The community of Bear Lake has experienced ups and downs with Canfor’s Polar Sawmill curtailing production earlier this winter and then slated to return to capacity this May. But there is some good news with a new project on the horizon.
With the support of McLeod Lake Indian Band (MLIB), Defense Metals has announced its Wicheeda Rare Earth Element Project.
Expected to begin producing in approximately 2030, the mine could be providing materials needed for the manufacture of rare earth magnets, electric vehicles, cell phones, medical equipment and a wide array of other technology.
Jerrilyn Kirk at The Regional District of Fraser Fort George who oversees matters in the Bear Lake area feels positive about the unique prospect. Additionally, MLIB Chief Harley Chingee sees the development as inevitable enough, to buy in and move his nation into a partnership with Defense Metals.
