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(last updated 16 Jul 2008)

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> See also: New Uranium Mining Projects - Canada (Archive)

General

Map of Uranium Activities in Canada external link new window (15k - CCNR)
Map of Uranium Mining Developments in Saskatchewan and NWT external link new window (88k - Environment Canada)

 

Russia, Canada agree on joint uranium prospecting

On Nov. 29, 2007, Atomredmetzoloto Company signed an agreement with Cameco Corporation to set up joint ventures for geological prospecting and production of uranium in the Russian northwest and in Canadian provinces of Saskatchewan and Nunavut. (Itar-Tass, November 30, 2007)

 

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Yukon

The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Yukon: Cash Minerals Ltd. external link, International KRL Resources Corp. external link, Signet Minerals Inc. external link, Twenty-Seven Capital Corp., Fronteer Development Group Inc., Logan Resources Ltd. external link, Rimfire Minerals Corporation external link, Strategic Metals Ltd. external link, Fjordland Exploration Inc. external link, Copper Ridge Explorations Inc. external link, Landmark Minerals Inc. external link, Freegold Ventures Ltd external link

 

General

Wind River road project for Cash Minerals' uranium exploration project in the Wernecke Mountains

Environmentalists in the Yukon are preparing to fight a proposed winter road in the Wind River area, arguing that it would threaten one of North America's finest watersheds. Cash Minerals external link, which is exploring for uranium in the central Yukon area, included a winter road along the river in its land-use application. The proposed road, which would lead to the company's uranium claims, would follow an old mining road known as the Wind River Trail north of Keno.
But environmental groups say building the winter road would open the river area, which is part of what they call the Three Rivers region, to year-round road access. The Yukon Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Board external link is currently reviewing Cash Minerals' application and has extended the public comment period for it twice until Dec. 10, 2007. The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society external link (CPAWS) has issued an action alert to its members, saying the company's uranium mining venture is speculative and would pose huge risks for the pristine watershed. (CBC Nov. 20, 2007 / Dec. 7, 2007)

On Dec. 24, 2007, the district office of the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board (YESAB) recommended the approval to the Yukon government, with the provision that Cash Minerals Ltd. fulfill 46 specific conditions to minimize impact. The Yukon government has 30 days - until Jan. 28 - to accept, reject or alter the conditions recommended by the YESAB office. (Whitehorse Star Jan. 2, 2008)

On Jan. 22, 2008, the Yukon government has given Cash Minerals the green light to build a controversial winter road in the Wind River Valley area, but it also denied permission to build an airstrip along the route. The 178-kilometre winter road, to be built on the existing Wind River Trail north of Mayo, will allow Cash Minerals to haul equipment and supplies to its uranium mining claims in the area. The government's decision was based on recommendations from the Yukon Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Board, which approved both the road and airstrip. But information about the company's proposed airstrip was too vague to ensure it would not have adverse impacts on wilderness tourism activity in the region, according to officials with the government's lands branch, which is part of the Energy, Mines and Resources Department. (CBC Jan. 23, 2008)

> Access YESAB Online Registry (YOR) external link (Project No. 2007-0205: Wernecke Winter Road Access Project)
> View CPAWS release: Yukon's Three Rivers threatened by proposed mining exploration roads, Nov. 15, 2007 external link


Northwest Territories & Nunavut

> View extra page


British Columbia

The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in British Columbia: Aldershot Resources Ltd., Kaminak Gold Corporation external link, Santoy Resources Ltd. external link, Sparton Resources Inc. external link, International Ranger Corp. external link, Logan Resources Ltd. external link, International Montoro Resources Inc. external link, Gemco Minerals Inc. external link, EKG Minerals Inc. external link, American Creek Resources Ltd. external link, Hi Ho Silver Resources Inc. external link, Goldcliff Resource Corporation external link, Manson Creek Resources Ltd. external link, Golden Reign Resources Ltd. external link, Transglobal Mining Corp. external link, Castle Resources Inc. external link, Garnet Point Resources Corp. external link, Saturn Minerals Inc. external link, NXA Inc. external link

Uranium mining in British Columbia is opposed by Uranium Free B.C. Coalition, Yellowhead Ecological Association (YEA) external link, Committee for a Clean Kettle Valley (CCKV) external link.

On April 24, 2008, British Columbia imposed a ban on uranium exploration (view details)

General

Protests against proposed uranium exploration at Foghorn property

Around 300 people gathered on July 10, 2006, to protest the exploration of uranium deposits on the Foghorn property, the possibility of a mine, and uranium mining in general. The protestors gathered outside the Clearwater Resource Centre, where International Ranger Corporation external link held an open house to answer questions and concerns citizens of the valley had about the drilling and exploration that the company has applied for a permit for from the The Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources. (Clearwater Times July 17, 2006)


Alberta

The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Alberta: CanAlaska Ventures Limited external link, Firestone Ventures Inc. external link, International Ranger Corp. external link, Marum Resources Inc. external link, North American Gem Inc. external link, Geo Minerals Ltd. external link, Red Dragon Resources Corp. external link, Solitaire Minerals Corp. external link, Thelon Ventures Ltd. external link, Triex Minerals Corporation external link, Yellowcake PLC external link, Roughrider Uranium Corp., Fission Energy Corp., Tribune Uranium Corp. external link, Black Hawk Exploration Inc. external link, Dumont Nickel Inc. external link


