Mining companies operating in Saskatchewan are embracing new authorities aimed at ensuring “stability” and “certainty” within the industry. Pam Schwann, the president of the Saskatchewan Mining Association, expressed optimism, stating that the recent developments are beneficial for all parties involved. She highlighted that the enhanced mining efficiency leads to cost-effectiveness for the industry and also generates royalties for the government.
The Mineral Resources Amendment Act 2025 was presented by Saskatchewan’s Minister of Energy and Resources, Colleen Young, in the legislative assembly, receiving swift approval during its initial reading. This legislation empowers the energy and resources minister to designate a “subsurface development area,” enabling companies to seek access to mineral resources that would otherwise remain untapped.
Young emphasized the significance of this designation when private mineral owners are untraceable, such as in cases where the subsurface mineral rights owner has passed away or when multiple rights owners are inaccessible. Additionally, the legislation allows Young to issue a designation when efforts to negotiate subsurface land rights agreements have reached an impasse.
Companies are required to conduct a comprehensive search over a five-year period before applying for a subsurface development area, as outlined by Young. Subsequently, any royalties derived from the mineral rights will be allocated to the province’s general revenue fund, with provisions for individuals to claim proceeds if they can substantiate mineral rights ownership.
Marnell Jones, the director of public affairs for the Mosaic Company, lauded the newfound powers, citing their potential to address operational challenges faced during potash extraction in the region. Jones highlighted that the inability to secure subsurface mineral rights has led to inefficient mining practices, resulting in missed opportunities to extract valuable minerals.
Jones estimated that Mosaic could potentially access mineral rights worth approximately half a billion dollars through the provisions outlined in the recently enacted legislation.