Pioneering a path forward with the Tahltan Nation

As Skeena Gold + Silver continues its work in the Golden Triangle with critical mining projects like Eskay Creek, its partnership with the Tahltan Nation stands as a living example of how reconciliation moves beyond words—beginning with listening, guided by respect and strengthened by shared purpose

Nearly a decade ago, Skeena made a defining decision that set the tone for a lasting partnership with the Tahltan Nation, one rooted in respect and reconciliation. Recognizing the deep cultural and spiritual importance of the Ice Mountain Lands—an area adjacent to Mount Edziza Provincial Park in northwestern British Columbia—Skeena voluntarily returned its mineral tenures to the Tahltan Nation.

That action, both historic and heartfelt, became the foundation of a relationship that continues to strengthen today. The returned lands, previously set for mineral exploration, are now protected as part of a 3,500-hectare conservancy jointly created in 2021 by the Tahltan Central Government, the Province of British Columbia, the Nature Conservancy of Canada and the BC Parks Foundation.

In 2022, the conservancy was officially renamed the Tenh Dẕetle Conservancy (Ice Mountain) to reflect the land’s history. The area has long been sacred to the Tahltan Nation —a source of obsidian for tools, trade and survival.

Reflecting on the decision at the time, Skeena’s executive chairman, Walter Coles Jr., said in the company’s April 2021 announcement: “We are deeply committed to our partnership with the Tahltan Nation and are happy that we can play a role in protecting this area for future generations. This is reconciliation in action.”

A partnership built on respect

The creation of the Tenh Dẕetle Conservancy was more than an environmental milestone—it was a symbol of collaboration and trust. For the Tahltan, protecting the area reaffirmed their stewardship over a landscape that has sustained their people since time immemorial. For Skeena, it reinforced that responsible resource development must respect Indigenous rights, culture and governance.

That approach has continued to guide the partnership between Skeena and the Tahltan. The relationship reached another milestone when the Tahltan Central Government invested $5 million in Skeena Resources in 2021, becoming an equity partner in projects located on Tahltan territory.

At the time of the investment, Coles noted, “Skeena is delighted to welcome Tahltan as partners in the Company. Over the years we have often discussed our mutual desire to have the Tahltan Nation become owners of natural resource projects being developed in their territory. This investment represents a further step in an evolving relationship with the Tahltan Nation.”

Commitment to community and capacity building

Skeena’s commitment to the Tahltan Nation extends beyond project development. The company has opened a dedicated office in Dease Lake to strengthen its presence and collaboration in the Tahltan territory.

The planned office will serve as a regional hub for collaboration, employment and training. It reflects Skeena’s long-term dedication to creating local opportunities, supporting community development and ensuring that the economic benefits of responsible mining remain within the region. Skeena has emphasized that hiring and training Tahltan members will be central to this approach, reinforcing its focus on shared prosperity and long-term partnership.

Setting the bar high from the start

From returning culturally significant lands to building an ownership-based partnership, Skeena and the Tahltan Nation demonstrate how collaboration and respect can set a new standard for relationships with First Nations in the mining industry.

Together, Skeena and the Tahltan are pioneering a path forward that is reshaping what responsible resource development looks like in British Columbia.

To learn more, visit skeenagoldsilver.com.

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