Saskatchewan

> View extra page


Manitoba

The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Manitoba: CanAlaska Ventures Limited external link, Crescent Resources Corp. external link, RJK Explorations Ltd. external link, Santoy Resources Ltd. external link, Signet Minerals Inc. external link, ValGold Resources Ltd. external link, Rare Earth Metals Corp. external link, Hinterland Metals Inc. external link, Callinan Mines Ltd external link, Temex Resources Corp. external link


Ontario

The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Ontario: CanAlaska Ventures Limited external link, Ressources d'Arianne Inc. external link, El Nino Ventures Inc. external link, Quincy Energy Corp., India Star Energy PLC (Croydon, UK) external link, East West Resource Corp. external link, Mega Uranium Ltd., Pele Mountain Resources Inc. external link, RPT Uranium Corp. external link, Sea Green Capital Corp. external link, Starfire Minerals Inc. external link, Ursa Major Minerals Inc., Benton Resources Corp. external link, Gravity West Mining Corp. external link, Cascadia International Resources Inc. external link, Gold Canyon Resources Inc. external link, AntOro Resources Inc. external link, Jourdan Resources Inc. external link, CanAm Uranium Corp. external link, Quest Uranium Corporation external link, Nyah Resources Inc. external link, Sarissa Resources, Inc. external link, Shoreham Resources Ltd. external link, RJK Explorations Ltd. external link, Consolidated Abaddon Resources Inc. external link, Atomic Uranium Inc., Grand Cru Resources Corporation external link, North American Gem Inc. external link, Frontenac Ventures Corporation external link, Callinan Mines Ltd external link, Cromwell Uranium Corp. external link, Temex Resources Corp. external link, Baltic Resources Inc. external link, Coral Rapids Minerals Inc. external link, Creso Resources Inc. external link, Longview Capital Partners Inc. external link, Hawk Uranium Inc. external link, Golden Dawn Minerals Inc external link, ABV Gold Inc. external link, Universal Power Corp. external link, Naples Capital Corp. external link, Delta Uranium Inc. external link, Brownstone Resources Inc. external link, Carina Energy Inc., Bancroft Uranium Inc. external link, Verbina Resources Inc. external link, Appia Energy Corp. external link

Uranium mining in Ontario is being opposed by the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation external link (AAFNA), the Sharbot Lake Algonquin First Nation external link, Community Coalition Against Mining Uranium external link, Environment Haliburton (EH!) external link, Fight Uranium Mining and Exploration (FUME) external link, and Safe and Green Energy (SAGE) external link.

 

General

Coalition group demands stop of uranium mining in Ontario until study is done on impact

Uranium exploration should be suspended in Ontario until its impact on health, the environment and aboriginal land rights is properly addressed, said a report released on June 24, 2008, by the Community Coalition Against Mining Uranium. The report emerged from a series of public meetings in Ottawa, Sharbot Lake, Kingston and Peterborough in April. It also called for a royal commission to review Ontario's Mining Act, deeming it out of date. The meetings were part of a citizens' inquiry conducted by the coalition of concerned citizens from the greater Ottawa Valley and the Kingston areas. (Ottawa Citizen June 25, 2008)

> Download Staking our Claim for a Healthy Future, Report of Citizens' Inquiry into the Impacts of the Uranium Cycle, held in April 2008 in Eastern Ontario, convened by the Community Coalition Against Uranium Mining, June 24, 2008 external link (1.8M PDF)

 

Peterborough City Council opposes uranium mining in Otonabee River watershed

On June 16, 2008, Peterborough City Council called for the province to suspend uranium exploration. Council unanimously approved the resolution to ask the province for a moratorium until all environmental and health issues related to uranium mining are resolved. (The Peterborough Examiner June 17, 2008)

City council wants the province to halt uranium exploration, mining and related processing in the Otonabee River watershed to protect the city's water supply. Council, sitting as committee of the whole last night, supported a motion presented by an anti-nuclear group -Safe and Green Energy external link. It's an opportunity for council to take a leadership role for protecting the city's water source, Coun. Doug Peacock said. "There has been widespread acceptance of this approach across the province," he said.
Safe and Green Energy states 19 Ontario municipalities have already passed resolutions calling on the province to place a moratorium on uranium mining and exploration in eastern Ontario. (The Peterborough Examiner June 10, 2008)

 

