Na-Cho Nyäk Dun and Snowline Gold Establish Consent Agreement

The First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun in Yukon has secured a significant agreement with mining exploration company Snowline Gold, which mandates the company to obtain “free, prior and informed consent” before any potential development of a gold mine. This agreement highlights a growing emphasis on Indigenous rights and governance in resource management.

Snowline Gold has been actively exploring a 60 by 30 kilometre area approximately 200 kilometres east of Mayo since 2021. The company estimates that the gold deposit in this region could be valued at as much as $3.4 billion and could support mining operations for up to 20 years.

Signing Ceremony Marks New Era

The agreement was formalized at a signing ceremony in Mayo, where traditional drumming, singing, and prayers underscored the cultural significance of the event. Chief Dawna Hope expressed the importance of this agreement, stating, “For too long, mining has happened on our land without respect for our rights.” She criticized the public government for previously authorizing mining projects across their traditional territory without meaningful engagement with the First Nation.

Hope emphasized that while treaties have promised co-management, these commitments have often gone unfulfilled. She noted, “We are pleased to work with operators like Snowline who respect our governance, our role over our traditional territory and what that means.” The Chief affirmed that the agreement marks a pivotal shift, asserting that the future of mining decisions will now rest with the First Nation and its citizens.

As part of the new memorandum of understanding, Na-Cho Nyäk Dun members will be actively involved in the decision-making process surrounding future projects at the site. The agreement also incorporates a commitment to adhere to the First Nation’s mining policy, which outlines necessary timelines and procedures for obtaining consent, alongside expectations regarding land reclamation.

Commitment to Collaboration and Governance

Scott Berdahl, the CEO of Snowline Gold, who has been leading the company since 2021, expressed pride in the partnership. He stated, “We’re very proud to be here at the point where we can sign this MOU. We’re extremely excited and grateful.” The joint efforts between the First Nation and Snowline Gold illustrate a collaborative approach to resource development that prioritizes Indigenous rights.

This agreement comes shortly after Na-Cho Nyäk Dun filed a lawsuit regarding the 2024 Eagle mine disaster, accusing both the Yukon and federal governments of violating treaty rights. In their statement of claim, the First Nation requested a temporary halt on staking in areas of their traditional territory lacking a land use plan.

Chief Hope reiterated the significance of self-determination during the ceremony, stating, “Mining will no longer be decided for us. Mining will be decided by us and by our citizens. This is the start of a new era of respect for our governance and stewardship.”

The establishment of this agreement signifies a critical step towards greater recognition of Indigenous rights in resource development, setting a precedent for future collaborations between Indigenous communities and mining companies in Canada and beyond.