A researcher from Laurentian University is preparing to initiate a study utilizing honey bees to aid in restoration efforts at the Côté Gold Mine near Gogama, Ontario. Mateus Pepinelli secured a $100,000 grant from IAMGOLD to collaborate on a two-year research initiative. The bees will gather environmental DNA from the areas being revitalized around the mine site, acting as research assistants by collecting valuable data.
During the upcoming summer, Pepinelli and a team from IAMGOLD will establish three apiaries in the vicinity of the mine’s remediation zones. These apiaries will feature small fans with filters designed to capture DNA traces brought into the hives by the bees. Pepinelli explained that the filters will trap minute remnants of substances encountered by the bees outdoors, enabling the extraction and analysis of environmental DNA in a laboratory setting.
The extracted DNA will provide insights into various plant species, micro-organisms, and potential threats like varroa mites present in the environment. Jessica Tratnik, IAMGOLD’s environmental and social governance lead at the Côté Gold Mine, emphasized the significance of the data obtained from the honey bees in monitoring the progress of rehabilitation efforts. The information gleaned can help identify any deficiencies in plant diversity or pollination support, aiding in ongoing rehabilitation efforts.
Graeme Jennings, IAMGOLD’s vice-president of investor relations, highlighted the long-term sustainability of the Coté Gold Mine, which is expected to continue operations for over two decades. Tratnik stressed the importance of continuous land rehabilitation efforts rather than waiting until production ceases, emphasizing the need for proactive eco site management to expedite the return of these areas to their natural state.