Serpent River First Nation says "no" to uranium exploration

There is a battle brewing between a North Shore First Nation and the Ontario government when it comes to exploring for minerals in the area. The chief of Serpent River First Nation external link (SRFN) said his band members do not want to see any uranium exploration of any kind on or near their territory.
"It has come to the point where we must insist on decisive action from the Ontario government on a list of matters pertaining to development in our traditional territory including the exploration of minerals, especially uranium," said SRFN Chief Isadore Day (Wiindawtegowinini). "I'm concerned that private sector proponents for development are moving faster than government responses to consultation requirements for First Nations." "It poses real challenges between industry and First Nations when government moves slower in First Nation negotiations than it does when pushing through proponent approvals for expropriation of Crown Lands." He went on to say, "What's worse is that consultation and accommodation requirements are not even in the form of mutually agreed policy between the Crown and the First Nations, and yet government is approving land expropriation in favor of development in traditional lands." (Mid-North Monitor May 6, 2008)

 

Ottawa council calls for uranium moratorium in eastern Ontario

Ottawa city council is urging Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty to temporarily ban uranium prospecting, exploration and mining in eastern Ontario and the Ottawa River watershed. The council voted 18-1 on Feb. 27, 2008, in favour of a motion calling on the province to impose the moratorium immediately and to keep it in effect until all environmental and health issues related to uranium mining are "resolved," and until there are settlement plans for all related aboriginal land claims. (CBC Feb. 27, 2008)

 

Uranium exploration in Northern Frontenac County

Ontario court calls native uranium mining protest punishment 'too harsh'
First Nation leaders who were jailed and fined for protests against uranium mining last summer will now have a chance to appeal the decision. On July 7, 2008 Ontario's highest court ruled that the contempt of court sentences against the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation and Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation were "too harsh." Robert Lovelace, a retired Ardoch Algonquin First Nation chief and his co-chief Paula Sherman, along with six others, were each sentenced to six months in jail over disputes with mining companies. Lovelace was fined $25,000, while Sherman was fined $15,000. (Ottawa Citizen July 7, 2008)

Charges against protesters opposing uranium exploration in Northern Frontenac County withdrawn
On June 2, 2008, retired Ardoch Algonquin First Nation chief Robert Lovelace and 10 other protesters appeared in Kingston's courthouse for alleged contempt incidents from last fall and were not included in the original proceedings. Three of the other protesters who appeared were members of the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation; another is a member of the Shabot Obaadjiwan First Nation; the other six were not of aboriginal descent. Frontenac Ventures agreed to withdraw charges. (Ottawa Citizen June 3, 2008)

Algonquin leader released from jail
Robert Lovelace, a retired Ardoch Algonquin First Nation chief jailed on contempt-of-court charges on Feb. 15, 2008, has been released after the Ontario Appeal Court in Toronto reduced the six-month sentences of seven aboriginal protesters jailed over disputes with mining companies to time served. (Ottawa Citizen May 28, 2008)

Jailed Algonquin leader calls for end of colonialism
The property rights of all Ontario residents are being threatened by archaic mining laws that allow companies to stake land anywhere they like, aboriginal protesters said on May 26, 2008, before a swelling crowd that gathered on the front lawn of the provincial legislature to demand change.
The group called for the release of Bob Lovelace and also played a recording he made from jail to share with the crowd. In it, Lovelace called for an end to "colonialism" and compared the situation of Canada's aboriginals to that of organized labour and apartheid South Africa. "Our time is now and I say that any political party or government in Canada that defends and perpetuates colonialism is not fit to govern," he said to much applause. (Canadian Press May 27, 2008)

Jailed Algonquin leader begins hunger strike
Bob Lovelace, who turned 60 in jail, announced that he will begin a hunger strike tomorrow to press the government to respond to Ardoch's request for good faith negotiations. "I do not want my children and grandchildren to have to go through what we are going through" he said. "Starting tomorrow I will consume only water in the hopes that our cry for justice will be heard by Mr. McGuinty and Mr. Bryant." (CCAMU May 15, 2008)

Musicians, authors and actors call for release of jailed aboriginal leaders
Author Margaret Atwood, actor Cathy Jones and musician Sarah Harmer are among 20 prominent Canadians calling on Premier Dalton McGuinty to immediately free seven jailed aboriginal leaders and stop controversial mineral exploration across the province (of Ontario). In a letter being sent to McGuinty on April 22, 2008, the group - which also includes former UN ambassador Stephen Lewis - pleads the case of jailed aboriginals trying to stop mining in their traditional northern territory, and says mining shouldn't take precedence over people's homes and health.
Six members of the Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI) First Nation, including Chief Donny Morris and Deputy Chief Jack MacKay, were sentenced to six months in jail last December after ignoring an injunction allowing Platinex to start drilling on traditional aboriginal territory 600 kilometres north of Thunder Bay, Ont. Retired Algonquin chief Bob Lovelace was also sentenced to six months in jail for his role in opposing a uranium project in eastern Ontario.
"We support the right of a community to say NO to mineral exploration and mining projects that threaten the health of people and ecosystems in Ontario," states the letter. (CBC Apr. 21, 2008)

Three Sharbot Lake uranium protesters avoid jail
Three people accused of protesting at a prospective uranium mining site in eastern Ontario in defiance of two court injunctions will not go to jail. The three protesters appeared before Justice Douglas Cunningham on March 18, 2008, in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice to face contempt of court charges in connection with the occupation last year of a property near Sharbot Lake, about 60 kilometres north of Kingston. Charges against two of the protesters were withdrawn. A third protester agreed to stay away from the property in question in exchange for avoiding jail time. (CBC Mar. 18, 2008)

