New Gold Mine Near Wells, B.C., Approved Amid Concerns Over Community and Environmental Impact

The B.C. government has approved the operating permit for the Cariboo Gold Mine, a major project by Osisko Development Corporation, marking a significant milestone for the resource industry in the province. The mine, located near the small community of Wells, will process 1.1 million tonnes of gold-bearing ore annually and is expected to inject substantial economic activity into the region.

Despite endorsements from local leaders and some First Nations, the project has sparked opposition from residents concerned about its long-term impact on Wells, a historic town with a population of just over 220.

“This permit approval feels like the government is sacrificing our community for industrial development,” said Dave Jorgenson, a Wells resident and spokesperson for a group opposing parts of the project.

The B.C. government stated that the project underwent a 13-month assessment process under the province’s updated Environmental Assessment Act. An additional permit under the Environmental Management Act is still under consideration, with a decision expected in the coming weeks.

Economic and Community Transformation

The Cariboo Gold Mine is anticipated to create over 630 jobs during construction, with an initial $137-million investment and an additional $918 million over the mine’s lifespan. Wells Mayor Ed Coleman said the influx of workers and resources will likely transform the town significantly.

“In 20 to 30 years, Wells could grow to a population of 1,000,” Coleman said. “This is a big change for us.”

However, some residents are worried about the mine’s proximity to residential areas. Jorgenson said that while he does not oppose the mine itself, the location of a proposed ore processing facility “in the middle of our residential area” raises serious concerns about noise, pollution, and truck traffic disrupting daily life.

Indigenous Perspectives and Mixed Reactions

The mine is the first project to be approved by B.C.'s newly created Ministry of Mining and Critical Minerals, as well as the first assessed under the modernized Environmental Assessment Act, introduced in 2018.

The province says the approval process included extensive consultation with experts, the public, and First Nations, including the Lhtako Dené, Xatśull, and Williams Lake nations.

However, the Xatśull nation has voiced strong opposition, with Chief Rhonda Phillips demanding a halt to the project until their concerns are addressed. Phillips criticized the government for failing to uphold commitments to reconciliation and international declarations like DRIPA and UNDRIP.

Conversely, Lhtako Dené Chief Clifford Lebrun expressed support for the project, emphasizing the benefits it could bring to his community.

“This is a significant opportunity for our members,” Lebrun said, highlighting their active involvement in consultations.

Environmental and Social Concerns

The mine has also raised alarms about its environmental impact, given its location near the ecologically sensitive Chilcotin region. Residents and advocacy groups argue that the project's scale could permanently alter the character of Wells, a town best known for its proximity to the Barkerville Historic Town and Park.

The province maintains that the project adheres to rigorous environmental standards, with Osisko CEO Sean Roosen stating the mine will serve as a “model for responsible mine development and environmental stewardship.”