Okane Consultants mine closure elk valley

Investing in Communities

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Background

North Coal’s Michel Coal Project near Sparwood, British Columbia is anticipating producing 2 million clean tonnes of high-quality steelmaking coal per year. With a 25-year mine life and location within the asserted traditional territory of the Ktunaxa Nation, North Coal believes in investing responsibly and engaging the communities affected early on. They are committed to working with the leadership and knowledge-holders of the Ktunaxa Nation regarding their interests, concerns, values, and policy objectives.

Approach

Okane has helped North Coal take a proactive approach to risk mitigation while being an active and engaging participant in community collaboration workshops. This collaboration led to the incorporation of Traditional Knowledge into the Progressive Reclamation and Closure Plan (PRAC) and a “water quality by design” approach for the mine rock storage facilities. Throughout the development of the PRAC, Okane listened, learned, and developed a working relationship with Ktunaxa knowledge holders and elders.

After

Okane’s approach to collaborative engagement ensured incorporation of the principles of ʔamakʔis into the PRAC, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to risk management throughout operations and a deep consideration of mine closure, and those affected at the beginning of the project lifecycle.

(unknown). Michel Coal project. North Coal LTD.

Developing progressive reclamation and closure plans with early and ongoing collaboration with local communities and Indigenous knowledge holders.