The Minister of Energy and Mines is in Alaska this week to discuss trans-boundary mining projects, reclamation programs and environmental regulations.
Bill Bennett says the trans-boundary water treaty between Canada and the U.S. requires the other jurisdiction to be involved whenever there is a proposed project that has the potential to impact water flowing into either country.
“So we are legally obligated to do it,” he says. “But I think more importantly, it is important to be a good neighbour. We would want the U.S. to respect our concerns about water flowing into Canada. So it is fair ball that we involve them in projects that may have an impact on Alaska waters.”
Bennett says this is the case with the proposed KSM copper gold project, which is 65 km northwest of Stewart.
Seabridge’s project has recently been granted an environmental assessment certificate.