Editor’s Picks: Miners Rescued, US Mine Waste Strategy, Ontario Expands
Here’s a quick recap of some of the most impactful resource sector news items for the week.
The period saw three miners rescued after 60 hours underground at the Red Chris mine in BC, the US announce a mine waste recovery strategy and the Ontario government add C$7 million to boost critical minerals innovation.
Red Chris rescue: Three miners freed after 60 hours underground
Three miners trapped underground at Newmont’s (TSX:NGT,NYSE:NEM) Red Chris copper-gold mine in British Columbia have been safely rescued after more than 60 hours.
The workers were sheltered in a MineARC chamber with access to food, water, and communication, following a series of rockfalls.
The rescue effort, which included drilling a 100-meter access tunnel, concluded successfully, with all miners reported in good health.
We are relieved to share that all three individuals are safe, and in good health and spirits. They had consistent access to food, water, and ventilation whilst they remained in place in a refuge chamber underground over the last two days,” a Newmont statement read. They are now being supported by medical and wellness teams. Their families have been notified.”
Investigations into the cause of the rockfalls are ongoing.
US prioritizes critical mineral recovery from mine waste
The US government is ramping up efforts to recover critical minerals from mine waste, with the Department of the Interior announcing plans to map legacy tailings across federal lands.
The initiative is part of a broader push to secure domestic supplies of essential minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earths.
By tapping into existing waste sites, the US hopes to reduce reliance on foreign imports while minimizing new environmental disruptions.
“By streamlining regulations for extracting critical minerals from mine waste, we are unleashing the full potential of America’s mineral resources to bolster national security and economic growth,” said Acting Assistant Secretary of Lands and Minerals Adam Suess. “This proactive approach will attract private investment, support environmental reclamation, and pave the way for mineral independence.”
The move aligns with ongoing federal investment into clean energy and supply chain resilience.
Zijin leads bid for Barrick’s Tongon mine in West Africa
Chinese mining giant Zijin Mining Group (OTC Pink:ZIJMF,HKEX:2899,SHA:601899) is reportedly leading the race to acquire Barrick Mining’s (TSX:ABX,NYSE:B) Tongon gold mine in Côte d’Ivoire.
Barrick has tapped TD Securities and Australia-based Treadstone Resource Partners to advise on the sale of Tongon. The operation produced 148,000 ounces of gold in 2024.
With resources depleting, the mine is expected to enter care and maintenance by 2027.
Sources say the bid could be valued near US$500 million as…
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