ground that used to be a mine from 1994-1997. Now, the wastes from the plant flow into the pond and settle on the bottom to consolidate into a big plug. Pumps draw water from the bottom to be recycled into the plant. The TMF was designed to ensure that all water flows into the pond from the surrounding area, and around the tailings. The inviting turquoise water is currently at an elevation of 436m. They were in the process of adding a liner made of bentonite clay to the upper portion of the pond to ensure that water flow continues to flow into the pond and not into the environment as the pond rises to its maximum capacity elevation of 450m which will be enough to hold all anticipated tailings from Cigar Lake. The liner also helps to prevent plants from gaining a foothold, which further prevents any wildlife from settling on the pond. With plenty of surrounding lakes to choose from, stray birds have never been a real issue.
 
 We headed back to the plant to learn how the plant deals with the 14-16 truckloads of uranium sent from the Cigar Lake mine each day. An impressive safety record and the array of devices for monitoring alpha, beta and gamma radiation made for a relaxing entry into the plant.
 
First stop - unloading the trucks. The 12% uranium slurry is vacuum suctioned out of the bottom of each truck container and sent to the pachucas for storage. This area had the highest levels of radiation in the whole plant, so were weren't allowed to enter.

    

From the pachucas, we went to the leaching area where acid is used to extract uranium, and a variety of other metals, from the slurry. There is a lot of monitoring of the waste stream at this point because elements like selenium (which is toxic to fish at levels measured in parts per BILLION) can be present. As fishing is the main recreation of a lot of the workers here, they make sure that nothing will harm their pastime!
 
We also learned that a large amount of hydrogen gas can be released from the clay at this step, and the plant had to overhaul their equipment to make sure H levels stayed below the explosive range. Several backup systems make sure the levels stay low, even during the heat of summer.

Day 6 Diamond presentation & SRC Lab Tour, August 24, 2018
by: Renee Mahajan

Check out Renee's blog on the diamond presentations https://mixcord.co/acapella/p/EmN4Fvc34Bqn7omJwJR_Ig/

50th Emergency Response Mine Rescue Competition Results
June 5, 2018
50th Annual Emergency Response Mine Rescue Skills Competition
June 2, 2018

The 50th Annual Emergency Response Mine Rescue Skills Competition took place on Saturday, June 2, 2018 in Moose Jaw at Mosaic Place and Moose Jaw Exhibition.  Here are the results.

The Competition Guidelines can be found here. Click here for the Mine Rescue Manual.

The SMA ERMRC Newletter The Scoop can be found here

 

Saskatchewan Mining Week 2018
May 28, 2018

NEWS RELEASE

Monday, May 28, 2018

Mining: Sustaining Success

Regina: The Honourable Bronwyn Eyre, Minister of Energy & Resources along with Jessica Theriault, Chair of the Saskatchewan Mining Association launched ‘Mining Week in Saskatchewan’ today at the Saskatchewan Legislature. Mining Week in Saskatchewan runs from May 27 – June 2, 2018.

Saskatchewan is a global mining leader. While low commodity prices have continued to make for challenging operating environment, we are reminded that Saskatchewan is a good place to be operating mines. “Saskatchewan provides a low-risk environment because of both the great geological framework, and also the considered regulatory and policy frameworks. SMA member companies have made multibillion dollar investments in Saskatchewan over the past decade. And because of these investments, mining remains a key pillar of Saskatchewan’s economy.” said Jessica Theriault, Chair of Saskatchewan Mining Association.

As Canada transitions to a lower carbon economy, Saskatchewan products are among the most responsibly mined in the world. “Saskatchewan mining operations feed and fuel the world with their products, improving the quality of life around the world and at home. The world needs more Saskatchewan mineral products and we will continue to work with governments to develop a framework for sustained success in a globally competitive marketplace”, said Pam Schwann, SMA President.

During Mining Week, the Saskatchewan Mining Association will have dozens of events in communities across the province, culminating with the 50th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition, Saturday, June 2nd at Mosaic Place and Moose Jaw Exhibition Grounds in Moose Jaw.

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For further information contact:

Tracey Irwin, SMA Manager, Communications and Membership, (306) 591-7050

News Release:  Saskatchewan Mining Week 2018, Mining: Sustaining Success

Saskatchewan Mining Week 2018
May 27, 2018

Saskatchewan Mining Week May 27 - June 2, 2018. 

Following is a list of Mining Week activities.

Monday, May 28 – Pierre Gratton, President & CEO, Mining Association of Canada will make a luncheon presentation to the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan and Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce to be held at the Hotel Saskatchewan Radisson Plaza in Regina. https://www.apegs.ca/Portal/Pages/event-details-7/33477

Tuesday, May 29 – Pam Schwann, President, Saskatchewan Mining Association will make a luncheon presentation to members of the Humboldt and District Chamber of Commerce at the Bella Vista in Humboldt. https://www.humboldtchamber.ca/events/details/mining-week-in-saskatchewan-2073

Wednesday, May 30 - Kyle Leadbeater, Superintendent, Dry End Production, K+S Potash Canada will make a breakfast presentation to the Moose Jaw and District Chamber of Commerce at Grant Hall Hotel, Moose Jaw. https://www.mjchamber.com/home

Wednesday, May 30 – Women in Mining/ Women in Nuclear Networking Event with keynote speaker the Honourable Bronwyn Eyre, Minister of Energy & Resources to be held at the Saskatoon Club, Saskatoon. http://wimwinsk.com/event/2018-wimwin-sk-mining-week-networking-event/

Wednesday, May 30 and Thursday, May 31 – ‘Core Days’ in partnership with Keewatin Community Development Association, Northlands College and the Ministry of Energy & Resources. Events include: Technical Discussions, Core and Rock Sample Displays, Long Term Service Awards, Mineral Exploration & Mine Service Tradeshow, La Ronge. http://www.kcdc.ca/coredays/

Thursday, May 31 – Larry Long, Vice President Operations, Potash, Nutrien will make a breakfast presentation to the North Saskatoon Business Association to be held at the Saskatoon Club in Saskatoon. http://nsbasask.com/event/nsba-mining-week-breakfast-may31-18/

Thursday, May 31 – IMII’s 5th Annual “Let’s Talk Minerals!” to be held at the Saskatoon Inn & Conference Centre, Saskatoon. http://www.imii.ca/events/events-details/?tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=208&cHash=8208d01a9013b9e560a50c3419b8d7a6

Friday, June 1 – The Honourable Bronwyn Eyre, Minister of Energy & Resources will make a breakfast presentation to the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce to be held at the Radisson Hotel, Saskatoon. http://members.saskatoonchamber.com/events/details/saskatchewan-mining-week-breakfast-4100

Saturday, June 2 – 50th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition at Mosaic Place and Moose Jaw Exhibition Park, Moose Jaw.

For more information on Saskatchewan Mining Week contact the SMA office (306) 757-9505; admin@saskmining.ca

 

Amendments to CTA Fails to Address Canadian Mining Industry
April 30, 2018
SMA echoes the profound disappointment and frustration voiced by the Mining Association of Canada with respect to the Government of Canada's legislation amending The Canada Transportation Act (Bill C-49).  Click here for the media release.
SMA supports province's request to the Sask Court of Appeal on carbon tax legislation
April 25, 2018
Saskatchewan Mining Association supports province's request to the Saskatchewan Court of Appeal seeking clarification on constitutionality of federal government's carbon tax legislation.  Click here for the media release. 
Train the Trainer Program
April 11, 2018

TEAM Response and St. John Ambulance will be offering the Train the Trainer Program again this year. The objective of the Train the Trainer program is to better prepare those that are tasked with training a team for competition or participating as a team member.

