Ensure optimal conditions by preparing a stable soil base and removing weeds or problematic plants.
Site preparation varies by initial site conditions and must address limiting factors identified in the pre-reclamation assessment.
Inspect regularly for invasive weeds, soil compaction, erosion, and signs of poor plant health such as stunted growth, lower survivorship, and disease.
Address these issues promptly to minimize their impact on plant establishment.
Remove all weeds and problematic species to prevent competition with native plants.
Follow provincial guidelines for managing noxious plants and report any findings through the Invasive Alien Plant Program (IAPP).
Decompaction can be achieved using discing or rip plowing to loosen the soil and create a rough surface.
A rough, loose surface supports better root establishment, seed retention, and water absorption.
Talk to an Erosion and Sediment Control Specialist (ESC) to apply customized site measures that are suited to your site.
Use stockpiled topsoil after ensuring it is free of weeds.
Amend soil with nutrients to improve soil health, such as using fertilizers or organic matter like biochar.
Signs of poor drainage, such as pooling, will require consultation with a hydrogeologist.
Recontour the site to match the slope and elevation of adjacent undisturbed land to ensure natural drainage and vegetation patterns.
Determine whether the wildlife use is detrimental to your establishing installation.
Block access to the site using fencing or coarse woody material to protect your installation until it is mature enough to tolerate wildlife grazing.
Block access to the site using fencing or coarse woody material to prevent further grazing.
Prevent human access during revegetation by using physical barriers like fences or coarse woody material, signage, and video cameras.
Follow a sequential approach starting with site assessment, followed by
soil preparation, and addressing issues like compaction, erosion, and problematic species management.
Do not proceed until problematic species are managed.
Never leave soil bare, there should always be seed and/or seedlings on it.
Native plants, including seedlings, live stakes, and seed mixes, are available through suppliers such as Grandmother’s Greenhouse and other native plant nurseries.
Within BRFN Territory, priority should be given to Grandmother’s Greenhouse for the supply of native plants. If GGH is unable to supply the required plants, priority should be given to plants grown from seed sourced within Treaty 8 Territory, where available
Use a mix of planting methods, including seedlings, live willow stakes, seed mix, and seed capsules.
Base your planting design on these guidelines and ensure planters follow your design when completing your installation.
Monitor, monitor, and monitor.
Use fertilizers like Liquid Microbial Inoculants (LMI), rooting hormone, and biochar to support plant growth and soil health.
Install a solar-powered irrigation system to support the plants for the first 3 years if a water source is nearby, ensuring adequate moisture for successful plant establishment and seed germination. If a suitable water source is unavailable, planting the right species within the prescribed areas based on site conditions and moisture requirements can help optimize natural moisture availability and support successful plant establishment and seed germination.

