Atlantic Mining Nova Scotia has received the provincial government's approval to process stockpiled ore at the Touquoy gold mine, located in Moose River, Halifax County. The approval specifically pertains to an estimated 3 million tonnes of unprocessed ore containing gold that was left at the site after operations ceased in 2023. It is important to note that this approval is not for new mining exploration; instead, the activities will occur within the current footprint of the mine.
Natural Resources Minister Kim Masland emphasized that this project will reintroduce a "significant" resource back into production, potentially creating 197 jobs and generating approximately $151 million in economic activity. Masland pointed out that this represents the second major gold mine approval in Nova Scotia within the past year, following the approval of the Goldboro gold mine in Guysborough County. Collectively, these two projects are expected to yield more than a billion dollars in economic activity and nearly a thousand jobs for Nova Scotians.
The processing of the stockpiled ore is anticipated to take approximately 10 to 14 months. Following processing, the resulting waste will be disposed of in the existing open pit. It is worth noting that the reclamation process of the site commenced in 2024 after the mine halted operations one year earlier.
Masland remarked on the broader context, stating, "Nova Scotia's mineral resources are creating real economic opportunities for our communities, and I look forward to continuing to support responsible resource development across the province." She highlighted that each approval is contingent on adhering to "strict" conditions aimed at ensuring environmental protection, maintaining water quality, and managing tailings effectively.
However, the approval has faced significant opposition from environmental advocates, who are staunchly against gold mining activities in Nova Scotia. Critics argue that gold mining poses threats to local communities and the surrounding environment, which is rich in wetlands and biodiversity. The Ecology Action Centre has specifically voiced concerns, stating that open-pit gold mining contributes actively to the climate crisis and harms the ecosystem.
In summary, while the provincial government is pushing for the economic benefits associated with the reprocessing of gold ore at the Touquoy mine, it faces a challenging balance between fostering economic development and addressing environmental concerns from advocacy groups.
