Proceedings [pdf]

Abstract – Ottawa, ON. May 31-June 1, 2011

The report captures the discussions of the National Orphaned/Abandoned Mines Initiative (NOAMI) workshop on exploring the management of long-term liabilities and the return of mining lands to the Crown in Canada. The workshop was held on May 31st and June 1st in Ottawa Ontario, and was attended by approximately 50 delegates from federal, provincial and territorial governments, the mining industry, non-government organizations, Aboriginal Canadians, community groups, consultants and academics.

Return of lands to the Crown after mining activities is a transfer of responsibility where the Crown assumes long-term care and management of these lands. NOAMI has an interest in examining the return of lands to the Crown to provide certainty to governments, the mining industry and civil society on the terms and conditions where this could be possible with the intent to avoid closed mines from becoming orphaned or abandoned.

The workshop was designed to obtain advice and guidance from stakeholders to assist NOAMI in the development of recommendations and a strategic roadmap on how to manage long-term mine site liabilities and issues related to return (relinquishment, release) of mining lands to the Crown. The workshop format consisted of presentations, panel discussions, and small discussion groups on the themes of Site Risk Management, Funding, and Legislation, Policy and Regulations.