Hundreds protest Ardoch Algonquin leader's jailing
A peaceful protest at the Quinte Detention Centre in Napanee on Feb. 23, 2008, drew about 400 people to protest the sentencing of Robert Lovelace. More than 400 people marched on the Quinte Detention Centre in Napanee Saturday, banging drums and waving placards in protest of the jailing of a retired Ardoch Algonquin First Nation chief on charges of contempt. (Ottawa Citizen Feb. 23, 2008)

Nishnawbe Aski Nation demands Ontario settles Ardoch Algonquin land dispute
Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) external link Grand Chief Stan Beardy demands the Premier of Ontario negotiate a settlement regarding the ongoing land dispute on traditional Ardoch Algonquin First Nation (AAFN) territory, rather than using the courts to delay a political solution.
"The solution to unsettled land claims is not jail time or fines," said NAN Grand Chief Stan Beardy. "We're in a situation where First Nation people are being criminalized for practising constitutionally protected Aboriginal and treaty rights - our way of life on the land. These extreme positions by Ontario to support court proceedings rather than negotiating settlements could seriously jeopardize new meaningful relationships not only in Algonquin territory, but across the province."
Nishnawbe Aski Nation is a political territorial organization representing 49 First Nation communities part of James Bay Treaty 9 and Ontario portions of Treaty 5. (Nishnawbe Aski Nation Feb. 20, 2008)

Amnesty International condemns sentencing and fine of Algonquin leader
Amnesty International condemned the sentencing and $25,000 fine of a member of the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation for his role in the Algonquins' protest and occupation over uranium mining on disputed land near Sharbot Lake. The group said the blame for the situation rests with the provincial government. "Indigenous leaders and their supporters are facing stiff punishments for doing what they feel is necessary to protect rights that may one day be upheld in court or in the land claims process. Meanwhile the provincial government is ignoring its own legal obligations without any accountability," said Craig Benjamin, Amnesty International Canada's Campaigner for the Human Rights of Indigenous Peoples. In a release, the group called on the province to work with aboriginals to reform provincial laws and policies and commit to a negotiated resolution of the dispute. (The Kingston Whig-Standard Feb. 19, 2008)
> View Amnesty Canada release Feb. 19, 2008 external link

Algonquin leaders sentenced to six months in jail for blocking uranium exploration site
Leaders of an eastern Ontario First Nation community have been sentenced to six months in jail for defying a court order and blocking a prospective uranium mining site last summer and fall. Paula Sherman and Robert Lovelace, co-chiefs of the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation, were sentenced by a Kingston, Ont., judge on Feb. 15, 2008, after being found guilty of contempt of court.
Paula Sherman then announced that she would obey the court injunctions in order to avoid serving time, as she is the single mother of three children. That means she must stay away from the site and not participate in any protests there. The judge agreed, but said Sherman must still pay her fine of C$15,000. (CBC Feb. 15, 2008)

Shabot Obaadjiwan First Nation will obey court order concerning uranium mining site near Sharbot Lake, while Ardoch Algonquin First Nation will continue defying it
Two eastern Ontario First Nations communities are no longer united in defying a court order concerning a prospective uranium mining site near Sharbot Lake. Chief Doreen Davis and another senior official from the Shabot Obaadjiwan First Nation told an Ontario court Tuesday that they plan to honour the order, which gives the mining exploration company Frontenac Ventures Corp. unfettered access to the site about 60 kilometres north of Kingston, Ont. (CBC Feb. 13, 2008)

Algonquins resume blockade at Sharbot Lake uranium site
Protesters from two First Nations communities have resumed blocking a prospective uranium mining site in eastern Ontario. The Ardoch Algonquin and Shabot Obaadjiwan First Nations returned to the site near Sharbot Lake, Ont., after mediation talks with the Ontario government that began last fall broke down. Robert Lovelace, co-chief of the Ardoch First Nation, said the protesters are standing outside the gate to the site because they are concerned the mining exploration company Frontenac Ventures Corp. will start test drills there, as it is legally entitled to do. (CBC Feb. 7, 2008)

Talks between province and aboriginal groups about proposed uranium mining in Eastern Ontario end without resolution
Negotiations over the future of Eastern Ontario lands marked for uranium mining by a private corporation have fallen apart, leaving those involved ready "to secure our territory," says a spokesman for one of the two aboriginal groups involved in the debate. Since September 2007, mediated talks have been ongoing between the province and two aboriginal groups, the Ardoch Algonquin and Shabot Obaadjiwan First Nations communities, which oppose a plan by Frontenac Ventures Corporation to mine for uranium in the Sharbot Lake area. Robert Lovelace, a retired chief who is acting as a negotiator for the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation, told the Citizen Wednesday that the talks ended earlier this week after the sides could not come to a resolution. (Ottawa Citizen Feb. 6, 2008)

