Benchmark Metals Inc said it has selected First Nations groups to carry out baseline work to support the environmental assessment (EA) for permitting of its flagship Lawyers gold-silver project in the Golden Horseshoe of British Columbia.
The Tsay Keh Nay (TKN) are Sekani speaking Indigenous peoples including the Tsay Keh Dene Nation (Tsay Keh), Kwadacha Nation (Kwadacha) and Takla Nation (Takla), collectively known as the 'Partner Nations'.
"We are impressed with the professionalism and quality of the work by TKN," John Williamson, CEO of Benchmark told investors in a statement. "The start of baseline work in parallel with project development keeps the project on the path to Environmental Assessment readiness decision in 2023, ensures continued early engagement with our Partner Nations and facilitates transparent and fluid communication as the project develops collaboratively."
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Benchmark said that seven studies will be led by TKN. These are: Surface Water & Hydrology; Aquatic Life; Fish & Fish Habitat; Meteorology, Noise and Air Quality; Wildlife; Vegetation, and finally Topography and Soils.
"It's very encouraging to see a company in the resource industry that understands the value of creating a respectful relationship with First Nations early in the life of a project. This is the blueprint for avoiding delays, minimizing impacts and maximizing benefits for everyone with an interest in the project, " added Chief Pierre of Tsay Keh Dene.
Benchmark recently signed an exploration cooperation and benefit agreement with these Partner Nations. The company also reported it had hired pHase Geochemistry to lead the geochemistry baseline work for both the static and kinetic (humidity cells) test work.
The Lawyers asset comprises three mineralized deposits that remain open for expansion as well as over 20 new target areas along a 20 kilometres trend. Benchmark is managed by proven resource professionals with a track record of advancing exploration projects from grassroots scenarios through to production.
Contact the author at giles@proactiveinvestors.com