Work in Fall 2026—Drilling and Installation of Extensometers

Drilling and Installation of Monitoring Instruments

As part of the environmental and geotechnical monitoring program for the former Wasamac mine, drilling and the installation of monitoring instruments (extensometers) will be carried out in the area of the former Wasamac mine, beginning in the first week of October.

To this end, six boreholes will be drilled to install extensometers, instruments used to measure very slight ground movements. This data will contribute to the long-term monitoring of the surface pillar and the geotechnical conditions in the area.

Trenches will also be dug to accommodate the cables connecting the instruments to the monitoring and data acquisition systems.

This work will enable the collection of data on underground conditions and ensure continuous monitoring of the site.

Map of the work area

Work overview:

• Start of work: September 28, 2026
• Schedule: 7 days a week
• Work will be conducted during daytime hours only
• Drilling of six boreholes
• Installation of 6 extensometers
• Estimated duration : approximately 10 weeks

Example of drilling site

During the construction work, residents may notice:

• the presence of a drill and an excavator;
• occasional traffic from vehicles related to the construction work;
• the presence of workers on the site;
• temporary noise associated with drilling activities or the use of the excavator.

Measures Planned to Minimize Impacts

• All work will be carried out during daytime hours only.
• No work will take place during the Thanksgiving long weekend.
• Equipment will be moved via Highway 101 and Rang Wasamac to minimize the impact on Rang des Cavaliers.
• Drilling rigs will be equipped with noise-reduction systems to limit noise during the work.
• Measuring devices will be used to monitor noise levels during the work.

We are available

A dedicated community relations team is available throughout the duration of the work to answer questions and receive feedback from residents.

• ☎️ : 1 833 510-0330
• 📱: 833 510-0330
• ✉️ : relations.wasamac@agnicoeagle.com
• 📍 : Community Relations Office: 14 rue d'Évain, Rouyn-Noranda, J0Z 1Y0

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is this work being done?

This work is being conducted to collect data on underground conditions in order to better understand the characteristics of the area surrounding the former Wasamac mine.

The information gathered will contribute to project planning and help ensure environmental and geotechnical monitoring of the area before the mine begins operations.

Will the work take place on weekends?

Yes, the work site will be active seven days a week, but only between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Work requiring the use of an excavator will be carried out on weekdays only. A work stoppage is also planned during the Thanksgiving long weekend.

Will the work be noisy?

Temporary noise associated with drilling activities may be heard near the work sites. To minimize the impact, the drilling rigs will be equipped with noise-reduction devices, and noise levels will be monitored throughout the project. The project team will continuously monitor activities and adjust measures as needed to minimize inconvenience to residents.