Hunger strike against Frontenac uranium mine project reaches day 24
Donna Dillman is commited to carry on a hunger strike to pressure the Ontario government towards calling an inquiry into the environmental impact of uranium mining. (The Frontenac News Nov. 1, 2007)

Ontario Algonquins suspend uranium site occupation
Two First Nations communities have temporarily left a prospective uranium mining site in eastern Ontario they have occupied since June 2007 after reaching an agreement with the Ontario government to begin mediation talks.
Consequently, on Oct. 19, 2007, their protest camp at the site was unoccupied and about 100 people from the two First Nations were instead gathered along the road outside its closed gate. The Algonquins are allowing Frontenac Ventures to do minor work at the site, but will not allow them to do any drilling. (CBC Oct. 19, 2007)

Judge orders Algonquins to leave uranium exploration site immediately
A judge has granted Frontenac Ventures Corporation an injunction ordering a group of aboriginal protesters off the site of a proposed uranium mine in eastern Ontario. The decision by Associate Chief Justice Douglas Cunningham of the Superior Court of Justice external link means the protesters must leave the property immediately and allow Frontenac workers access to the site. (Canadian Press Oct. 1, 2007)

Judge orders Algonquins to leave uranium exploration site
A judge has ordered a group of Algonquins blocking access to a proposed uranium mine north of Sharbot Lake to leave the property immediately. Justice Gordon Thomson of the Ontario Superior court issued a written interim injunction on Aug. 27, 2007, ordering the protesters to leave the property and allow the company, Frontenac Ventures Corporation, on the land. The interim injunction stands until a full hearing can be heard, beginning Sept. 20, 2007. The lawyer for the Ardoch Algonquins said his clients are "not going to leave". (The Kingston Whig-Standard / The Ontario Citizen Aug. 28, 2007)

Firm files CDN$ 100 million suit against Algonquins over blockade of proposed uranium mine site
On July 25, 2007, Frontenac Ventures Corporation filed a $100-million lawsuit against the local Algonquin nations and their leaders and are seeking an injunction to remove the protesters blockade from the entrance of a proposed uranium mining site north of Sharbot Lake. The suit was filed in the Superior Court of Ontario external link, and will be heard in Kingston on July 30, 2007. (The Kingston Whig-Standard July 26, 2007)
On July 30, 2007, the lawyers representing the two sides were asked by a judge to try to reach a temporary compromise until a full trial can take place in September 2007. They'll attempt that compromise on August 2, 2007. (The Kingston Whig-Standard July 31, 2007)

Ontario Algonquins reject financial "compensation" offer from uranium company
Aboriginal protesters occupying the site of a potential uranium mine in eastern Ontario have rejected the mining company's offer of financial compensation. Officials and lawyers from Frontenac Ventures Corp. met with members of the Shabot Obaadjiwan and Ardoch Algonquin First Nations on July 17, 2007, and offered $10,000 to the communities to end their protest. But Randy Cota, Ardoch's co-chief, told the company "our land and our principles are not for sale." The company's lawyers then threatened legal action to gain access to the site. The protesters have occupied the site since June 29, 2007. (CBC July 18, 2007)

Algonquin First Nation protests against uranium exploration in Northern Frontenac County in eastern Ontario
The Algonquin First Nation, along with non-natives, have occupied a proposed mining site on Hwy. 509 at Robertsville, north of Sharbot Lake, since June 28, 2007. On the afternoon of July 8, 2007, nearly 300 protesters held a march against uranium mining in the Crotch Lake region. (Ottawa Citizen July 8, 2007; Ottawa Sun July 9, 2007)

Days of protest put uranium exploration at North Frontenac in eastern Ontario on hold
A uranium mining company has put its operations on hold in an eastern Ontario community, leaving residents with mixed feelings. Frontenac Ventures external link left North Frontenac Township, about 110 kilometres southwest of Ottawa, last week, after local First Nations threatened to hold a day or multiple days of protest. Frontenac plans to develop uranium deposits in the area. Both the Sharbot Lake Algonquin First Nation external link and the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation external link say they are opposed to the development, which involves mainly Crown land that is the subject of ongoing land claim negotiations with the provincial and federal governments. George White, president of Frontenac Ventures, said Chief Doreen Davis of the Sharbot Lake Algonquin First Nation asked the company to withdraw until the days of protest are complete. (CBC June 25, 2007)

 

Elliot Lake deposits (Denison Mines Inc.)

On June 19, 2007, Denison Mines Inc. announced that a historic resource of 78,846 tonnes U at a grade of 0.06% U still is contained in its deposits in the Elliot Lake area.
The Elliot Lake mining complex operated by Denison was closed in 1992. "Denison notes that it has no plans at this time to commence mining operations at Elliot Lake; however, the Company will continue to review the project in light of the continuing strength in the uranium market."

 

Elliot Lake Property (Pele Mtn.)

On March 29, 2007, Pele Mountain Resources Inc. external link announced the continued advancement of technical, economic, and environmental scoping studies at its 100-percent owned Elliot Lake Uranium project in Northern Ontario. The focus of the ongoing studies is to establish the basis for economically viable, safe and environmentally compliant mining and processing facilities at Elliot Lake.


