Arctic Mining at the Mary River Mine located on Baffin Island, Nunavut, Canada

Client

Baffinland Iron Mines Corporation

Project Value

$37 Million

Project Status

Ongoing

Environmental Solutions in One of the World's Most Challenging Climates - the Arctic

The Mary River Mine, operated by Baffinland, is a significant iron ore mining initiative in the Qikiqtaaluk Region of Baffin Island, Nunavut. It stands as the only mine and the largest private employer in the Qikiqtaaluk Region, with the project currently in its Early Revenue Phase (ERP). This phase allows for the mining and transportation of 4.2 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of iron ore to global markets through the Northern Shipping Route.

Valued at $37M, the Mary River Mine involves a comprehensive network including a mine site, a 100-km tote haul road, and a marine export terminal at Milne Inlet. Environmental services for the project, provided by WSP since 2016, focus on marine environmental monitoring, regulatory and permitting services, and the development of mitigation measures and environmental management plans.

WSP's involvement extends to supporting the expansion of the Mary River Project including development of the Steensby Component, which includes construction of a new marine port facility in Steensby Inlet, construction of a railway connecting the mine to Steensby Port, increasing the mining capacity to 18 Mtpa and year-round shipping of iron ore along the Southern Shipping Route through Foxe Basin and Hudson Strait. Construction of Steensby Port is proposed to begin in August 2024.

Years of Project Life Expectancy

30+

North of the Arctic Circle

500km

Inuit Field Technicians Employed

60+

WSP has been instrumental in conducting marine environmental impact assessments, baseline studies, and in developing a variety of management plans and risk assessments. Our team's work also encompasses the ongoing design and management of environmental effects monitoring programs, which are key in assessing the project's impact on the marine environment and ensuring compliance with environmental standards. Our approach integrates community involvement, with significant employment and training provided to Inuit field technicians, reflecting a commitment to local empowerment and environmental stewardship.