An Alberta-based company planning to mine silica sand in Manitoba is teaming up with the largest university in the province to develop an innovative groundwater monitoring network. This collaboration aims to create a cutting-edge system for real-time tracking of aquifer conditions, which experts consider crucial for global groundwater studies.
Sio Silica’s president, Carla Devlin, disclosed that the partnership with the University of Manitoba will involve a comprehensive feasibility study and the design of a scientifically robust, non-intrusive monitoring setup to assess aquifer health continuously. Devlin emphasized that this initiative goes beyond the company’s interests, aiming to promote responsible resource management across the province.
The joint effort comes as Sio Silica renews its pursuit to extract sand from the sandstone aquifer situated beneath the Rural Municipality of Springfield in southeastern Manitoba. The company faced setbacks in 2024 when its sand extraction permit application was rejected due to concerns regarding potential impacts on water quality and underground stability issues.
Originally, Sio Silica’s proposal involved drilling 7,200 wells in the vicinity east and southeast of Winnipeg over a span of 25 years to extract silica sand used in various industries such as solar energy, natural gas extraction, and construction. However, community opposition arose over environmental worries, particularly the risk of groundwater contamination.
In response to these challenges, Sio Silica revised its plan by reducing the number of wells, adopting a phased approach, and extracting less sand in a bid to secure an environmental license. The company’s collaboration with the university, while distinct from its licensing endeavors, underscores a commitment to transparency and scientific rigor in its operations.
The research project, dubbed a ‘game changer’ by Sio Silica’s technology team, aims to study the southern Manitoba aquifer comprehensively, generating a valuable groundwater database that would otherwise incur significant costs if replicated by the government.
Ricardo Mantilla, an associate professor at the University of Manitoba leading the research, highlighted the use of quantum gravimetry to monitor changes in the gravitational field caused by groundwater movements. While this technology can quantify groundwater levels, it does not assess water quality.
Despite its relevance for Sio Silica’s activities, Mantilla stressed the broader significance of the project for Manitoba, where the interplay between surface water and groundwater is critical for the province’s water systems. The research aims to enhance understanding and monitoring of the aquifer, emphasizing the importance of sustainable water management practices.
Incorporating advanced technologies like quantum gravimetry in groundwater monitoring reflects a shift towards more efficient and cost-effective monitoring methods, potentially reducing the need for extensive well drilling. This approach aligns with Sio Silica’s goal of minimizing environmental impact while ensuring the sustainable management of groundwater resources.
Groundwater, often overlooked as an essential natural resource, plays a crucial role in the water cycle and serves as a primary source of drinking water. Experts emphasize the need to safeguard and monitor groundwater reserves diligently, highlighting the significance of these hidden water reservoirs for environmental sustainability and public health.