ReSDA Atlas: Summary of Nunavut Mines
Compilation of summary information of mines 2016 past and present for Nunavut
ReSDA Atlas: Summary of Nunavut Mines ReSDA Atlas: Summary of Nunavut Mines
COMPILATION OF SUMMA RY INFORMATION OF MINES PAST AND PRESENT FOR NUNAVUT
Anglilak Project Mine Back River Project Mine Bent Horn Oil Field Chidliak Project Mine Hackett River Project Mine High Lake Project Mine Hope Bay Project Mine Izok Corridor Project Mine Jericho Diamond Mine Kiggavik Project Mine Lupin Gold Project Lupin Gold Mine Mary River Mine Meadowbank Gold Mine Meliadine Project Mine Nanisivik Mine Polaris Mine Qilalugaq Project Mine North Rankin Nickel Mine Roche Bay Project Ulu Project Mine
ANGILAK PROJECT SUMMARY
Angilak Project Mine Proposed mine under review
Latitude and Longitude: 62°33'8.30"N, 98°48'44.41"W Description of the mine The proposed uranium mine covers 249, 851 acres. The project has a 101 mineral claims in the Kivalliq Region. Kivalliq has invested $55 million into the project and drilled 89,530 meters in the region for exploration. The Lac 50 Trend Uranium is the highest content of uranium besides the Athabasca region. The 2015 drilling season found that site has a high grade of uranium present and will benefit from future exploration at the site.
Photographs/Videos
General Information Location: Kivalliq Region, Nunavut Type of mine and ore: Uranium. Owner: Kivalliq Energy Corporation Date opened: In exploration phase. Estimated mine life: Unknown. Average number of employees: 10 people hired annually from the Kivalliq region. Estimated size of ore body: 810,000 tonnes. Estimated production value: Average grade of 0.792% Uranium oxide. Local employment figures: Unknown Percentage of Indigenous employees: Unknown Mining activities conducted: Exploration and drilling. Will be a fly-in, fly-out camp. Nearby communities: 1. 225km Southwest of Baker Laker 2. 350km West of Rankin Inlet 3. 820km East of Yellowknife Access to mine: Airplane and helicopter. Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): Has not yet been negotiated.
Impacts of Mine (Anticipated)
Positive Negative They conduct annual community The site is still in the exploration phase to meetings. determine the grade of uranium present. They have community leaders visit the This could imply that development of the site regularly. project will still need to occur and take They have conducted extensive drilling to some time (no project start date has determine uranium grade at the site. been set).
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ANGILAK PROJECT SUMMARY
Relevant Links Canadian Mining Journal. (n.d.). Uranium: Kivalliq notes results from Lac 50 trend at Angilak. o The article summarizes the drill results for uranium exploration at the site. Kivalliq Energy Corporation. (2013). Technical Report and Resource Update for the Angilak property, Kivalliq Region, Nunavut, Canada. Pages 1 -174. Kivalliq Energy Corporation. (2014). Uranium 101 – Angilak Property: Nunavut Mining Symposium April 2014. Kivalliq Energy Corporation. (2016). News. Kivalliq Energy Corporation. (2016). Overview. Market Wired. (2015). Kivalliq announces fully funded 2015 exploration programs at Angilak and Hatchet Lake. o The project was fully funded to proceed with drilling exploration in 2015. Market Wired. (2015). Kivalliq commences 2015 exploration program at Angilak property; drilling at Dipole Target underway. o Discusses the plans for the 2015 drilling season. Uranium Investing News. (2015). Kivalliq Energy samples up to 7.07% uranium at Angilak property. o Presents some of the findings from the analysis of the drill cores at the site.
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: There has not been an Environmental Impact Statement conducted but a monitoring program has occurred. Hemmera. (2013). Angilak Project 2013 Environmental Monitoring Program. List of relevant research: There has not be any research conducted to date. Review Board Decision: No review decision has been made. Kivalliq Energy Corporation WORK PLAN 2013 Inuit Land Use Licence Number: KVL308C09 AANDC Land Use Permit Number: N2008C0026 Nunavut Impact Review Board File Number: 08EN052 Submitted to: KIA, AANDC, NIRB prepared by Andrew Berry, Chief Operating Officer, Kivalliq Energy Corporation. Feb 1, 2013. http://ftp.nirb.ca/01-SCREENINGS/COMPLETED%20SCREENINGS/2008/08EN052- Kivalliq%20Energy%20Corporation/05-ANNUAL%20REPORT/130215-08EN052-2013%20Work%20Plan-IA1E.pdf Training programs: Unknown. Impact Benefit Agreement (if public): Has yet to be negotiated. Reports from Subprojects and Theme Coordinator work: No academic research by theme coordinators has yet to be conducted.
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BACK RIVER PROJECT SUMMARY
BACK RIVER Project Mine
Description of the mine The Back River project is located 50km from the Hackett River project (formerly owned by Sabina Gold and Silver Corp.). The two deposits on site are George and Goose. A feasibility study was completed in November of 2015. The drill cores from the site are sent to a laboratory in Saskatoon, SK for the analysis of Gold content. Sabina has plans for 2016 spring and summer drilling, which also includes field mapping and till sampling on the site. The timeline for the mine is to have constriction of the site occur from late 2016 to the end of 2019, with the first Gold poured in early 2020. Once production begins, the Gold bars will be transported by aircraft. Photographs/Videos
General Information Location: West Kitikmeot, Nunavut. Traditional territory of Copper Inuit. Type of mine and ore: Open-pit and Underground. Gold. Owner: Sabina Gold and Silver Corporation. Date opened: planned for 2019 Estimated mine life: 10 to 15 years production.
Estimated size of ore body: 20 to 28 Mt Estimated production value: Annual production of 300,000 oz. of Gold for ten years. 15 Mt of mill feed.
Average number of employees: 4442 direct employment. Local employment figures: Unknown. Percentage of Indigenous employees: Kitikmeot Inuit residents will be given hiring preference. As well, other Inuit residents in Nunavut.
Mining activities conducted: Two week on/Two week off schedule. Southern workers potentially would work four weeks on/two weeks off or two weeks on/two weeks off.
Nearby communities: • Bathurst Inlet (75 km, 46.6 miles)
Access to mine: Airplane transport to the site. Ice strip at Goose site in winter and float plane access. Similar for access at George. Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): Has yet to be negotiated.
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BACK RIVER PROJECT SUMMARY
Impacts of Mine (Anticipated) Positive Negative They have a designated timeline for the There has not been a finalized Environmental project to begin operation in 2016. Impact Statement, so it is hard to determine the The tailings storage facility will not be on full effect of environmental disturbance on the Inuit owned land. This is in accordance with land. the Kitikmeot Inuit Association not wanting Potential for disturbance to Caribou in the tailings disposal on their land. region. After one of the open-pit sites is completed The site will use marine transport could disturb mining, it will be used as a tailings storage marine life due to noise. facility. The waste rock storage could lead to acid rock The Goose pit mine will be used for drainage (when sulphide rocks are exposed to depositing water that has been involved in water/oxygen and creates acid runoff). the operation, once metals are removed Air pollution from heavy machinery operation. from it.
Relevant Links CBC News (2015). Sabina Gold’s Back River project could have 20 million tonnes of ore. The project could produce billions of dollars of Gold project.
JDS Energy & Mining Inc. (2015). Technical Report for the initial project feasibility study on the Back River Gold property, Nunavut, Canada. Pages 1-416.
Junior Mining Network (2016). Sabina Gold and Silver announces financial results for the year ended December 31, 2015. Discusses the financial highlights of the company during 2015.
Market Wired (2016). Sabina Gold and Silver reports spring drilling mobilization has commenced. Discussing the spring and summer drilling plan for 2016.
Sabina Gold and Silver (2012). The Back River Project: Project Description. Pages 1 -223.
Sabina Gold and Silver (2013). The Back River Project: Human Environment Volume 8. Pages 1-373.
Sabina Gold and Silver (2016). Back River Gold Project.
Sabina Gold and Silver (2016). News: Sabina Gold and Silver reports spring drilling mobilization has commenced.
The Northern Miner (2015). Sabina gets ‘more realistic’ at Back River in Nunavut. Sabina is approaching a more definitive start date for the project.
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: Sabina Gold and Silver (2014). Back River Project’s Draft Environmental Impact Statement.
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BACK RIVER PROJECT SUMMARY
List of relevant research: Villeneuve, M., Lambert, M., Breemen, O., & Mortensen, J. (2001). Geochronology of the Back River volcanic complex, Nunavut-Northwest Territories. Geological Survey of Canada.
Review Board Decision: No final decision has been made yet.
Training programs: Will provide training programs for local residents to be employed. Impact Benefit Agreement: Has yet to be negotiated.
Reports from Subprojects and Theme Coordinator work: No academic research by theme coordinators has yet to be conducted.
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BENT HORN OIL FIELD SUMMARY
BENT HORN OIL Field
Description Oil was discovered at Bent Horn N-72 in 1974. Bent Horn was first well drilled on Cameron Island, which was then located in the Northwest Territories prior to the creation of Nunavut. The island is really a platform of thickened ice created in winter by pumping seawater on the polar ice back. The oil reservoir is a thrust faulted Devonian carbonate below the southern margin of the Sverdrup Basin. In 1985, Panarctic Oils became a commercial oil producer in the Arctic on an experimental scale. This began with a single 100,000 bbl (16,000 m3) tanker load of oil from the Bent Horn oil field to Montreal via the MV Arctic. The MV Arctic carried two shipments per year until Bent Horn operations ceased in 1996. A total of 2.8 million barrels was produced, and was used to fuel electrical power generators at Resolute Bay and the Polaris lead-zinc mine. In 2013, the federal government re-opened the abandoned oil field for bids for oil and gas discovery licenses, due to the known resource that continues to be in place. The government is also calling on industry to nominate lands to include in an eventual call for bids for exploration licenses in the Arctic islands. In previous calls between 2000 and 2009, there was no interest from industry to pick up any parcels in the area for possible development. Photographs/Videos
General Information Location: Cameron Island, northwest of Bathurst Island, Nunavut Territory. Type of mine and ore: crude light oil producer Owner(s): Panarctic Oils Ltd. Time of Operation: 1985-1997 Estimated size of ore body: 25 million barrels of oil, plus seven major gas field each with one trillion cubic feet of gas. Estimated production value: 1974: 43° API oil
Average number of employees: Original operation had 30 on staff, estimated 100-250 person months of employment over 5-6 years for new operation. Local employment figures: 65% for exploratory phase, 25% for exploratory drilling stage (estimated for a new operation) Percentage of Indigenous employees: Unknown
Mining activities conducted: Summer months. Nearby communities: • Grise Fiord, NU (50 km, 342 miles) • Polaris, NU (212 km, 132 miles) • Resolute, NU (311 km, 193 miles) Access to mine: Supplies by barge and icebreaker from the Mackenzie River during summer season, reset of year - Hercules aircraft for freight, Twin Otter or similar lighter aircraft for personnel. Helicopters have been employed on short hauls.
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BENT HORN OIL FIELD SUMMARY
Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): No
Impacts of Project Positive Negative Could bring substantial increase in Would potentially impact national park and Inuit employment opportunities in the short term lands. and, once production begins, a smaller Environmental impacts of drilling on fish, number of long-term well paying jobs. wildlife, ice and water quality. Many opportunities for northern businesses to grow and diversify through their provision of supplies and services to oil and gas activities. Potential growth opportunity for Resolute Bay as a launch base for oil and gas exploration in the High Arctic. Original production was successful with no lasting impact on the environment.
Relevant Links Nunavut Department of Economic Development and Transportation (2015), “Oil and Gas 101: The Nunavut Context”, Presentation to the Nunavut Oil & Gas Summit.
Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada (2013), “New Geoscience Points to the Potential of Bent Horn Lands”, Oil and Gas Bulletins, 21(4).
CBC News (2013), “Feds re-open abandoned Nunavut oil field for bidding”.
Nunatsiaq News (2013), “Ottawa puts out feelings for Nunavut oil and gas exploration”
Callow, Lin, LTLC Consulting (2012), “Oil and Gas Exploration & Development Activity Forecast: Canadian Beaufort Sea 2012-2027”, Prepared for Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, p 12.
Bell, Jim (2010), “Nunavut official envy Greenland oil-gas model”, Nunatsiaq News
McCracken, A.D. et al. (2007), “Arctic Oil and Gas”, Natural Resources Canada.
Minister of Supply and Services Canada (1994), “Northern Oil and Gas Annual Report 1994” (p 14)
Minister of Supply and Services Canada (1993), “Northern Oil and Gas Annual Report 1993” (p 14)
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: http://pubs.aina.ucalgary.ca/misc/9634.pdf
List of relevant research: Bishop, Andrew et al, (2011), “Petroleum Potential of the Arctic: Challenges and Solutions”, Oilfield Review, 22(4): 36-49.
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BENT HORN OIL FIELD SUMMARY
Ekelund, M.J. & Masterson, D.M. (1980), “Floating Ice Platforms for Oil Exploration in the Arctic Islands”, Arctic Institute of North America, 33(1): 169-183.
Masterson, DM (2012), “The Arctic Islands Adventure and Panarctic Oils Ltd.”, Cold Regions Science and Technology, 85: 1-14.
Masterson, D. & Baudais, D. (2010), “The Arctic Island Adventure and Panarctic Oils Ltd”, Presentation to the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers – Arctic Section. (slide 43)
Mitchell, Marybelle (1996),”Native Land Claims in Canada: A Push by the State to Promote Nonrenewable Resource Exploitation”, in Talking Chiefs to a Native Corporate Elite: The Birth of Class and nationalism Among Canadian Inuit, Kingston: McGill-Queen’s University Press, 348-349.
Morrell, GR and Smith, DR (2001), “Economic and Strategic Value of Oil and Gas Potential in the Bathurst Mera”, Parliamentary Report.
Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada (2011), “Chapter 5: Canadian Arctic Islands” in Petroleum Exploration in Northern Canada.
United States Bureau of Land Management (1979), “Final Environmental Impact Statement: Beaufort Sea”, p 1-2.
Wonders, William C. (2003), “Non-Renewable Natural Resource Development”, in Canada’s Changing North, Kingston: McGill-Queen’s University Press: 238-241.
Reports from Subprojects and Theme Coordinator work: Well-Being and the Impacts of Resource Development (Project Leader Brenda Parlee)
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CHIDLIAK PROJECT SUMMARY
Chidliak Project Mine
Description of the mine The Peregrine Diamonds Ltd. Chidliak project is a diamond exploration operation located on Baffin Island, Nunavut Territory. There is no record of diamond exploration on what is now Chidliak previous to 2005 when Peregrine and BHPB collected heavy mineral samples as part of a regional reconnaissance exploration program. Peregrine then formed a partnership with De Beers Canada Ltd. In September 2012 to help finance the project and share development risks, but withdrew from the partnership in 2013.
The property consists of 506 claims covering approximately 513,000 hectares. Since 2008, 71 kimberlites have been discovered at Chidliak, and three more at the adjacent Qilaq property. Further exploration is planned for 2016.
Photographs/Videos
General Information Location: 130 northeast of Iqualuit on the Hall Peninsula of Baffin Island, Nunavut Type of mine and ore: underground diamond exploration project Owner: Peregrine Diamonds Ltd. Date opened: 2019 Estimated mine life: 12-15 years (2031-2034)
Average number of employees: 104 (currently- in exploration phase) Percentage of Indigenous employees: 69 residents of Iqaluit and Pnagnirtung hired between 2008- 2014
Estimated size of ore body: 3.2 million tonnes (inferred resources) Estimated production value: 2.5 carats per tonne. Local employment figures: 69 residents of Iqaluit and Pnagnirtung hired between 2008-2014 (5800 person days employment of Nunavut residents at the project)
Mining activities conducted: will be year-round Nearby communities: Iqualuit, NU (130 km, 80 mi) Kipisa, NU (85 km, 53 mi) Kimmirut, NU (248 km, 154 mi) Amadjuak, NU (187 km, 116 mi)
Access to mine: helicopter or aircraft from Iqualuit.
Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): Not yet, in early stages.
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CHIDLIAK PROJECT SUMMARY
Impacts of Mine Positive Negative Company has spent $21 million on goods Community concerns regarding the mine’s and services obtained from Baffin Island impact on traditional hunting and gathering businesses and Inuit owned corporations activities. Some believe company’s helicopters since 2007. have scared caribou away from the area. This Geosciences data filed with INAC to be has forced hunters to go further north to seek used by other explorers, prospectors and out caribou, which is more dangerous and costly government to discover and map other in terms of fuel and supplies. resources. Concerns regarding Peregrine’s use of an Geoscience research collaboration with existing trail and its condition due to equipment government agencies. raveling between Iqaluit and Pangnirtung. Has promised scholarships, community donations & contributions (has donated $26,000 since 2010) Company received 2012 Nunavut Mining Symposium Murray Pyke Award for contributions to economic and social development in Nunavut.
Relevant Links GeoStrat Inc. (2015), “Technical Report for the Chidliak Project”, prepared for Peregrine Diamonds Ltd. “Chidliak” (Unofficial investor information website) Peregrine Diamonds Ltd. (2014), “Chidliak Diamond Exposé”, Presented to Nunavut Mining Symposium, Iqualuit. Willis, David (2014), “Infrastructure: The Key to Realizing Mineral Wealth”, Presentation to 2014 Nunavut mining Symposium. Environment Canada (2009), “Comment on Peregrine Diamonds Ltd. Chidliak Property Project Proposal” City of Iqaluit Planning and Development Committee (2014), “Minutes – Meeting #08” Varga, Peter (2013), “Nunavut’s Chidliak diamond project set to prove its worth”, Nunatsiaq News. Herman, Lyndsay (2013), “Peregrine sees promise at Chidliak”, Northern News Services. CBC News (2012), “Diamond exploration concerns abound at Iqaluit project” Peregrine Diamonds Ltd. (2010), “Waste Management Strategy: Chidliak Project, South Baffin Region, NU”
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: 2010 Baseline Environmental Program Summary 2009 Application (Has yet to complete a full environmental assessment)
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CHIDLIAK PROJECT SUMMARY
List of relevant research: Goelman, Nadav (2010), “Mining a Better Future: Approaching Economic Growth and Sustainable Communities in Context of Mining in Nunavut”, Capstone, Simon Fraser University.
Nielson, S, H. Grutter, J. Pell & H. Grenon (2012), “The Evolution of Kimberlite Indicator Mineral Interpretation on the Chidliak Project, Baffin Island, Nunavut”, 10th International Kimberlite Conference, Bangalore.
Pell, Jennifer, et al. (2013), "Exploration and discovery of the Chidliak kimberlite province, Baffin Island, Nunavut: Canada’s newest diamond district." Proceedings of 10th International Kimberlite Conference. Springer India.
Walker, Simon (2011), “Clarity Matters”, Engineering and Mining Journal 212(7): 54-63.
Review Board Decision: NIRB Screening Decision Report (For exploration)
Training programs: Locals being trained for exploration and camp work. On the job training for local employees hired for all projects.
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HACKETT RIVER PROJECT SUMMARY
Hackett River Project Mine
Description of the mine Hackett River is one of the largest undeveloped silver deposits in Canada. It is located in the Kitikmeot region in Nunavut. The sites has the deposits of Main Zone, Boot, East Clever, and Jo Zone (satellite). Sabina Gold and Silver Corporation sold the mining project to Glencore Canada (formerly known as Xstrata) for $50 million. Sabina is still entitled to a share of a portion of the silver profits once production occurs. Once mined, the zinc ore would be transported by ship (Northwest Passage) to Europe. An Environmental Impact Statement was due at the end of 2014 but was delayed due to decrease in metal prices.
Photographs/Videos
General Information Location: Kitikmeot, Nunavut. Type of mine and ore: Silver and Zinc. 4 open-pit and 2 underground mines. Owner: Glencore Resources (Previous owner Sabina Gold and Silver Corporation) Date opened: Not in operation. Currently in exploration. Estimated mine life: 15 years
Estimated size of ore body: 57 Mt (Inferred) 3% Zinc and 100g Silver/tonne. Estimated production value: 25 Mt – 4.2% Zinc and 130g Silver/tonne
Average number of employees: 800 during construction and 500 during operation. Local employment figures: Unknown. Percentage of Indigenous employees: Unknown.
