In 2021, Seabridge Gold started early-stage construction activities such as building roads, camps, a fish compensation site, a power and switching station, power line clearing, and advancing technical and environmental monitoring programs.
Undertaking these programs is a positive development for the KSM because it means the project is progressing with a phased development approach and also strengthens Seabridge’s position in securing a joint venture partnership with a reputable global mining company capable of responsibly financing, constructing, and operating the Project.
Advancing the early-stage construction activities has also started to benefit the local communities and Indigenous partners, as Seabridge is committed to hiring people from local communities and giving priority to qualified local, regional, and Indigenous contractors. By the end of 2023, Seabridge Gold’s investment in early-stage construction activities will reach $444 million, of which more than $245 million was committed for Indigenous-affiliated businesses. The early-stage construction activities also led to the creation of 317 and 235 direct onsite jobs in 2022 and 2023 respectively.
Undertaking early-stage construction will also enable Seabridge to begin the development of processes to administer the Benefits Agreement with both the Nisga’a and Tahltan Nations, as the company is working closely with these Nations’ economic development corporations on contracting and employment to conduct early-stage construction activities.
The early-stage construction will also allow Seabridge to continue the necessary technical studies needed to validate plans and be well-prepared in advance of a future project construction decision.
