Taseko mines has undertaken extensive research in support of the development of a gold-copper mine in the Cariboo-Chilcotin region over the course of more than 17 years. This has resulted in thorough proposals that aim to bring economic revitalization to the region while minimizing environmental and cultural impact.

The New Prosperity Gold-Copper Project has undergone a lengthy examination by both the Provincial and Federal Governments and was found to have no significant environmental effects to air quality, water quality, wildlife or vegetation; no risk to fish in the Taseko River; and no risk to human health.

The Provincial Government, which is responsible for mining, approved the project. The Government of Canada however said “no” to the original project as proposed in November of 2010, saying the impacts to fish habitat, navigation, grizzly bears and to First Nations culture, heritage and traditional use could not be justified. The Government of Canada then invited Taseko to submit a new redesigned project proposal to address these specific concerns raised by the federal environmental review process.

Taseko has now completed this project redesign which is consistent with the provincial approval and addresses the federal concerns by saving Fish Lake, reducing disturbance to land and water habitat, reducing impact to navigation, providing greater protection for grizzly bears, and significantly reducing impact to First Nations use and cultural heritage.

Given that Taseko has diligently addressed all of the Federal Government concerns, the New Prosperity Gold-Copper Project is well poised to move ahead with this revitalization effort that has garnered substantial community support. The large-scale economic value and social benefit for people in the region and for BC and Canada remains significant. This economic stimulus is needed now more than ever.