Mining activities conducted: Exploration.
Nearby communities: ● Bathurst Inlet, NU (75 km, 45.6 miles) ● Sabina’s Back River project (45 km, 28 miles)
Access to mine: Airplane
Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): Unknown.
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HACKETT RIVER PROJECT SUMMARY
Impacts of Mine Positive Negative ● They have committed to spending $50 ● Delay in project development due to low million on exploration and the property to metal prices. complete a feasibility study (2011). ● The Environmental Impact Statement was ● With new ownership, the potential of a delayed due to prices of metal and pending a more developed airstrip at the site. feasibility study. ● Road and port infrastructure developed will ● Shipping of product has the potential to help the residents of the area with better disturb marine life. transportation services. ● The company had to re-evaluate the resource estimate at the site after acquiring the claim. This has taken more time for the development of the project.
Relevant Links Nunatsiaq Online (2014). Glencore delays submission of Hackett River DEIS. ● Metal prices have delayed the process for assessment on the Hackett River project. Petroleum News (2014). Mining News: Big projects advance in Kitikmeot region. ● Discusses the various projects ongoing in the Kitikmeot region. The Northern Miner (2013). Glencore Xstrata boosts Hackett River, looks to get lean. Discusses the sale of Hackett River from Sabina to Glencore. 24h Gold (2013). Sabina Gold and Silver Reports Glencore Xstrata discloses new Hackett River resource estimate. ● Provides an overview of the project at Hackett River. Nunatsiaq Online (2011). Xstrata enters Nunavut with purchase of Hackett River properties. ● The article discusses Xstrata, who has majorly dealt with zinc, entering the silver market. Canadian NewsWire (2005). Drilling to recommence at Hackett River. ● Report on drilling activities at the site. Canadian NewsWire (2005). Sabina gets high grade zinc and silver assays from 2005 expansion drilling at Hackett River, Nunavut. ● The article discusses the grading of the deposit at Hackett River.
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: Has not been completed yet.
List of relevant research: Grant, L.J., Layton-Matthews, D., & Peter. J.M. (2015). Distribution and controls on silver mineralization in the Hackett River main zone, Nunavut, Canada: An Ag-enriched and Pb-enriched Archean volcanogenic massive sulphide deposit.
Review Board Decision: No review has been conducted yet. Training programs: Unknown to date. Impact Benefit Agreement: Unknown to date (No EIS has been completed). Reports from Subprojects and Theme Coordinator work: No academic research by theme coordinators has yet to be conducted.
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HIGH LAKE PROJECT SUMMARY
HIGH LAKE Project Mine
Description of the mine The High Lake project is classified under the Izok Corridor Project. It is a zinc mine that is proposed for the Kitikmeot region in Nunavut. High Lake is one of two mining projects for MMG. The company provided a project description in 2012, but in 2014 stated they needed a partner for the project to be able to continue development. MMG has completed both land and environmental surveys at High Lake. The project is in the development stages but has not yet preceded further in development. Photographs/Videos
General Information Location: Western Kitikmeot, Nunavut Type of mine and ore: Open-pit and underground. Zinc and some Copper and Lead. Owner: Minerals and Metals Group (MMG), Previous owner was Wolfden Resources. Date opened: Has not opened yet.
Estimated mine life: 12 years Estimated size of ore body: 14 Mt 3.8% zinc and 2.5% copper. Estimated production value: 2Mt per year.
Average number of employees: 1440 during construction and 710 during operation for Izok Corridor Project. Local employment figures: Unknown Percentage of Indigenous employees: Kitikmeot residents can expect hiring for employment and will help to develop skills for work.
Mining activities conducted: Only exploration to date. Nearby communities: ● Grays Bay (50 km, miles)
Access to mine: Float plane during ice free months and plane fixed with skis in the winter. Impact and
Benefit Agreement (IBA): Yet to be negotiated.
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HIGH LAKE PROJECT SUMMARY
Impacts of Mine (Anticipated) Positive Negative ● They conducted meetings with community ● Izok Lake will have to be drained to allow access members in the early stages of the project to the resource. development (2012/2013). ● The project requires a deep water port which ● They plan to construct a road to connect could lead to marine life disturbance due to noise. the site to the port, which will also have to ● They will need to build a 325km all-season road, be developed. which will require time to be built. ● In 2014, MMG said they would be unable to move ahead with the project without a partner joining the project.
Relevant Links MMG. (2016). Project Outline.
MMG. (2016). Izok Corridor.
Nunatsiaq Online. (2013). MMG halts review process for huge Nunavut mining corridor project. ● In 2013 the project process was put on hold due to the need for an updated project description.
Nunatsiaq Online. (2013). MMG delays Nunavut’s Izok corridor scheme for at least another year. ● MMG will wait another year to continue with the environmental review.
Nunatsiaq Online. (2014). Infrastructure deficit hampering western Nunavut mine project. ● MMG stated that they required a partner to be able to continue on with the project development.
The Northern Miner. (2005). Wolfden triples High Lake resource. ● The company had tripled their resource base after acquiring the claim 20 months earlier.
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: Project Proposal – provides some of the potential environmental effects. MMG. (2012). Izok Corridor Project Proposal: Volume 1 – Main Document. Pages 1 to 40.
List of relevant research: Flood, E. (2004). An overview of the ULU Gold deposit, High Lake Volcanic Belt, Nunavut, Canada. Exploration and Mining Geology, 13(1-4), 15-23.
Review Board Decision: No review decision has been made.
Training programs: Unknown.
Impact Benefit Agreement: Has yet to be negotiated.
Reports from Subprojects and Theme Coordinator work: No academic research by theme coordinators has yet to be conducted.
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HOPE BAY PROJECT SUMMARY
HOPE BAY Project Mine
Description of the mine The Hope Bay Gold Mine is located in western Nunavut and is 1,101 km2 area. The site already has existing infrastructure on it, which allows development to only include adding a mill and expanding on what is already there. There have been previous owners in the past, dating back to the first owner of BHP in 1988. The most recent owner, prior to TMAC, was Newmount who developed the infrastructure on the site. The Kitikmeot Inuit Association has already completed Impact and Benefit Agreements with previous owners. The two mines on the site are Doris North and Boston. TMAC Resources plans to start have operations running by 2020 (originally 2016).
Photographs/Videos
General Information Location: Kitikmeot, Western Nunavut Type of mine and ore: Gold. Underground is proposed. Owner: TMAC Resources Inc. Date opened: Has not opened yet. Initial production was set for 2016, but moved to 2020. Estimated mine life: 20 years
Average number of employees: 15 currently (to maintain camp condition) Estimated size of ore body: 4.5 Million Oz. of Gold. Estimated production value: Gold Grade – 9.2 g/t. Predicted average of 160,000 oz. mined a year. Local employment figures: Unknown. Percentage of Indigenous employees: Committed to hiring local Inuit residents.
Mining activities conducted: Currently in discussion for development timeline. Nearby communities: Cambridge Bay (125 km, 78 miles) Access to mine: Airplane. Airport at Baker Lake. Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): In negotiations.
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HOPE BAY PROJECT SUMMARY
Impacts of Mine Positive Negative The site will not require a lot of construction They delayed production from 2016 to 2020. due to previous infrastructure on the site. There have been multiple owners in the past They will provide local business with the first with no production. opportunity for contracts during the Impact and Benefit Agreement is still in construction phase. discussion. They pride themselves in being a northern Inuit residents in the region have already had company and have the support of the to go through the process of signing an residents of Nunavut. Impact and Benefit agreement with no mining ever occurring. Relevant Links Junior Mining Network. (2016). TMAC provides outlook for Hope Bay Project and Budget guidance for 2016. Discuss the plan for production at the mine site. TMAC Resources. (2016). Hope Bay.
Nunatsiaq Online. (2015). TMAC promotes gold mine project to western Nunavut. The article discusses how the mine has had previous plans for operation in the past, but none have been successful yet.
Nunatsiaq Online. (2015). At TMAC’s Hope Bay project in western Nunavut, hope never dies. TMAC wants to have production happen on the site after acquiring the rights in 2013.
Nunatsiaq Online. (2015). TMAC aims to revive mothballed western Nunavut gold mine project.
The Northern Miner. (2015). TMAC targets production at Hope Bay in late 2016. Discusses the financial history of activities at Hope Bay.
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: Entering into Environmental Review in 2016.
List of relevant research: Swanson, H., Gantner, N., Kidd, K.A., Muir, D.C.G., & Reist, J.D. (2011). Comparison of mercury concentrations in landlocked, resident, and sea-run fish (Salvelinus spp.) from Nunavut, Canada. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, 30(6), 1459-1467.
Review Board Decision: Review has yet to be completed.
Training programs: There is a plan for training due to the need for 280 local employees to be hired.
Impact Benefit Agreement: In negotiations.
Reports from Subprojects and Theme Coordinator work: No academic research by theme coordinators has yet to be conducted.
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HOPE BAY PROJECT SUMMARY
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IZOK CORRIDOR PROJECT SUMMARY
IZOK CORRIDOR Project Mine
Description of the mine The Izok Corridor project is a proposed lead and copper mining development led by MMG Ltd., a subsidiary of Chinese company Minmetals Corp. It includes the five Izok and three High Lake deposits found in the Slave Geological Province in the Kitikmeot region of Nunavut, which have been known to geologists since the late 1950’s. The project proposal includes the development and operation of a base metal mining and milling project as well as the construction of a 350 km all-season road connecting the two mines together and to a new port at Grays Bay.
The Project Proposal was submitted to the Nunavut Impact Review Board (NIRB) in late 2012. In April 2013, the Federal Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada directed the NIRB to undertake a “Part 5” (Nunavut-led) review of the project. MMG Subsequently determined that the project, as designed, would not be economical to develop and asked the NIRB not to proceed with the review until MMG submitted an updated project design. MMG has subsequently improved project economics through bulk modularisation of the process plant and other mine infrastructure, as well as modifications to the mine schedule and production plan to optimise cash flow and operating expenses. MMG is also pursuing partnerships with other stakeholders to share the costs of developing regional infrastructure.
Photographs/Videos Photo Gallery of Izok Corridor on the MMG website Izok project page http://www.50kaliber- gallery.com/netpub/server.np?find&site=MMG_Slideshow_Izok_Corridor&template=gallery- only.np&catalog=catalog&sorton=-%20Shoot%20Date&ascending=0&field=- %20Media%20Type&op=matches&value=Image
General Information
Location: Kitikmeot region of Nunavut, Izok site located 260 km southeast of Kugluktuk, High Lake site located 300 km northeast of Izok site and 187 km southeast of Kugluktuk. Type of mine and ore: underground and open pit zinc/copper/lead mine. Owner: Minerals and Metals Group (MMG) Ltd. Date opened: Estimated 2022 Estimated mine life: 11 years
Average number of employees: 1,140 during construction (670 on site at a time) and total operation workforce of approximately 710 employees (400 on site at a time). Estimated size of ore body: 29 million tonnes (High Lake and Izok deposits combined) Estimated production value: 13% Zinc and 2.3% copper / 2 million tonnes of ore per annum. Local employment figures: Unknown – “Kitikmeot residents can expect opportunities for employment and for developing skills and knowledge”
Mining activities conducted: year-round Nearby communities: ● Kugluktuk, NU (187 km) this is the nearest community in Nunavut which is the location of the mine (in the Kitikmeot region) ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 1 of 3
IZOK CORRIDOR PROJECT SUMMARY
● Wekweti, NWT (161 km, 100 mi) Access to mine: Plans to developed 325 km all-weather road linking the two sites and deep-water port on the Arctic Ocean, and temporary winter roads between proposed mine and the Tibbitt-Contwoyto Ice Road and between Grays Bay and proposed High Lake Mine. Current access is by air onto ice airstrip.
Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): No. Discussions with the Kitikmeot Inuit Association are ongoing. Percentage of Indigenous employees: Unknown Impacts of Mine Positive Negative ● Estimated economic benefits of the project ● Comments raised during screening process include: $6.5 billion investment to operate the indicated that, due to the nature and scale of project, 18% increase in Nunavut GDP during the proposed activities (including the Izok operations, 33,300 person years of corridor all-weather road and the port in the employment (including indirect and induced Coronation Gulf), the project could cause jobs). significant adverse, cumulative effects on the ● Direct corporate taxes and royalties are ecosystem and on northerners. estimated to total $390 million, including ● These effects include: lake loss due to more than $100 million in royalties and Impact dewatering, reduced air and water quality as it and Benefit Agreement payments. relates to waste management, impact on ● MMG has an active sponsorship program that fisheries, heritage resources, Nunavut provides funding support to initiatives Settlement Area, Aboriginal traditional hunting benefiting Kitikmeot communities and youth. and harvesting rights, barren ground caribou ● MMG has committed to procure from firms in and calving grounds, grizzly bears, wolverines, Nunavut wherever possible. migratory birds and permafrost. ● Would bring significant infrastructure to the region, including a deep water port on the Arctic Ocean, 325 all season road, other winter roads, and microwave towers.
Relevant Links Nunatsiaq News (February 29, 2016), by Bell, Jim. Nunavut adds huge Grays Bay road-port scheme to its shopping list. “Nunavut Resource Corp., GN would work together on proposed Kitikmeot transport system”. http://www.nunatsiaqonline.ca/stories/article/65674nunavut_adds_huge_grays_bay_road- port_scheme_to_its_shopping_list/ News article
Quenneville, Guy, Herb Mathisen and Tim Edwards (2015), “Mineral Pursuit: Nunavut”, Up Here Business.
Nunatsiaq News (2014), “Infrastructure Deficit Hampering Western Nunavut mine project: MMG”
Nunatsiaq Online (Oct. 1 2012) by Jane George. MMG promises jobs galore for western Nunavut (Izok Corridor’s mines could start production in 2018). If MMG’s huge Izok Corridor project moves ahead, during its two-year construction period 1,140 people will find work, and then 710 will have jobs during the mines’ 12-year lifespan, working on fly-in, fly-out rotations….
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 2 of 3
IZOK CORRIDOR PROJECT SUMMARY
Windeyer, Chris (2013), “There and back again”, Up Here Business (Story about Izok and High Lake properties).
Angela. March 4, 2013. Dene Nation Rejects Mining Project in Nunavut. Fort Simpson Chamber of Commerce. Aboriginal News.
MMG Ltd. (August, 2012), “Project Outline: Izok Corridor”
MMG Ltd. 2012. Izok Corridor Project: Project Proposal Volume 1 Main Document.
MMG Ltd. 2012 Izok Corridor Project: Project Proposal Volume 2: Appendices
Weber, Bob (2012), “Harper’s cabinet mulls massive Chinese resource project in Arctic”, The Globe and Mail.
CBC News (2012), “Non-Nunavut groups want federal review of Izok Corridor”
Munson, James (2012), “China North: Canada’s resources and China’s Arctic long game”, iPolitics.
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: Project Proposal (Sections 7, 8, 9)
List of relevant research: Association of Consulting Engineering Companies – Canada, The Mining Association of Canada, NWT & Nunavut Chamber of Mines, Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada, Yukon Chamber of Mines (2015), “Leveling the Playing Field: Supporting Mineral Exploration and Mining in Remote and Northern Canada”
Dowlatabadi, Hadi et al. (2004), “Bridging the Gap Between Project-level Assessments and Regional Development Dynamics: A Methodology for Estimating Cumulative Effects”, Sustainable Development Research Initiative.
Kikkert, Peter (2012), “The Disappointing Arctic: Will More Shipping Dreams Be Shattered on the Ice?”. Journal of Maritime Law & Commerce, 43(4): 539.
Morrison, Ian (2004), “Geology of the Izok Massive Sulfide Deposit, Nunavut Territory, Canada”, Exploration and Mining Geology 13(1): 25-36.
Prowse, Terry et al. (2009), “Implications of Climate Change for Economic Development in Northern Canada: Energy, Resource and Transportation Sectors”, AMBIO: A Journal of the Human Environment 38(5): 272-281.
Sherlock, Ross, David Scott and Gordon Mackay (2003), “Sustainable Development in Nunavut: The Role of Geoscience”, Exploration and Mining Geology, 12(1): 21-30.
Review Board Decision: NIRB Screening Decision for Project Proposal
Training programs: Has committed to providing pre-employment training for Kitikmeot residents and on the job training for staff.
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 3 of 3
JERICHO DIAMOND MINE SUMMARY
JERICHO DIAMOND Mine
Description of the mine
In November 1999, the Nunavut Water Board received an application from Tahera Diamond Corporation for the development of the Jericho Diamond Mine at Carat Lake, south of the Bathurst Inlet in the Contwoyto Lake area of the Kitikmeot Region in Nunavut. Following public hearings held in 2003, the first Inuit Impact Benefit Agreement (IIBA) for a diamond mine was negotiated between Tahera and the Kitikmeot Inuit Association (KIA) and signed in 2004. The opening of the Jericho Diamond Mine in 2006 was widely celebrated and met with a great deal of excitement. The successful negotiation of the IIBA was touted as a reminder of the importance of devolution. Included in the IIBA was an Inuit employment target of 60%, to be achieved over the first five years of operation. While Inuit employment increased over the first three years of operation from 18% (45 positions) in 2005 to 24% (66 positions) in 2007, it never attained the 60% target. Despite job postings seeking qualified individuals for its apprenticeship program requiring only a grade 10 education, low numbers of Inuit applications were received.
In January of 2008, financial and operational troubles caused the mine to suspend operations, and it was later forced to enter court-ordered creditor protection. A year later, shares of Tahera were suspended from the Toronto stock exchange and the mine was placed under the care of the federal government. Finally, in 2010, the Jericho Diamond Mine was purchased by Shear Minerals Limited from Tahera Diamond Corporation for $220 million. The company completed an economic assessment and signed a co-operation agreement with the Nunavut Resources Corporation, an Inuit-owned mining development company, and the KIA. The deal outlined a joint plan for infrastructure development and the overall redevelopment of the mine. However, in 2012, just months after reviving the mine, Shear put a halt to production, citing low world diamond prices as the trigger. The company also began falling behind on its reporting requirements, failing to submit annual reports, quarterly reports and a draft wildlife mitigation and monitoring plan to the Nunavut Impact Review Board (NIRB).
Weeks after production ended at Jericho, Shear Minerals vacated the mine site and submitted a temporary closure plan. However, the federal Contaminated Sites Program stepped in to manage water and waste. Multiple offences under the Nunavut Waters and Nunavut Surface Rights Tribunal were cited in a document issued to the company on March 8th, 2013 with the possibility of fines or jail time if the company did not address the failed requirements and submit an action plan. In January of 2014, the department of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development (AAND) had deemed the mine “closed or abandoned” and by December, the Government of Canada took over ownership of the Jericho Diamond Mine and all equipment at the mine site, with the exception of assets and leases on land owned by the KIA. At present, the federal government has not announced future plans for the defunct mine and the NIRB continues to monitors the site to ensure it does not pose any risks to wildlife or people in the area.
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 1 of 6
JERICHO DIAMOND MINE SUMMARY
Photographs/Videos
Photo: The defunct Jericho Diamond Mine, Nunavut, Canada. The mine site (buildings and fuel tank farm) is visible in the background behind the open pit. Photo from Tom Churchill (Tomchurchill at en.wikipedia) - Transferred from en.wikipedia; transferred to Commons by User:Gump Stump using CommonsHelper. File: Jericho Diamond Mine pit Nunavut Canada.jpg Uploaded 19 October 2010
General Information Location: South of Bathurst Inlet in the Contwoyto Lake area of the Kitikmeot Region, Nunavut
Type of mine and ore: diamonds
Owner(s): Currently owned by the Government of Canada. Purchased by Shear Minerals Ltd. in 2010 after production had ceased. Previously owned by Tahera Diamond Corp.
Time of operation: 2006 - 2008 Closure & Reclamation: While Jericho Diamond Mine has been closed since 2008, the site was put under the care and maintenance of the federal government until its sale to Shear Minerals Ltd. in 2010. After purchasing the Jericho Mine, Shear completed an economic assessment and exploration plan at the mine site before briefly resuming production. Production was again suspended in 2012. As of December 2014, the Jericho mine is considered to be “closed or abandoned” and assets and mineral leases have been forfeited to the Crown. At this time no reclamation of the Jericho mine site has been undertaken.
