Permitting

On March 31^st, 2026 Canagold submitted an Environmental Assessment Certificate (EAC) Application to the BC Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) for the New Polaris Project.  The EAC Application initiated a 180-day legislated review phase of the approval process with technical review from a multi-agency Technical Advisory Committee, including Participating Indigenous Nations.

The submission of the EAC Application coincided with the three-year anniversary of Canagold announcing a groundbreaking Collaborative Engagement Agreement (CEA) with Taku River Tlingit First Nation at the New Polaris project site.  The agreement established a robust framework for a long-term cooperative and mutually respectful working relationship between the parties in support of Canagold’s New Polaris exploration and advancement activities while undertaking to minimize any adverse impacts on the rights and interests of the TRTFN.

“Taku River Tlingit First Nation (TRTFN) is leading the way with mining company relationships. Consent agreements are beginning with our nation and our people.” says Jìnìk (Charmaine Thom), Spokesperson for the Taku River Tlingit First Nation.

Canagold is committed to following through on the regulatory approval process with the EAO, and we are currently working in parallel on advancing permitting-level engineering and environmental stewardship plans which will culminate in an application later in 2027 to the BC Ministry of Mines and Critical Minerals to construct and operate the mine.

The EAO Regulatory Process Phases

• Project Designation: The Minister designates a project as reviewable, or a proponent requests designation. – COMPLETE
• Early Engagement: Participants and the public learn about the project and identify initial key issues and values.  – COMPLETE
• Process Planning: The EAO sets the scope, procedures, methods, and consultation requirements for the assessment. – COMPLETE
• Application Development and Review: The proponent conducts studies and submits a detailed application, followed by formal public comment periods (at least 30 days). – We are in this stage now.
• Assessment Report: The EAO creates an objective assessment report evaluating the findings and public feedback.
• Ministers’ Decision: Provincial ministers review the final report and make a decision on whether to issue an Environmental Assessment Certificate within a statutory timeframe.
• Compliance and Enforcement: The EAO monitors certified projects to ensure ongoing adherence to certificate conditions, backed by inspection records and monetary penalties.

EPIC