BC Approves $300M Silica Sand Mine Near Prince George

A significant environmental certificate has been granted to Vitreo Minerals by the province for its proposed Angus silica sand mine. Located about 60 kilometers north of Prince George, near Bear Lake, this $300 million project is designed to extract silica sand essential for hydraulic fracturing in crude oil and natural gas extraction.

The environmental review process, spanning nearly three years, concluded that the Angus project will not have significant adverse environmental effects with proposed mitigation measures. This approval marks a major milestone for Vitreo Minerals, enabling the project to move forward to the permitting stage.

The mine is projected to have an initial operational life of approximately 20 years. It is expected to generate substantial economic benefits, including around 140 jobs during its operational phase and 150 during construction. The project also commits to supporting local and First Nations employment and training.

Vitreo Minerals CEO Scott Broughton highlighted the opportunity to supply a domestic product that is currently imported, primarily from Wisconsin. The mine's output will serve the dynamic and growing demand from the oil and gas sector, particularly in regions like the Montney. The environmental certificate includes 19 binding conditions covering air quality, wildlife, greenhouse gas reduction, and First Nations' impacts.

Further provincial approvals and permits are required before construction can commence. However, under the current certificate, the mine project must be substantially started by 2036.