Average number of employees: 100 workers Local employment figures: no nearby communities; Inuit employment figures below.
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 2 of 6
JERICHO DIAMOND MINE SUMMARY
Percentage of Indigenous employees: 30% Inuit employment in 2007. The majority from Kugluktuk and Cambridge Bay.
Estimated size of ore body: Total inferred resource is 1.72 million tonnes containing 1.13 million ct. Indicated resource is 1.77 million tonnes containing 1.88 million ct. Average production value: N/A – However, 786,000 carats of gem-quality diamonds were mined in the 2 years of production
Mining activities conducted: year-round
Nearby communities: The closest community to the mine site is Kugluktuk, 240 kilometres northwest Access to mine: winter road access
Agreements between mining companies/communities/government: IIBA (Inuit Impact Benefit Agreement) – Tahera Diamond Corporation & Kitikmeot Inuit Association Land lease documents allowing the company to use Crown land at the project site – Tahera Diamond Corporation & Indian and Northern Affairs Canada CA (Cooperation Agreement) – Shear Minerals Ltd. & Nunavut Resources Corp
Impacts of Mine Positive Negative Part of the mine infrastructure was on Inuit- Inconsistent production at the mine led to owned lands and the operation itself was job insecurity for those employed at Jericho. seen to be the first diamond mine in Nunavut Due to climate change, the reliance of Tahera to benefit Inuit. on a winter road for mine access proved The mine provided employment to Inuit in problematic and contributed to financial the Kitikmeot region as well as training for troubles. work in the mining sector. Although Inuit were employed at the mine, The mine was seen as an opportunity to the 60% Inuit employment target was never employee Inuit businesses. met. The Jericho project demonstrated the success Shear Minerals Limited failed to submit of devolution and allowed for the successful annual reports, quarterly reports and draft negotiation of the first IIBA for diamond wildlife mitigation and monitoring plans to mining operation in Nunavut. the Nunavut Impact Review Board The Tahera Diamond Corporation worked Financial and market instabilities plagued cooperatively with the KIA to promote and both owners during the life of the mine and increase Inuit employment at the mine. led to improper management, closure and reclamation. Abandonment of the mine by Shear has left the burden of closure and reclamation with the KIA and the federal government.
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 3 of 6
JERICHO DIAMOND MINE SUMMARY
Relevant Links Kugluktuk, NU: Nunavut Tourism, “Kugluktuk”: http://nunavuttourism.com/regions-communities/kugluktuk Kitikmeot Region of Nunavut, “Kugluktuk”: http://kitikmeot.edu.nu.ca/pdf/kugluktuk.pdf Inuit Organizations: Kitikmeot Inuit Association (KIA): https://kitia.ca Nunavut Resources Corporation: http://www.nunavutrc.com Nunavut Boards: Nunavut Impact Review Board: http://www.nirb.ca Nunavut Water Board: http://www.nwb-oen.ca Nunavut Surface Rights Tribunal: https://nsrt-nunavut.com Nunavut Wildlife Management Board: http://www.nwmb.com/en/ Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI): http://www.tunngavik.com/ Mine Site Reclamation Policy for Nunavut: http://www.aadnc- aandc.gc.ca/eng/1100100036042/1100100036044
Environmental Impact Statement: Formal documents for the Jericho Mine can be found on the Nunavut Impact Review Board’s Public Registry AMEC Earth & Environmental (2004) “Air Quality Management Plan Jericho Diamond Mine Nunavut” AMEC Earth & Environmental (2005) “Borrow Management Plan Jericho Diamond Mine Nunavut” Rescan Environmental Service Ltd. (2003) “Technical Review of Supplemental Information for the Jericho Project Final Environmental Impact Statement”
Social Assessments: Brubacher Development Strategies Inc. (2009) “2007 Socio-Economic Monitoring Report”
Hornal, R. and Associates (2003) “A Socio-Economic Impact Assessment Of The Proposed Jericho Diamond Project In The North Slave Geological Province Nunavut”
News: Nunatsiaq News (2015) “Feds consider options for defunct Nunavut diamond mine” Nunatsiaq News (2015) “Nunavut property tax arrears top $3 million” CBC News (2015) “Nunavut property owners owe nearly $3.3M in tax arrears” Nunatsiaq News (2015) “Teams to inspect abandoned Nunavut diamond mine this week” Nunatsiaq News (2014) “Abandoned Nunavut diamond mine now belongs to the Crown” Nunatsiaq News (2014) “Mothballed Nunavut diamond mine floats in legal limbo” Nunatsiaq News (2014) “AAND: Nunavut ghost mine now deemed “closed or abandoned” Up Here Business (2014) “Wanted: Shear Diamonds” Northern News Services (2013) “Jericho Mine in federal hands” Northern News Service (2013) “Nobody's home at Jericho” CBC News (2013) “Shear Diamonds seeks a buyer as Jericho mine languishes” Nunatsiaq News (2012) “Shear seeks buyer, partner, new financing for Nunavut diamond mine” Nunatsiaq News (2012) “Shear Diamonds puts the brakes on production at Nunavut’s Jericho mine” Nunatsiaq News (2012) “Shear Diamonds reports “good or better” recovery of diamonds than expected” Nunatsiaq News (2012) “Shear starts diamond processing at Nunavut’s Jericho mine”
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 4 of 6
JERICHO DIAMOND MINE SUMMARY
Toronto Star (2011) “Northern diamonds in the rough” Mining.com (2011) “Shear Diamonds signs agreement with Nunavut Resources Corp.” Nunatsiaq News (2011) “Jericho owner strikes deal with Belgian diamond firm” Nunatsiaq News (2011) “Shear moves cautiously on Jericho revival plans” Nunatsiaq News (2011) “Inuit-owned mining firm signs first deal for Jericho” Nunatsiaq News (2011) “Shear grabs more mineral claims around Jericho” CBC News (2010) “Nunavut diamond mine's potential being reviewed” CBC News (2010) “Shear buys Nunavut's Jericho diamond mine” CBC News (2010) “Tahera puts Nunavut diamond mine up for sale” Nunatsiaq News (2010) “A flicker of hope for Nunavut’s mothballed diamond mine” Mining Markets (2010) “Shear Minerals’ sheer moxie” CBC News (2008) “Looming layoffs at Jericho mine worry Inuit residents” First Nations Drum (2008) “Jericho Diamond Mine Fails, Inuit left holding the bag” Canadian Mining Journal (2007) “Small, in a Big Way” Nunatsiaq News (2007) “Jericho Mine bleeds money” Nunatsiaq News (2006) “Okalik: Jericho a reminder of devolution’s importance” Nunatsiaq News (2006) “Tahera’s Jericho Mine a great story” Canadian Mining Journal (2004) “DIAMOND ENVIRONMENT NEWS Jericho Wins Approval” Nunatsiaq News (2004) “At long last, it's a go for Jericho” Northern News Services (2004) “Inuit to benefit from Tahera mine” IDEX Online (2004) “Tahera, Inuit Sign Impact Benefit Agreement” Nunatsiaq News (2003) “KIA reaches benefits deal with Tahera” Nunatsiaq News (2003) “NIRB postpones Jericho hearings” Nunatsiaq News (2003) “Public hearings begin this spring on Jericho project” Nunatsiaq News (2003) “Diamond Joe walks away from Tahera” Nunatsiaq News (2001) "Shareholder coup clouds Jericho start-up”
Academic Articles: Hayman, P.C. & Cas, R.A.F. (2011). Criteria for interpreting kimberlite as coherent: insights from the Muskox and Jericho kimberlites (Nunavut, Canada). Bulletin of Volcanology, 73(8): 1005-1027.
Hayman, P.C. & Cas, R.A.F. (2011). Reconstruction of a multi-vent kimberlite eruption from deposit and host rock characteristics: Jericho kimberlite, Nunavut, Canada. Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research, 200(3): 201-222.
Kopylova, M.G. & Hayman, P. (2008). Petrology and textural classification of the Jericho kimberlite, northern Slave Province, Nunavut, Canada. Canadian Journal of Earth Sciences, 45(6): 701.
Smart, K.A. (2011). The origin and evolution of eclogite xenoliths and associated diamonds from the Jericho kimberlite, northern Slave craton, Canada: an integrated petrological, geochemical and isotopic study. Doctoral Dissertation: University of Alberta.
Werniuk, J. (2007). Small, in a BIG way: Jericho diamond mine a first in Nunavut. Canadian Mining Journal, 128(2): 13.
Books: N/A
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 5 of 6
JERICHO DIAMOND MINE SUMMARY
Review Board Decision: Tahera Diamond Corporation (2004) “Final Hearings for the Jericho Diamond Project” (10 pages)
Tahera Diamond Corporation (2005) “Jericho Diamond Mine Notice of Intention to Commence Work”
KIA (2011) “Jericho Water License Renewal Application” (8 pages)
Nunavut Implementation Panel (no date) “ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2001-2004 The Implementation of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement” (56 pages)
Indian Affairs and Northern Development (2000) “Annual Report of the Implementation of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement 1999 – 2000” (33 pages)
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (1999) “Annual Report on the Implementation of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement” (30 pages)
Closure & Reclamation Documents: Although closed and no longer producing, no reclamation at the site has been undertaken. The mine continues to be monitored by the Nunavut Impact Review Board.
Nunavut Impact Review Board. (2011). “Nunavut Impact Review Board 2010-2011 Monitoring Report for the Jericho Diamond Project” (19 pages). Nunavut Impact Review Board. (2012). “Nunavut Impact Review Board 2011-2012 Monitoring Report for the Jericho Diamond Project” (49 pages). Nunavut Impact Review Board. (2013). “2012-2013 Annual Monitoring Report For Shear Diamonds (Nunavut) Corporation’s Jericho Diamond Mine Project” (29 pages). Nunavut Impact Review Board. (2014). “The Nunavut Impact Review Board’s 2013-2014 Annual Monitoring Report for the Jericho Diamond Project” (29 pages). Nunavut Impact Review Board. (2015). “2014-2015 Annual Monitoring Report for the Jericho Diamond Mine Project” (39 pages).
Training programs: The Jericho project provided numerous training opportunities to Inuit, as reported by the KIA in 2007. This included on-the-job training and apprenticeships.
Impact Benefit Agreement: Inuit Impact Benefit Agreement – Signed 2004 o Signatories: Tahera Corporation & The Kitikmeot Inuit Association (KIA) KIA (2007) “Tahera’s Jericho Diamond Mine Project Socio-Economic Monitoring Committee KIA Report on IIBA Implementation – October 2007” (3 pages) KIA (2008) “Tahera’s Jericho Diamond Mine Project Socio-Economic Monitoring Committee KIA Final Report on IIBA Implementation”
Reports from Subprojects and Theme Coordinator work: N/A
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 6 of 6
KIGGAVIK PROJECT SUMMARY
KIGGAVIK Project Mine
Description of the mine Areva has proposed the construction, operation, closure, and reclamation for the uranium mining project of Kiggavik. The plan once the ore is mined, is to transport the uranium or yellowcake (uranium concentrate powder) to Points North, SK by plane where it would then continue to be transported by truck. The exploration season at Kiggavik is quite short, so to extend the season for 2015 they planned to send whole cores from the site to Saskatoon, SK and the northern mine site of McClean Lake, SK for further examination. This would allow for exploration activity from the Kiggavik site to occur year round. Uranium prices are at a low rate and Areva has said that construction may not occur for approximately twenty years. The project has not been accepted by the Nunavut Impact Review board due to there not being a definitive start date for construction or timeline on the project. This has become an issue because it affects the accuracy of the assessment process.
Photographs/Videos You Tube: Kiggavik Project: Through The Eyes of A Young Person Apr 26, 2010. 9 min 23 sec. Meet Dianne Iyago. She is from Baker Lake, Nunavut. Dianne is a former AREVA Resources summer student and is currently studying nursing at Arctic University in Iqaluit.
General Information Location: Kivalliq, Nunavut Type of mine and ore: Uranium. Three open-pit mines, processing mill, and accommodations. Owner: Areva Resources Canada Ltd. Date opened: Exploration Camp June 2015 to August 2015 Estimated mine life: 12 years
Average number of employees: 10 Seasonal Staff for Exploration. Building Phase – 750 and Project Operation - 600 Estimated size of ore body: Unknown. Estimated production value: Unknown. Local employment figures: N/A Percentage of Indigenous employees: Committed to hiring local Inuit residents.
Mining activities conducted: Summer Exploration. Nearby communities: 80km west of Baker Lake. Access to mine: Airplane. Airport at Baker Lake. Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): No IBA currently.
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 1 of 3
KIGGAVIK PROJECT SUMMARY
Impacts of Mine Positive Negative They have a wildlife monitoring program in The site is located on the edge of a calving place around the site. ground for caribou. The Nunavut Impact Review board provided There was a plan to empty part of a lake in suggestions for the project that would assist the region. them in the future. Included information on There are caribou water crossing areas in the the requirements of Article 12 of the Nunavut region. Land Claims Agreement. There is no start date for project The hiring of local Inuit residents. development. The review board would not accept the project without a well-developed timeline. With no start date, the future of the land is uncertain for local residents. There has been protest from anti-uranium groups against the mine project.
Relevant Links CBC News. (2015). Final hearings to begin for Kiggavik uranium mine near Baker Lake. Discusses the project proposal and the view of local residents.
CBC News. (2015). No consensus at Kiggavik uranium mine hearings in Baker Lake. There were a 150 people that attended a hearing in Baker Lake on the mine project.
CBC News. (2015). Areva’s Kiggavik uranium project opposed by Impact Review Board. The lack of a start date for the project makes it difficult for an accurate assessment to occur.
CBC News. (2015). Kiggavik decision ‘disappointing’ for Areva, uplifting for other. Anti-uranium activists were pleased with the decision of the Nunavut Impact Review Board.
CBC News. (2015). Leona Aglukkaq will support Kiggavik uranium mine decision. The Conservative candidate of Nunavut supported the Nunavut Impact Review Board’s decision until a timeline for the project is made.
Kiggavik. (2016). The Kiggavik Project.
Kiggavik. (2016). Recent News.
Kiggavik. (2016). Kiggavik Project: A quick update.
Nunatsiaq Online. (2015). Nunavut anti-uranium group makes a final push against Kiggavik mine. Public concern over caribou calving grounds.
Nunatsiaq Online. (2016). Kivalliq Inuit Association calls for wider caribou habitat protection.
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KIGGAVIK PROJECT SUMMARY
The Inuit organization is worried about the impact that mining will have on caribou calving grounds.
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: Areva. (2014). Kiggavik Project: Final Environmental Impact Statement. Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission. (2009). The Kiggavik Project. 2009 was the initial start date process for the Environmental Assessment.
List of relevant research: Areva Resources. (2015). Monthly Wildlife Report.
Review Board Decision: Nunavut Impact Review Board. (2015). News Release. Project was opposed by the Nunavut Impact Review Board. This was decided because there was not a definitive start date for construction, which made it difficult to be able to determine the environmental and socio-economic impacts.
Training programs: N/A
Impact Benefit Agreement: No IBA has been completed.
Reports from Subprojects and Theme Coordinator work: No academic research has yet to be conducted.
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 3 of 3
LUPIN GOLD PROJECT SUMMARY
LUPIN GOLD Project
Description of the mine
The Lupin Gold Project is an exploration operation on the site of the old Lupin Mine, which contains five contiguous leases spanning 68 sq. km. The original Lupin Mine operated from 1982 to 2005 under the original ownership of Echo Bay Mines Limited. The mine’s assets were sold to Wolfden Resources Limited in 2006, and subsequently to Elgin Mining Inc. in 2011. In 2013 the mine was placed into care and maintenance due to the low price of gold, until WPC Resources Inc. purchased the property from Mandalay Resources Inc. in 2015. The most recent resource estimate of the property, conducted in 2011, is 403,600 ounces of gold, and there is potential to define additional gold resources at depth in the Centre, West, M1 and M2 zones. However, this historic estimate is not treated as a current mineral resource. Existing surface infrastructure on-site includes a mill, 200-person camp, power plant, tailings facility, water facilities and fuel storage. Elgin’s type-A water license for the mine also remains in good standing. WPC plans for Lupin to be a 1,000-tonne-per-day underground operation, generating 100,000 oz. gold a year over an initial four-year life. WPC is currently conducting exploration and baseline studies for Lupin and the ULU Gold Project, located 160 km to the north, which it also acquired in 2015.
General Information Location: Western side of Contwoyto Lake, Kitikmeot Region, Nunavut Type of mine and ore: underground gold mine Owner: WPC Resources Inc. Date opened: 2017 Estimated mine life: Until 2021
Average number of employees: Unknown (original mine employed approx. 200 people) Estimated size of ore body: 1.1 million tonnes (historical estimate) Estimated production value: 11.32 grams per tonne gold Local employment figures: Unknown
Mining activities conducted: Year-round Nearby communities: Bathurst Inlet, NT (186 km, 116 miles) Wekweti, NWT (226 km, 141 miles)
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 1 of 3 LUPIN GOLD PROJECT SUMMARY
Access to mine: By air to the Lupin Airport, or by Tibbitt to Contwoyto Winter Road. Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): One was signed between the Kitikmeot Inuit Association (KIA) and Elgin Mining Inc. in 1996, but never implemented. http://www.impactandbenefit.com/IBA_Database_List/ Percentage of Indigenous employees: Unknown (original mine hired 45-50 Inuit workers)
Impacts of Lupin
Positive Negative IBA developed between KIA and Elgin Potential contamination of soil and water Mining Inc. is quite sophisticated and by hydrocarbon use at the site (airborne legally binding, owing to the detailed arsenic and metal contamination from past requirements of the Nunavut Land Claim mine continues to spread into the Agreements that guide all such IBA’s. It environment) includes the need for Elgin to make “all Water removal required from the reasonable efforts” to negotiate contracts Contwoyto Lake. directly with Inuit businesses. This has Entrainment for fish and other aquatic life created optimism about future dealings. from water withdrawal for camp purposes. Once operational, WPC estimates the Disturbance of wildlife from aircraft and operation could earn $50 million annually, mining activity, namely migration of which could trickle out to the NT caribou and muskox. government through taxes and royalties. Fly-in, fly-out operations can potentially Committed to actively employing have adverse effects on families personnel from local communities.
Relevant Links Tarikh, Salma (2015), “WPC aims to bring Lupin back online”, The Northern Miner. Elgin Mining Inc. (2012) “Update on Plans for Lupin and Ulu Gold Deposits – 2012 Nunavut Mining Symposium”
WPC Resources Inc. (2015), “News Release: WPC to acquire Lupin, Ulu from Mandalay Resources”,
Government of Nunavut (2014), “Nunavut Mineral Exploration, Mining and Geoscience, Overview 2014”. p 18, 24-25,
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 2 of 3 LUPIN GOLD PROJECT SUMMARY
WPC Resources Inc. Website.
Mandalay Resources Inc. (2014), “Lupin Mine Landfarm Management Plan”
Nunatsiaq News (2013), “Owner puts Nunavut’s Lupin Mine project back into limbo”.
Elgin Mining Inc (2011), “Lupin Project Exploration Abandonment and Restoration Plan”.
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: (By Elgin Mining Inc., 2011) http://www.nirb.ca/application?strP=r
List of relevant research: Geusebroek, P.A. & N.A. Duke (2005), “An Update on the Geology of the Lupin Gold Mine, Nunavut, Canada”, Exploration and Mining Geology 13(1): 1-13.
Keeling, A. (2011), “3.8 Adaptation, industrial development and Arctic communities”, ArcticNet Annual Research Compendium 2011-12: 1-8.
Mueller, Fritz and Anne Gunn (2003), “Caribou Behavior in the Vicinity of Lupin Gold Mine, Northwest Territories”, Government of the Northwest Territories Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development.
Ruskeeniemi, T, et al. (2002), “Permafrost at Lupin: report of phase I”, Geological Survey of Finland.
Sherlock, Ross & David Scott (2004), “Sustainable Development in Nunavut: The Role of Geoscience”, Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum, 12(1), 21-30.