Pre-requisite for Train the Trainer

  • Minimum of a OHS A certification
  • Physically fit

 

Agenda for Train the Trainer

  • Review of changes for 2018
  • Judges Marking Sheets
  • Patient Assessments
  • Certification/Recertification in oxygen administration/Automated External Defibrillation
  • Spinal Immobilization which will include the Kendrick Extrication Device (KED) and the Scoop stretcher
  • Helmet Removal
  • Triage
  • Evaluating a team

 

Proposed training date:

April 11th, 2018 at Mosaic Place, 175, 119 River St W, Moose Jaw, SK. The course will run from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Lunch will be provided. Anyone with diet restrictions please notify us in advance. Participants can register by email to teamresponse@outlook.com or Michael.Brenholen@sk.sja.ca The cost of the course is $225.00 per person.

 

Registrations for the Train the Trainer course will be accepted until April 5th, 2018 to allow for course loading.

10th Annual Saskatchewan Mining Supply Chain Forum
April 10, 2018

The 10th Annual Saskatchewan Mining Supply Chain Forum will be held April 10 and 11, 2018 at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon, SK.

This Forum provides information on how manufacturers, construction, equipment and service providers can access mining supply opportunities.

Forum topics have historically included (yet to be finalized for this year):

  • An overview of projects by Saskatchewan mining companies
  • Information on opportunities to supply equipment and services to the mining industry
  • The process and steps to become a supplier to the mining industry
  • Separate sessions on topics such as maintenance, repair and operations for mine site personnel

For more information and to purchase tickets for the10th Annual Saskatchewan Mining Supply Chain Forum please use the following link: https://saskmining.wixsite.com/miningsupplyforum

NOTE:  Saskatchewan Mining Association members to contact the SMA office for registration to the event.

52nd Annual General Meeting
March 2, 2018

Saskatchewan Mining Association's 52nd Annual General Meeting was held on Friday, March 2, 2018 at the Radisson Hotel Saskatoon. 

Download the 2017 Annual Report

2018 Mine Safety Summit
March 1, 2018

The 3rd Mine Safety Summit - Technical Aspects of Mine Safety was held on Thursday, March 1, 2018 in conjunction with the SMA AGM on Friday, March 2, 2018.

The format of the Summit utilized case studies from SMA member companies and included reviews of incident investigations, equipment/procedure evaluations, and best practice discussions. Member companies presented for approximately 20 minutes/presentation. The case studies were grouped into themes which relate to activities and conditions that have been, or have the potential to have been, associated with serious injury and/or fatality.

Following are the presentations:

Jason Belanger, Nutrien

Mary Lo, Orano Canada

Kirk Lamont, Cameco

Dave Lowe, K+S Potash Canada

Ben Stevenson & Robin Butler, BHP

Brent Bachtold, Mosaic

Ruo Xi Liu, Cameco

Garry Sawkey, K+S Potash Canada

Kathy Sovdi, Westmoreland Coal Company

Marc Carignan, Nutrien

Chad Binsfeld, K+S Potash Canada

Dustin Orosz, Mosaic

 

 

 

6th Native Prairie Restoration/Reclamation Workshop
February 7, 2018
6th Native Prairie Restoration/Reclamation Workshop

February 7-8, 2018

Plenary Sessions, Break-out Sessions, Case Studies, Trade Show, Poster Session and More!

Topics include: Species at Risk, Climate Change, Mining Restoration/Reclamation, Wetland Restoration, Soil and Phyto Remediation, Grazing and Prescribed Burning and partnerships!

At the Saskatoon Inn, in Saskatoon, SK

More information: 306-352-0472, pcap@sasktel.net or www.pcap-sk.org  /ckfinder/userfiles/files/NPRRW18 Advertising Poster.pdf

SMA Supports Government of SK Climate Change Strategy
December 4, 2017
The Saskatchewan Mining Association is supportive of the Government of Saskatchewan's Climate Change Strategy.  Click here for the news release.
GMSG Edmonton Forum 2017
October 11, 2017

Global Mining Collaboration Lands in Edmonton this October

An interactive forum dedicated to presentations and discussions around Interoperability, Autonomous Mining, and much more, is taking place October 18-19 at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. Hear from speakers involved in the latest mining industry guideline work on autonomy, data sharing, and cyber security, as well as case studies on success stories outside the industry. You won’t want to miss the spotlight on GMSG’s Underground Mining projects around Battery Electric Vehicles and Short Interval and Real-Time Control.

GMSG forums offer a chance for participants to discover opportunities for their companies to grow and innovate. See the attached agenda for further details./ckfinder/userfiles/files/GMSG_17_EdmontonForum_Agenda.pdf

2017 SMA GeoVenture
August 21, 2017

Following is a blog on the 2017 GeoVenture August 14 - 19, 2017

Day 1 Monday August 14th, 2017 - Orientation

    

   

Day 2 Tuesday August 15th, 2017 - K + S Potash Canada Bethune Mine, by Erika Bakker, Saskatoon Misbah School

Our first day took us to Saskatchewan’s newest mine – K+S Potash Canada in Bethune. We learned about a special kind of mining called “solution mining.” This is very different – but also similar – to conventional mining. The reason you would want to do solution mining over conventional mining is you can reach far deeper ore beds.

In solution mining rather than send people and machines deep underground, you send hot water. At first it is just plain hot water to dissolve both the potash – KCl, and the salt – NaCl. This creates the “pocket” to get started. After you have some space, you send down a brine solution of NaCl and water. This brine is so super-NaCl concentrated, that it cannot dissolve any more salt, only potash. This lets you take only the KCL and leave the NaCl behind. I was surprised to learn about the “diesel blanket,” they pump some diesel into the hole to coat the top, so the water doesn’t dissolve the top of the cavern!

Once you pump the water out of the hole, the process becomes similar to conventional mining. The potash is dried, compacted, and shipped out by rail car to happy customers all over the world… but not before they dye it PINK!

       

      

Day 3 Wednesday August 16, 2017 - Westmoreland Coal Poplar River Mine, by Todd Smith, Ecole Ducharme, Moose Jaw and Satindar Nijhawan, Saskatchewan Polytechnic Moose Jaw

What Lies beneath?

Our visit to Westmoreland Coal Company’s Poplar River Mine, was our chance to dig deeper into this important mineral resource that spurs the industry in the Coronach and Estevan area; not to mention provides the fuel to generate base load power for the majority of the province (630 Mega-Watts).

Arriving on site and seeing the scale of the operation surprised us. We traveled to a coal pit where we were able to lay our hands on the remnants of Saskatchewan’s tropical past. Some 300 million years ago, our province was covered in lush rainforest…hard to believe, if you have experienced a Saskatchewan winter! The vegetation was covered in sediments and compacted to create the coal that we now find in the South-East.

After the topsoil is stripped, the dragline removes some 50m of overburden to access the lignite coal seam. The seam is around 4 m thick and is removed from the ground by giant front-end loaders that work around the clock to supply coal to the power plant. While some pits are active, the engineers are hard at work mapping new and existing pits using drones to gain a better view and more accurate measurements. The information is fed in to the GPS units on the dragline to help improve efficiencies.

Once the coal has been extracted, the remediation process begins. This creates very little back log in the reclamation process and makes for a near seamless transition between mined and unmined ground. Habitat for wildlife is restored and the reclaimed land is used to provide hay for local farmers.

The rigorous work of extracting the coal means that preventative maintenance is necessary. While touring the mine, the diversity of jobs available was staggering. Mining engineers, Environmental engineers, Heavy duty mechanics, Welders, Safety officers and Heavy equipment operators are just some of the many job opportunities in the mining field.

