Another NWT CIMP-funded project was established with Queen’s University to examine regional variability in soil geochemistry in the area impacted by legacy mining activities. The project investigated concentrations of arsenic and other elements in soils around Yellowknife. Over 400 soil samples were collected from undisturbed locations within 30 km of Yellowknife over two years.

Project results are consistent with previous studies:

• Arsenic concentrations in soils are highly variable at the local scale, and even between field duplicates. This is likely due to the uneven distribution of arsenic rich minerals in the soil samples.
• Distance and direction from former ore roasters, soil depth, elevation and terrain type all influence total arsenic concentration in soils.

For additional information:

•  Regional distribution of arsenic in near-surface soils in the Yellowknife area.