Shrimpton, Mark and Keith Storey (1996), “Fly-In Mining and the Future of the Canadian North”, in R. Bray & A. Thompson (eds.) At the End of the Shift: Mines and Single-industry Towns in Northern Ontario, Louiseville: Institute of Northern Ontario Research and Development: 187-208.
Review Board Decision: Elgin Mining Inc.’s 2011 Project Proposal was approved by the Nunavut Impact Review Board to be processed without a review, subject to terms and conditions. file:///Users/gerry/Downloads/111202-11EN047-Screening%20Decision%20Report-OT6E.pdf
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 3 of 3 LUPIN GOLD MINE SUMMARY
Lupin Gold Mine
Description of the mine Named after a flower that blooms near the mine in the summertime, the Lupin Gold Mine operated in the Kitikmeot region of Nunavut from 1982 until 2003, with an attempted encore in 2013. Construction of the mine began in 1980 and took 20 months and over 1,100 transport flights to complete. Throughout its operation, nearly 400 employees were regularly shuttled to and from the mine on a Boeing 727 with departures from Edmonton and Yellowknife three times a week. Employees worked 12-hour shifts for 14 days and then given two weeks off. Food was also sent by air, while mining supplies arrived in the winter via the 370-mile long ice road from Yellowknife. Employees at the mine stayed in a residential complex and had access to a recreation centre and other amenities such as satellite TV, a hockey rink, and a summer baseball field. Inuit employment at the mine fluctuated, with 10% reported in 1986 and just 24
Inuit from the Kitikmeot region employed when the mine closed in 2003. A suspension of operations in 1998, due to a decline in world gold prices, led to the layoff of roughly 50 Kitikmeot workers. However, when production resumed in 2000, 20% of the 350 employees were hired from northern communities. Concerns surrounding the impact of the mine and tailings on Bathurst Inlet caribou population were raised on multiple occasion. A 1993 study of caribou behavior at the mine highlighted the use of the roadway, tailings muds, and airstrip by the animals. Researchers with the West Kitikmeot Slave Study worked in tandem with Inuit and Dogrib hunters to construct a fence, inspired by traditional knowledge and designed to guide the caribou away from the tailings.
Since its opening in 1982, the Lupin Gold Mine has changed hands over half a dozen times. Originally owned by Echo Bay Mines Ltd., the mine was sold to Kinross Gold Corporation in 2003 and closed later that year. In 2005, Kinross Gold parted with the mine and it went through a series of short-term owners before landing with Bonito Capital Corporation. In 2011, the mine was sold to Elgin Mining Inc., under whom a failed production attempt was made before the company’s subsequent acquisition by
Figure 1 Lupin Mine Headframe in 1997 in the Northwest Territories (now Nunavut) Picture courtesy of LCGS Russ - https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Lupin_1997.jpg
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 1 of 5 LUPIN GOLD MINE SUMMARY
Mandalay Resources in 2014. Current Lupin owners, WPC Resources, purchased the mine for $3 million in January of 2015 with hopes of turning the site into a 1,000-tonne-per-day operation, generating 100,000 ounces of gold a year by 2017.
General Information Location: South of Bathurst Inlet in the Contwoyto Lake area of the Kitikmeot Region, Nunavut Type of mine and ore: underground gold mine Owner(s): Currently owned by WPC Resources/Lupin Gold Corp.; previous owners were Mandalay Resources, Elgin Mining Inc., MMG Resources Inc., Oz Minerals, Wolfden, Kinross Gold Corporation and Echo Bay Mines Ltd. Time of operation: 1982 to 2003 Reclamation complete: Currently in care and maintenance status with potential for production in 2017 under the ownership of WPC Resources.
Average number of employees: Employment figures at the mine fluctuated throughout the years but were often between 400 and 450. This number declined to 235 full-time, fly-in/fly-out and 70 contract employees at the time of closure in 2003. Size of mine site: 68 square kilometres Estimated size of ore body: N/A Average production value: N/A Local employment figures: 24 employees from the Kitikmeot region at the time of closure Percentage of Indigenous employees: 10% in 1986, 40 Nunavut & NWT residents at the time of closure in 2003 (no specification as to Indigenous status).
Mining activities conducted: year-round Nearby communities: The closest community to the mine site is Kugluktuk, over 200 kilometres northwest Access to mine: winter road and airstrip Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): N/A; began production before the Nunavut Land Claim Agreement.
Impacts of Lupin Mine Positive Negative A recreation centre built at the mine offered Concerns over caribou straying too close to employees a place to socialize and stay active the Lupin Mine were raised in 1997. Fears during off time. The centre included a over the potential consumption of poisonous racquet ball court, sauna, weight room and vegetation and water contaminated by library. tailings, and the risk caribou drowning in the Alcohol was banned at the mine site at the mud flats of the tailings ponds were voiced, request of employees. as well as the risks of long-term heavy metal Low employee turnover was believed to be in accumulation in caribou meat. Further, dead part due to satisfaction with the commuting caribou around the mine site were reported system (employees were provided a shuttle by at least one worker (Nunatsiaq News, service back to Yellowknife and Edmonton on 2006). board a Boeing 727 during their days off). Multiple suspensions in operations and The mine site offered all the amenities of a ownership changes have led to inconsistent town for its fly-in/fly-out employees employment for northerners.
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 2 of 5 LUPIN GOLD MINE SUMMARY
Solutions to caribou activity at the mine were created through cooperation and the use of traditional knowledge and deemed a success. A plan to utilize the Lupin site as a mine training school was highly praised despite never put into action.
Relevant Information Links
Kugluktuk, NU: Nunavut Tourism, “Kugluktuk”: http://nunavuttourism.com/regions-communities/kugluktuk Kitikmeot Region of Nunavut, “Kugluktuk”: http://kitikmeot.edu.nu.ca/pdf/kugluktuk.pdf
Inuit Organizations: Kitikmeot Inuit Association (KIA): https://kitia.ca
Nunavut Boards: Nunavut Impact Review Board: http://www.nirb.ca Nunavut Water Board: http://www.nwb-oen.ca Nunavut Surface Rights Tribunal: https://nsrt-nunavut.com Nunavut Wildlife Management Board: http://www.nwmb.com/en/ Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI): http://www.tunngavik.com/ Mine Site Reclamation Policy for Nunavut: http://www.aadnc- aandc.gc.ca/eng/1100100036042/1100100036044
Environmental Impact Statement: Initial environmental evaluation for the Lupin Gold Project, Contwoyto Lake, N.W.T. (1980) Prepared for Echo Bay Mines Ltd.; prepared by Beak Consultants Limited, Mary Collins Consultants Limited.
News: The Northern Miner (2015) “WPC aims to bring Lupin back online” Stockhouse (2015) “WPC Resources to Acquire 100% Lupin Gold Mine and the Ulu Gold Project” Proactive Investors (2015) “Mandalay Resources strikes deal to sell Lupin gold mine” Northern News Services (2014) “Lupin mine to change hands” Newswire (2014) “Mandalay Resources Completes Acquisition of Elgin Mining” Nunatsiaq News (2013) “Owner puts Nunavut’s Lupin Mine project back into limbo” Radio Canada International, Eye on the Arctic (2013) “Company shutters camp at Nunavut mine” CBC News (2013) “Elgin Mining shuts camp at Lupin gold mine” CBC News (2013) “Company aims to reopen Nunavut's Lupin gold mine” Nunatsiaq News (2011) “New firm plans revival of Kitikmeot’s Lupin gold mine” Nunatsiaq News (2006) “Bathurst caribou decimated by wolves, bears, mines, climate” Nunatsiaq News (2005) “GN eyes Lupin mine training scheme” Nunatsiaq News (2005) “Trades school at Lupin Mine” Nunatsiaq News (2003) “24 Kitikmeot jobs lost in Lupin shutdown” Nunatsiaq News (2003) “An economic crossroads: What will happen to Lupin's infrastructure?” Nunatsiaq News (2003) “New owner lays off 75 at Lupin”
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 3 of 5 LUPIN GOLD MINE SUMMARY
Bangor Daily News (2001) “Ice highway heads into Arctic frontier” CBC News (2000) “Lupin mine set to start production” Nunatsiaq News (1998) “Kitikmeot in search of jobs for laid-off Lupin workers” Nunatsiaq News (1997) “Using tradition to keep caribou safe” Researchers with the West Kitikmeot/Slave Study have been working with Inuit and Dogrib hunters to find ways of protecting caribou from mine tailings. Schenectady Gazette (1996) “Truckers Travel Roads Across Frozen Lakes” Reading Eagle (1986) “Whisper of riches at Lupin gold mine” The Telegraph (1986) “An improbably mining operation that works” The Hour (1986) “Miners trade isolation for fortunes at Canada’s northernmost gold lode” The Lewiston Journal (1986) “Arctic rumbles yielding riches” Beaver County Times (1986) “Miners lode up on underground arctic gold find” The Argus Press (1986) “Miners Searching for Riches” Reading Eagle (1986) “Gold Mine Booms Near Arctic Circle” The Evening Independent (1980) “Gold Mine Has More Than 1-Million Ounces”
Academic Articles: Geusebroek, P.A. & Duke, N.A. (2004). An Update on the Geology of the Lupin Gold Mine, Nunavut, Canada. Exploration and Mining Geology, 13(1-4): 1-13.
Green, S. (2005). Noble gases of the Canadian Shield from the Lupin and Con Mines, Canada, as indicators of deep groundwater flow dynamics and residence time. Master’s Thesis: University of Ottawa. Onstott, T.C., McGown, D.J., Bakermans, C., Ruskeeniemi, T. & Ahonen, L. (2009). Microbial Communities in Subpermafrost Saline Fracture Water at the Lupin Au Mine, Nunavut, Canada. Microbial Ecology, 58(4): 786-807.
Stotler, R.L., Frape, S.K., Ruskeeniemi, T., Ahonen, L., Onstott, T.C. & Hobbs, M.Y. (2009). Hydrogeochemistry of groundwaters in and below the base of thick permafrost at Lupin, Nunavut, Canada. Journal of Hydrology, 373(1): 80-95.
Published Books & Studies: Gunn, A., Svoboda, M. & Dragon, J. (1998). Effect of Gravel Road- And Tailing Pond Dust On Tundra Plant Communities Near Lupin Mine, NWT. Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Government of the Northwest Territories: Yellowknife, Canada. Submitted to West Kitikmeot Slave Study Society.
Mueller, F.P. & Gunn, A. (1993). Caribou Behaviour in the Vicinity of Lupin Gold Mine Northwest Territories. Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Government of the Northwest Territories: Yellowknife, Canada.
Review Board Decision: N/A
Closure & Reclamation Documents: Lupin Mines Incorporated/Elgin Mining Inc. (2011) Lupin Project Exploration Nunavut, Canada. Abandonment and Restoration Plan
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 4 of 5 LUPIN GOLD MINE SUMMARY
Technical Review Abandonment and Restoration Plan Lupin Mine, Contwoyto Lake, Nunavut (2001). Prepared By: EBA Engineering Consultants Ltd. Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. Submitted to: Echo Bay Mines Ltd Edmonton, Alberta
MMG Canada. March 2010. Lupin Mine Interim Abandonment and Restoration Plan. 61 pages ftp://ftp.nirb.ca/01-SCREENINGS/COMPLETED%20SCREENINGS/2011/11EN047-Elgin%20Mining%20Inc- Lupin%20Exploration/01-APPLICATION/111031-11EN047- MMG%20Interim%20Abandonment%20and%20Restoration%20Plan%202010-IA1E.pdf Abstract: This document has been prepared to satisfy the request of the Nunavut Water Board in its letter of assignment to Wolfden Resources Inc., now MMG Canada Operations Inc (MMG) for the submission of a revised Abandonment and Restoration Plan. This document is derived from the 2004 Lupin Abandonment and Restoration Plan, submitted to the Nunavut Water Board in February 2005. At present, MMG Abandonment, Restoration and Closure plan will remain consistent with the previously submitted 2004 Lupin Abandonment and Restoration Plan. In April 2005 Kinross requested the Water Board and Indian and Northern Affairs (INAC) to consider decision on the remediation activities on the TCA portion. MMG does not recognise an advantage to treat the mine site and Tailings Containment Area (TCA) as separate entities for the remediation permitting process in order to expedite site and TCA as separate entities as an expedited decision on the reclamation activities is not needed. As such, the information on the TCA and the mine site reclamation activities is presented in this document. Currently the Lupin Mine site is under care and maintenance, while MMG continues to investigate the feasibility of re-opening the mine and milling operation.
Training programs: None
Impact Benefit Agreement: None
Reports from Subprojects and Theme Coordinator work: None
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 5 of 5 MARY RIVER MINE SUMMARY
MARY RIVER Mine
Description of the mine Mary River mine is located on Baffin Island. The iron ore in the region is part of the ‘Committee Belt’, which extends from Baker Laker to over 2000 km away in Greenland. The first ore shipment to the European markets was in July 2015. The ore quality does not require any processing and can be directly shipped once crushed. This reduces the environmental impact by limiting processing on the site. In an economic sense, it also allows for that cost of processing to be used elsewhere. Mining is conducted using both methods of drilling and blasting. Once the material is mined, it is transported to the crusher. The ore is then transported on a 100km road to the port facilities were it is stockpiled until bulk carrier ships transport it during the summer season.
Photographs/Videos There are a series of photographs of the mine site and facilities on Wikipedia at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_River_(Nunavut)
There is also a photo gallery on the Baffinland webpage of Mary River at http://www.baffinland.com/news-reports/photo-gallery/?lang=en General Information Location: Qukiqtani Region, Northern Baffin Island, Nunavut Type of mine and ore: Iron Ore. 64% grade. Owner: Baffinland Date opened: Quarter 3, 2014 Estimated mine life: 21 years
Average number of employees: Unknown Estimated size of ore body: 350 Mt Estimated production value: 18 Mt per year Local employment figures: Unknown
Mining activities conducted: 2 week rotational schedule. Fly-in, Fly-out. Plan to be able to ship ore ten months of the year. Currently mined ore is stored at the port during the times when the ice is frozen. Nearby communities: Pond Inlet (160 km, 99.5 miles) Access to mine: Airstrip at Mary River Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): Signed September 6, 2013. Applies to the Inuit communities of Arctic Bay, Clyde River, Hall Beach, Igloolik, and Pond Inlet. Percentage of Indigenous employees: Unknown
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MARY RIVER MINE SUMMARY
Impacts of Mine Positive Negative The site has on-site Elder who are there An employee (from Arctic Bay) died at to counsel Inuit employees. the mine site in a workplace accident in There are country foods available to Inuit September of 2015. employees on site. The disruption of marine life due to noise Company will hire Inuit employees as from shipping. much as possible. Emissions from excavating equipment Inuit employees will be the last to be laid and dust from blasting can cause air off if there is a closure or downsizing of pollution. the workforce. Baffinland wanted to ship ore ten months They will integrate training programs of year through Baffin Island. This came with the employment opportunities. under criticism due to the potential Hiring of students in the spring and disturbance of wildlife. summer to assist on projects. The expansion of the project would also lead to additional traffic on the road that the community uses. There was a 10% wage cut in 2015 due to the low prices of Iron Ore. The Qikiqtani Inuit Association is not happy with Baffinland’s progress on carrying out the agreements in the IBA. Potential for acid drainage in the waste rock dump location at the mine site. If rock that contains sulphide is exposed to water or oxygen it will result in acid drainage at the site.
Relevant Links CBC News (2015). Pond Inlet council sides with Baffinland, premier in regulatory dispute. Pond Inlet’s hamlet council supported Baffinland’s proposal to ship ore ten months of the year.
CBC News (2015). Baffinland Iron Mines granted land use plan exemption by federal minister. Discusses the issue that the Premier backed Baffinland’s proposal to ship ten months of the year.
CBC News (2015). Baffinland’s Mary River mine ships first load of iron ore. The first shipment of iron ore to Germany in August 2015.
CBC News (2015). Death at Baffinland’s Mary River mine the result of workplace injury, say RCMP. An employee from Arctic Bay died on site due to a workplace incident.
CBC News (2015). Baffinland lays off 23 people, but hires more Inuit workers.
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MARY RIVER MINE SUMMARY
The company laid off people in managerial, administrative and procurement positions but hired 8 new Inuit workers.
Mining.Com (2012). Verdict on massive Nunavut iron ore imminent. The article discussed waiting on the decision for the largest mining project in northern Canada.
Nunatsiaq Online (2014). Nunavut iron produces proposes big changes for Mary River. The article discusses Baffinland’s proposal to ship ore ten months of the year.
Nunatsiaq Online. (2015). Baffinland impose 10-percent wage cut at Nunavut’s Mary River iron mine. The article discusses the decrease in price of iron one and the effect it has had on employee wages.
Nunatsiaq Online (2015). Nunavut Inuit plan to renegotiate benefits, impacts, with Baffinland. The renegotiation of the IBA due to the increase of risk to Inuit through the expansion of the project and shipping for ten months of the year.
Nunatsiaq Online. (2016). QIA unhappy with Mary River Inuit impact-benefit deal’s implementation. There have been issues with Baffinland not implementing the agreements made within the IBA.
The Arctic Journal (2015). Mary River facing hurdles on both sides of Baffin Bay. Greenland is concerned about the shipping noised and Nunavut residents are concerned about the plans for ice-breaking in the winter months.
The Globe and Mail (2013). Baffinland Iron Mines sharply scales back Mary River project. The project had to be downsized due to the financial market at the time.
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: Baffinland (2012). Environmental Impact Statement. 1-24.
List of relevant research: Mercer, D. (2011). Smaller, road-transport mine for Baffinland’s Mary River. Mining Journal. Nunavut Planning Commission. (2015). Mary River Project Phase 2.
Review Board Decision: April 29, 2014 - Federal Minister of AANDC approved the recommendation by the Nunavut Impact Review Board. Baffinland (2016). Location and project history.
Training programs: Training programs will be integrated with employment opportunities.
Impact Benefit Agreement: Qikiqtani Inuit Association. (2003). The Mary River Project: Inuit Impact Benefit Agreement Between Qikiqtani Inuit Association and Baffinland Iron Mines Corporation.
Reports from Subprojects and Theme Coordinator work: Relatively new mine. Limited amount of research has been conducted.
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MEADOWBANK GOLD MINE SUMMARY
MEADOWBANK GOLD Mine
Description of the mine The mine is located in the Kivalliq region in Nunavut. The closest community to the mine site is Baker Lake (110 km) and is connected via an all-season road. The mine began operation in 2010. During warm weather periods, supplies and equipment are shipped to Meadowbank by a barge that travels between Baker Lake and Hudson Bay. The first production of gold was in 2010. At Meadowbank, there is surface mining on three different pits. There are a number of shallow lakes in the area. They have constructed ‘water retention dykes’ to allow for mining underneath these lakes. The gold is mined through conventional drilling, blasting, and truck/shovel methods. The waste rock that contains sulphide is buried into the permafrost under a layer of non-sulphide rock. The mine is expected to produce 305,000 oz. in 2016.
Photographs/Videos You Tube Video – AEM Nunavut-Meadowbank: the Mine & Future. AgnicoEagle Videos Published on Apr. 4, 2012. 23 mins 08 sec. A video produced in 2010 highlighting the construction and operation of our Meadowbank mine in Nunavut, Canada. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVxdiwj1jyI
General Information Location: Kivalliq Region, Nunavut, Canada. Type of mine and ore: Open-pit. Gold. Owner: Agnico Eagle Date opened: 2010 Estimated mine life: 2010 to 2018
Average number of employees: 689 Estimated size of ore body: 10.8 Mt Estimated production value: 381,804 oz. Local employment figures: 35 to 40% (approximately 300) Percentage of Indigenous employees: 55%
Mining activities conducted: Year round, Fly-in, Fly-out Nearby communities: Baker Lake (110 km, 68 miles) Hudson Bay (300 km, 186 miles) Access to mine: Airport at mine site. Airport at Baker Lake. 110 km (68 mile) all-weather road that connects Meadowbank and Baker Lake. Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): Inuit IBA with the Kivalliq Inuit Association.
