Implications and Opportunities of Cultural Heritage on Mineral Exploration and Tenure

Presented by: Kay Jollymore, Kleanza Consulting Ltd. and Daniel Walker, ERM Consultants Ltd. / Tahltan ERM Environmental Management (TEEM)

Summary: Cultural heritage and archaeological investigations have long been a component of mineral exploration/mining programs and project development, but many proponents are unfamiliar with the process, regulatory setting, and the importance of First Nations engagement. This short course will focus on the lifecycle of cultural heritage on a project as well as considerations and challenges to keep in mind when developing cultural heritage programs for your own project. We will focus on British Columbia cultural heritage and archaeology, touching on other jurisdictions in Canada, regulatory settings and permitting considerations, when using Front Counter might be enough or falling short of your needs, First Nation input, participation and engagement, risk management, and the importance of managing cultural heritage on your project.

Kay Jollymore and Daniel Walker are professional archaeologists with over 40 years of combined experience conducting archaeological work in Canada, primarily in support of the mining sector. Some of the questions, answers, and topics to be discussed will include:

• What is archaeology and cultural heritage?
• When should I be engaging with an archaeologist? Why should I engage with an archaeologist? What will an archaeologist be doing?
• Legislation – What is the Heritage Conservation Act and what does it mean for me?
• Regulatory processes – Archaeology Branch and Fossil Management Office, permits, and timelines.
• Front Counter BC and archaeology – I have a Chance Find Procedure, isn’t that enough?
• Indigenous Nations Consultation and engagement – requirements and recommendations.
• Indigenous Inputs – Permits and Standards