After we wrapped up our tour of the mine, we came to the realization that Saskatchewan needs coal! It provides jobs, base load power, and drives our economy. With the increasing concern for “clean energy”, coal should not be a “four letter word”. Saskatchewan leads the world in Carbon Capture technology and coal is still the cleanest option to fill our power needs.

We would like to thank Westmoreland Coal Company and the staff at Poplar River Mine for hosting the SMA GeoVenture program, allowing us to tour the mine site and opening our eyes to the power of coal.

         

       

CoalTodd Smith (17/08/2017)

Forests and hay, way back in the day,
Were flattened and pushed to the soil,
The silts then came,
To cover the fray,
And buried the mass without toil.
Deep down in the earth,
Covered with dirt,
The layers of plants were compacted,
And due to the heat,
And the pressure complete,
The whole mix of flora reacted.
The carbonized weeds,
Completed the deed,
And solidified in one black horizon
Then people came,
With pick axe and spade,
To dig up what they had laid eyes on.
Who would have supposed,
That what erosion exposed,
Would help a province to grow.
And no one suspected,
Until they detected,
The coal that lay under their toes.
The miners did toil,
And muscles roiled,
To pull the coal from the ground.
The dragline sang,
And metal rang,
With the sound of work all around.
Over the years,
There have been many cheers,
For the lignite from the South.
And the stories are told,
By the miners of old,
Passed down by word of mouth.
So celebrate coal,
For the new and the old,
Technologies we use today,
Carbon capture will show
What we all know,
That Coal is A-O.K.
Potash Interpretive Centre
 
    
 
 
Day 4, Thursday, August 17, 2017 - PotashCorp Rocanville, by Dakota De Caux, Dene High School, La Loche 

 

On Thursday morning, we boarded the bus at 6:30am with captain Ryan behind the wheel. We were eager to use our newly gained knowledge of potash mining that we obtained from our fabulous guides at the Esterhazy Potash Interpretive Centre the night before. Our bus was bound for the PotashCorp Rocanville mine where we had the opportunity to tour the underground facilities at the Scissor’s Creek site (following a minor detour).

The PotashCorp Rocanville mine has been in operation since September of 1970 and is the largest underground potash mine in the world. Their ore consists of approximately 1/3 Potassium chloride (aka – the money maker) and 2/3 Sodium chloride and the recent expansion to the facility has increased their capacity to 6.5 million tonnes of potash per year. Those numbers translate into approximately 18,000 tonnes or 200 rail cars of product per day. This production is made possible by approximately 800 employees, 11 mining machines, two processing mills, and a rich deposit of potash.

Once we had received our orientation/safety briefing and were outfitted with our PPE, the real fun began when we headed 3200 feet (approximately one kilometer) below surface! Our knowledgeable tour guides introduced us to their little town below ground and the equipment involved in the conventional mining method used at the Rocanville site. As we travelled around in our electric vehicles through the 8 foot drifts, we had the opportunity to see mechanical shops, offices, a mining machine, other heavy duty equipment, permanent and temporary conveyor belts, the product being mined, and a refuge station. As we explored the tunnels of potash, the warm, dry air and the salt being deposited on our lips (and every other inch of our bodies) quickly became noticeable.

The highlight of the tour was the mining demonstration that gave us the opportunity to see the four massive routers and extendable conveyer belt in action. In order to mine a single drift, the miner completes three alternating and overlapping cuts. As the ore is mined, it is channeled on to the extendable conveyer belt where it begins its journey through the maze of temporary and permanent belts that lead to the two shafts located at the original Rocanville site. The ore is then skipped to surface where it enters the mill and begins the processing required to isolate the potassium chloride which is used to supply a vital nutrient to soils around the world.

        

        

PotashCorp Rocanville Underground, by Kunle Adelakun, Saskatchewan Polytechnic Saskatoon

I was privileged to have participated in the 2017 Geoventure program organized by Saskatchewan Mining Association. Here are some of the knowledge I can take to my class as an instructor. Saskatchewan is the heart of Potash mining in the world. The deposit of salts (NaCl and KCl) which precipitated from evaporation of ocean water thousands of years ago spread mainly across southern part of Saskatchewan and down to the northern US state of North Dakota and spread also into the two neighbouring provinces of Alberta and Manitoba. A good portion of the deposit in Southern Saskatchewan could be mined economically at the depth of 3,300 ft (1,000m) below surface using a conventional mining method while the deposit is mined in the area of the province where it is deeper than 3,300 ft (1,000) using solution mining method. There are eight operating conventional Potash mines and three solution mines in Saskatchewan as of today.

The conventional potash mining required sinking of two shafts into the potash bearing formation. One for providing fresh air into the mine and workers access and the other for exhausting the used air out of the mine and moving of raw potash from underground to the processing mill on surface. The potash is mined using a machine manufactured in Saskatchewan called continuous miners and network of extendable and permanent conveyor belt systems. The machine cuts a panel and then cuts 24 rooms in the panel leaving pillars that separate the rooms from one another. The materials that are cut are moved from the cutting face by the machine unto an extendable conveyor belt that extends as the machine advances. This process is repeated in all the production panels and throughout the life span of the mine. The Potash mining has been a huge boost to Saskatchewan economy since it started by creating a lot of employment opportunities and businesses to the contractors in the province and beyond. This tour has given me the opportunity to see how blessed our province is and how much opportunities do exist in our province especially in the mining industry.

PotashCorp Rocanville Mill, by Bernard Krogsgaard, Regina Christian School

Processing KCL

The volume of potash that is processed daily in Saskatchewan is astounding. It was a rewarding experience to learn about the milling techniques.

Initially, the extracted ore (a mixture of halite-NaCl and sylvite-KCL) is crushed to a particle size of 1 centimetre. This aids the separation of the KCL (approximately 30%) from the NaCl (approximately 70%).

A brine is added to the crushed ore in a ratio of 3:7, brine to ore. The brine along with the use of agitators, scrubs clay and other non-soluable matter from the ore crystals. Using a system of sieves or screens, these clay particles are drawn out of the solution. The remaining slurry is used to separate the KCL from the NaCl. It is a very interesting process.

Chemicals are added to the slurry (brine and ore). This is the flotation stage. These reagents attach to the KCL but not to the NaCl. The KCL with the reagents become hydrophobic (repell water) and have a negative surface charge. At the flotation stage, small air bubbles are released below the slurry. The rising air bubbles align to the KCL particles lifting them to the surface. Frother is added to the mixture to reduce surface tension and the KCL crystals (now separated from the NACl) get suspended on the solution and are skimmed off the surface.

Using centrifugal force the brine is separated from the KCL particles. The remaining moisture is removed from the KCL in dryers at a temperature of 200 degrees.

The KCL particles are sized to 'standard' for the international markets and 'granular' is for use in North America. KCL particles that are too big or fine pass through a machine for compaction into sheets which are then broken to produce the 'standard' or 'granular' sizes.

It is now time to ship the tons of potash that is produced hourly.

Separation Anxiety?, by Dave Little, Valley Manor School, Martensville

Imagine a Saskatchewan teacher on his summer holidays nervously poised to tour a facility which is hot, humid, dusty—and noisier than an out-of-control grade 8 classroom. Whatever could possess this fellow to undertake such an uncomfortable excursion in his free time?

Our story begins almost a kilometre below ground level at the Rocanville potash mine where this fertilizer is produced in quantities greater than anywhere else on the planet. The raw material containing this valuable mineral has rested here undisturbed for 400 million years until quickly mined and rapidly transported by conveyor belt to the bottom of the main shaft. Using a skip, it is transferred at rapid speed—a mere ninety seconds—from its subterranean resting place up to the towering main frame at the surface. Were this potash ore pure enough to be used as a fertilizer, there'd be no need for the hot, dusty, noisy building through which our intrepid teacher will tour.

