In response to the misleading and inaccurate information regarding the Substantially Started Determination (SSD) status for the proposed KSM Project, as presented in Brian Lynch’s opinion article published in Anchorage Daily News, Ketchikan Daily News, and Tundra Drums, Brent Murphy, Senior Vice President of Environmental Affairs at Seabridge Gold, has issued a detailed opinion article to correct the record.

Brent’s comprehensive response aims to provide accurate, balanced information about the KSM Project and its progress, ensuring that the public is well-informed and has the right information.

The article clearly outlines the three key factors the British Columbia (BC) Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) considers when granting SSD status and how the KSM Project met or exceeded each of these criteria. This includes

• Completing the construction of the 17 km Treaty Creek Access Road and initiating work on six of the 32 physical project components authorized within the Certified Project Description (CPD);
• Investing CAD $500 million since 2021 alone to develop several main Project components; and
• Receiving letters of support from First Nation partners – Nisga’a Nation, Tahltan Central Government and Gitxsan Hereditary Chiefs, which were considered by the EAO as part of the evidence for granting SSD status.

Brent also addressed the questions raised around the KSM Project receiving the provincial Environmental Assessment Certificate (EAC) prior to the unfortunate Mount Polley incident. He highlighted the significant measures Seabridge Gold has taken after receiving the EAC to ensure that the tailings management facility (TMF) is based on industry-leading best practices and best available technologies. 

Furthermore, to refute claims that the KSM Project might harm salmon populations, Brent cites a BBC article identifying rising water temperatures and overfishing are significant factors affecting salmon populations in Alaska.

Brent’s response underscores the rigorous and transparent process that has guided the KSM Project and reaffirms Seabridge Gold’s commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible development.

You can read the detailed letter here.