TRACK 2, DAY 2
Erosion and Sediment Control in Canada’s Arctic: Challenges, Solutions, and Lessons Learned
Nicholas Schulz, Kilgour & Associates Ltd.
Wednesday, April 1, 2026 | 1:45 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. | Hall F
ABSTRACT
As the global demand for critical minerals and energy continues to rise, exploration and development activity is expected to increase in Canada’s resource-rich Arctic. Given the topography, geology and hydrology of this land, qualified environmental professionals (QEPs) and construction staff supporting such developments are often faced with unique and sometimes unexpected erosion and sediment control (ESC) challenges.
From 2023-2025, Kilgour & Associates Ltd. (KAL) provided environmental support for the development of mining infrastructure in the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut. In this talk, we present a synopsis of our work mitigating ESC concerns during the construction of access roads, effluent discharge lines, and dredging of deep-water ports.
We report on the specific ESC challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the key lessons learned. As it is essential that the development of Canada’s Arctic minimizes impacts on the surrounding environment, the strategies discussed here should serve as an important tool for other environmental professionals supporting northern development.
ABOUT THE PRESENTER
Nicholas Schulz, Kilgour & Associates Ltd.
Nicholas Schulz holds degrees in both Bachelor of Science (BSc) and Master of Science (MSc) from Carleton University. His academic journey began with research in biology, focusing initially on the management of food waste in small-scale farms across Eastern Ontario
Transitioning to the Aquatic Ecosystems & Environmental Change (AEEC) lab, Nicholas investigated the effects of land use on phytoplankton in ponds within the Ottawa area, with a specific focus on the impact of individual nutrients and metals on cyanobacterial growth. This research involved conducting large-scale studies and delivering comprehensive reports tailored to various stakeholders, including esteemed organizations such as Ducks Unlimited and the Canadian Museum of Nature.
In April 2020, Nicholas commenced his tenure with Kilgour & Associates Ltd. as a student, subsequently transitioning to a permanent role within the organization in April 2023.
As a valued member of the team, he has been actively engaged in various initiatives. Nicholas has spearheaded a variety of projects in support of construction projects in Ottawa, overseeing field operations and communicating with clients. Moreover, he has authored reports on diverse environmental topics and undertaken terrestrial fieldwork encompassing erosion and sediment control inspections, environmental effects monitoring, and a range of field surveys including those focused on birds, bats, anurans, and turtles, among others.