The federal government has completed a major review step for the Eskay Creek Revitalization Project in northwestern British Columbia.
On Monday, Environment and Climate Change Minister Julie Dabrusin issued a decision statement concluding that the project’s benefits outweigh its potential negative impacts within areas of federal jurisdiction. The decision allows the proposed mine to move closer to development, pending additional permits and approvals.
The Eskay Creek project is an open-pit gold and silver mine proposed by Eskay Creek Mining Limited in Tahltan territory. The federal decision was based on a substituted impact assessment led by B.C.’s Environmental Assessment Office, in collaboration with the Tahltan Nation. The process followed a “one project, one review” approach to reduce regulatory overlap between governments.
According to the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada, the project includes legally binding conditions and environmental safeguards designed to protect fish and fish habitat, water quality, migratory birds, and Indigenous health, culture, and land use. The proponent is also required to address potential impacts on Indigenous rights.
The assessment incorporated Indigenous Knowledge, western science, and public input. It also marked a milestone in consent-based decision-making, with the Tahltan Central Government playing a central role throughout the process.
If fully approved, the project is expected to create hundreds of jobs during construction and operations and contribute to the northern B.C. economy. Provincial permits and final federal approvals are still required before the project can proceed. Those decisions are expected in the coming months.
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