RARE EARTHS: Nechalacho plans get environmental nod

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES – The Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board recommends that the Nechalacho rare earths project near Thor Lake be approved. The project belongs to Avalon Rare Metals of Toronto.

Avalon said the MVEIRB sees no need for a full environmental impact review, but there are some additional conditions the company must meet. Any water released from the project area must be monitored to ensure it does not have significant impact on the environment. The company must develop and implement a wildlife and wildlife habitat protection plan as well as a means of monitoring them, especially in regards to the caribou in the area. Any impacts on wildlife must be mitigated. Before construction is allowed to begin, Avalon and the territorial government must draw up and sign a socio-economic agreement.

The MVEIRB recommendation goes next to the federal minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development.

The full EA report can be viewed by clicking here.

More information about the Nechalacho project is available at AvalonRareMetals.com.