Underground Fuel Storage Tank Clean-Up

Location:

Dene Tha’ First Nation (DTFN)

Goal:  

Clean up of soil and groundwater impacts from a historic underground heating oil tank

Our Role: 

Environmental Assessment and Remediation

Summary: 

One of the leading causes of environmental impacts is fuel storage tank leakage. Solstice has been involved in the assessment and remediation of over 20,000 m3 of impacted soils and groundwater in the community of Chateh, Alberta. This project has been implemented with a combination of in-situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) and ex-situ bioremediation techniques, based on areas of particular concern to the community and areas with previous difficulties using in-situ treatment. ISCO (in-situ) is continuing for zones where excavation is restricted due to existing land use and infrastructure limitations; excavation and bioremediation treatment (ex-situ) have been conducted in areas where ISCO is not feasible.

Project Legacy: 

Solstice is committed to investing in the communities that we work with. We believe in the value of building capacity, utilizing small businesses and supporting community prosperity from the inside. This commitment has been prioritized through all stages of the underground fuel storage clean-up. Solstice directly employs DTFN members as environmental monitors, as well as contracting several DTFN member owned and local area service providers including excavation, hauling, catering, accommodations, field logistics and rentals.

Solstice North Team In Action

Land Acknowledgment

Solstice is based in Alberta, meaning that we reside and work in Treaty 6, Treaty 7, and Treaty 8 territories. Treaty 8 is home to 39 First Nations, including the Dene Traditional Territory. Treaty 8 spans 4 provinces; British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories.

Out of respect, truth, and reconciliation, we acknowledge that these regions are home to First Nations, Dene, Cree, Blackfoot, Nakota Sioux, Inuit, and Metis peoples, both past and present.

The Dene Tha’ First Nations occupy Upperhay River/Meander River (IR212), Bushe River (IR207), Haylake (IR209), Amber River (IR211), and Zama Lake (IR210). Through our work with the Dene Tha’ First Nations, we are committed to learning more about this land and honouring the connection with this traditional territory. Solstice wishes to further empower the Indigenous sovereignty of land management through our partnerships grounded in mutual respect. We believe we have much to learn and share in our desire to protect the natural landscapes, facilitate risk mitigation and continually support Indigenous community capacity by nurturing this partnership.