The New Gold Blackwater project is moving into the public consultation phase.
Public comments will be accepted online from January 20, 2016 until February 19, 2016 on the potential environmental effects of the mine. A series of open houses will be taking place across the region as well.
“What we are hoping to do is see a big turnout at our open houses as well as the provincial led information sessions, and get lots of feedback and meet people at these events.” Blackwater Director Tim Bekhuys says
The proposed open pit gold/silver mine 110 kilometres southeast of Vanderhoof would provide 1500 construction jobs and 500-600 permanent jobs over the 17 year life of the mine.
New Gold acquired the Blackwater project from a junior mining company in 2011.
“We’ve spent close to $200M in project development and exploration at the site, and about 70% of that money has actually been spent in the local region.” Bekhuys added
The company is currently constructing a gold mine in Ontario while they conduct outreach here in BC. If all goes to plan, Blackwater will be under construction in 18-24 months.
The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency is hosting two open houses;
· Vanderhoof on February 2 at Nechako Seniors Friendship Centre 4-8pm
· Fraser Lake one February 3 at Mouse Mountain Elementary School 430-830pm
New Gold is then holding their own series of open houses;
· Quesnel on February 9 at the Best Western Inn 5-8pm
· Fort St. James on February 10 at the new Community Centre 5-8pm
· Burns Lake on February 11 at the Vineyard Church 5-8pm
· Prince George on February 16th at the Ramada Hotel 5-8pm