First Mining Gold Corp said it has entered into a mineral exploration agreement with the Animakee Wa Zhing #37 First Nation (AWZ 37) in relation to planned activities at the Cameron (NYSE:CAM) gold project in north-western Ontario.
The precious metals property is located 80 kilometers (km) southeast of Kenora and within the traditional territory of AWZ 37.
As noted in the statement, the exploration agreement defines the protocol for meaningful communications and engagement between the parties to understand and accommodate each other's interests in relation to First Mining's exploration activities at Cameron (NYSE:CAM).
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The comprehensive arrangement addresses both early and advanced exploration work, as well as the potential future transport of an existing ore stockpile for off-site processing.
First Mining believes this cooperative approach will build a strong, positive foundation for the company to proceed with its full scope of exploration activities in a manner that is informed by, and respects, the interests of AWZ 37.
"We are extraordinarily pleased to have established a framework for on-going consultation, cooperation and economic participation with the Animakee Wa Zhing #37 First Nation and are committed to maintaining a positive relationship through a process of mutual respect, ongoing dialogue and regular interaction," Dan Wilton, CEO of First Mining said in the statement.
He added: "We feel strongly that the Cameron project will benefit from the traditional knowledge regarding land use, environmental stewardship and cultural history stemming from our partners' long experience in this area, and we look forward to working cooperatively with AWZ 37 as we advance the mineral potential of our Cameron Project."
Animakee Wa Zhing #37 First Nation consists of two geographically distinct communities approximately 200km apart, Regina Bay and Windigo Island, that were amalgamated under one government in 1915. The community has a registered population of 537, with 196 living on reserve, and is governed by a Chief and four Council members.
"We are pleased to have developed a positive relationship with the First Mining team, and we are excited for the opportunities that these exploration activities will provide for our community and to participate in the success of First Mining's exploration activities,” Chief Linda McVicar of Animakee Wa Zhing #37 First Nation said.
She continued: “The work planned by First Mining's exploration of the Cameron project will help bring socio-economic benefits to the community and surrounding area. With our stewardship, we are comfortable that First Mining will conduct their activities in a way that will minimize the environmental impact and pay respect to the land."
The gold explorer is planning to target several regional prospects and conduct a 4,000-metre diamond drill program comprising 36 drill holes. The 2021 regional prospects include Dubenski, Dogpaw, East Cedar Tree, Angel Hill, and Robertson, while the 2022 program will center around potential underground exploration at the Cameron Lake deposit.
According to the company, the Cameron gold deposit hosts a measured and indicated resource of 464,000 ounces of gold and an inferred resource of 533,000 ounces of gold.
In addition to the exploration efforts at the Cameron gold project, First Mining is also working to advance its flagship Springpole gold project, also located in northwestern Ontario
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