Québec

The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Québec: Aldershot Resources Ltd., Azimut Exploration Inc. external link, Kennecott Exploration Company, Cash Minerals Ltd. external link, Consolidated Pacific Bay Minerals, Ltd. external link, Ressources d'Arianne Inc. external link, Ditem Explorations, Inc. external link, Eloro Resources Ltd. external link, Entourage Mining Ltd. external link, Fieldex Exploration Inc. external link, U Mining Resources Inc. external link, Globex Mining Enterprises Inc. external link, Golden Valley Mines Ltd. external link, Laramide Resources Ltd., Matamec Explorations Inc. external link, Metalex Ventures Ltd. external link, Nova Uranium Corp., Quinto Mining Inc. external link, BacTech Mining Corporation external link, Starfire Minerals Inc. external link, Strateco Resources Inc. external link, Uranium Mining Corporation plc. external link, Waseco Resources Inc. external link, Uramin Inc., Uranium Mines of Canada, Plc., Cameco, NWT Uranium Corp., AntOro Resources Inc. external link, Uracan Resources Ltd. external link, Sheridan Platinum Group Ltd, Anglo-Canadian Uranium Corp. external link, Fort Chimo Minerals Inc. external link, Limestone Basin Exploration Ltd. external link, Uranor Inc., Virginia Mines Inc. external link, Uranium Star Corp. external link, Richmond Minerals Inc. external link, Freewest Resources Canada Inc. external link, Dios Exploration Inc. external link, Xemplar Energy Corp. external link, Noront Resources Ltd. external link, Hawk Uranium Inc. external link, Aurizon Mines Ltd. external link, Ressources Appalaches external link, Landmark Minerals Inc. external link, Big Red Diamond Corp. external link, Jetcom Inc. external link, Yellowcake Resources Inc. external link, Kodiak Exploration Ltd. external link, Hinterland Metals Inc. external link, Lexam Explorations Inc. external link, Kakanda Resources Corp. external link, Santoy Resources Ltd. external link, Majescor Resources Inc. external link, International Kirkland Minerals Inc. external link, Pro-Spect-Or Resources Inc. external link, Otish Energy Inc. external link, Abbastar Uranium Corp. external link, NioGold Mining Corp. external link, Stellar Pacific Ventures Inc. external link, Typhoon Exploration Inc. external link, Everton Resources Inc. external link, Canam Energy Inc. external link, Terra Ventures Inc. external link, VVC Exploration Corp. external link, Manicouagan Minerals Inc. external link, Icon Industries Limited external link, Diagnos Inc. external link, Augyva Mining Resources Inc. external link, Novawest Resources Inc. external link, Colt Resources Inc. external link, Core Resources Ltd external link, Sirios Resources Inc. external link, U Mining Resources Inc. external link, Vior Inc. external link, Perihelion Canada, Inc. external link, Bearclaw Capital Corp. external link, Tribune Uranium Corp. external link, Fission Energy Corp., Central Uranium Corporation, Abitex Resources Inc. external link, Channel Resources Ltd. external link, Vantex Resources Ltd. external link, Northfield Metals Inc. external link, Amseco Exploration Ltd. external link, Kativik Resources Inc., Midland Exploration Inc. external link, Western Troy Capital Resources Inc. external link, Société québécoise d'exploration minière (SOQUEM) external link, Commerce Resources Corp. external link, Razor Resources Inc external link, Quest Uranium Corporation external link, Nebu Resources Inc. external link, Fancamp Exploration Ltd. external link

 

Uranium mining development in Québec is being opposed by l'Association pour la Protection de l'Environnement des Hautes-Laurentides (APEHL) external link.
See also blog by Michael Patenaude: "Oppose Uranium Exploration and Mining in West Quebec! external link"

 

General

NGOs and local government oppose uranium exploration and mining near proposed Kuururjuaq Park in Nunavik (Québec)

Uranium exploration companies don't want Kuururjuaq, Nunavik's second provincial park, to prevent them from mining near the area. But several other groups want to see park boundaries expanded by 1,800 sq km to protect rare fossils, pristine lakes, and caribou breeding grounds nearby. Arguments for the two opposing views surfaced during public hearings held March 14 and 15, 2007 external link, in Kangiqsualujjuaq on planning for Kuururjuaq Park. Azimut Exploration Inc. external link, a Montreal-based firm with a uranium property near Kuururjuaq, strongly opposes any limits on mineral exploration or mining near the park.
But Makivik Corporation external link said the birthright organization has "very serious reservations" about plans for uranium mining near Kuururjuaq, which includes a scenic mineral-rich belt near the Torngat Mountains. And the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society external link and the Kativik Regional Government external link (KRG) want to see a buffer zone as well as an expansion of the park's boundaries at Mont Nuvulialuk and around Tasikallak Bay. These groups want the park's boundaries expanded by 1,800 sq km at the south and north ends to protect fossils and lakes near Tasikallak and unique land features near Nuvialuk that date back to the last ice age, including rocky ice fields and remnants of ancient shorelines. (Nunatsiaq News Apr. 20, 2007)

