Vitreo Minerals Plans Silica Mine Near Prince George by 2026

The CEO of Vitreo Minerals Ltd., Scott Broughton, announced during a meeting on October 16, 2023, that the company expects to receive environmental approval for its proposed silica mine in early 2026. The mine is planned to be located approximately 60 kilometres north of Prince George, British Columbia, and aims to supply silica sand for the liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry, particularly for fracking in the Montney Basin.

Broughton addressed the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George board of directors via remote connection, sharing that the company’s new logo now features a maple leaf, a response to trade tensions under former U.S. President Donald Trump. The proposed Angus Project will extract silica sand, which is essential for maintaining the fractures created during the fracking process. Currently, around seven million tons of silica are imported from Wisconsin, USA, to meet industry demands.

“Our aim is not to replace all of that imported material, but to provide some market stability,” Broughton explained. He highlighted the challenges associated with transporting silica via CN Rail and noted that the demand for local supply is expected to rise significantly as LNG operations expand.

The silica extraction site will be situated about 19 kilometres east of Highway 97, along the Chuchinka Log Lake Forest Service Road. Following extraction, the sand will undergo processing at a facility located approximately 10 kilometres south of Bear Lake. Broughton assured board members that the operation would prioritize environmental considerations, including plans to backfill the quarry and restore the site post-operation.

Seasonal operations are planned, with mining activities occurring predominantly in warmer months to avoid winter challenges. The processing plant will operate year-round, utilizing gas-fired kilns to dry the sand before it is screened and stored in silos. Advanced dust control measures, including baghouses and vacuum systems, will be implemented to minimize environmental impact.

Broughton stated that the environmental assessment process has involved extensive preparation, including over 20,000 pages of applications. He credited the project’s progress to active engagement with local First Nations and communities. Consultations have been held with the McLeod Lake Indian Band and West Moberly First Nations, along with adjacent nations such as the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation and Tsay Keh Dene Nation, to ensure that their concerns and interests are addressed.

A final application for the environmental assessment is expected to be submitted by the end of October 2023, with a decision anticipated in the first quarter of 2026. Broughton noted that ongoing strike action among government workers has caused delays in the assessment process.

The project is projected to create hundreds of jobs and business opportunities, particularly for Indigenous contractors. Broughton stated, “In fact, we’ve kind of imagined the mine to be completely run by contractors and primarily Indigenous contractors,” projecting about 150 jobs during construction and 140 jobs during operation, with a planned lifespan of 20 years.

Transportation of the mined silica to locations such as Chetwynd and Fort St. John could generate an additional 150 jobs. Broughton himself has developed a personal connection to the area, having purchased property in Electoral Area D and having family members engaged in local education and employment.

Once environmental approvals are secured, Vitreo must seek an amendment to the area’s Official Community Plan. This process will involve public hearings and approvals from the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation. Presentation slides indicated that the mine’s development is expected to inject approximately $300 million into the regional economy, with annual operational costs around $250 million.

Local leaders have expressed optimism about the project. Jesse Wright, a director from the District of Mackenzie, emphasized the potential for a partnership in transporting harvested silica, while Jerrilyn Kirk, representing Crooked River-Parsnip, appreciated Broughton’s thorough explanation of the project to local residents. Simon Yu, a director from the City of Prince George, acknowledged Vitreo’s contributions to the BC Natural Resources Forum and looked forward to their continued participation in future events.