Fredericton, N.B.-Those prospecting for potash or other minerals in New Brunswick will have to take a breather. New Brunswick officials said July 4 that the province has suspended all mineral claims staking activity until a new map staking system can be implemented. Government sources told Green Markets the suspension will likely last three months. While the suspension includes potash staking, a trendy venture in light of soaring prices, the impetus for the government’s action arises from uranium exploration and extraction. The government said such exploration in designated watersheds and well fields in villages, towns, and cities is now prohibited. The method of acquiring mineral rights will be changed from the current ground-staking method to an electronic on-line map staking system. The government said other initiatives will focus on appropriate buffering and landowner permission for any possible intrusive uranium exploration or development on private land. In addition, the government promised a full review of the Mining Act. “As part of that process we intend to take the opportunity to make other adjustments to ensure that landowner concerns are addressed,” said Natural Resources Minister Donald Arsenault. “The review will also take into consideration concerns around compliance and enforcement.”
Transparency Across the Fertilizer Value-Chain