Map courtesy First Mining Gold

Mishkeegogamang First Nation and First Mining Gold Corp have signed a long-term relationship agreement for the development of the Springpole Gold Project.

The deal outlines a collaborative approach for the development of a significant gold source in the region that respects the environment and provides direct benefits to the First Nation.

“This agreement is the result of a five-year process of technical review, traditional knowledge study and relationship building with First Mining,” explained Chief Merle Loon.

“The agreement ensures that Mishkeegogamang’s interests will be represented in the development and operation of the Springpole Project and will deliver long-term value by creating concrete opportunities for our community and our members.”

The agreement includes provisions for Mishkeegogamang to take part in the project’s environmental management and monitoring, as well as the recognition of Anishnaabe culture and the inclusion of cultural safety measures.

The deal also sets out the sharing of financial benefits from the Springpole Project.

The project is a roughly 800-hectare area 110km northeast of Red Lake.

Roughly 900 people live on the Mishkeegogamang First Nation reserves, with another 500 living off the reserve.

Their traditional territory is made up of the communities of Main Reserve, Bottle Hill, Poplar Heights, Sandy Road, Doghole Bay, Rat Rapids, Cedar Rapids, Ten Houses, Eric Lake, Ace Lake, Metcalfe, Pashkokogan, Mile 50, Fitchie Lake, Mile 42, Mile 29, Menako, and the shores of Lake St. Joseph.