Map of Storm Exploration Gold Standard project north of Fort Frances. Provided by Storm Exploration

One First Nation community will have a role in a gold exploration project north of Fort Frances.

Naicatchewenin has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Storm Exploration.

The MOU sets a framework for continued consultation, business and employment opportunities related to the project.

Storm Exploration is also contributing to a community fund that will be proportional to its exploration expenditures.

Storm is also providing $175,000 in shares to the community over the next four years, with the first $25,000 issued upon approval from the TSXV.

“This is an important milestone for the Company,” says Storm’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Bruce Counts, in a statement. “Storm firmly believes that the participation of local first nations is critical to the success of a project, and I am looking forward to working with the Naicatchewenin on the exploration and development of the Gold Standard property.”

The company says it is still working on a similar agreement with Nigigoonsiminikaaning.

Storm is exploring an area that had three operating gold mines in the early 1900s.

It is located 65 kilometres north of Fort Frances and lies within the traditional territory of the Naicatchewenin and Nigigoonsiminikaaning First Nations.