Demonstration against uranium exploration in Québec

On June 3, 2006, about 70 people gathered at Mont-Laurier to protest against uranium exploration in Québec. The demonstration was organized by the environmental organisation l'Association pour la Protection de l'Environnement des Hautes-Laurentides (APEHL) external link, and a group of students. (L'Écho de la Lièvre, June 20, 2006)
> View photos external link


Newfoundland and Labrador

The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Newfoundland and Labrador: Altius Minerals Corp., Monroe Minerals Inc. external link, Fronteer Development Group Inc., Aurora Energy Resources Inc., Commander Resources Ltd. external link, Crosshair Exploration & Mining Corp, Monster Copper Corporation, Pathfinder Resources Ltd. external link, Santoy Resources Ltd. external link, Consolidated Abaddon Resources Inc. external link, Golden Valley Mines Ltd. external link, Uranium Mining Corporation plc. external link, Waseco Resources Inc. external link, Bayswater Uranium Corporation external link, Universal Uranium Ltd. external link, Silver Spruce Resources Inc. external link, Landmark Minerals Inc. external link, Belmont Resources Inc. external link, International Montoro Resources Inc. external link, Denison Mines Corp., Freewest Resources Canada Inc. external link, Uranium Star Corp. external link, Ucore Uranium Inc. external link, Vulcan Minerals Inc. external link, Spruce Ridge Resources Ltd. external link, Cornerstone Capital Resources Inc. external link, Cash Minerals Ltd. external link, Running Fox Resource Corp. external link, Global Gold Uranium, LLC external link, New Island Resources Inc. external link, Newfoundland Goldbar Resources Inc. external link, Golden Cross Resources Ltd external link, Capella Resources Ltd. external link, Quest Uranium Corporation external link, High Tide Resources Inc., Alpha Uranium Resources Inc., Atikwa Minerals Corp. external link

Uranium mining in Labrador is opposed by Makkovik Uranium Committee.

 

General

Nunatsiavut Government imposes 3-year moratorium on uranium mining on Labrador Inuit Lands

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Labrador Inuit delay vote on uranium mining ban in Nunatsiavut

Inuit politicians balked on March 6, 2008, at passing legislation that would ban uranium mining for three years in Nunatsiavut, the land settlement area in northern Labrador. A bill calling for a three-year moratorium passed easily on first reading at a meeting on March 5, 2008, of the Nunatsiavut assembly in Hopedale. The bill stalled, however, during second reading when some assembly members said they wanted to consult their constituents before a final vote. The Nunatsiavut assembly will meet again in April 2008 for debate and a final vote on the legislation. (CBC Mar. 7, 2008)

Labrador Inuit ponder ban on uranium mining

Labrador's Inuit assembly is considering a motion that would ban uranium mining on land it governs. Aurora Energy is hoping to develop a uranium mine near the coastal Labrador community of Postville within the next decade. The plan has divided people in Postville and nearby communities, with some embracing the prospect of high-paying jobs and others deeply worried about long-term environmental risks. A motion, which is scheduled to go to second reading in the Nunatsiavut assembly in November, directs the self-government not to consent to a mine or mill on Inuit-owned lands. (CBC Oct. 18, 2007)

 

Michelin project, Labrador

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On June 19, 2008, Aurora Energy Resources Inc. announced the creation of a new panel that "will give community representatives from coastal Labrador input into project planning and key environmental work". Aurora is currently seeking applications from coastal Labrador citizens who are interested in participating in the Michelin Project Community Panel. Deadline for applications is July 14, 2008.

Aboriginal groups living near a proposed uranium mine site in northern Labrador say they want more information about how the development will affect their communities.
The uranium deposits lie within land that is owned by Labrador Inuit. Terry Rice, town manager in Makkovik, near where the mine will be located, said a land use plan for that area has yet to be worked out and the mine will have to come after that agreement is reached. He thinks the company's plan to begin construction in three years is too optimistic.
Innu Nation President Daniel Ashini said the Innu need to be included in Aurora development plans, too, because the company is planning to build a service road to the mine that he said will go through Innu land. (CBC Aug. 22, 2007)

On Aug. 20, 2007, Aurora Energy Resources Inc. announced that it has advanced its Michelin Project to the pre-feasibility stage. Aurora anticipates formally registering the Michelin Project with the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency by the end of the year. Pending completion of the necessary regulatory approvals and a positive feasibility study, Aurora estimates it could begin mine construction as soon as 2010 and commence production in 2013.

