And environmental assessment certificate has been granted to New Gold Inc for their Blackwater Gold Project.
Located southwest of Vanderhoof, the project is projected to generate nearly 22 million tonnes of ore per year over its 17 year life span.
In issuing the certificate, Ministers are confident that the mine will be built, operated, and closed in a way that no significant adverse affects are likely to occur.
New Gold must meet 43 legally binding conditions in order to maintain compliance with their certificate.
Those conditions include environmental, wildlife, noise and community impact regulations developed with input from local First Nations.
During construction, the project will create over 2,400 person years of direct employment over the 2 year period.
Afterwards, the mine will support nearly 400 jobs per year.
New Gold Inc must still seek out permits from other federal and provincial bodies.