Na-Cho Nyäk Dun First Nation and Snowline Gold Forge Historic Agreement

The First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun in Yukon has established a significant agreement with the mining exploration company Snowline Gold. This new memorandum mandates that the company must obtain the nation’s “free, prior and informed consent” before advancing with any potential gold mine development. The deal highlights a shift toward greater Indigenous control over resource management in their traditional territory.

Details of the Agreement

Snowline Gold has been exploring a vast area approximately 200 kilometres east of Mayo since 2021, covering a stretch of **60 by 30 kilometres**. The company estimates that the gold deposits in this region could hold a value of up to **$3.4 billion**, potentially supporting a mine with a lifespan of **20 years**. The signing ceremony, held in Mayo on Saturday, was marked by cultural expressions including drumming, singing, and prayers.

Chief **Dawna Hope** expressed the importance of this agreement, stating, “For too long, mining has happened on our land without respect for our rights.” She criticized past practices where public authorities approved mining projects on their traditional lands without adequate consideration of the First Nation’s governance.

The memorandum ensures that members of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun will play a crucial role in decision-making regarding future projects at the site. It also commits Snowline Gold to adhere to the nation’s mining policy, which outlines timelines, procedures for obtaining consent, and expectations related to land reclamation.

A Shift in Governance and Stewardship

Scott Berdahl, CEO of Snowline Gold, who has been with the company since 2021, expressed pride in the agreement. “We’re very proud to be here at the point where we can sign this MOU,” he stated at the ceremony. “We’re extremely excited and grateful.”

This agreement is particularly noteworthy as it comes shortly after the Na-Cho Nyäk Dun First Nation filed a lawsuit regarding the **2024 Eagle mine disaster**. The suit accuses both the Yukon and federal governments of violating treaty rights. In their statement of claim, the First Nation requested a temporary suspension on staking activities in areas of their traditional territory that lack a land use plan.

Chief Hope emphasized a transformative approach to mining in their territory, declaring, “Mining will no longer be decided for us. Mining will be decided by us and by our citizens.” She affirmed that this agreement marks the beginning of a new era of respect for their governance and stewardship of the land.

The Na-Cho Nyäk Dun First Nation’s agreement with Snowline Gold stands as a critical development in the movement for Indigenous rights and resource management in Canada, reflecting a growing recognition of the necessity for collaboration between Indigenous communities and resource companies.