 

Melody Lake property, Labrador

The Nunatsiavut government external link in Labrador is hosting public meetings in Makkovik and Postville this week to hear from people who are concerned about a proposed uranium mine. Aurora Energy Resources is test-drilling in several areas near the Labrador communities and company officials say they're close to deciding if a mine is feasible. (CBC Apr. 10, 2007)

Aurora Energy Resources Inc. has been given approval to test-drill for uranium in a Labrador lake, but will need to have an environmental monitor in place. The company plans to start its winter drilling program through ice at Melody Lake on March 15, 2007.
Previously, the Newfoundland and Labrador government had ruled that third-party monitoring at Melody Lake was not necessary. Residents of nearby communities, as well as the watchdog group Mining Watch external link, had appealed for independent monitoring at the exploration site. (Radio Canada Feb. 19, 2007)


New Brunswick

The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in New Brunswick: Freewest Resources Canada Inc. external link, Cornerstone Capital Resources Inc. external link, Geodex Minerals Ltd. external link, CVRD Inco Limited external link, Capella Resources Ltd. external link, Quest Uranium Corporation external link

Uranium mining in New Brunswick is opposed by Support Citizens Against Radioactive Emissions external link (SCARE NB), Southeast Chapter of the Conservation Council of New Brunswick external link, Nuclear Free NB external link

 

800 voice concerns on uranium exploration in New Brunswick

More than 800 people gathered at the Capitol Theatre in Moncton on Thursday (June 5, 2008) night to voice their concerns on uranium exploration in New Brunswick. The information session was hosted by the Department of Natural Resources, the second in as many nights of what one audience member dubbed the "Too Little, Too Late" tour.
The department brought together a panel of experts from various provincial and federal agencies who did manage to shine enough light on the subjects of uranium, radon, exploration and mining practices to allay some fears. But the experts came up short in providing guarantees that uranium could be safely extracted without threats to human health and the environment. The experts also couldn't compensate for the fact their political masters weren't there facing the electorate.
(The Daily Gleaner June 6, 2008)

Landowners stake claims to repel uranium prospectors

Residents of New Brunswick have found a new way to protect their land from mining companies by becoming independent mineral prospectors. For $25, anyone can stake a mineral claim to their land, according to the Department of Natural Resources. "The only requirement we have is that you be 16 years of age and live somewhere on this planet," said Ron Shaw, who's in charge of issuing licences for the department. Shaw said in the past year he's met several people who are becoming prospectors to protect their own land, which is perfectly legal even if they don't intend to explore it. Shaw said claims, which last for a year, have to apply to a piece of land that measures 400 metres by 400 metres or 40 acres. Once a claim is made, the prospector has first rights to renew it. (CBC May 28, 2008)

New Brunswick Tory opposition (!) concerned about health hazards from uranium exploration

The Opposition is calling on government to immediately begin tracking all core samples removed from the province by companies exploring for uranium, from the time it's extracted from the ground to its eventual destination. The Conservatives devoted a part of question period on May 27, 2008, to grilling Natural Resources Minister Donald Arseneault on the location of core samples being taken from Harvey, which is located west of Fredericton, to Ancaster, Ontario.
York Tory MLA Carl Urquhart asked government how the approximately 3,000 metres of samples were transported, whether they were securely stored and how many times inspectors visited the drill sites. Under new guidelines, companies are required to securely store any samples with measurable radioactivity away from the public. "Uranium exploration in New Brunswick is totally out of control. The government does not know where people are prospecting for uranium. It does not know where the drill sites are. It says it does not have the inspectors to monitor these sites," said Urquhart. (Times & Transcript May 28, 2008)

More than 30 environmental organizations call for uranium ban in New Brunswick

A group of environmental organizations has joined forces to call for an immediate ban on uranium exploration and mining in the province. About 30 groups have endorsed the ban on any uranium-related mining work, citing health and environmental hazards. "The important thing here is the risk, in my opinion, is higher because of the material that we're dealing with here," said Tim Van Hinte of the Petitcodiac Riverkeeper. "Uranium is not like other materials -- it's not like copper, it's not like nickel... it has radioactive byproducts." (Times & Transcript May 15, 2008)

Moncton city council wants province to ban uranium exploration

The city council in Moncton, N.B., wants the provincial government to ban exploration and mining for uranium. It is sending copies of a resolution to that effect to all local members of the legislature asking for their support. Councillor Pierre Boudreau says uranium may be big money, but it's nothing compared to people's health and that of the environment. (Canadian Press Mar. 18, 2008)


Nova Scotia

The following companies are performing prospection and/or exploration "but not for uranium" in Nova Scotia: Capella Resources Ltd. external link, Tripple Uranium Resources Inc. external link

Uranium mining in Nova Scotia is opposed by Citizens Action to Protect the Environment (CAPE) (Hants County), Citizens Allied to Ban Uranium Mining.

Nova Scotia has had a moratorium on uranium exploration and mining since 1982. If a company finds uranium in concentrations greater than 100 parts per million, it must report those results and stop digging. (The Daily News Jan. 3, 2008)

On April 1, 2008, Capella Resources Ltd announced that the logging of drill holes at the Titus Project yielded uranium values over 100 parts per million (ppm), a uranium threshold that required the company to notify the Nova Scotia Government pursuant to the Mineral Resources Regulations (Nova Scotia) made under the Mineral Resources Act (Nova Scotia). "Unexpectedly, the calibrated down-the-hole gamma/resistivity probe reported significant concentrations of uranium in five of eleven drill holes with a maximum hole separation of more than 1 kilometer, and a peak value of 0.815% eU3O8 intersected in hole TS-004."

 

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