Saskatchewan’s mining industry has been continuously ramping up over the past few years. Whether it's rare earth elements, uranium, or closer to the Humboldt area, potash, the industry is a key driver of economic well-being in the province.
During Saskatchewan Mining Week, May 28 – June 3 as declared by the provincial government, it’s a chance to celebrate the accomplishment of those involved who keep the industry strong.
"This is an exciting time for the Saskatchewan mining industry, coming off another year with record sales numbers and the launch of Securing the Future: Saskatchewan's Critical Minerals Strategy," Energy and Resources Minister Jim Reiter said. "For the third year in a row, we rank in the top three globally as one of the best places for mining in terms of investment attractiveness, according to the Fraser Institute."
The theme of this year’s week is “Saskatchewan: A Growing Critical Minerals Hub.” A release from the province states that Saskatchewan contains 23 of the 31 critical minerals on Canada's list. Saskatchewan has an opportunity to contribute to meeting the global demand for critical minerals including potash, uranium, helium, lithium, copper, zinc, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements.
"This year's theme showcases the critical role Saskatchewan mineral production has in the value chain of providing clean energy and global food security through our world-class production of potash and uranium," Saskatchewan Mining Association Board Chair Nathaniel Huckabay said. "Our near-term production of other critical minerals, like copper, lithium and processing of rare earth elements that are essential for the transition to a greener, digital economy is putting Saskatchewan on the map as a growing critical minerals hub."
Saskatchewan’s global helium production is on the rise, and the province is home to the first of its kind minerals-to-metals rare earth processing facility in North America.
Events are planned around the province, including presentations on uranium and the nuclear energy market, sustainable mining, growing opportunities, critical minerals, and feeding the future.