Site works that are currently underway include logging, clearing and grubbing of the plant site area; installation of physical environmental controls; and advancement of the construction camp accommodations. Site levelling, pad preparation and bulk earthworks for the construction camp were completed as planned in Q4 2022.
The company is also advancing required upgrades to site, which include running buried and surface pipelines from selected water wells, and upgrades to its sewage infrastructure in order to accommodate planned head count capacity at site for major works construction activities.
“While we are disappointed that we did not receive the BC Mines Act permits as planned in fall 2022, they are well advanced and are expected to be finalized in the coming weeks,” Steven Dean, chairman and CEO of Artemis, commented.
“The Blackwater construction team has made significant progress in Q4 2022, with Blackwater on-site activities progressing on schedule. The construction camp and process plant area preparation and bulk earthworks are on track to be completed prior to the start of major works,” Dean added.
Located about 446 km northeast of Vancouver, BC, the Blackwater project comprises the construction, operation and closure of an open-pit gold mine and ore processing facilities that will be developed in multiple stages.
Over an estimated 22-year mine life, Blackwater is expected to produce an average of 339,000 oz. of gold per year.