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MEADOWBANK GOLD MINE SUMMARY
Impacts of Mine Positive Negative The Impact Benefit Agreement includes: In 2015, Inuit employees spoke out about scheduling training and education, discrimination they had endured on site employment of Inuit, and from other non-Inuit employees. economic/cultural/social wellness. There has been an 80% turnover in Inuit There is a strategy in place for the labor at the mine. impacts that the closure of the mine will There are not enough skilled workers in have on Inuit. the region, so they have to bring workers Processing plant has a cyanide recycling in from the south. If there was more thickener, so no cyanide escapes into the training available they could have more environment. employees. The region of Kivalliq has All the water that is used at the site is around 8000 Inuit beneficiaries. pumped into a tailings pond and can be Subsistence fishing occurs (several km used in plant again at another time. away) at White Hills Lake. There are no sensitive/rare/endangered According to technical report it states species in the region. that currently Caribou do not migrate Elders at Baker Lake said that the area through mine area. Though Inuit around the mine had not been used for harvesters are concerned about the subsistence fishing. effect the mining could have on Caribou Once the pits have been mined, they will calving in the region. be refilled with the waste rock to limit the hauling of the rocks and limit the visual impacts to the land.
Relevant Links Agnico Eagle (2016). Meadowbank Overview.
Canadian Mining Journal (2010). Agnico Eagle leads Nunavut into modern mining era. Discusses the first pour of Gold from the mine.
Canadian Mining Journal (2010). Perspective: Meadowbank gold mine opens in style. Article discusses the grand opening of Agnico-Eagle’s mine.
CBC News (2015). Inuit workers at Agnico’s Eagle’s Meadowbank discrimination. Article discusses the discrimination that Inuit employees have experience on site (certain employees only speaking French and not English.
Mining.com. (2015). Agnico Eagle may expand Nunavut exploration after striking ‘promising’ gold vein. The mine discovered a vein of gold near the Whale Tale deposit that requires further exploration.
News Wire. (2016). Mining sector woes continue to limit economic growth in the territories in 2016. Discusses the effect of declining metal and mineral prices.
Nunatsiaq Online. (2012). Meadowbank a reality check for Nunavut mining: AEM executive.
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MEADOWBANK GOLD MINE SUMMARY
There have been issues with a high turnover of Inuit employees and a lot of employees missing work.
Nunatsiaq Online. (2015). Nunavut regulators to revisit Meadowbank gold mine project certificate. Nunavut Impact Review board wanted to reassess the mine’s project certificate for the expansion of the project.
Nunatsiaq Online. (2016). Construction on Nunavut mine’s second road to start next month. The addition of road will improve accessibility to the site and for further exploration.
Times Colonist. (2016). Inuit worried: Nunavut drops opposition to mines on calving ground. Inuit hunters are concerned about the Government allowing mining to occur on land and the impact it can have on Caribou calving.
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: Nunavut Impact Review Board. (2004). Environmental Impact Statement Guidelines for the Meadowbank Project.
Nunavut Impact Review Board. (2015). Environmental Impact Statement Addendum for the Meadowbank Project: Vault expansion to include Phaser pit and BB Phaser pit.
List of relevant research: Ruel, M., Proulx, A., Muteb, P.N., & Connell, L. (2012). Technical report on the mineral resources and mineral reserves at Meadowbank Gold Mine, Nunavut, Canada as at December 31, 2011. Consultant report on the mine for Agnico Eagle.
Thomson, J. (2015). The Duty to Consult and Environmental Assessments: A Study of Mining Cases from Across Canada. Master of Environmental Studies. Master’s thesis on various environmental assessments and the Duty to Consult.
Review Board Decision: Could not locate the official review board decision.
Training programs: Ongoing orientation and training for Inuit Employees. Ongoing career path counselling for Inuit employees. Job placement counselling for Inuit employees when the mines closes.
Impact Benefit Agreement: Agnico-Eagle (2011). Meadowbank Mine Inuit Impact and Benefit Agreement between Agnico- Eagle Mines Limited and Kivalliq Inuit Association. Cited in Thomson (2015): Nunavut Impact Review Board. (2006). Meadowbank Gold Mine Project Certificate: Nunavut Land Claims Agreement Article 12.5.12. Retrieved from http://www.nirb.ca.
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 3 of 3
MELIADINE PROJECT SUMMARY
MELIADINE Project Mine
Description of the mine The high-grade Meliadine gold project located near Rankin Inlet, Nunavut Territory is an advanced gold exploration and development project 100% controlled by Agnico Eagles Mines Limited as a result of its 2010 acquisition of Comaplex Minerals Corp. The project has 3.4 million ounces of gold in proven and probable reserves and a large mineral resource. The reserves are in the Triganiaq and Wesmeg deposits, and the resources are in the Tiriganiaq and Wesmeg plus another five nearby deposits within a large land package covering an 80-km-long greenstone belt. In 2015 the Company staked new claims totaling 68,012 hectares on properties to the west-northwest of the Meliadine project, on the continuation of the greenstone belt. A technical report based on 2014 mineral reserves outlined a phased approach to the development of the Meliadine operations, with the mill averaging 3,000 tonnes/day of ore in years one to three, and 5,000 tonnes/day of ore in years four to nine. The plan is that ore will come from underground operations in years one to nine, with open pit operations in two pits occurring in years four to seven. The Nunavut Impact Review Board issued a Project Certificate in February 2015, setting out the terms on which the project can proceed. In July 2015, the company and the Kivalliq Inuit Association (KIA) signed the Inuit Impact Benefit Agreement (IIBA) for the Meliadine project.
Photographs/Videos
General Information Location: In the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut, near Rankin Inlet on the west coast of Hudson Bay. Type of mine and ore: underground and open pit gold mine Owner: Agnico Eagle Mines Limited Date opened: 2020 (estimated) Estimated mine life: 10-13 years (2030-2033)
Average number of employees: Between 700 and 800 during operations, 1,000 during construction phase. Estimated size of ore body: 14.5 million tonnes Estimated production value: 7.32 grams per tonne gold Local employment figures: Anticipated 65%
Mining activities conducted: Will be year-round Nearby communities: Rankin Inlet, NT (25 km, 15 miles) Chesterfield Inlet, NT (81 km, 50 miles) Whale Cove, NT (88 km, 55 miles) Access to mine: 24 km all weather road access road links the camp with Rankin Inlet, Rankin Inlet regional airport, and barge to Ranket Inlet via Hudson Bay.
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MELIADINE PROJECT SUMMARY
Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): Signed between the company and the Kivalliq Inuit Association. For more information: http://www.agnicoeagle.com/en/Exploration/Advanced- Projects/Meliadine/Pages/default.aspx Percentage of Indigenous employees: Will work towards a rate of 50%
Impacts of Mine Positive Negative IBA includes requirements for prioritizing Some Kivalliq residents concerned the project will Inuit/local contractors and employees in create permanent changes to the landscape and order to “promote and support that its road and marine transportation systems sustainable economic development for could bring adverse affects on caribou and marine the greatest number of Inuit” mammals. Many participants in final public hearings Many organizations with responsibilities for held in Rankin Inlet were “optimistic that regulating the project suffer from capacity the project will leave a positive legacy if problems, and may not have the resources to meet developed correctly”. their mandates. Agnico is spending $64 million on the The legacy of the North Rankin Nickel mine, which project this year, representing a brought negative environmental and social impacts significant investment into the region, to the Kivalliq Region, has made the community including the construction of an all- generally wary of this project. weather road. Some residents have noted a lack of trust towards Agnico will be making an annual donation southern mine workers, and that there is a general of $30,000 to the KIA for the purposes of disconnect between the two parties in terms of scholarships, and spend $750,000 in cash how socio-economic and environmental impacts contributions on initiatives to assist in are felt. obtaining 50% Inuit employment for its Tension between community organizations and projects. Agnico-Eagle due to failure to follow protocols outlined in the NLCA.
Relevant Links Van Dusen (2016), “Agnico Eagle Mines delayed Nunavut’s Meliadine gold mine start to 2020”, CBC News
Larouche, Julie et al. (2015), “Updated Technical Report on the Meliadine Gold Project, Nunavut, Canada”, Prepared for Agnico Eagle Mines Limited.
Proulx, Alexandre (2015), “Meliadine: Unearth the Potential at the Meliadine Project”, presentation on behalf of Agnico Eagle Mines Limited.
Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (2015), “Meliadine Gold Project: Water Management Plan”
Mathisen, Herb (2015), “Agnico Eagle’s Big Bet”, Up Here Magazine.
Sarliaq Holdings Ltd. & CMAC-Thyssen Mining Group Inc. (2014), “Underground Training at the Meliadine Gold Project”, Presented to 2014 Kivalliq Trade Show.
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MELIADINE PROJECT SUMMARY
Nunavut Impact Review Board (2014), “Final Hearing Report: Meliadine Gold Project”
Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (2013), “Northern Project Agreement for the Agnic- Eagle Mines Ltd’s Meliadine Gold Mine Project in Nunavut”.
Golder Associates (2013), “SD 9-1 Cultural and heritage Resources Protection Plan – Meliadine Gold Project, Nunavut”, Prepared for Agnico Eagle Mines Limited.
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: http://www.nirb.ca/application?strP=r
List of relevant research: Bertrand, Valerie, Jennifer Cole & Stephane Robert (2015), “Meliadine Gold Project: Investigation of the Buffering Capacity of Waste Rock”, 10th International Conference on Acid Rock Drainage
Cater, T. (2015), “’They Should Acknowledge the Gap’: Exploring Contemporary Mining Encounters in Rankin Inlet, Nunavut”, Northern Public Affairs, 4(1),
Cater, Tara (2013), “When Mining Comes (Back) to Town: Exploring Historical and Contemporary Mining Encounters in the Kivalliq Region, Nunavut”, Masters Thesis, Memorial University.
Cater, T. and Keeling, A. (2013), “That’s where our future came from”: Mining, landscape and memory in Rankin Inlet, Nunavut”, Industrial development and mining impacts, 37(2): 59-82.
Cater, T. and Friesen, P. (2012), “Past, Present and Future Mining Projects in the Kivalliq Region: Early Research Results and Updates”. Thesis Summary, Memorial University.
Knotsch, Cathleen, Ben Bradshaw, Maatalii Okalik, & Kelsey Peterson (2010), “Research and information needs concerning community health impacts and benefits from mining – A 2010 community visit report”
Murphy, B. (2010), "Archaeological Impact Assessment and Mitigation for the Agnico-Eagle Mines Limited Meliadine Gold Project, Rankin Inlet, Nunavut (NU Permit 2010-005A)”. Ms on file, Department of Culture Language, Elders and Youth, Nunavut.
Peterson, Kelsey (2012), “Community Experience of Mining in Baker Lake, Nunavut”, Masters Thesis, Guelph University.
Rixen, Annabel & Silvie Blangy (2015), “Life after Meadowbank: Exploring gold mine closure scnarios with the residents of Baker Lake, Nunavut”, The Extractive Industry and Society.
Sherlock, Ross & David Scott (2004), “Sustainable Development in Nunavut: The Role of Geoscience”, Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum, 12(1), 21-30.
Review Board Decision: Nunavut Impact Review Board issued a Project Certificate in February 2015, setting out the terms on which the project can proceed. http://aemnunavut.ca/wp- content/uploads/2016/01/150226-11MN034-NIRB-Project-Certificate-OT4E.pdf
Training programs: “Before production begins, training programs will be instituted that will allow the local workforce to attain the skill levels required to work at the mine” – this will include work readiness
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MELIADINE PROJECT SUMMARY
and mandatory training programs, career path development plans and training programs (including on the job training and retraining construction workers in new required skills), mentoring, supervisory skills and management training, financial management training, entrepreneurial training. (From Impact Benefit Agreement) Apprenticeships and training programs including underground training have already begun.
Impact Benefit Agreement: http://agnicoeagle.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Mel iadine-IIBA.pdf
Reports from Subprojects and Theme Coordinator work: Augmenting the utility of IBAs for Northern Aboriginal Communities (Project Leader Ben Bradshaw)
Well-Being and the Impacts of Resource Development (Project Leader Brenda Parlee)
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NANISIVIK MINE SUMMARY
Nanisivik Mine
Latitude and Longitude: 73° 2'15.10"N, 84°32'1.75"W Description of the mine Located 450 miles north of the Arctic Circle, the Nanisivik Mine was built on the northern end of Baffin Island above Strathcona Sound, just 30 kilometres northeast of the community of Arctic Bay, Nunavut. Flagged as an area of interest, lead and zinc ore was detected in the Strathcona Sound region as early as 1910. These deposits were subsequently confirmed by a 1954 mapping project undertaken by the Geological Survey of Canada, prompting Texas Gulf Sulfur to stake claims to the region in 1957 before transferring majority ownership of the then Strathcona Sound Project, to Mineral Resources International (MRI) in 1972.
Strong federal interest in northern resource development and a long-term agreement signed in 1973 with Metallgesellscahft and Billiton AV to purchase ore for shipment to Europe bolstered the complexity of MRI’s venture. By 1974, Nanisivik Mines Ltd. was divided amongst five shareholders: 53% ownership remained with MRI, 18% with the Government of Canada, 11.25% with Metallgesellschaft Canada, 11.25% with Billiton and 6.5% with the renamed Texasgulf (later transferred to Canada Development Corporation). Additionally, the terms and conditions of federal participation were laid out in the 1974 Strathcona Agreement, signed by the minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, MRI and a local witness, I. Attagutsiak. The Agreement outlined employment initiatives for northerners such as a 60% Inuit employment quota, training programs, and the inclusion of Inuktitut in written documents, safety manuals and signs. It also specified environmental requirements, such as baseline, water quality and pollution studies; the use of Canadian ships, services and materials whenever possible; and CAD$16.7 million in federal grants and loans for the construction of transportation infrastructure (airport, a cargo wharf, and roadways) and the development of a townsite. The Nanisivik Mine was largely seen as both a commitment to the well-being of Northerners and as a pilot project to assess the feasibility of natural resource extraction in the High Arctic, despite a lack of consultation with the nearby community of Arctic Bay.
In 1976, nearly twenty years after the initial mapping of the region, the Nanisivik Mine and town site was established. Built to provide employees and their families with all the necessary amenities. The community included a school, church, post office, recreation centre, dining hall, airstrip and dock. Most employees worked 6 days a week for a period of 91 days before receiving 21 days off, with the majority living at Nanisivik town site and a smaller number driving from Arctic Bay each day. Despite earlier commitments to 60% northern employment, Nanisivik averaged a 25% Inuit employment rate, in large part due to a lack of local interest in employment at the mine. Those Inuit employed at Nanisivik trained for mine and mill jobs, with some going on to pursue trades training and journeyman certification. The discovery of additional ore deposits extended the life of the mine by close to a decade. However, in 2002, after 26 years of successful operation, it was announced that the Nanisivik Mine would close four years earlier than anticipated. Two themes emerged throughout the reclamation process and in the discourse between the owner, CanZinco and the Government of Nunavut: conflicting valuation processes and estimates for the mine infrastructure and town site; and the politicization of science used to determine the depth of tailings coverings. Reclamation at Nanisivik
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NANISIVIK MINE SUMMARY
was complete in 2008 and monitoring continues today as the Government of Canada prepares the site for the construction of a federal naval facility.
Photographs/Videos
Nanisivik, Nunavut from the air. Photo provided by Loimere. March 15, 2006. Source: Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nanisivik
You Tube Videos from Marty Norman. Nanisivik: Part 1 and Part 2 . Footage from the mid-late 70’s. Published on You Tube Mar. 24, 2013. This is video footage taken form Betamax to DVD.
General Information Location: Nanisivik, Qikiqtaaluk Region, Nunavut Type of mine and ore: zinc, silver and lead Owner(s): Breakwater Resources (parent company of CanZinco) – since 1996; previously Nanisivik Mines Ltd., Mineral Resources International (MRI), and Texas Gulf Sulfur Time of operation: From 1976 to 2002 Remediation: Mine closure plan finalized in 2002-2003 and approved in 2004; Reclamation construction 2004 through 2008; Performance monitoring originally 2009 through 2014, and amended to 2019. Final Closure and Reclamation Plan for Nanisivik Mine A study investigating contamination at the Nanisivik mine site currently is being undertaken by the University of Saskatchewan and Arctic Bay Hunters and Trappers Organization: Toxic Heavy Metal Bioaccumulation and Genotoxicity in Small Mammal Population Inhabiting Post-Mining Areas of Nunavut: Case study of Nanisivik Mine
Estimated size of ore body: 3.25 million tonnes of silver-lead-zinc-cadmium ore Average production value: N/A
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NANISIVIK MINE SUMMARY
Local employment figures: Approximately 30 workers from Arctic Bay at time of closure; averaged 20-
Average number of employees: Approximately 200 30% local Inuit employment; the mine contributed over $1 million per year to Arctic Bay’s total personal income (reported in 2002). Percentage of Indigenous employees: 20-30% Inuit employees, increasing in the summer with seasonal construction, and falling as low as 9% in the final years before closure.
Mining activities conducted: mining conducted year-round, with lead and zinc concentrate stored onsite and shipped to Europe in the summer shipping season. Nearby communities: Arctic Bay, Qikiqtaaluk Region, Nunavut Access to mine: airplane (Nanisivik Airport), road (Nanisivik Highway from Arctic Bay), and port (now used for Canadian Coast Guard training)
Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): No IBAs existed at this time, however, a less comprehensive agreement was signed. The Strathcona Agreement, signed in 1974 by Mineral Resources International (MRI) and the Government of Canada, included employment initiatives at the mine for the Inuit residents of Arctic Bay, NU and a goal of 60% Inuit employment which was never met.
Impacts of Mine
Positive Negative The construction, opening and operation of Arctic Bay residents had concerns the mine provided Baffin region Inuit with surrounding the construction of an alternate employment opportunities and integration town site. Among them loss of leadership if into the wage economy their best people relocated to the mine town, Housing of Inuit workers on a nearby beach and potential loss of economic spinoff in tents was flagged as inadequate and benefits if accommodation and goods for changes to accommodation were made to other Inuit workers were not needed in Arctic avoid mistakes made in previous Bay. Despite these concerns, the mining town developments; Inuit employees would later site was built and Arctic Bay citizens did not be brought to live at the town site. feel adequately consulted. Inuit workers were permitted to stay on for In 1972, a social impact study to better prolonged periods of time in order to take understand the positive and negative effects extended holidays during the spring and of the mine was suggested, but ultimately summer hunting seasons. rejected by the GNWT Executive Committee. Many Inuit expressed that mine employment Arctic Bay residents were not consulted on had no negative impact on hunting activities the proposal. and that in some cases harvesting had Poor communication on all sides led Inuit increased because of an improved ability to interests to be dually-represented by Inuit purchase hunting equipment. Tapirisat of Canada (ITC) as well as the Operating companies purchased goods and community of Arctic Bay and led to mistrust services from local communities (ie. taxi, between the two groups. plumbing, garbage collection). Tailings and waste disposal were undertaken Mine operation lead to the provision of without any baseline data on hand to services and amenities that benefit the
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NANISIVIK MINE SUMMARY
surrounding communities (ie. road properly assess and understand the risks and maintenance, delivery of goods via the effects of disposal in Strathcona Sound. Nanisivik airport) Employee training programs employed The development of industry and resource southern classroom-style learning extraction is now largely seen to have environments and often lacked Inuktitut spurred the acknowledgement, by Inuit, of materials, lowering success rates for the the dishonest, disingenuous and unfair hands-on, Inuktitut-speaking Inuit. treatment of northerners by whites—in this The construction of the mining town site case, of the Baffin Region Inuit, by the likely reduced economic spinoff benefits to government and the owners of the Nanisivik Arctic Bay and other Baffin communities. development—and inspired a growing sense Many Inuit employees without technical skills of activism. or training found themselves in entry level The creation of the town site allowed for a positions (ie. housekeeping, laundry, food more stable workforce, a higher degree of services) with job skills that were non- Inuit participation than seen in previous transferable. northern operations, female employment, During construction Inuit labourers were paid lower operating cost, and the success of a less than white mine workers. family-based mining community. The onset of wage-economy employment Better education opportunities at the inevitably eroded the Nanisivik school than in other Baffin region Closure of the mine inevitably led to loss of schools. jobs and negative economic effects on the With mine employment came an increase in communities with links to the mine. disposable income and standard of living. Social impacts at the Nanisivik mine, as in Although, it should be noted that the closure other mining operations, were noted to be of the mine had the opposite effect and gendered, with more women experiencing many found this difficult to adjust to. domestic violence, sexual harassment and The presence of the recreation centre poverty. (swimming pool, skating rink) gave families Changes to marital structure, in part due to the ability to participate in activities not poor ability of women to contact their previously possible in Arctic Bay and husbands, and the effects of father surrounding communities. absenteeism on children were noted by Inuit Jet service in and out of the region gave families. locals increased access to cheaper airfare and Substance abuse, alcohol in particular, airfreight, cheaper flights to southern cities, became a problem and the term ‘Nanisivik and fresh food and produce alcohol’ was coined. Shipping in the spring required the premature breaking up of ice by ships, impacting seal breeding grounds. Again, in the summer, shipping activities would affect narwhal movement and subsequently the hunt. In 1978, spring ice breaking led to the loss of skidoos and hunting materials with no compensation to locals and a long term inability to hunt due to these losses was noted.
