Alberta oil sands systems guide

Reclamation of in situ oil sands projects

In situ projects avoid open pits but still disturb land through well pads, roads, pipelines, borrow areas and central facilities.

In situReclamation

Editorial review: August 11, 2026 · Colin T. Ashcombe

Process role

Wells and facilities are decommissioned under regulatory requirements when they are no longer needed.

How the system fits together

Surface areas can be recontoured, covered with suitable soils and revegetated.

Environmental and reclamation context

Restoring linear corridors can reduce long-term fragmentation of boreal habitat.

What to keep in mind

NRCan and other organizations continue research on improving restoration practices in in situ landscapes.

High-level industrial education only. Oil sands mines, thermal wells, extraction plants, upgraders and tailings facilities are hazardous regulated operations; this site does not provide operating setpoints, chemical recipes or equipment procedures.