Benchmark Metals (TSXV: BNCH) has signed a definitive agreement with the Tsay Key Dene Nation, Kwadcha Nation and Takla Nation to advance its flagship Lawyers gold-silver project in the Golden Horseshoe of northern British Columbia.
What the company calls its “trilateral agreement” is a key part of earning a social licence for mine permitting and a strong partnership with Indigenous peoples.
Benchmark said it will continue to engage First Nations for employment and consultation. Near-term work at Lawyers includes the current drill program of up to 100,00 metres for expansion, definition and regional discovery.
Also planned is a bulk tonnage resources estimate this spring and a preliminary economic assessment this summer.
The former Lawyers mine was operated from 1989-92, during which time it produced 171,200 oz. of gold and 3.6 million oz. of silver.
Benchmark says an estimated C$50 million in infrastructure remains on the property, including year-round road access.
(This article first appeared in the Canadian Mining Journal)