Alas, the raw material contains only about a third of the desired potash (KCl), so this must be further refined to separate out much salt (NaCl) and other impurities. Thus our anxious Saskatchewan teacher steps into the maelstrom to witness the wonder of separation at the 1970's vintage Rocanville mill. Up and down stairways and through catwalks and hallways, he marvels as the process unfolds.The first step here is to crush the “muck” down to more manageable pieces. Add water and then introduce other chemicals which cause this strange brew to froth and foam and force the potash granules to the top while the salt precipitates to the bottom. A quick paddling sweeps away the KCl pieces from the surface of this soup and a belt speeds them away to a drier. After the drying, screening, and sorting processes, the potash—now pure enough to fertilize hungry crops around the world—is sped off. It soon arrives at either the rail loading facility (which can fill a railcar in ten minutes) or a storage hanger whose enormous size staggers the imagination.

At this point Mr. Saskatchewan teacher—thirst for knowledge assuaged—departs this fascinating locale to water his parched throat, wash the salty dust from his face, and relax in a more tranquil venue for the remainder of his holidays.

Day 5 Friday, August 18, 2017 - Cameco McArthur River, by Laurie Hawkins, Assiniboia Elementary School; Deb De Caux, Dinsmore High School; Tim Vanderhooft, Regina Christian School; David Plaskett, E.D. Feehan High School, Saskatoon; Ryan Gray, Creighton School

Since it was our first time flying into the north, our experience began quickly once we boarded the plane with West Wind Aviation to head to the Athabascan Basin. Once there we would explore the McArthur River Uranium Mine owned by the joint venture of Cameco and AREVA.

Our flight path allowed us to view many topographical transitions as a result of glaciers. As well, we were able to view the meteor impact ring which created Gow Lake, eskers, and drumlins.

After a brief overview of the mine, we learned about exploration. Using helicopters to look for graphite as well as probing on the surface, the exploration crew begins drilling and logging their cores from the top to the bottom. All cores are collected, analyzed, and accounted for. If the correct minerals aren’t found, they move on. We were astounded by the enormous cost of drilling for core samples; anywhere from $30,000 to $500,000 per hole.

The surface tour was very informative. Clearly, McArthur River operates self-sufficiently despite its distance from any other established populations. We had the opportunity to speak with McArthur’s own registered nursing team and their EMT/rescue teams. It was clear that the employees of this mine are well cared for day to day and in the event of emergency situations. We witnessed the technological advance and the increasing automation of systems in the mine as we were toured in the shop, hoist, and central control areas.

After the surface tour, we headed down the wooden shaft to 530m where we boarded vehicles to learn about the process. This cage is used to haul all the equipment that is taken down into the mine. The equipment that is too big to fit in the cage is taken apart and rebuilt down in the shops below. One thing we noted was the wet conditions as well as the cooler temperatures which remain constant all year round at about 12 degrees C. The collection level is at 640m below surface. The roads created below are uneven as they mine based on where the ore is. As they move to different sections, they use the freeze method where they bore holes in the earth in order to run brine into the ground to freeze the ground water. Once they feel as though they have succeeded, they run tests to ensure there are no leaks. Not only do they survey above ground, there are surveys done underground to find the ore body. Once the ore has been collected, it is sent down the road to the Key Lake milling location.

Safety is a very important aspect for the mine. From strict PPE equipment to wash stations, the employees take every precaution to ensure everyone’s safety. Of course the perception for many is the dangerous levels of radiation that employees are exposed to however with the PRISM monitoring system in many locations as well as personal monitors that each person must wear, employees are well below the government level of 50 mSv and even the company level of 20mSv. They use many different aspects to ensure safety such as remote control vehicles, wash stations, scanning the load prior sending it to the top to ensure the proper %, and of course training. Other safety aspects include mesh to protect them from falling debris and to make the structure safe and secure, spraying shotcrete to make walls stronger, and refuge stations every 500 m.

The highlight of the tour was the opportunity to actually see the unconformity! This is where the ore is actually encased. Only a small group of people ever get the opportunity to see this up close, but we have now joined this select group. Both we and the tour guides were excited to experience this together!

From start to finish, and in discussion afterwards, we all agree that a tour of the McArthur River uranium mine is a fantastic opportunity. Anyone who is afforded the opportunity to take part, ought to do so!

             

              

           

Mining in Transformational Times
June 8, 2017

NEWS RELEASE

Mining in Transformational Times

Monday, May 29, 2017, Regina: The Honourable Dustin Duncan, Minister of Energy & Resources along with Jessica Theriault, Chair of the Saskatchewan Mining Association launched ‘Mining Week in Saskatchewan’ today at the Saskatchewan Legislature. Mining Week in Saskatchewan runs from May 28 – June 3, 2017.

Today, Saskatchewan is recognized as the world’s #1 jurisdiction for attracting mineral investment according to the annual Fraser Institute Survey of Mining Companies. “Saskatchewan provides a low-risk environment because of both the great geological framework, and also the considered regulatory and policy frameworks. SMA member companies have made multibillion dollar investments in Saskatchewan over the past decade. And because of these investments, mining remains a key pillar of Saskatchewan’s economy in these transformational times”, said Jessica Theriault, Chair of Saskatchewan Mining Association.

Earlier this month the Saskatchewan mining industry celebrated two major milestones – the grand opening of K+S Potash Canada’s Bethune Mine and the completion of the K3 Shaft at Mosaic’s Esterhazy K3 mine, which symbolically represents the next 50 years of potash mining. “Saskatchewan mining operations feed and fuel the world with their products, improving the quality of life around the world and at home, where indigenous people and companies are an integral part of exploration and mining operations as employees and suppliers”, said Pam Schwann, SMA President.

During Mining Week, the Saskatchewan Mining Association will have dozens of events in communities across the province, culminating with the 49th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition, Saturday, June 3rd at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon.

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For further information contact: Tracey Irwin, SMA Manager, Communications and Membership (306) 591-7050 www.saskmining.ca

 

49th Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Competition Results
June 8, 2017

MEDIA RELEASE

49th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition . . . A Test with Great Success!

June 4, 2017 Saskatoon: Teams of dedicated and highly trained emergency response/mine rescue personnel from fifteen mine sites around the province tested their skills at the 49th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition held at Prairieland Park on Saturday June 3, 2017.

Underground and Surface Rescue teams displayed their highly qualified and proficient skills in 5 separate events, including Fire Fighting, First Aid, Proficiency Skills, Practical Skills and Simulated Surface and Underground Mine Problems.

The Overall winners of the 49th Annual Emergency Response Mine Rescue Skills Competition are:

OVERALL

Surface Winner - PotashCorp Patience Lake Runner Up – Cameco Key Lake

Underground Winner – Mosaic Esterhazy K1 Runner Up – PotashCorp Lanigan

 

The Individual Event winners of the 49th Annual Emergency Response Competition are:

FIRST AID

Surface Winner - PotashCorp Patience Lake Runner Up – Westmoreland Coal Poplar River

Underground Winner - PotashCorp Lanigan Runner Up – Mosaic Esterhazy K2

FIRE FIGHTING

Surface Winner – AREVA McClean Lake Runner Up – Mosaic Belle Plaine

Underground Winner – PotashCorp Allan Runner Up – Silver Standard Seabee

PROFICIENCY

Surface Winner - Westmoreland Coal Poplar River Runner Up – PotashCorp Patience Lake

Underground Winner – PotashCorp Lanigan Runner Up – Mosaic Esterhazy K1

PRACTICAL SKILLS

Surface Winner – Mosaic Belle Plaine Runner Up – Cameco Key Lake

Underground Winner – Mosaic Esterhazy K1 Runner Up – PotashCorp Allan

SURFACE FIELD PROBLEM

Surface Winner - Cameco Key Lake Runner Up – Mosaic Belle Plaine

UNDERGROUND MINE PROBLEM

Underground Winner – PotashCorp Rocanville Runner Up – Mosaic Esterhazy K1

 

The Saskatchewan Mining Association salutes these safety professionals who are a tremendous resource, both to the mines where they work and their home communities.

