Water
Osum understands water is vital. Canada is known for its plentiful water supply because we have 20% of the world’s water right here. But only seven percent is renewable fresh water, the rest is fossil water in lakes, underground aquifers and in glaciers. Half of our water drains northward to the Arctic and is not accessible to 85% of the population which lives in the southern part of Canada. This means it is extremely important not to over-stress our fresh water supplies.
Canadian renewable fresh water resources are limited and Osum believes that we need to protect that water supply. Additionally, we know that 30% of Canadians rely on groundwater, making it a primary concern for Osum. Conservation of water is a top priority for all of our projects.
Guarding Groundwater
Osum’s Taiga project will not use any fresh water for steam production. No water from lakes, streams or rivers, and no fresh groundwater, will be used.
Instead, we will use the deep reserves of groundwater that are too salty for human consumption. In addition, the facilities will recycle at least 90% of the water used for recovery and reuse it for ongoing processes.
Small volumes of fresh groundwater will be used to make the mud used in the drilling process. Osum is investigating alternative water sources for this requirement, including brackish water or deeper groundwater aquifers.
Fresh water is protected under government regulation. Osum strictly adheres to those regulations and creates internal policies that strive to achieve the highest possible standards in wise water use and water conservation.
Protecting Surface Water
We will not use any surface water for the production of steam for our projects. This includes rivers, streams, ponds or lakes.
While in operation in any area, we have implemented a number of practices that will limit the impact we have on surface water and drainage. We will conduct regular testing to ensure the quality of the water is not being affected. Osum will engage in processes that will limit the sediment that will be released and could potentially settle into surface water resources. We will have storm water ponds that will be quality tested before any of the water is released back into the ecosystem. Protecting surface water will also protect fish and preserve their habitats while we are in operation.
Osum will employ experienced and qualified construction contractors to oversee the sediment and water releases. They will ensure we meet and exceed government regulation requirements. This role will establish and make certain that things like appropriate distances from water sources are maintained for refuelling and pipeline crossings. All expectations of staff and contractors will be clearly established through orientation and safety meetings.