Modelling the Effects of Uranium Mine Tailings on A Permafrost Environment

Abstract

The modelling reported is the work of Woo and Drake of McMaster University for the federal government. A model is established to describe and predict the effects of uranium mine tailings on the hydrological and thermal environments of the Keewatin where permafrost is a significant condition to be managed. The model couples the water and energy fluxes to melt snow, evaporate water and thaw the active layer. The tailings can be dry or submerged. They can be covered with a variety of materials. Model parameters are based on field data appropriate to a remote environment.