Study of Contaminated Site for the Construction of a Recreational Park in Malartic

The Town of Malartic wishes to perform a phase II Environmental Site Characterization (ESC) of soil and groundwater as a step in the rehabilitation of land in its possession since 2011 in order to build a recreational park. The site of 1000 m2 will include a space for sports equipment for seniors, picnic areas and a section for occasional sale of local products. A phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) identified the contaminants likely to be found on the site. The Town will conduct the study in accordance with the objectives of its environmental policy and will build on its experience in executing phase II ESCs (GMF 9067). The phase II ESC must be thorough and comply with the requirements of the Guide de caractérisation des terrains of the Ministère du Développement durable, de l'Environnement et des Parcs (MDDEP). In the context of the phase II ESC, Malartic will locate underground infrastructures, dig observation wells and test trenches, sample soil and groundwater, measure volatile organic compounds (VOCs), perform in situ permeability tests, have soil and groundwater samples analyzed by a laboratory accredited by the MDDEP as well as implement a quality control program. If contaminated soil is present in concentrations above regulatory values, a Notice of Contamination will have to be drafted and a remediation plan will have to be prepared. This project provides many benefits, including improved quality of life and public health, stimulation of the local economy and community revitalization. Malartic plans to develop a communications program including various meetings and a website to facilitate communication between consultants, contractors, the Town and its citizens. This project could serve as a model for municipalities in the region seeking to revitalize a brownfield in their territory. (Project description from original funding application)