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NANISIVIK MINE SUMMARY
No material legacies were left intact in the town site of Nanisivik after the closure of the mine, despite many residents expressing a desire to reclaim some of the infrastructure and items for use. Many felt that lack of consultation pre- construction and the economic impacts post- closure warranted an apology or compensation. Community members felt a lack of consultation throughout the scientific activities undertaken during closure.
Relevant Links Baffin Region Inuit Organizations: Qikiqtani Inuit Association (QIA): http://www.qia.ca/en Qikiqtaaluk Corporation (QC): http://www.qcorp.ca
Inuit Organizations Inuit Tapirisat of Canada (ITC), now Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK): https://www.itk.ca
Arctic Bay/Nanisivik: Arctic Bay, Nunavut (Statistics and Information): http://www.gov.nu.ca/sites/default/files/arcitc_bay_profile_new_layout.pdf “Arctic Bay News” on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/133958696673933/ “Nanisivik” on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2221005607/
Nunavut Boards: Nunavut Impact Review Board: http://www.nirb.ca Nunavut Water Board: http://www.nwb-oen.ca Nunavut Surface Rights Tribunal: https://nsrt-nunavut.com Nunavut Wildlife Management Board: http://www.nwmb.com/en/ Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI): http://www.tunngavik.com/ Mine Site Reclamation Policy for Nunavut: http://www.aadnc- aandc.gc.ca/eng/1100100036042/1100100036044
The Strathcona Agreement An Access to Information and Privacy request has been submitted in order to retrieve this document. A copy of the agreement can be found within Gibson (1978. The Strathcona Sound Mining Project: A Case Study of Decision Making.
News Articles: Nunatsiaq News (2015) “Abandoned Nunavut mine site to be studied for contaminants” CBC (2015) “Nanisivik, Nunavut, naval facility breaks ground” Up Here (2011) “Growing up in a ghost town” Nunatsiaq News (2007) “The Name Game Nanisivik”
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Nunatsiaq News (2005) “Nanisivik eulogy begins January 31” Nunatsiaq News (2005) “Bulldozers roar in Nanisivik as residents, ministers, discuss mine's fate” The Northern Miner (2005) “Nanisivik haunts Breakwater” Nunatsiaq News (2003) “Arctic Bay Residents Want Details on Nanisivik Health Risks” Nunatsiaq News (2003) “NWB meets on Nanisivik Risks” Nunatsiaq News (2003) “NWB to delay Nanisivik hearing until March 2004” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “Arctic Bay Residents Want to Save Nanisivik Site” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “Life After Nanisivik” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “Nanisivik clean-up plan recommends demolishing site” Northern News Services (2002) “Progress at Nanisivik” The Northern Miner (2002) “High Arctic zinc mine closures signal end of era” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “Worker Killed in Nanisivik Mine Accident” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “The Party That Started It All” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “CanZinco heading for showdown with NWB?” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “Environment Canada, DFO want more details about mine clean-up plan” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “Nanisivik owner wants more time to post $17.6 million bond” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “CanZinco gets 30 more days to post $17.6 million security” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “Nanisivik’s owner loses $111.1 million in 2001” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “GN, NTI and DIAND concerned about mine clean-up plan” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “Feds won’t pay for mine clean-up, new policy says” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “Lead levels in Nanisivik safe: health department” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “Housing Corp. to fund Nanisivik study” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “Arctic Bay impatient with slow Nanisivik transfer talks” Nunatsiaq News (2002) “Elders plead to save infrastructure” Nunatsiaq News (2001) “Nanisivik: Who will pay for the clean up?” Nunatsiaq News (2001) “Nanisivik mine to die 4 years early” Nunatsiaq News (2001) “Nanisivik: The old mine that won’t say die” Nunatsiaq News (2000) “Environment Canada fingers polluters” Northern News Services (2001) “Nanisivik Mine Down” The Northern Miner (2001) “Nanisivik faces early closure” The Northern Miner (2001) “Breakwater dons survival gear as zinc sinks” Nunatsiaq News (2001) “Mining in Nunavut: lots of sizzle, no steak” Northern News Services (1999) “Union eyes Nanisivik” Northern News Services (1999) “GNWT fined in Nanisivik fatality” Northern News Services (1999) “Profit for Breakwater” Northern News Services (1998) “Close to home” Nunatsiaq News (1997) “QIA Demands Nanisivik Mine Probe” Nunatsiaq News (1997) “Mine Probe at Nanisivik to study environmental practices” The Northern Miner (1989) “Nanisivik Mine at the Top of the World” Ottawa Citizen (1985) “Producers Oppose New Mine Subsidies” Ottawa Citizen (1974) “Arctic mine may spur debate over government involvement”
Academic Articles & Presentations: Arne, D., & Kissin, S.A. (1989). The significance of “diagenetic crystallization rhythmites” at the Nanisivik Pb-Zn-Ag deposit, Baffin Island, Canada. Mineralium Deposita, 24(3): 230-232.
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NANISIVIK MINE SUMMARY
Arne, D., Curtis, L.W., & Kissin, S.A. (1991). Internal zonation in a carbonate-hosted Zn-Pb-Ag deposit, Nanisivik, Baffin Island, Canada. Economic Geology, 86(4): 699 Bétournay, M. C., Boyle, R., & Udd, J. E. (2003). Long-Term Stability Considerations and Engineering Applications for a Decommissioning Mine in Permafrost. In Proceedings 7th Mining in the Arctic Conference, Iqaluit, Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum: 369-380. Bowes-Lyon, L.M. (2006). Comparison of the socio-economic impacts of the Nanisivik and Polaris Mines: A sustainable development study case. Unpublished Masters Thesis, University of Alberta. Burns, N.R. & Doggett, M. (2004). Nanisivik Mine—A Profitability Comparison of Actual Mining to the Expectations of the Feasibility Study. Exploration and Mining Geology, 13(1-4): 119-128 Cassie, J. W., & LeDrew, K. G. (2001, May). Tailings deposition and dike construction at Nanisivik Mine, Nunavut. In International Symposium on Mining in the Arctic, Nuuk, Greenland. Clayton, R. H., & Thorpe, L. (1982). Geology of the Nanisivik zinc–lead deposit. Precambrian sulphide deposits. Edited by R.W. Hutchinson, C.D. Spence, and J.M. Franklin. Geological Association of Canada, Special Paper, 25, 739-758. Cozzetto, D. (1990). Governance and Aboriginal Claims in Northern Canada. American Indian culture and research journal, 14(2): 39-53. Dahl, J. (1984). Mining and Local Communities: A short comparison of mining in the Eastern Canadian Arctic (Nanisivik/Arctic Bay) and Greenland (Marmorilik/Uummannaq). Études/Inuit/Studies, 8(2): 145-157. Eberling, B. (2001). Environmental controls of the seasonal variation in oxygen uptake in sulfidic tailings deposited in a permafrost‐affected area. Water Resources Research, 37(1): 99-107. Eberling, B., Balić-Žunić, T., & Edsberg, A. (2003). Spatial variations and controls of acid mine drainage generation. Environmental Geology, 43(7): 806-813. Fish, R. (1979). Place Where People Find Things: Nanisivik Mines in Canada’s High Arctic. Canadian Mining Journal, 100(9): 34. Gait, R.I. and Dumka, D. (1986). Morphology of pyrite from the Nanisivik mine, Baffin Island, Northwest Territories. Canadian Minerologist, 24(4): 685-688. Gait, R. I., Robinson, G. W., Bailey, K., & Dumka, D. (1990). Minerals of the Nanisivik mine, Baffin Island, Northwest Territories. Mineralogical Record, 21(6): 515-534. Ghanzban, F., Schwarcz, H.P. & Ford, D.C. (1991). Stable isotopic composition of the hydrothermal fluids responsible for the Nanisivik Zn Pb deposits, Northwest Territories, Canada. Applied Geochemistry, 6(3): 257-266. Ghanzban, F., Schwarcz, H.P. & Ford, D.C. (1991). Correlated strontium, carbon and oxygen isotopes in carbonate gangue at the Nanisivik zinc-lead deposits, northern Baffin Island, N.W.T. Canada. Chemical Geology, 87(2): 137-146. Goodarzi, F., Gentzis, T., Jackson, G., & MacQueen, R.W. (1993). Optical characteristics of heat- affected bitumens from the Nanisivik Mine, N.W. Baffin Island, Arctic Canada. Energy Sources, 15(2): 359-376 Hobart, C.W. (1982). Inuit employment at the Nanisivik mine on Baffin Island. Inuit Studies, 6(1): 53- 74. Myers, H. (1982). Traditional and modern sources of income in the Lancaster Sound region. Polar Record, 21(130): 11-22. Lim, T.W. (2013). Inuit Encounters with Colonial Capital: Nanisivik – Canada’s First High Arctic Mine. (Master’s thesis, University of British Columbia). Retrieved from UBC Thesis and Dissertations. DOI: 10.14288/1.0073541
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Midgley, S. J. (2012). Co-producing ores, science and states: high arctic mining at Svalbard (Norway) and Nanisivik (Canada). (Doctoral dissertation, Memorial University of Newfoundland). Retrieved from Memorial University Research Repository. Penny, W. (1998, October). The last company town: with a population of just a few hundred, Nanisivik is unlike any of its northern neighbors. Financial Post Magazine: 52-59. School of Social Work, UBC & Paktuutit, Inuit Women of Canada (2014). The Impact of Resource Extraction on Inuit Women and Families in Qamani’tuaq, Nunavut Territory. A qualitative assessment. Sherlock, R.L., Lee, J.K.W., Cousens, B.L. (2004). Geologic and Geochronologic Constraints on the Timing of Mineralization at the Nanisivik Zinc-Lead Mississippi Valley-Type Deposit, Northern Baffin Island, Nunavut, Canada. Economic Geology, 99(2): 279-293. Symons, D. T. A., Symons, T. B., & Sangster, D. F. (2000). Paleomagnetism of the Society Cliffs dolostone and the age of the Nanisivik zinc deposits, Baffin Island, Canada. Mineralium Deposita, 35(7): 672-682. Tester, F.J., Lambert, D.E.J., & Lim, T. W. (2013). Wistful thinking: Making Inuit Labour and the Naisivik mine near Ikpiarjuk (Arctic Bay), northern Baffin Island. Inuit Studies, 37(2): 15-36. Turner, E. C. (2011). Structural and stratigraphic controls on carbonate-hosted base metal mineralization in the Mesoproterozoic Borden Basin (Nanisivik District), Nunavut. Economic Geology, 106(7): 1197-1223. Udd, J. E., Judge, K. J., & Auer, L. J. (2003). A Case History on the Development of a Geotechnical Monitoring System at the Nanisivik Mine, Baffin Island. In Proceedings, 7th International Symposium on Mining in the Arctic, Iqaluit, Nunavut, 3: 30-04. Wellmer, F.W. & Giroux, G.H. (1980). Statistical and geostatistical methods applied to the exploration work of the Nanisivik Zn-Pb mine, Baffin Island, Canada. Journal of the International Association for Mathematical Geology, 12(4): 321-327. Wenzel, G.W. (1983). The Integration of "Remote" Site Labor into the Inuit Economy of Clyde River, N.W.T. Arctic Anthropology, 20(2): 79-92
Published Books & Studies: Baffin Region Inuit Association. (1979). Socio-economic impacts of the Nanisivik mine on North Baffin region communities. Ottawa, Canada: Indian and Northern Affairs Canada. Bowes-Lyon, L.M., Richards, J.P., & McGee, T.M. (2009). Comparison of the socio-economic impacts of the Nanisivik and Polaris Mines. In J. Richards (Ed.) Mining, Society and a Sustainable World (pp.371-396). New York, USA: Springer. Brubacher, D. (2002). The Nanisivik Legacy in Arctic Bay: A Socio-Economic Impact Study. Ottawa: Brubacher & Associates. Budkewitsch, P., Staenz, K., Secker, J., Rencz, A. & Sangster, D. (2000). Spectral Signatures of Carbonate Rocks Surrounding the Nanisivik MVT Zn-Pb Mine and Implications of Hyperspectral Imaging for Exploration in Arctic Environments. Ottawa, Canada: Natural Resources Canada. Gibson, R.B. (1978). The Strathcona Sound Mining Project: A Case Study of Decision Making. Ottawa, Canada: Printing and Publishing Supply and Services Canada. Midgley, S. (2015). Contesting Closure: Science, Politics, and Community Responses to Closing the Nanisivik Mine, Nunavut. In A. Keeling and J. Sandlos (Eds.) Mining and Communities in Northern Canada (pp.293-314). Calgary, Canada: University of Calgary Press. McPherson, R. (2003). The Nanisivik Mine. In New Owners: Minerals and Inuit Land Claims in Their Own Lands (pp.89-119) Calgary, Canada: University of Calgary Press.
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Mining Industry Human Resources Council (MiHR). (2012). Lessons Learned: A Report on HR Components of Aboriginal Community and Mining Company Partnership Agreements. Nassichuk, W.W. (2003). Forty Years of Northern Non-Renewable Resource Development. In W.C. Wonders (Ed.) Canada’s Changing North (2nd ed.), (pp. 217-241). Montreal & Kingston, Canada: McGill-Queen’s University Press. Patterson, K. M. & Powis, K. (2002). Stuctural and stratigraphic controls on Zn-Pb-Ag mineralization at the Nanisivik Mississippi Valley-type deposit, northern Baffin Island, Nunavut. Ottawa, Canada: Geological Survey of Canada, Current Research, C22. Patterson, K. M., Powis, K., Sutherland, R. A. & Turner, E. C. (2003). Stratigraphy and structural geology, Nanisivik area, northern Baffin Island, Nunavut. Ottawa, Canada: Geological Survey of Canada. Watts, Griffis and McOuat Ltd. (1973, September). Feasibility Study of the Strathcona Sound Project for Mineral Resources International Limited. Toronto, Canada. Wojciechowski, M.J. (1982). The Nanisivik Mine. Kingston, Canada: Queen’s University Yates, A.B. (1975). Nanisivik: the place where things are found. Ottawa, Canada: Indian and Northern Affairs Canada.
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: No environmental or social impact assessment undertaken before production began. An absence of environmental baseline data is frequently referenced in the literature. o Tailings: Environmental concerns in the early years of operation were focused on the disposal of mine tailings. The original plan designed by consultants was to dispose of tailing in the deep water of Strathcona Sound because no fishing, hunting or trapping took place in the immediate area. Disposal on land was raised as another option, however it was decided that disposal in a local lake would be the least harmful method and it was employed, at a minimum, until 1982. Further, concerns over the concentration of metal in the sound and in the marine mammals hunted by the Inuit was downplayed. This was because of the unusually high concentrations found in these animals prior to the existence of the mine as a result of naturally occurring metals in nearby rocks, and due to a lack of baseline data. o Sewage: While originally overseen by the mine operators and closely monitored, the sewage treatment facility was taken over by the GNWT. It was noted that the plant ceased to be effective at this time, bypassing the second of two stages of treatment before releasing sewage into Strathcona Sound, and no longer performing inspections.
Closing and Reclamation Documents:
Gartner Lee Limited – prepared for CanZinco Ltd. (2002) “Nanisivik Mine Closure and Reclamation Plan” (82 pages)
Terra Firma Consultants & Gartner Lee Limited. (2005). “Background Report on Mine Reclamation and Closure” (48 pages).
CanZinco Ltd. (2007). “Nanisivik mine reclamation activities quarterly report (1st quarter 2007)” (6 pages)
CanZinco Ltd. (2007). “Nanisivik mine reclamation activities quarterly report (3rd quarter 2007)” (9 pages)
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SRK Consulting (Canada) Inc. - prepared for CanZinco Mines Ltd. (2014) “Nanisivik Mine Contaminated Soil Remediation 2014 Progress Report” (67 pages)
Stantec Consulting Ltd. (2014). “2014 Annual Water Quality Monitoring Report” (90 pages)
Jim Cassie, M.Sc., P.Eng. Principal Geotechnical Engineer BGC Engineering Inc. (2015). “Nanisivik Mine Closure Design and Performance Monitoring”
BGC Engineering “Nanisivik Mine Reclamation” (1 page)
List of relevant research/websites: Mining North “Northern Mining: Our Past, Our Future” Lawson Lundell LLP (2007) “Dealing with Mining Legacy—Some Canadian Approaches” Abandoned Mines in Northern Canada/Midgley, S. “Nanisivik”
Government Releases:
Review Board Decision: N/A
Training programs: Despite a proposed 60% Inuit employment rate, the proportion of Inuit employees fluctuated between 20-30%. Further, completion of the four-year apprenticeship program was low, with only 2 Inuit successfully completing the program by 1981. In the early years of operation, training Inuit recruits proved to be challenging due to the poor quality of education in the NWT and as a result of the inability of the company to make apprenticeship materials available in Inuktitut. Additionally, a low level of interest in employment at the mine made it difficult for operators to meet the high employment quotas that had been set.
Impact Benefit Agreement (if public): N/A
Reports from Subprojects and Theme Coordinator work: N/A
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POLARIS MINE SUMMARY
POLARIS Mine
Description of the mine Located on Little Cornwallis Island, 96 kilometres north of Resolute Bay, Nunavut, the Polaris Mine was Canada’s second High Arctic mine and the world’s most northern mining operation. Discovered in 1960, claims to the Little Cornwallis ore body were purchased by Cominco Ltd. in 1964. Further exploration in 1971 led to the discovery of the lead-zinc ore that would later become the Polaris Mine. During the years between the discovery of the body and the 1981 opening of the mine, Cominco conducted community visits in order to better understand how Inuit communities and Inuit culture would interact with the mining project. Inuit in Yellowknife, Resolute, Grise Fjord, Cambridge Bay, Pelly Bay, Spence Bay and Gjoa Haven were approached by Cominco consultant, J.E. Barrett on multiple occasions, and reports were written documenting Inuit sentiments on the mining project, potential for Inuit employment, and Inuit employment preferences. Despite this, there are conflicting reports on the success of the community outreach methods employed by Cominco. Some reported that communities felt these meeting served more as information sessions hosted by Cominco, rather than as consultations or negotiations, and left many local Inuit residents feeling excluded from the planning and development of the mine. While other sources suggest that contacted communities supported the consultation.
Amidst conflicting sentiments from local communities, both a Letter of Understanding and a Memorandum of Understanding were signed between the Government of Canada and Cominco in 1980 and 1981, respectively. The six-storey processing plant, powerhouse and workshops for the mine were constructed on board a barge in Trois Rivieres, Quebec and towed to the Polaris site through the Northwest Passage over a period of five weeks. Instead of a mining town, a fly-in/fly-out operation was built, and supplies and non-local employees were flown into Resolute by jet and then to the Polaris mine site on a smaller, Twin Otter plane. Ore concentrate produced at the mine was placed in a storage facility with a 12-month capacity and shipped to North American and European markets during the short summer shipping season. Tailings from the mine were placed in a nearby salt water lake with a noted absence of fish or plant life (Garrow Lake). This option was viewed to be preferable to the suggested deep-sea disposal site in Crozier Strait, in large part because of the importance of the region for whales, sea-birds and polar bears.