SMA Chair, Jessica Theriault presented the prestigious John T. Ryan National Safety Trophy for Select Mines to Mosaic Belle Plaine. The company had a most remarkable Injury Rate of “zero” – meaning they had no lost time injuries, or modified work injuries at their operations in 2016 representing almost 700,000 hours worked. This is a great safety achievement.

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For more information please contact:

Tracey Irwin, Manager, Communications and Membership, Saskatchewan Mining Association, (306) 591-7050

49th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition
June 3, 2017

The 49th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition was held on Saturday, June 3, 2017 at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon.  Attached are the Competition Guidelines , Competition Poster and Team Draw.

Also attached is The Scoop - the 2017 Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition Newsletter.

First woman to take the helm of the Sask. Mining Association
May 25, 2017

First woman to take the helm of the Saskatchewan Mining Association

May 25th, 2017

Jessica Theriault of The Mosaic Company elected as Chair of the Saskatchewan Mining Association.

The Saskatchewan Mining Association (SMA) is very pleased to announce that Jessica Theriault, Director of Environmental Affairs, the Mosaic Company, has been elected as Chair of SMA for a two-year term. She is the association’s first female Chair in its 52-year history.

Ms. Theriault succeeds Neil McMillan, Chair of Cameco Corporation, and former CEO of Claude Resources, who served as Chair from February 2015 through until the SMA AGM in March 2017. At the SMA AGM, Tammy Van Lambalgen, Vice President, Corporate Affairs and General Counsel, AREVA Resources Canada, was also elected as SMA Vice-Chair.

Ms. Theriault’s appointment as Chair, and Ms. Van Lambalgen as Vice-Chair represents a significant milestone in signalling the growing leadership role of women in mining. It also shines a light on the diversity of rewarding careers for women in the mining sector in Saskatchewan, home to global mining and exploration companies and the top jurisdiction in the world for attracting mineral investment according to the annual Fraser Institute Survey of Mining Companies.

“It is a privilege to be elected as Chair of the Saskatchewan Mining Association,” said Ms. Theriault. Given the importance of mining to the Saskatchewan and Canadian economies, and the strength of our industry’s reputation, my focus as Chair will be to ensure that we continue to deliver, but also drive improvements across the sector.”

Ms. Theriault has been an active member of the SMA, serving as the Chair of the SMA Environment Committee from 2009 - 2011 and as a Mosaic representative on the SMA Board of Directors since 2013. “As Chair of the SMA, Jessica’s expertise in environmental leadership will serve the SMA well in the global transition to a lower-GHG emission economy” said Pam Schwann, SMA President.

Ms. Theriault holds an environmental engineering degree and MBA from the University of Regina.  Jessica has over 19 years of environmental experience in the potash mining industry in Saskatchewan and currently oversees the coordination and management of environmental regulatory relations for the Mosaic Potash Business Unit, as well as leadership in the devleopment of the Mosaic Potash Business Unit Sustainability Program.  

Jessica is a member of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists in Saskatchewan.

Joining Ms. Theriault on the SMA Board of Directors are: Ms. Van Lambalgen (AREVA Resources Canada); Mr. Peter Jackson, Mr. Jason Tremblay (Mosaic); Mr. Larry Long, Mr. Trevor Berg, Mr. Rob Jackson (PotashCorp); Ms. Alice Wong, Mr. Liam Mooney, Mr. Andy Thorne, Mr. Scott McHardy (Cameco); Mr. John Sundquist, (Agrium); Mr. Eric Cline (K S Potash Canada); Mr. Rick Kusmirski (Skyharbour Resources Ltd.); Mr. Cameron Chapman (Silver Standard Resources) and Mr. Terry Morris (Westmoreland Coal Company).

About SMA

The Saskatchewan Mining Association is the provincial association representing mining and exploration companies operating in Saskatchewan, the top jurisdiction in the world for attracting mineral investment. Its members are global leaders in the safe and responsible exploration and production of a diversity of commodities and account for 100% of Canada’s potash and uranium production. Please visit www.saskmining.ca.

 

9th Annual Saskatchewan Mining Supply Chain Forum
April 4, 2017
51st Annual General Meeting
March 3, 2017

The Saskatchewan Mining Association's 51st Annual General Meeting will be held Friday, March 3, 2017.  The theme is "Transformational Times".

 

 

2nd Annual Mine Safety Summit
March 2, 2017

The full day Summit was held in conjunction with the SMA AGM in March.  The date of the Summit was March 2, 2017.

The format of the Summit included case studies from SMA member companies and reviews of incident investigations, equipment/procedure evaluations, and best practice discussions. The case studies were grouped into themes which relates to activities and conditions that have been, or have the potential to have been, associated with serious injury and/or fatality. Themes for this year’s Summit were:

  • SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
  • SHAFT SAFETY
  • IMPROVING SAFETY THROUGH TECHNOLOGY
  • ELECTRICAL SAFETY

Following are the presentations from the Summit:

Tim Barnstable, PotashCorp Cory

Paul Cuthbert, BHP Billiton

Ed Dyna, Cameco Corporation

Dean Gerhardt, Mosaic

Brian Grossleg, BHP Billiton

Patrick Kurtz, Agrium

Mike Meadows, Mosaic

Dustin Orosz, Mosaic

Arnfinn Prugger, PotashCorp

David Scharbach, PotashCorp

Chad Sewell, AREVA Resources Canada

Dave Speerbrecker, Thyssen Mining

John Takala, Cameco

Mike Tomtene, PotashCorp Allan

Anastasia VanderMost, PotashCorp

 

 

 

 

 

 

SMA Environmental Forum
October 18, 2016

SMA Environmental Forum October 18 - 20, 2016. 

The Environmental Forum was initiated primarily as a professional development opportunity for environmental practitioners in the mining industry, consulting businesses, post-secondary researchers and government. With changing regulations and evolving technology it is important for environmental professionals to keep current, and move forward, in developing and identifying best practices related to environmental sustainability. The agenda offers high quality technical papers on a diverse range of topics related to tailings and mine waste management, environmental management and best practices, climate change, environmental monitoring, decommissioning and reclamation, groundwater and surface water management, energy and resource management, biodiversity and wildlife management, as well as regulatory and corporate social responsibility. The Forum also allows us a unique opportunity to network with each other and the Exhibits provide an excellent opportunity for suppliers to discuss and/or demonstrate some of their products and services.

Attached are the Forum presentations.

