What’s the problem/issue/organization?
The residents of the Nelson North Shore between 6 mile and Kokanee Park are experiencing almost daily helicopter traffic from a new mining operation above Duhamel, Sitkum and Kokanee watersheds. First reported by, the project is a 5-year gold exploratory project that will include 35 drill holes, new roads, and a drilling camp. Click on link to read more. The Ontario-based mining company, Braveheart Resources, represented locally by Eagle Plains Resources, a mineral exploration company based in Cranbrook, has not said what a full-scale mining operation might look like.
The mining operation, of any size, will impact traffic, wildlife and add a risk of contamination or blockage from roads and runoff, to streams and creeks.
Who is impacted by this issue or who are the players in this organization?
This mining operation impact North Shore residents between 6 mile and Kokanee Park. The Duhamel Creek Watershed Society is the community organization based at 6 Mile that is monitoring the situation. Ramona Faust, Area E Director, has not publicly commented on this issue.
What is the ideal outcome or state for this issue or organization?
Many residents would prefer that the mining operation discovers no gold of sufficient value to warrant further development. Even the most low-impact mining operation would add additional heavy vehicle traffic in and out of the area and some impact to wildlife and streams. Barring no development at all, the ideal for residents, would be a mining company works with the community and the province to develop a near-zero-impact operation similar to X mining operation and provide some compensation and employment to residents. If compensation or employment is provided, some residents might favour the development over not.
What role is the BC government currently playing vis-a-vis this issue or organization?
The BC NDP government has not issued a public comment on the operation. Oversight of mining in BC is currently the responsibility of local MLA and Minister of Mines and Energy, Michelle Mungall.
What role should the BC government play (ie. what is the Green Party’s solution)?
The BC Greens support the responsible development and use of resources for the needs of communities and the province, now and in the future. BC Greens support joint decision-making with Indigenous Peoples and local government on resource development. BC Greens recognize First Nations as equals in land management with provincial resource agencies. BC Greens support a co-management stewardship model with First Nations for the development of provincial resources.
In this case, that would mean active reengagement with North Shore residents and the Lower Kootenay Band.
What Should Your Do?
- Read the 2017_09_05_Alpine_Group_Mining_Fact Sheet created by the Duhamel Creek Watershed Society.
- Add your comments or ideas about this project in the comments below.
- If you live on the North Shore, join The Duhamel Creek Watershed Society and come out to their next event.
- Call or email Hon. Michelle Mungall, MLA, Minister of Mines and Energy’s office that you are concerned about this development.
- Share this post on social media.
