Artemis Gold Inc. announces that Blackwater Mine, Canada’s newest gold and silver mine, was officially opened in a ceremony at the mine site today.
B.C. Premier David Eby, along with Jagrup Brar, Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals, Acting Chief June Baptiste of the Lhoosk’uz Dené Nation, and Chief Charlie Williams (represented) of Ulkatcho First Nation, attended the event. Other attendees included representatives of Indigenous and municipal governments, industry associations, business partners, contractors and other stakeholders.
“Blackwater Mine is an example of what can be achieved through collaboration with First Nations and the protection of vital lands and waters,” said Premier David Eby. “This mine is a part of what we’re building in B.C. the economic engine of the new Canadian economy. It creates hundreds of family-supporting jobs and builds prosperity here and across the country.”
“Today marks the official opening of Blackwater Mine after an industry leading 22 months of construction and 3 months of commissioning, a phenomenal achievement in our industry. I couldn’t be more proud of our team for achieving this milestone. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would also like to thank the federal and provincial government, the Lhoosk’uz Dené, Ulkatcho, Nadleh Whut’en, Saik’uz, Stellat’en and Nazko First Nations, along with the communities across the mine region, and our contractors and business partners for their support in helping us get to this point. What we have achieved together is a model for the sustainable and responsible development of mines in first world jurisdictions, like Canada,” said Steven Dean, Chairman and CEO of Artemis Gold.
“Blackwater Mine is a great example of what we want to see more of in B.C. – a project that creates good jobs, supports local and Indigenous communities and takes crucial steps to minimize the impact on the environment. It shows how responsible mining can move our economy forward in the right way.” – Jagrup Brar, Minister of Mining and Critical minerals of B.C.
“Lhooskuz Dené Nation is pleased to be part of this opening ceremony in our traditional territory. The development of the Blackwater project will provide long term employment for our members and economic opportunities for Nation. We remain committed to achieving the highest standard of environmental practice at all stages of development, along with Artemis and Ulkatcho First Nation.” –June Baptiste, Acting Chief Lhoosk’uz Dené Nation
“Today marks a great milestone—one that reflects the dedication and vision of many since 2015. Ulkatcho First Nation stands side-by-side with Lhoosk’uz Dené Nation on this accomplishment – not only our neighbors, but united by shared lineage. We value our continued partnership of our shared territories, including shared mining interests, the metals and minerals that have been a part of our history for many generations. We also honour the leadership that came before us, whose guidance and commitment laid the foundation for this important day. Our collaboration on this important mining project is a testament to what can be accomplished when respect, partnership, and our communities lead the way. We extend our gratitude to Artemis Gold for choosing to invest in our lands and in a future that will benefit Ulkatcho First Nation for many years. Chanalya. Thank you again for your continued good work,” said Chief Charlie Williams of the Ulkatcho First Nation.
Blackwater Mine was built in an industry leading 22 months. The Company received the BC Mines Act permit in March of 2023. Construction was completed and first gold pour occurred in January of this year, and earlier this month, the Company announced that it had achieved commercial production. The forecast production for the financial year 2025 is between 190,000-230,000 ounces of gold. To-date there have been over 5.3 million hours worked at Blackwater Mine, with no lost time incidents (LTIs).