Alexander - Oct 19 - 1200-1230

Baier - Oct 19-C-1600-1630

Bartlett - Oct 20-C-1030-1100.pdf

Benson - Oct 20-C-1400-1430

Borchardt - Oct 19-B-0830-0900.pdf

Borchardt - Oct 20-B-1400-1430

Bosgoed_Hilderman - Oct 20-C-1530-1600

Burnett-Seidel - Oct 20-C-1430-1500

Chapman - Oct 19 -B-1600-1630.pdf

Doucette - Oct 20-B-1100-1130.pdf

Fonstad - Oct 20-B-0900-0930

Grinsel - Oct 20-C-0900-0930

Hagberg - Oct 19-B-1500-1530

Hatry - Oct 19-C-1330-1400

Haug - Oct 19-B-1530-1600

Jay_Tyree - Oct 20-B-1330-1400

Jeerakathil - Oct 20 B-1030-1100

Ketilson - Oct 20-C-0830-0900

Kotyk - Oct 20-B-1200-1230

Kuipers- Oct 19-C-1500-1530.pdf

LePoudre - Oct 19-B-0900-0930

LePoudre - Oct 19-B-1030-1100

LePoudre- Oct 19-B-1130-1200

Lindsay - Oct 20-B-1130-1200

Liskowich - Oct 19-B-1330-1400

Lowe - Oct 19-C-1530-1600

Martens - Oct 19-C-1030-1100

Martino - Oct 19-B-1100-1130

McKeown - Oct 19-B-0930-1000

McLoughlin - Oct 19-C-0930-1000

McNaughton - Oct 20-B-0800-0830

Ogilvie - Evans_Oct 20-C-1330-1400

Parker - Oct 20-B-830-900

Petruic - Oct 20-C-1130-1200

Podaima - Oct 19-B-1100-1130

Prokop - Oct 20-B-1430-1500

Rempel - Oct 20-C-0800-0830

Robertson - Oct 19-C-1130-1200

Rykaart - Oct 20-B-930-1000

Schmidt - Oct 20-C-930-1000

Skatter - Oct 19-C-0830-0900

Skatter - Oct 19-C-0900-0930

Vandenberg - Oct 19-B-1400-1430

Wayland - Oct 20-C-1600-1630

Weibe - Oct 19-B-1400-1430

Wells - Oct 20-B-1600-1630

Weyer - Oct 20-C-1100-1130

 

 

Challenge of Managing Carbon Emissions in Saskatchewan's mining and mineral sector
September 30, 2016

Challenge of managing carbon emissions in Saskatchewan’s mining and mineral sector with carbon pricing seen by Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy

With stories recently appearing in the national media about the potential for the federal government to impose a carbon price nationally (The Globe and Mail, Ottawa to impose a national carbon price on the provinces, Sunday, September 18, 2016), it is timely the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy has published a policy brief (http://www.schoolofpublicpolicy.sk.ca/research/publications/jsgs-policy-brief.php) identifying the challenges such a move may present to Saskatchewan’s potash and uranium production.

The policy brief discusses the economic context in which greenhouse gas emissions from the province’s minerals industry should be measured in the policy debate over managing carbon emissions, as well as the policy landscape and considerations all governments should consider in coming to decisions on how to manage greenhouse gas emissions.

48th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Competition
June 4, 2016

The 48th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition was held Saturday, June 4, 2016 at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon.

Attached are the 2016 Competition Guidelines, Mine Rescue Competition Poster, Results News Release and the ERMRC Newsletter July 2016.

Guidelines

Rescue Competition Poster

News Release

Saskatchewan Mining Week 2016
May 29, 2016

Saskatchewan Mining Week was held May 29 - June 4, 2016.  Various events were held throughout the week culminating with the 48th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition, Saturday, June 4 at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon.

Attached is a schedule of Mining Week Activities and a new release.  

2016-mining-week-activities.pdf

2016 Mining Week Launch News Release

Introductory Industrial Supervisor Course Feb. 23, 24, 25, 2016
February 23, 2016

Location: Best Western Royal Hotel

1715 Idylwyld Dr N, Saskatoon, SK S7L 1B4

Description:

The SMA is offering a 3-day Introductory Industrial Supervisor Safety Course to SMA members and contractors, February 23, 24 & 25, 2016 at the Best Western Royal Hotel in Saskatoon.

Cost:

  • $630.00 plus 5% GST = $661.50/person
  • Does NOT include accommodation

Date & Time:

  • Tuesday February 23rd 2016 to Thursday February 25th 2016
  • 8:00am - 4:00pm
  • 1/2 hour lunch

Aditional Information:

  • Registration from Wednesday November 11th 2015 to Thursday February 18th 2016
  • Presenter: Don Beahm CRSP, CHSC, D.B. Safety Solutions Inc.
  • Class limit is 25 participants.
  • NOTE:  No shows will still be invoiced.
50th Annual General Meeting
February 12, 2016

The Saskatchewan Mining Association's 50th Annual General Meeting will be held on Friday, February 12, 2016 at the Radisson Hotel Saskatoon.

 Attached is the Program.

2016-agm-program.pdf

47th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Competition
July 9, 2015

To view original article click here

Regina: Teams of dedicated and highly trained emergency response/mine rescue personnel from seventeen mine sites around the province tested their skills at the 47th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition held at EVRAZ Place on Saturday, May 30, 2015.

Underground and Surface Rescue teams displayed their highly qualified and proficient skills in 5 separate events, including Fire Fighting, First Aid, Proficiency Skills, Practical Skills and Simulated Surface and Underground Mine Problems.

The Overall winners of the 47th Annual Emergency Response Mine Rescue Skills Competition are:

OVERALL

Surface Winner - PotashCorp Patience Lake
Runner Up – Mosaic Belle Plaine

Underground Winner – PotashCorp Lanigan
Runner Up – Mosaic Esterhazy K2

The Individual Event winners of the 47th Annual Emergency Response Competition are:

FIRST AID

Surface Winner - PotashCorp Patience Lake
Runner Up – AREVA Resources McClean Lake

Underground Winner - Cameco McArthur River
Runner Up – PotashCorp Lanigan

FIRE FIGHTING

Surface Winner – Mosaic Belle Plaine
Runner Up – Westmoreland Coal Estevan

Underground Winner – Mosaic Esterhazy K2
Runner Up – PotashCorp Cory

PROFICIENCY

Surface Winner - AREVA Resources McClean Lake
Runner Up – Mosaic Belle Plaine

Underground Winner – PotashCorp Lanigan
Runner Up – Cameco McArthur River

PRACTICAL SKILLS

Surface Winner – Cameco Key Lake
Runner Up – Mosaic Belle Plaine

Underground Winner – Cameco Cigar Lake
Runner Up – PotashCorp Cory

SURFACE FIELD PROBLEM

Surface Winner - PotashCorp Patience Lake
Runner Up – Cameco Key Lake

UNDERGROUND MINE PROBLEM

Underground Winner – Agrium Vanscoy
Runner Up – Mosaic Esterhazy K2

The Saskatchewan Mining Association salutes these safety professionals who are a tremendous resource, both to the mines where they work and their home communities.

The Honourable Andrew Scheer, MP Regina-Qu’Appelle and Speaker of the House of Commons along with SMA President, Neil McMillan also presented two National trophies to Saskatchewan mine sites. For the second consecutive year, the National John T. Ryan safety trophy for the best safety performance for the production of minerals in Canada, Metal Mines category, was awarded to Cameco McArthur River. The award is sponsored by MSA Canada. The Hatch- CIM Mining & Minerals Project Development Safety Award, for the safe execution of a project, where there are outstanding projection safety systems, culture and performance, was awarded to Mosaic Colonsay. Mr. Andrew Ochitwa was recognized as Emergency Response Person of the Year for his long-time dedication to the mine rescue community.

For further information contact:
Pam Schwann, Executive Director
Saskatchewan Mining Association
(306) 757-9505
pschwann@saskmining.ca

New Report Highlights Hiring Requirements and Available Talent Forecasts for Saskatchewan Mining Industry
May 28, 2015

To view original article click here

In the current market conditions, the mining industry will need to hire 12,900 new workers by 2024, according to the 2014 Saskatchewan Mining Industry Hiring Requirements and Available Talent Forecasts Report, released by the Mining Industry Human Resources Council (MiHR), in partnership with the Saskatchewan Mining Association (SMA) and the International Minerals Innovation Institute (IMII).

