GOLD: Goldcorp stalls at Coffee project

YUKON – Vancouver-based Goldcorp has run into trouble at its Coffee gold project. Local media Yukon News reported late last week that the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board has halted its review of the proposed mine because it says Goldcorp did not adequately consult with First Nations affected by the project. [caption id="attachment_1003719173" align="alignright" width="413"] Production from the Coffee property could come as early as the first quarter of 2021. (Credit: Goldcorp)[/caption] Goldcorp acquired the Coffee project 130 km south of Dawson City when it took over Kaminak Gold a year ago. The project is in development with probable reserves containing 2.16 million oz. of gold in 46.36 million tonnes grading 1.45 g/t gold. The company is building an open pit and heap leach operation. The Tr’ondek Hwëch’in First Nation says consultation was rushed last spring – only two weeks were set aside for the process. Despite Goldcorp having modified the mine design to minimize the size of the waste rock storage, the YESAB agreed with the First Nations that Goldcorp did not allow the First Nation reasonable time to prepare for discussions. Goldcorp maintains a website at www.Goldcorp.com.