In 2001, with the impending exhaustion of the ore body, Teckcominco announced that the mine would close the following year. The closure of the mine brought an end to many of the economic spin-off benefits felt in Resolute. Plans for decommissioning and reclamation were outlined and completed by 2004, and environmental monitoring of the site is ongoing.
Photographs/Videos
General Information Location: Little Cornwallis Island, Nunavut Type of mine and ore: underground zinc and lead Owner(s): Teck Cominco (previously Cominco) Time of operation: From 1981 to 2002 ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 1 of 7
POLARIS MINE SUMMARY
Reclamation: Decommissioning and reclamation plans for the mine were submitted by Cominco in 2001 and began shortly after their approval by the Nunavut Water Board in April 2002. Reclamation was complete in 2004, at a total cost of $53 million. Monitoring of the site is ongoing. SNC-Lavalin was contracted for the demolition of the structures and the clearing of the site. Inuit-owned Qikiqtaaluk Corporation was subcontracted by SNC-Lavalin to provide equipment operators, mechanics, and general labourers throughout the demolition and reclamation. Gartner Lee Limited was hired to provide technical resources to assist the company in acquiring closure approvals and to supervise the environmental remediation processes. Locals were hired to assist in guiding and reclamation assessment. Since the completion of reclamation, locals have aided in the environmental monitoring of the mine site.
Average number of employees: 250 employees with 190 regularly on-site Local employment figures: Accounted for 30% of employment in the community Percentage of Indigenous employees: 20% Northerners, primarily Inuit from Resolute Bay; fewer than 20 Inuit employees at the time of closure and only one from Resolute
Estimated size of ore body: 21-23 million tonnes Average production value: $1.5 billion Mining activities conducted: year round, closed for two weeks over Christmas Nearby communities: Resolute Bay, NU (96 km, 60 miles) Access to mine: airplane (Polaris Airport) and port (summer access only)
Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): No Impact and Benefit Agreement was signed, however an informal “Socioeonomic Action Plan” was signed by Cominco and the GNWT (estimated to have been signed in 1981). This Action Plan contained points on employment and training for Northwest Territories (NWT) residents and Inuit; work rotations designed around the needs of Inuit employees; employment of NWT businesses, good and services whenever possible; bilingual written communication (Inuktitut/English); the presence of a translator at community meetings; and assistance in promoting law enforcement.
Impacts of Mine Positive Negative Increased income for local residents Consultations with local communities were employed at the mine. run as information sessions rather than as co- Many jobs did not require additional training planning or negotiation meetings. or education which made them easier to Concerns surrounding the effects of the secure. proposed mine on traditional hunting Surplus mining and building materials were grounds located on Little Cornwallis Island often donated to Resolute. were largely unaddressed. Hunters passing through the area often Local residents voiced fears that the tailings received assistance in the form of fuel, dumpsite at Garrow Lake was likely repairs and medical treatment. connected to the sea through an Jet services that accompanied the mine and underground channel or spring that would brought with it lower flight and freight costs, facilitate the leakage of toxic tailings into the and increased access to fresh foods.
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POLARIS MINE SUMMARY
Local business owners gained valuable marine environment; Cominco stated this entrepreneurial experience that has outlived was not the case. the life of the mine. Despite meetings, community members felt Polaris partnered with local businesses in left out of decision making. Resolute which led to increase workload and While economic development accompanied employee bases during the life of the mine the mine, very little of it was sustainable and the experience of which has continued without the operation of the Polaris Mine. despite a decrease in revenue. Mine closure led to loss of the income, with For those employees able to secure other particularly negative economic effects on work after the closure of mine, the those supporting families. experience working at Polaris had proven to Mine closure led to a decline in sales at local be useful. general stores. Local residents were hired throughout the Mine closure led to the loss of some jet closure, remediation and reclamation service and all flights serviced by Canadian processes as labourers and guides, and to aid North airlines. First Air is now the only airline in the assessment of the site after with service to Resolute. This change has led reclamation. to increases in airfare and freight, and Local residents have also been involved in contributed to a decline in visitors to the post-closure environmental monitoring and region. reporting. A decline in visitors has impacted local Support to local charities and community businesses and hotels. programs by Cominco/Teck Cominco. No long-lasting contributions to local The construction of a gymnasium, the communities’ social development (ie. health, donation of money, and the creation of transportation, education, energy, scholarships for students at the Resolute telecommunications…etc.). school by Cominco is seen as a long-lasting Mine closure led to a loss of revenue for benefit. many businesses in Resolute, even those The Resolute school and hamlet received open prior to the construction of the mine. furniture from Polaris. Although alcohol purchased in Resolute The Arctic College campus was given books required a permit, alcohol sales were by Polaris. unrestricted and unmonitored at the mine The local RCMP were given gymnasium site and did, in some cases, lead to missed equipment following the mine’s closure shifts and excessive consumption at home which facilitated the opening of a small after work rotations had completed. fitness space used for employees and youth A release of some potentially toxic training. substances into the environment in 1998 Regular communication of mine activities to (1998 – 8.46 tonnes of ethylene gloycol and the Resolute residents. 2.88 tonens of zinc into air, water and land), Polaris fly-in/fly-out employees, speak was reported by Environment Canada. warmly of their time at the mine, highlighting holiday traditions, yearly social and sporting events, and the community sentiment that existed. Long-standing employees (15-20 years) are said to be a testament to the quality of the living and working conditions at the mining camp.
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POLARIS MINE SUMMARY
The Polaris High Arctic Club was a charitable social organization was founded by employees in 1983 and contributed to the social environment of Polaris and gave over $100,000.00 to local charities.
Relevant Links Resolute Bay: Resolute Bay, Nunavut (Statistics and Information): http://www.gov.nu.ca/sites/default/files/files/Resolute%20Bay%20Profile%20new%20layout.pdf
“Resolute Bay” on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2383570422/
“Polaris Mine” on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/540233339446766/
Inuit Organizations: Inuit Tapirisat of Canada (ITC), now Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK): https://www.itk.ca
Nunavut Boards: Nunavut Impact Review Board: http://www.nirb.ca
Nunavut Water Board: http://www.nwb-oen.ca
Nunavut Surface Rights Tribunal: https://nsrt-nunavut.com
Nunavut Wildlife Management Board: http://www.nwmb.com/en/
Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI): http://www.tunngavik.com/
Mine Site Reclamation Policy for Nunavut: http://www.aadnc-aandc.gc.ca/eng/11001000360 42/1100100036044
Environmental Impact Statement: Despite calls for a federal Environmental Assessment and Review Process, no independent environmental impact assessment (EIA) was conducted for Cominco’s Polaris Mine. Federal environmental assessment hearings were waived by then Prime Minister Joe Clark in exchange for a shipping deal: half of mine production was to be shipped using the Government of Canada’s MV Arctic carrier. However, in the absence of an EIA, other pre-production documents are listed here:
Ames, J.R., Gibson, R.B., Keith, R.F. & Michalenko, G.C. (1980). Analysis of the Polaris Project Proposal: Arvik Mines Ltd.
Barrett, J.E. (1973). Employment of the Inuit at Polaris Little Cornwallis Island. A Feasibility Study Requested by Arvik Mines Ltd. Trail, B.C., Canada.
Ellis, D.V. & Littlepage, J.L. (1974). Feasibility Study for Marine Disposal of Tailings at the Polaris Mine Site.
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POLARIS MINE SUMMARY
J.E. Barrett & Associates. (1976). The Polaris Project and the Inuit. West Vancouver, B.C., Canada.
Outcrop Ltd. (1980). Potential Socio-Economic Impacts of the Polaris Mine Project. Yellowknife, N.W.T., Canada.
Strong Moorhead Sigsby Limited. (1973). Preliminary Site Evaluation. Toronto, Canada.
News: Nunatqiaq News (2003) “Polaris mine owners charged for fuel spill” Canadian Mining Journal (2002) “Remembering the Polaris Mine” Nunatqiaq News (2002) “Feds won’t pay for mine clean-up, new policy says” Nunatqiaq News (2002) “Polaris clean-up set to begin” CBC (2001) “Polaris Mine to close next year” Nunatsiaq News (2001) “Cominco plots clean-up of Polaris mine” Nunatqiaq News (2001) “Polaris: The end of the mine” Nunatqiaq News (2000) “Environment Canada fingers polluters” Nunatsiaq News (1998) “Few Inuit qualified for high-paying mining jobs” Mining Magazine (1995) “Exploration in permafrost. (underground zinc and lead mining in Little Cornwallis Island)” The Lewiston Daily Sun (1987) “High-tech, low-temperature mine is a winner” Schnectady Gazette (1987) “Between Two Worlds: Losing Old Ways, Not Learning The New” The Telegraph (1987) “Polar mine hits pay dirt” The Spokesman Review (1983) “Arctic Circle mine was ‘fun’” The Montreal Gazette (1982) “Dock for northern mine an engineering first” The Spokane Chronicle (1982) “Cominco studies huge mine move” The Times News (1981) “A Journey Into Business History” The Sydney Morning Herald (1981) “Long voyage to a cold mine called Polaris” The Montreal Gazette (1981) “Barge Arvik II starts northward journey into history” The Montreal Gazette (1980) “Architect’s Arctic plan wins award for design” The Montreal Gazette (1980) “Mine contract worth $12.5m.” The Montreal Gazette (1980) “Northwest Territories Water Board Public Hearing” Spokane Daily Chronicle (1979) “Mine Pacts Are Signed” Spokane Daily Chronicle (1979) “Arctic Mine Work Slated” Ottawa Citizen (1979) “Polar zinc mine protested” The Montreal Gazette (1979) “Cominco to start Arctic zinc mine” Sustainability Throughout the Life Cycle at Polaris Mine June 30, 2012 http://www.teck.com/news/stories/2012/sustainability-throughout-the-life-cycle-at-polaris-mine
Academic Articles: Bickert, G. M., Vertes, J. Z., & Bourassa, M. (1986). Environmental Regulation and Pollution Control: Three Perspectives from Canada's North. International Business Lawyer, 14: 337-345.
Bowes-Lyon, L.M. (2006). Comparison of the socio-economic impacts of the Nanisivik and Polaris Mines: A sustainable development study case. Unpublished Masters Thesis, University of Alberta. Donald, B. J. (2005). Polaris Mine : a case study of reclamation in the high Arctic. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.14288/1.0042473
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POLARIS MINE SUMMARY
Donald, B. J. (2005). Polaris Mine : a case study of reclamation in the high Arctic. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14288/1.0042473
Green, H. (2013). State, company, and community relations at the Polaris mine (Nunavut). Inuit Studies, 37(2): 37-57. http://id.erudit.org/iderudit/1025709ar
Reid, S., Dewing, K. & Sharp, R. (2013). Structural and diagenetic origin of breccias in the carbonate- hosted Polaris Zn–Pb deposit, Nunavut, Canada. Ore Geology Reviews, 55: 110-124.
Storey, K. (2010) Fly-in/Fly-out: Implications for Community Sustainability. Sustainability, 2: 1161-1181. http://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/2/5/1161
Werniuk, J. (2001).
Books: Bowes-Lyon, L.M., Richards, J.P., & McGee, T.M. (2009). Comparison of the socio-economic impacts of the Nanisivik and Polaris Mines. In J. Richards (Ed.) Mining, Society and a Sustainable World (pp.371- 396). New York, USA: Springer.
Green, H. (2015). “There Is No Memory of It Here”: Closure and Memory of the Polaris Mine in Resolute Bay, 1973-2012. In A. Keeling and J. Sandlos (Eds.) Mining and Communities in Northern Canada (pp.315- 229). Calgary, Canada: University of Calgary Press.
Nassichuk, W.W. (2003). Forty Years of Northern Non-Renewable Resource Development. In W.C. Wonders (Ed.) Canada’s Changing North (2nd ed.), (pp. 217-241). Montreal & Kingston, Canada: McGill- Queen’s University Press. Reprinted with permission from Arctic. Original source information is Nassichuk, W.W. Dec. 1987. Forty Years of Northern Non-Renewable Resource Development. Arctic. Vol 40 (4) pages 274-284. (journal article) http://arctic.journalhosting.ucalgary.ca/arctic/index.php/arctic/issue/view/109 http://arctic.journalhosting.ucalgary.ca/arctic/index.php/arctic/article/view/1784
Job Advertisings: The Montreal Gazette (1986) – Safety Supervisor The Montreal Gazette (1985) – Safety Coordinator The Montreal Gazette (1984) – Geologist The Montreal Gazette (1983) – Electrical Supervisor The Val d’Or Star (1981) – Safety Coordinator, Maintenance Planner, Shift Supervisors, Geological Technician
List of relevant research: Green, H. (2012). Notes from the Field: Mining, memory, and meaning in Resolute Bay. Retrieved from: http://www.abandonedminesnc.com/?p=339
Macey, E., McCracken, A., Monro Gray, J. & Nowlan, G. 2007. “Polaris” Geological Survey of Canada.
Closure & Reclamation Documents: Azimuth. (no date). “Metal Mining Environmental Effects Monitoring” (1 page)
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POLARIS MINE SUMMARY
BGC Engineering Inc. (2010). “Polaris Mine Decommissioning and Reclamation, July 24, 2009 Site Visit and Inspection, Final” (202 pages).
Government of Canada (2015). Community Experiences: Polaris Mine Closure. In Exploration and Mining Guide for Aboriginal Communities, (pp. 77-79). Retrieved from: http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/sites/www.nrcan.gc.ca/files/mineralsmetals/files/pdf/abor-auto/mining-guide- eng.pdf
Teckcominco. (2004). “Polaris Operations: From Discovery to Closure” (22 pages).
Teck Metals Ltd. (2013) “Former Polaris Mine Decomissioning and Reclamation Public Engagement Report 2003-2013” (47 pages)
Terra Firma Consultants & Gartner Lee Limited. (2005). “Background Report on Mine Reclamation and Closure” (48 pages).
Review Board Decision: N/A
Training programs: While Inuit employee levels were low at Polaris, roughly 10%, those Inuit employed at the mine were provided training and opportunities to complete apprenticeships. However, rates of completion and journeyman certification remained very low. In some cases, heavy equipment operators were trained but never received the official territorial certification needed to secure employment elsewhere after the closure if Polaris. Further, low levels of education and work experience made it difficult for local Inuit to be hired to work in the mine.
Impact Benefit Agreement: N/A
Reports from Subprojects and Theme Coordinator work: N/A
Other data collected by subprojects: N/A
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 7 of 7
QILALUGAQ PROJECT SUMMARY
Qilalugaq Project Mine
Latitude and Longitude: 66.36627, -86.13655 Description of the mine The 7,143 hectare Qilugaq Project is an advanced stage diamond exploration project located in the Melville Peninsula of Nunavut Territory. The property was originally staked by BHP Billiton Diamonds Inc. in 2000 and subsequently optioned by Stornoway in 2006. Stornoway acquired a 100% interest in the project in 2010. A total of eight kimberlite pipes (Q1-4, A34, A42, A59, A76, A94, A97 and A152) have been identified within the project as well as a number of laterally extensive kimberlite dyke systems. In April 2013, North Arrow acquired the right to earn an 80% interest in the Qilalugaq Diamond Project by completing an option work program in 2014. During the program, a total of 11,083 diamonds greater than +1 DTC (~1 mm) weighing 384.28 carats were recovered from 1,353.37 dry tonnes of kimberlite collected from the Q1-4 kimberlite. This parcel was valued at $36 per carat with a possible “low” model price of $43 per carat and possible “high” model price of $92 per carat. This was a disappointing result. Exploration work for 2015/2016 is to be determined. Neither company has not announced whether it has been determined that further development of the deposit would be economically feasible. Photographs/Videos
General Information Location: Melville Peninsula, Nunavut. 18 km north of Naujaat (Repulse Bay) Type of mine and ore: diamond exploration project. Owner: 80% North Arrow Minerals Inc., 20% Stornoway Diamond Corporation. Date opened: Estimated 2024-2026 Estimated mine life: Unknown
Estimated size of ore body: 26.1 million carats - 48.8 million tonnes. Estimated production value: Unknown Average number of employees: Exploration crew for summer of 2014 was 20 Local employment figures: 15 during exploration program (75%) Percentage of Indigenous employees: Unknown
Mining activities conducted: would be year-round Nearby communities: • Repulse Bay, NU (18 km, 11 mi) • Kugaaruk, NU (288 km, 179 mi) • Hall Beach, NU (338 km, 210 mi) • Coral Harbour, NU (281 km, 174 mi) • Chesterfield Inlet, NU (402 km, 250 mi) Access to mine: by helicopter, float/ski plane from hamlet of Repulse Bay.
Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): No
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QILALUGAQ PROJECT SUMMARY
Impacts of Mine Positive Negative Residents of the Repulse Bay hamlet have Concerns regarding displacement of barren expressed in public consultations for the ground caribou from their core calving habitat due project that they see this project as being a to increased air traffic, noise, and ground activity. real benefit to their community. Would Concerns regarding low-level flights. bring employment, local procurement, and Concerns regarding impact on traditional land use. government revenue. Concerns regarding impact on peregrine falcon, polar bear, and wolverine species that are found in the project are.
Relevant Links North Arrow Minerals Inc. (May 13, 2013), “Qilalugaq Diamond Project NI 43-101 Technical Report”.
North Arrow Minerals Inc (2016), “Qilalugaq Project” Webpage
Stornoway Diamond Corporation (2012), “Qilalugaq” Webpage
Stornaway Diamond Corporation & North Arrow Minerals Inc. (April 2014), “The Qilalugaq Project: A Large Tonnage Diamond Deposit”, Presented 2014 Nunavut Mining Symposium.
Canadian Mining Journal (July 10, 2014), “Diamonds: North Arrow Commences 2014 Qilulugaq Project Bulk Sampling Program”
Government of Nunavut – Comments on Qilalugaq Project Proposal (2015) http://ftp.nirb.ca/01-SCREENINGS/COMPLETED%20SCREENINGS/2012/12EN012-Stornoway- Qilalugaq%20Project/02-DISTRIBUTION/COMMENTS/150501-12EN012-GN%20Comments-IA1E.pdf
North Arrow Minerals Inc. (2014), “Qilugaq Repulse Bay Meeting Presentation”
North Arrow Metals (2015), “North Arrow Reports Diamond Valuation Results from the Qilalugaq Project”
Stornaway Diamond Corporation (2012), “Community Information meetings, The Qilalugaq Project, September 27-28, 2012”.
List of relevant research:
Kupsch, B., J.P. Armstrong (2013), “Exploration and Geology of the Qilalugaq Kimberlites, Rae Isthmus, Nunavut, Canada”, Proceedings of the 10th International Kimberlite Conference, 67-78.
