The Province of British Columbia has amended permits that will allow the expansion of the Bonanza Ledge Underground Mine, which supports ongoing jobs in the region.

“Through working together, the Lhtako Dené Nation and Osisko Development Corporation are supporting 127 local jobs, bringing economic development to the Cariboo, and positioning British Columbia as a critical partner in the global supply chain,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation. “The Bonanza Ledge II project is a prime example of how mining partnerships between industry and First Nations are advancing our environmental, social and governance goals, by training the next generation of miners in the region and adhering to our province’s leading environmental regulations.”

Lhtako Dené First Nation and Osisko Development Corp. have worked closely during the application process for amendments to the specific Mines Act permits. Approval of these permits allows for the expansion of the existing Bonanza Ledge Underground Mine, which will support ongoing jobs for people in the Cariboo region.

“The Bonanza Ledge II project receipt of permits marks another milestone in what has turned out to be a very beneficial partnership between Lhtako Dené Nation and Osisko Development Corporation,” said Chief Clifford Lebrun of the Lhtako Dené First Nation. “This partnership illustrates that First Nations and industry can work together in a good way for the benefit of both partners, economically and with community growth for Wells, Quesnel and the Lhtako Dené Nation. It’s more than jobs and contract opportunities or training, it’s the development and growth of all three communities, and all the ones in between that is important here. The Lhtako Dené Nation looks forward to working together with Osisko Develoment Corporation in the future to move these values forward.”

The Bonanza Ledge Underground Mine is located on Barkerville Mountain near Wells. Once mined, the gold ore will be processed at the QR Mill near Quesnel. The anticipated mine life of BL Phase II is approximately 18 months. The expansion of the Bonanza Ledge project allows for continuity of mining while the Cariboo Gold Environmental Assessment proceeds.

“The receipt of the permits for the Bonanza Ledge II project is an important milestone in the development of our company in the region and also shows our dedication to environmental performance,” said Chris Lodder, president, Osisko Development. “This new permit enables Osisko to operate two new water-treatment plants, which will substantially improve our overall water management plan and allows us to meet more stringent water-quality criteria and stewardship toward best environmental practices.”

The Bonanza Ledge II deposit is located within the broader Cariboo mining camp, which is 100% owned by Osisko Development. The Cariboo Gold Project is undergoing environmental assessment under B.C.’s Environmental Assessment Act (2018) and is advancing according to timelines set under this new act. 

If approved, the $433-million Cariboo Gold Project will employ 500 people during operations and provide employment, training and opportunities for meaningful economic partnerships for Indigenous Nations, local communities and the Province of B.C. The project will be powered by B.C.’s renewable and clean hydroelectricity.