Demographics of the current Saskatchewan mining industry indicate that it has younger labour force, compared to the Canadian mining workforce, however retirements continue to pose a challenge to a stable labour market succession, with 12 per cent of the current mining workforce over the age of 55. Currently women and immigrants are underrepresented in the mining workforce compared to the overall workforce while aboriginal peoples comprise 10 per cent of the mining workforce.

MiHR’s available talent forecast shows that the mining industry can expect to attract about 6,900 new workforce entrants in 71 key mining occupations. The gap between the hiring requirements and available talent are largest in Technical Occupations, followed by Supervisors, Coordinators and Foreman and Professional and Physical and Science Occupations. While the gaps faced by the mining industry in Saskatchewan have narrowed for some occupations since 2011, employers are still struggling to match their recruitment needs with the skills of job-seekers in the province. For example, the employer survey deployed as part of this study suggests that Engineers are still among the top five most difficult occupations to recruit.

Fostering partnerships between industry and post-secondary institutions is an important strategy, particularly given the projected gaps between the need for skilled and educated workers and the supply of available talent. The collaborative partnership between the SMA and IMII is an example of how industry, government and post- secondary institutions can collaborate to align post-secondary training and education to career opportunities in the mining sector. Other strategies to attract and retain talent include promotion of career opportunities, increased participation of under-represented groups in non-traditional roles, developing mentorship and succession programs, identifying and grooming high potential employees for managerial and supervisory roles and incorporating leadership development in early career stages.

For further information contact:
Pam Schwann, Executive Director
Saskatchewan Mining Association
(306) 757-9505
pschwann@saskmining.ca

Mining – Fertile Ground for Saskatchewan
May 25, 2015

To view original article click here

Regina: The Honourable Bill Boyd, Minister of the Economy along with Neil McMillan, President of the Saskatchewan Mining Association launched ‘Mining Week in Saskatchewan’ today at the Saskatchewan Legislature. Mining Week in Saskatchewan runs from May 24 – 30, 2015.

“The theme of this year's Mining Week is ‘Mining – Fertile Ground for Saskatchewan,” said Neil McMillan, President of Saskatchewan Mining Association. “Geology made Saskatchewan “fertile ground” for mining, but even the most fertile ground is barren if not worked carefully by knowledgeable tenants. For half a century, the companies who work the “fertile ground” of Saskatchewan’s mineral resources have joined together as the Saskatchewan Mining Association, speaking as one voice to government, building public awareness of the importance and value of mining, and supporting one another in a myriad of ways” said McMillan.

Today, Saskatchewan is recognized as one of the world’s best jurisdictions for mining companies to invest in. These investments have made Saskatchewan one of the world’s strongest and most resilient economies.

The Saskatchewan Mining Association will have dozens of events in communities across the province celebrating Mining Week, culminating with the 47th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition, May 30 at EVRAZ Place in Regina.

For further information contact:
Tracey Irwin
SMA Manager, Communications and Membership
(306) 591-7050
www.saskmining.ca

Saskatchewan Mining Week 2015
March 24, 2015

Saskatchewan Mining Week was held from May 24 - 30, 2015.

Attached is a Schedule of Mining Week Activities, News Release on Mining Week Launch and available speaker presentations.

2015-launch-news-release.pdf

2015-mining-week-activities.pdf

mihr-mining-week-presentation.pdf

pam-schwann-sma-sk-forum-presentation.pdf

peter-hall-edc-let-s-talk-exports.pdf

Saskatchewan Mining Association and Saskatchewan Polytechnic launch contractor safety training program
March 16, 2015

To view original article click here

Today, the Saskatchewan Mining Association (SMA) and Saskatchewan Polytechnic announced the Standardized Contractor Safety Training program. The program will be coordinated through Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Centre for Minerals Innovation (CMI). It will establish common provincial training standards for all contractors working at SMA member companies.

“For contractors, this will mean one set of training standards reducing repetitive training, saving time and facilitating mobility between SMA member sites,” said Cristal Glass-Painchaud, Saskatchewan Polytechnic director of the Centre for Minerals Innovation.

Pam Schwann, SMA executive director indicated that the SMA Safety Committee has been exploring ways to improve contractor safety performance for a number of years. “For SMA member companies, the Standardized Contractor Safety Program will provide assurance that all contractors working at sites will consistently have the knowledge and training to provide safe work,” said Schwann. “We are very pleased that Saskatchewan Polytechnic has agreed to be our partner on this important project.”

Initial offerings available for registration April 1 include WHMIS and general mine safety. Additional courses such as confined space entry, fall protection, hoisting and rigging safety among others will be rolled out as they become available. The CMI is working with regional colleges and approved third-party training providers to ensure that the standardized training is available throughout Saskatchewan. Contractors interested in the program can visit saskpolytech.ca/cmi or call the CMI at 306-659-6968 for more information.

The CMI is an operational unit within Saskatchewan Polytechnic that works with mining and minerals stakeholders through developing and sharing resources, facilitating access to leading-edge educational services, providing and supporting high quality training programs, and facilitating opportunities for innovation through applied research partnerships.

The Saskatchewan Mining Association (SMA) is the voice of the mining industry in Saskatchewan. The association represents and supports a safe, responsible and growing Saskatchewan mining industry.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic serves 26,000 distinct students through applied learning opportunities at campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon, and through extensive distance education opportunities. Programs serve every economic and public service sector. As a polytechnic, the organization provides the depth of learning appropriate to employer and student need, including certificate, diploma and degree programs, and apprenticeship training. Saskatchewan Polytechnic engages in applied research, drawing on faculty expertise to support innovation by employers, and providing students the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills.

For more information, contact:

Saskatchewan Mining Association Pamela Schwann
Executive Director
Office: 306-757-9505 Email: info@saskmining.ca

Saskatchewan Polytechnic
Adam Lehmann
Saskatchewan Polytechnic Communications and Marketing Office: 306-691-8513
Cell: 306-630-9968
Email: adam.lehmann@saskpolytech.ca

Information about the Saskatchewan Mining Association can be found at www.saskmining.ca. Information about Saskatchewan Polytechnic can be found at www.saskpolytech.ca.

2015 SMA GeoVenture
January 1, 2015

Click here to read our 2015 blogs

46th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition . . . A Test with Great Success!
June 1, 2014

To view original article click here

Saskatoon: This past weekend teams of dedicated and highly trained emergency response/mine rescue personnel from seventeen mine sites around the province tested their skills at the 46th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition held at Prairieland Park on Saturday, May 31, 2014.

Underground and Surface Rescue teams displayed their highly qualified and proficient skills in 5 separate Events, including Fire Fighting, First Aid, Proficiency Skills, Practical Skills and Simulated Surface and Underground Mine Problems. The Honourable Don Morgan, Minister of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety, and SMA President Trevor Berg presented the awards to the Overall Surface and Underground teams.

The Overall winners of the 46th Annual Emergency Response Mine Rescue Skills Competition are:

OVERALL

Surface Winner - PotashCorp Patience Lake
Runner Up – Westmoreland Coal Poplar River

Underground Winner – PotashCorp Rocanville
Runner Up – PotashCorp Lanigan

The Individual Event winners of the 46th Annual Emergency Response Competition are:

FIRST AID

Surface Winner - PotashCorp Patience Lake
Runner Up – Westmoreland Coal Estevan

Underground Winner - Mosaic Colonsay
Runner Up – PotashCorp Cory

FIRE FIGHTING

Surface Winner – Westmoreland Coal Poplar River
Runner Up – Mosaic Belle Plaine

Underground Winner – Mosaic K2
Runner Up – PotashCorp Lanigan

PROFICIENCY

Surface Winner - AREVA Resources McClean Lake
Runner Up – PotashCorp Patience Lake

Underground Winner – PotashCorp Rocanville
Runner Up – PotashCorp Lanigan

PRACTICAL SKILLS

Surface Winner – PotashCorp Patience Lake
Runner Up – Mosaic Belle Plaine

Underground Winner – PotashCorp Rocanville
Runner Up – PotashCorp Cory

SURFACE FIELD PROBLEM

Surface Winner - Westmoreland Coal Poplar River
Runner Up – PotashCorp Patience Lake

UNDERGROUND MINE PROBLEM

Underground Winner – PotashCorp Rocanville
Runner Up – Mosaic Colonsay

The Saskatchewan Mining Association salutes these safety professionals who are a tremendous resource, both to the mines where they work and their home communities.

