Today the Association for Mineral Exploration BC (AME BC) celebrated the announcement by the provincial government to continue funding for Geoscience BC.
The Hon. Steve Thomson, BC Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, announced $12 million for funding for Geoscience BC over two years at yesterday evening’s BC Mining Week Kickoff Reception. Geoscience BC is an industry-led, not-for-profit, applied geoscience organization that works in partnership with industry, academia, government, First Nations, and communities to fund applied geoscience projects with the objective to attract mineral and oil & gas exploration to British Columbia. Last fall, the government’s finance and government services committee had recommended the extension of funding of Geoscience BC.
“Geoscience BC has shown great leadership in demonstrating how industry can partner with governments and academic institutions to deliver world-class data that leads to new exploration and ultimately benefits communities throughout the province,” said Mona Forster, Chair of AME BC. “It is fitting that this announcement comes during BC Mining Week, a time to celebrate how our industry has grown and changed and perhaps more importantly, a time to highlight how mining contributes to the BC economy and society, now and into the future.”
The provincial government originally announced the creation of Geoscience BC at Mineral Exploration Roundup 2005, and over the past six years, the organization has undertaken a number of projects to help the mineral exploration industry better understand the geology and the mineral development potential of the province.
“This announcement, however, is more than a commitment to the basic scientific research that drives mineral exploration and development investment in the province,” explained Gavin C. Dirom, President and CEO of AME BC. “It’s also about the provincial government’s support for expanding the geoscientific knowledge of BC’s land base – from our mineral potential to our natural hazards – for the benefit of all British Columbians.”
About AME BC:
AME BC is the predominant voice of mineral exploration and development in British Columbia. Established in 1912, AME BC represents thousands of members including geoscientists, prospectors, engineers, entrepreneurs, exploration companies, suppliers, mineral producers, and associations who are engaged in mineral exploration and development in BC and throughout the world. Through leadership, advocacy, and partnerships, AME BC promotes a healthy environment and business climate for the mineral exploration industry.