Review Board Decision
NIRB Screening Decision Report for Stornoway Diamond Corporation’s “Qilalugaq” Project Proposal” (May 4, 2012) –Approved subject to terms and conditions. http://ftp.nirb.ca/01-
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QILALUGAQ PROJECT SUMMARY
SCREENINGS/COMPLETED%20SCREENINGS/2012/12EN012-Stornoway-Qilalugaq%20Project/03- DECISION/
Nunavut Impact Review Board. June 4, 2015. NIRB Screening Decision for Stornoway Diamond Corporation’s Amendment and Renewal request with WNT and GN-CGS for its “Qilalugaq” Project, Additional Application Terms and Conditions, 12EN012
Training programs: N/A
ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 3 of 3
NORTH RANKIN NICKEL MINE SUMMARY
NORTH RANKIN NICKEL Mine
Description of the mine Located on the western shore of Hudson Bay, the North Rankin Nickel Mine was the first mine established in the Canadian Arctic and the first mine to employ Inuit and actively promote the employment of indigenous peoples. The North Rankin Nickel mine produced nickel and copper from 1957 until its closure in 1962. Food and supplies were shipped to Rankin Inlet by boat from Montreal, arriving in the summer to replenish stocks, and then making multiple journeys to and from the mine shuttling ore to Churchill, Manitoba where it was then transported by rail to a refinery in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta. Discovered by R.G.O. Johnston in 1928, the nickel ore zone became part of a drilling program conducted by the Cyril Knight Prospecting Company in 1930, a permanent mining camp under the guidance of Rankin Inlet Nickel Mines Ltd. in 1953, and finally began production in May of 1957, operated by the now, North Rankin Nickel Mines Ltd. Within the context of the end of the World War, collapsing Arctic Fox fur prices, and declining caribou populations, the Canadian government felt it necessary to adapt Inuit people to the wage economy. Inuit were employed early on in the unloading and construction phases of the mine, and later joined underground work teams. Inuit employment rates rose as production began and families migrated to Rankin Inlet from the communities of Chesterfield Inlet, Eskimo Point, Repulse Bay and Baker Lake. Inuit employees were provided with company-sponsored language and job training, and mine operators attempted to accommodate the Inuit way-of-life by allowing absenteeism during traditional hunting and gathering seasons. Mine staff reported that Inuit employees were quick to learn and had an aptitude for mine work and even a small number of Inuit women worked in the “Eskimo Cookery” and received wages. By the early 1960s, Rankin Inlet had a population of approximately 600 Inuit and non-Inuit and was a community complete with government offices, churches, an RCMP detachment, and a Hudson’s Bay store. Despite the success of the mine and high Inuit employment rates, Inuit families struggled to adapt to the wage economy and acclimate to non-Inuit culture. In 1962, the high cost of operation, along with depletion of the ore reserves and a decline in the price of nickel, contributed to the closure of the North Rankin Nickel Mine. While some Inuit were relocated by the Government of Canada or found work at other mines, the transition back to a traditional lifestyle proved difficult for those families that remained in Rankin Inlet. However, by the mid-1970s, a rich mining heritage, a growing Inuit art industry, and the development of Rankin Inlet as a regional administrative hub allowed the community to rebuild as the second-largest settlement in Nunavut today. Photographs/Videos
General Information Location: Rankin Inlet (Kangiqiniq), Nunavut Type of mine and ore: nickel, copper & platinum Owner(s): North Rankin Nickel Mines Ltd. (Nickel Mines Ltd. Prior to April 1954) Time of operation: From May, 1957 to 1962
Average number of employees: unknown ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 1 of 6
NORTH RANKIN NICKEL MINE SUMMARY
Percentage of Indigenous employees: On average, 70% Inuit employment.
Estimated size of ore body: Approximately 8.7 to 9.69 tonnes of nickel and 2.3 to 2.64 tonnes of copper extracted Total production value: $8 million. Local employment figures: On average, 70% Inuit employment, primarily recruited from Chesterfield Inlet, but more broadly from across the Kivalliq (then Keewatin) region. Approximately 80 Inuit men and women were employed, however seasonal fluctuations saw as many as 100 Inuit individuals employed at the mine and over 500 Inuit living in the mining community as of 1962.
Mining activities conducted: year-round Nearby communities: Rankin Inlet, NU Access to mine: airplane, ship and dog-team Ships of note – MV Ithaca and MV Dashwood.
Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): No
Remediation Complete: Remediation was complete in 1995. However, additional work was completed between 2009 and 2011 after tailings-related contaminants were identified in intertidal sediments collected along the shoreline adjacent to the mine site. In 2011 fill was placed over the exposed tailings area and new concrete covers were placed within the mine site. The AANDC is currently monitoring the mine site to ensure remediation has been effective.
Impacts of Mine Positive Negative First mine in Canada to actively promote Housing settlements established by race (Inuit the employment of indigenous (Inuit) vs. non-Inuit); strong segregation practices. workers. Inuit workers were paid less than non-Inuit Brought schools, churches, housing, and workers (75 cents/hour) and had to secure other amenities, which would later support underground mining jobs in order to receive northern development. equal pay. Accommodated Inuit need for time away to The cost of store bought goods and food, as hunt, trap, and spend time on the land by well as pay deductions for board, housing, fuel, hiring more Inuit than necessary to account and medical care, were high considering the for these absences. low wages paid to most Inuit employees. Provided steady work at a time where Inuit Inuit residents lacked the money management were not always able to sustain themselves skills necessary for a wage economy. or make a living off of the land. Inuit workers and their families lived in lower Inuit were given the opportunity to learn quality homes without central heating or English, and become skilled mechanics and water, and were closely monitored by the machine operators. mining company. Inuit employees and families developed a Many Inuit residents experienced boredom and sense of pride about their contributions to loneliness as a result of having left home with the mine and the establishment of the non of their belonging town of Rankin Inlet.
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NORTH RANKIN NICKEL MINE SUMMARY
Both Inuit and non-Inuit took part in the The aggressive behavior of some of the white same activities (dances, movies, workers and foreman led to high stress and church…etc.) and came to participate in psychosomatic illness in some Inuit employees. community life. Crowding and poor sanitation had a negative The mining experience at Ranking Inlet led effect on Inuit health and led to increased to the development of Inuit mining infant mortality. families. Social differentiation between different Inuit Some Inuit employees and families were kin groups was aggravated by the successfully hired/relocated to other prioritizations of particular groups during mining projects or to work on the Dew line. hiring. A new arts and crafts program, created by Inuit alcohol consumption, although monitored the Department of Indian Affairs and and controlled by the mine-operators, led to Northern Development after the closure of fights, family violence and poor finances; all of the mine, was somewhat successful in which worsened as the closure of the mine creating steady income in order to neared. participate in Rankin Inlet’s western wage Inuit were not granted full participation in the economy. The community benefitted mining town’s community association because through enumeration and improved the administrator did not believe the Inuit were morale. responsible or ready to participate. Inuit art remains an important part of like Federal relocation plans proposed after the in Rankin Inlet closure of the mine were met with strong local resistance. Acculturation to southern goods and the wage economy made people averse or unwilling to return to the land. Many Inuit residents and mine employees in Rankin Inlet gave up their dog teams, and the clothing and weapons needed for traditional hunting. This made the transition back to a subsistence economy difficult, or in many cases impossible, after the closing of the mine. Many Inuit were forced to leave Rankin Inlet to pursue alternate employment. Post-closure, the government took over town maintenance and filled these positions with non-Inuit employees, despite the presence of Inuit tradesman qualified for the positions through their experience at the mine. The majority of those that remained in Rankin Inlet after the closure went onto government social assistance. Tailings were poorly managed, left in ponds that sat below sea-level and subsequently ran into Hudson’s Bay and contaminated the shoreline.
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NORTH RANKIN NICKEL MINE SUMMARY
Relevant Links Town of Rankin Inlet: http://www.rankininlet.net
Rankin Inlet, Nunavut (Statistics and Information): http://www.gov.nu.ca/sites/default/files/files/Rankin%20Inlet%20Profile%20new%20layout.pdf
The “Hamlet of Rankin Inlet” on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hamlet-of-Rankin- Inlet/158938984176824?fref=ts
News Articles: Northern Public Affairs (2015) “They should acknowledge the gap: exploring contemporary mining encounters in Rankin Inlet, Nunavut” Nunatsiaq News (2014) “Nunavut rock hounds dig for treasure on the tundra” Nunatsiaq News (2011) “Arviat project puts Inuit face on local history” Nunatsiaq News (2011) “From igloo to mine-shaft: Nunavut’s first Inuit miners” Nunatsiaq News (2001) “Father Lorson receives funeral this week in Rankin Inlet” Nunatsiaq News (2003) “"We had no mirror in our igloo"” The Montreal Gazette (1979) “Minister on Tout Meets a Hunter Who’s Five Years Old” The Montreal Gazette (1970) “Gibraltar Ore Outlined” Ottawa Citizen (1965) “Eskimos learn to pay bills, become solid citizens” The Montreal Gazette (1964) “North Rankin in Timmins Area” The Afro American (1962) “Herbert M. Frisby Heads Far North” The Montreal Gazette (1962) “Quarter Net Shows Rise” The Montreal Gazette (1961) “North Rankin Seeking New Ore Areas” Reading Eagle (1959) “Eskimos Use Electricity in Igloos” Spokane Daily Chronicle (1959) “Profit Taking in Favorites Clips Prices” The Montreal Gazette (1959) “New Enterprises Sought For Eskimos” The Spokane Daily Chronicle (1959) “Eskimos Now Buy Electric Gadgets” The Montreal Gazette (1958) “Sherritt Gordon Profit Off Sharply” The Montreal Gazette (1958) “News Of The Mines” The Montreal Gazette (1957) “North Rankin Drills Extend Ore Zone”
Academic Articles & Presentations: Hulbert, L.J. & Gregoire, D.C. (1993). Re-Os isotope systematics of the Rankin Inlet Ni ores; an example of the application of ICP-MS to investigate Ni-Cu-PGE mineralization and the potential use of Os isotopes in mineral exploration. The Canadian Mineralogist, 31(4): 861.
Keeling, A. & Cater, T. (2013). That’s where our future came from. Études/Inuit/Studies, 37(2): 59-82.
Meldrum, J.L., Jamieson, H.E. & Dyke, L.D. (2001). Oxidation of mine tailings from Rankin Inlet, Nunavut, at subzero temperatures. Canadian Geotechnical Journal, 38(5): 957-966.
Meldrum, J. L. (1998). Determination of the sulphide oxidation potential of mine tailings from rankin inlet, nunavut, at sub-zero temperatures (Master’s thesis, Queen’s University). Retrieved from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global.
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NORTH RANKIN NICKEL MINE SUMMARY
Neale, S. (1997). The rankin inlet ceramics project: A study in development and influence (Master’s Thesis, Concordia University). Retrieved from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global.
Books & Publications: Coates, K. & Powell, J. (1989). Modern North: People, Politics and the Rejection of Colonialism. Toronto, Canada: James Lorimer & Company Limited.
Damas, D. (2002). Arctic migrants/Arctic villagers: the transformation of Inuit settlement in the central Arctic. Montreal & Kingston, Canada: McGill-Queen’s University Press.
Keeling, A. & Boulter, P. From Igloo to Mine Shaft: Inuit Labour and Memory at the Ranking Inlet Nickel Mine. In A. Keeling & J. Sandlos (Eds.) Mining and Communities in Northern Canada, (pp.35-58). Calgary, Canada: University of Calgary Press
Main, O.W. (1955). The Canadian nickel industry: a study in market control and public policy. Toronto, Canada: University of Toronto Press.
McPherson, R. (2003). New Owners: Minerals and Inuit Land Claims in Their Own Lands. Calgary, Canada: University of Calgary Press.
Neale, S.J. (2003). Rankin Inlet: From Mining Town to Commercial Centre. In W.C. Wonders (Ed.) Canada’s Changing North (2nd ed.), (pp. 314-317). Montreal & Kingston, Canada: McGill-Queen’s University Press.
Quinn, D.R. (1988). The Road to Nunavut: The Progress of the Eastern Arctic Inuit since the Second World War. Montreal & Kingston, Canada: McGill-Queen’s University Press.
Rea, K.J. The Political economy of the Canadian North: an interpretation of the course of development in the northern territories of Canada to the early 1960's. Toronto, Canada: University of Toronto Press.
Films: National Film Board of Canada (1961). People of the Rock. o YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ka_fPnes09w
Blogs/Research Projects: Nanisiniq: Arviat History Project: http://nanisiniq.tumblr.com Konek, J. (2011, August 15). Looking Closer to Rankin Inlet Nickel Mine (1957-1963) Konek, J. (2011, May 11). The Eskimo of Rankin Inlet: A Preliminary Report Owingayak, A. (2011, May 18). Life for Inuit During the Rankin Inlet Nickel Mine
Abandoned Mines in Northern Canada: http://www.abandonedminesnc.com Photo Gallery: http://niche-canada.org/research/abandoned-mines-project/abandoned-mines- photo-galleries/
Closing and Reclamation Documents: Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada [AANDC]. (2012). The Big Picture: Contaminated Sites in Nunavut. Accessed: http://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection_2012/aadnc-aandc/R71-70- 2012-eng.pdf (42 pages) ReSDA Atlas March 2016 Page 5 of 6
NORTH RANKIN NICKEL MINE SUMMARY
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada [AANDC]. (2015). Northern Contaminated Sites Program Performance Report 2011-2012. Accessed: https://www.aadnc-aandc.gc.ca/DAM/DAM-INTER- HQ-NTH/STAGING/texte-text/contaminated-site-2011-12_1427461854498_eng.pdf (20 pages)
Review Board Decision: N/A
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: N/A
Training programs: An Inuit training program was employed, however no documents are available.
Impact Benefit Agreement: N/A
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ROCHE BAY PROJECT SUMMARY
ROCHE BAY Project Mine
Description of the mine The deposit of iron ore at Roche Bay was originally discovered around 1965. In 1997 the ownership of the claim was transferred to Roche Bay PLC. Advanced Exploration Inc. took over operations in 2007 and has conducted extensive drilling exploration since then. The project also includes the Tuktu iron deposit. The mine would include storage for the ore, tailings pond, roadways, port facilities, and an airport. The project is still in the development stage and has not moved into the environmental assessment process yet.
Photographs/Videos
General Information Location: Melville Peninsula, Nunavut Type of mine and ore: Iron. Open-pit mine. Owner: Advanced Exploration Inc. (75%), Roche Bay PLC Date opened: Has not opened yet. Estimated mine life: 15 years
Estimated size of ore body: 500 Mt Estimated production value: 5.5 Mt per year.
Average number of employees: Unknown. Local employment figures: Unknown. Percentage of Indigenous employees: Unknown.
Mining activities conducted: Exploration Nearby communities: Hall Beach (60 km, 37 miles) Access to mine: by plane Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): Unknown.
Impacts of Mine Positive Negative They have to develop extensive The project is still in the early stages of infrastructure on the site. development and still has to move forward in The mine project is only 6km from the shore. the project development. This would allow for port services to be the The use of a deep water port could disturb primary transport for the ore product. marine life in the region. The project has struggled with costs and entering a market that is dominated by larger mining companies.
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ROCHE BAY PROJECT SUMMARY
Relevant Links Roche Bay PLC (2016). Roche Bay.
Roche Bay PLC (2015). Update from Roche Bay PLC to our stakeholders.
CBC News (2014). Chinese company joins Roche Bay iron ore project. A Chinese company joined with the project to provide private wealth fund.
Mining Life (2014). Canadian project: Roche Bay iron ore mine project. Discusses the project plan for Roche Bay.
Northern News Services Online (2014). Roche Bay mine finds construction partners. The project gained another partner to help with funding the project.
Nunatsiaq Online (2012). Firms put pedal to the metal on Melville Peninsula iron projects in Nunavut. Advanced Exploration plans to move ahead with the Roche Bay project.
Nunatsiaq Online (2011). Nunavut’s Roche Bay deposit contains “very” high-grade iron. An exploration company confirmed the high-grade ore that is present in Nunavut.
Canadian Mining Journal (n.d.). Iron ore study: news positive for Roche Bay project C zone. Provides a summary of the positive feasibility study.
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: Has not been completed to date.
List of relevant research: There has not been any research conducted on this project as of yet.
Review Board Decision: There has been no review decision to date. Only a positive feasibility study has been completed.
Training programs: Unknown.
Impact Benefit Agreement: Unknown.
Reports from Subprojects and Theme Coordinator work: No academic research by theme coordinators has yet to be conducted.
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ULU PROJECT SUMMARY
ULU Project Mine
Description of the mine The Ulu property is an advanced stage gold exploration project in the Kitikmeot region of Nunavut owned by WPC Resources Inc. It was discovered by BHP Minerals in 1989, and past work undertaken has focused on the Flood deposit, where more than 135,000 metres of core drilling and 1.7 kilometres of underground development was completed. The property was part of Echo Bay Mines’ core assets in the eighties while it operated the nearby Lupin Mine, but due to low gold prices the project was put on “hold”. The property changed owners multiple times before being put into care and maintenance indefinitely by former owner Elgin Mining Inc. WPC announced its acquisition of the site in 2014, and intends to develop the site as a satellite deposit to the Lupin Mine, which it also recently acquired. The project currently possesses a land use permit and type B water licence, but fluctuating gold prices have historically prevented further development.
Photographs/Videos
General Information Location: Kitikmeot region of Nunavut Territory, southern part of the High Lake Greenstone Belt, 200 km southeast of Kugluktuk. Type of mine and ore: underground gold mine Owner: WPC Resources Inc. Date opened: Unknown Estimated mine life: seven years from opening.
Average number of employees: Approximately 70 people Estimated size of ore body: 2.5 million tonnes measured and indicated, 1.2 million inferred. Estimated production value: 7.53 grams gold per tonne. Local employment figures: 65%
Mining activities conducted: will be year-round Nearby communities: Bathurst Inlet, NU (138 km, 86 miles) Lupin, NU (150 km, 94 miles) Kugluktuk, NU (210 km, 130 miles) Access to mine: gravel airstrip and float plane access.
Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA): One was signed between the Kitikmeot Inuit Association (KIA) and Elgin Mining Inc. in 1996, but never implemented. http://www.impactandbenefit.com/IBA_Database_List/ Percentage of Indigenous employees: 52% (2004)
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ULU PROJECT SUMMARY
Impacts of Mine Positive Negative Large, high grade deposit, thus potential to Five lakes and sixteen species of terrestrial bring economic benefits to the territory once mammals have the potential to be impacted by developed. daily activities at the site. IBA developed between KIA and Elgin Mining Potential contamination of soil and water by Inc. is quite sophisticated and legally binding, hydrocarbon use at the site. owing to the detailed requirements of the Nunavut Land Claim Agreements that guide all such IBA’s. It includes the need for Elgin to make “all reasonable efforts” to negotiate contracts directly with Inuit businesses. This has created optimism about future dealings. Wolfden hired 15 firms from the region to provide goods and services, accounting for more than 65% of monies spent, affirming Wolfden’s commitment to hire locally. Has brought new infrastructure to the area, including construction of a winter road between Ulu and High Lake.
Relevant Links Northern of 60 Mining News (2016), “Mining News: Northern Neighbors: Junior evaluates developing gold mine at Ulu project, NU”
WPC Resources Inc. (2015), “Amended Technical Disclosure for Ulu Gold Property”
Northern Miner (2015), “WPC aims to bring Lupin back online”.
Government of Nunavut (2014), “Nunavut Mineral Exploration, Mining and Geoscience, Overview 2014”. (p 18, 24-25,
Wolfden Resources Inc (2014), “Ulu Gold Project, Nunavut: Cultural Orientation Report”.
Walter Strong (2014), “Ulu to see exploration”, Northern News Services.
Wolfden Resources Inc, (2005), “2005-2006 Exploration and Development Project, Ulu, Nunavut: Application for Access to Inuit Owned Land”, submitted to Kitikmeot Inuit Association.
Elgin Mining Inc. (2012) “Update on Plans for Lupin and Ulu Gold Deposits – 2012 Nunavut Mining Symposium”
Wolfden Resources Inc. (2005), “Ulu Mine Waste Rock and Ore Storage Plan”
Echo Bay Mines Ltd (2001), “2001 Annual Report: Ulu Project, Nunavut”.
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ULU PROJECT SUMMARY
Link to Environmental Impact Statement: http://www.nirb.ca/application?strP=r
Review Board Decision: “The proposal may be processed without a review under Part 5 and 6; NIRB may recommend specific terms and conditions to be attached to any approval, reflecting the primary objectives set out in Section 12.2.5”- Nunavut Impact Review Board Screening Decision”: file:///Users/gerry/Downloads/050413-05EN007-Screening%20Decision%20Report-OA1E.pdf
Training Programs: IBA included requirement of developing education and training programs (pre- employment and on-the-job).
List of relevant research: Flood, E. et. al. (2005), “An Overview of the ULU Gold Deposit, High Lake Volcanic Belt, Nunavut, Canada”, Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum.
Keeping, J. (1998) “Thinking about Benefits Agreements: An Analytical Framework”, Northern Minerals Program: Working Paper No. 4., Canadian Arctic Resources Committee.
Knotsch, Cathleen & Jacek Warda (2009), “Impact Benefit Agreements: A Tool for Healthy Inuit Communities? Full Report”, National Aboriginal Health Organization, 50-.
O’Reilly, Kevin and Erin Eacott (1999), “Aboriginal Peoples and Impact and Benefit Agreements: Report of a National Workshop”, Northern Minerals Program Working Paper No. 7, Canadian Arctic Resources Committee.
Sherlock, Ross & David Scott (2004), “Sustainable Development in Nunavut: The Role of Geoscience”, Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum, 12(1), 21-30.
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