Crawford nickel project moves forward in federal review process

The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada has formally begun the impact assessment phase for Canada Nickel's Crawford nickel project, moving the proposed mine closer to federal approval.

The agency announced on March 3 that Canada Nickel had satisfied requirements for the impact statement phase, allowing the project to advance to the next regulatory stage.

Canada Nickel CEO Mark Selby said the company expects to receive a federal permitting decision by summer 2026 through collaborative processing with the agency.

"The completion of the impact statement phase is an important milestone," Selby said. "We appreciate the thorough review by IAAC and the valuable input from federal and provincial authorities, Indigenous Nations, and the public."

The company submitted its impact statement in November 2024. After a public comment period and technical review, the agency requested additional information in May 2025, which Canada Nickel provided in December.

Pierre-Philippe Dupont, vice president of sustainability for Canada Nickel, said advancing to the assessment phase builds on extensive technical work, environmental planning and Indigenous engagement completed to date.

The agency will now prepare a draft impact assessment report examining potential adverse effects within federal jurisdiction. The draft will undergo public consultation before submission to the minister of environment and climate change for a final decision.

More information is posted at www.CanadaNickel.com