Yellowknife Geoscience Forum Set to Ignite Mineral Exploration

UPDATE: The 53rd Yellowknife Geoscience Forum is poised to transform the landscape of mineral exploration in Canada’s North from November 25-27, 2023. Industry leaders, researchers, and government officials will converge in Yellowknife, addressing urgent challenges and opportunities in the resource sector.

The event, organized by the NWT & Nunavut Chamber of Mines, highlights the North’s increasing prominence in national discussions on mineral exploration and climate research. Executive Director Karen Costello expressed excitement over the forum’s expanded showcase sessions, which will kick off with an Arctic economic and security corridor panel.

“This year, we welcome the Canadian Chamber of Commerce hosting an energy and mineral development roundtable,” Costello stated. The forum will feature seven critical sessions covering topics like geoscience, energy in Canada’s North, and the impacts of climate change on permafrost and Northern lakes.

With 46.7% of Nunavut’s gross domestic product reliant on mining in 2023, and 22.1% in the Northwest Territories, the mining sector remains vital to the region’s economy. However, a decline in mining activity has raised alarms. Costello called for immediate action from NWT Premier R.J. Simpson to support the “red alert” issued by MLA Kieron Testart regarding the dwindling mining output.

“We need to keep exploration going to find the next generation of mines,” Costello emphasized, underscoring the need for regulatory certainty and investment attraction to maintain a robust project pipeline.

In Nunavut, the focus will also be on the recommended land-use plan, critical for facilitating exploration activities. Current exploration is largely driven by major players like Agnico Eagle, Baffinland, and B2Gold, with increasing interest in critical minerals, including uranium and copper.

Costello remarked, “Advocating for a North of 60 mineral exploration tax credit could significantly boost grassroots exploration efforts,” highlighting the necessity for federal support in attracting new investments.

This year’s forum will feature keynote addresses from pivotal figures, including Premier R.J. Simpson and Professor Jasmin Raymond, an expert on geothermal energy. Other notable speakers include Professor Duane Froese from the University of Alberta and Pierre Gratton, President of the Mining Association of Canada.

The discussions promise to not only address the immediate needs of the mining industry but also foster Indigenous economic leadership in mineral development and explore the intersection of Arctic security and critical minerals.

As the event approaches, the Northern mining community eagerly anticipates the insights and partnerships that will emerge from this vital forum. Stay tuned for live updates and coverage as this significant event unfolds in Yellowknife.