Cameco McArthur River was also presented with the National John T. Ryan safety trophy for the best safety performance in the Metal Mines category in 2013. The John T. Ryan Award is a national safety achievement award that symbolizes excellence with respect to the safe production of minerals in Canada. The award, sponsored by MSA Canada, was presented by Mrs. Kelly Block, MP for Saskatoon-Rosetown-Biggar and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Natural Resources. Two individuals were also recognized for their long-time dedication to the mine rescue community. Mr. Larry Erickson and Mr. Cam Marit were recognized as Emergency Response Persons of the Year.

For further information contact:
Pam Schwann, Executive Director
Saskatchewan Mining Association
(306) 757-9505
pschwann@saskmining.ca

Mining For Food and Energy: Core to Saskatchewan’s and the World’s Economy
May 26, 2014

To view original article click here

Saskatoon: The Honourable Don Morgan, Minister of Education and, Minister of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety along with Trevor Berg, President of the Saskatchewan Mining Association launched ‘Mining Week in Saskatchewan’ today at SIAST Kelsey Campus, Mining Engineering Technology Building. Mining Week in Saskatchewan runs from May 25 – 31, 2014.

“The theme of this year's Mining Week is ‘Mining for Food and Energy: Core to Saskatchewan’s and the World’s Economy,” said Trevor Berg, President of Saskatchewan Mining Association. “Growth in the mining industry is based on strong fundamentals aligned with the needs of emerging economies. With an expanding global population, the world needs more food, and potash helps supply that. And it needs more clean, reliable energy, and that's the connection to Saskatchewan’s uranium and developing clean coal technology” said Berg.

The Saskatchewan Mining Association initiated a new Education Outreach program this year called the “Digging Deeper Challenge”. Students in Grades 4, 7 and 9 to 12 were asked to submit a 2 minute video or PowerPoint Presentation on: What are the benefits of mining to you? What are the benefits of mining to your community? And what are the benefits of mining to Saskatchewan? The winners were announced and awards presented to students from the following schools: John Lake School (Grade 4/5) in Saskatoon, Outlook Elementary School (Grade 4), Ecole Massey (Grade 7) in Regina, St. Dominic Savio School (Grade 7) in Regina, and Wynyard Composite School (Secondary).

The Saskatchewan Mining Association will have dozens of events in communities across the province celebrating Mining Week, culminating with the 46th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition, May 31 at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon.

For further information contact:
Tracey Irwin
SMA Manager, Communications and Membership
(306) 591-7050
www.saskmining.ca

2014 SMA GeoVenture
January 1, 2014

Click here to read our 2014 blogs

45th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition . . . A Test with Great Success!
June 2, 2013

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Saskatoon: This past weekend teams of dedicated and highly trained emergency response/mine rescue personnel from fourteen mine sites around the province tested their skills at the 45th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition held at Prairieland Park on Saturday, June 1, 2013.

Underground and Surface Rescue teams displayed their highly qualified and proficient skills in 5 separate Events, including Fire Fighting, First Aid, Proficiency Skills, Practical Skills and Simulated Surface and Underground Mine Problems.

The Overall winners of the 45th Annual Emergency Response Mine Rescue Skills Competition are:

OVERALL

Surface Winner - Mosaic Belle Plaine
Runner Up – PotashCorp Patience Lake

Underground Winner – Cameco McArthur
River Runner Up – PotashCorp Rocanville

The Individual Event winners of the 45th Annual Emergency Response Competition are:

FIRST AID

Surface Winner - Mosaic Belle Plaine
Underground Winner - Mosaic Colonsay

FIRE FIGHTING

Surface Winner – Mosaic Belle Plaine
Runner Up – Sherritt Coal Poplar River

Underground Winner – PotashCorp Rocanvill
Runner Up – Mosaic Esterhazy K1

PROFICIENCY

Surface Winner - PotashCorp Patience Lake
Runner Up – Mosaic Belle Plaine

Underground Winner – Mosaic Esterhazy K2
Runner Up – PotashCorp Rocanville

PRACTICAL SKILLS

Surface Winner – PotashCorp Patience Lake
Runner Up – Mosaic Belle Plaine

Underground Winner – Agrium
Runner Up – Esterhazy K1

SURFACE FIELD PROBLEM

Surface Winner - Mosaic Belle Plaine
Runner Up – PotashCorp Patience Lake

UNDERGROUND MINE PROBLEM

Underground Winner - Cameco McArthur River
Runner Up – PotashCorp Cory

The Saskatchewan Mining Association salutes these safety professionals who are a tremendous resource, both to the mines where they work and the communities in which they reside.

At the Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition Awards Banquet, Mosaic Belle Plaine was also presented with the Regional John T. Ryan safety trophy for the best safety performance in the Select Mine category in 2012. The John T. Ryan Award is a national safety achievement award that symbolizes excellence with respect to the safe production of minerals in Canada. Two individuals were also recognized for their long-time dedication to the mine rescue community. Mr. Jack Danylczuk was recognized as Emergency Response Person of the Year, and Mr. Nick Asmundson, one of the first certified mine rescue persons in the province, was recognized posthumously for his many years as a team member competitor, coach and judge.

For more information please contact:

Pamela Schwann, M.Sc., P.Geo.
Executive Director
Saskatchewan Mining Association
(306) 757-9505

Mining: Growth Through Challenging Economic Times
May 27, 2013

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Regina: The Honourable Tim McMillan, Minister Responsible for Energy and Resources along with Steve Fortney, President of the Saskatchewan Mining Association launched ‘Mining Week in Saskatchewan’ today at Mosaic Tower at Hill Centre III in Regina. Mining Week in Saskatchewan runs from May 26 – June 1, 2013.

“The theme of this year's Mining Week is ‘Mining: Growth Through Challenging Economic Times,” said Steve Fortney, President of Saskatchewan Mining Association. “Growth in the mining industry is based on strong fundamentals aligned with the needs of emerging economies. With an expanding global population, the world needs more food, and potash helps supply that. And it needs more clean, reliable energy, and that's the connection to Saskatchewan’s uranium and developing clean coal technology” said Fortney.

“In spite of growth we need to remain aware of the challenges the industry faces, including increasing project and operational costs that are not supported by commodity prices and a tight labour market,” said Fortney. The outlook for the mining sector in 2013 remains strong if mining companies are strategic in their actions.

Between 2008 – 2028 mining companies will be investing over $50 Billion in Saskatchewan operations. This translates to new investments of $6 Million a day.

The Saskatchewan Mining Association will have dozens of events in communities across the province celebrating Mining Week, culminating with the 45th Annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition, June 1 at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon.

For further information contact:
Tracey Irwin
SMA Manager, Communications and Membership
(306) 591-7050
www.saskmining.ca

2013 SMA GeoVenture
January 1, 2013

Click here to read our 2013 blogs

2012 SMA GeoVenture
January 1, 2012

Click here to read our 2012 blogs