Clearwater, B.C., braces for potential of massive mine that could nearly double its population

A smaller B.C. community might see its population nearly double within the next 10 years if a massive open pit copper mine goes ahead.

B.C. Developer Taseko Mines says the Yellowhead Project could create about 2,000 jobs during the construction phase. It's being proposed for a location about 150 kilometres northeast of Kamloops, just east of Clearwater, B.C. And with a population of 2,500, Clearwater could be on the front lines of that growth. 

The mine is going to environmental assessment at a time when the provincial and federal governments are looking to strengthen local production in the face of tariff threats and increased need for Canadian goods. Taseko says it could provide almost 180 million pounds of copper per year over 25 years.

With Prime Minister Mark Carney committing to fast-track projects that are deemed to be in the public interest, Clearwater could meet the criteria. 

Mayor Merlin Blackwell says he is seeing a difference in the way this project is being dealt with compared to similar projects a decade ago. 

"This is one of three mines proposed in our section of the North Thompson Valley between here and just north of Blue River. So I could see all of these getting more financial backing and more government backing moving forward."

The municipality is nestled between mountains and forests in the North Thompson, an area frequented by visitors from around the world who are seeking out the stunning views of Wells Gray Provincial Park. That's a reputation Blackwell wants to maintain.

"It's sort of a balancing act between, you know, welcoming the idea of this new mine and the jobs that come with it, but also retaining what we already have." 

Some say that might not be possible.

Nikki Skuce, co-chair of B.C. Mining Law Reform Network, says she's concerned that waste runoff and water usage will impact the park's wildlife and the surrounding area. The municipality relies on its outdoor attractions for tourism, and she's hoping residents will speak up. 

"I think it's important that residents are able to have meaningful input and shift how the project is designed, or elements of it, so that their interests are protected and that the project doesn't go ahead if it doesn't meet certain standards." 

Taseko Mines has begun three environmental assessment processes, at the provincial and federal levels, as well as an Indigenous-led assessment. 

Whether residents are for or against it, the mayor is encouraging Clearwater residents to prepare. He says if the community waits to begin planning until the approval, it might end up playing catch-up. That's because housing, schools, and hospital expansions take time and funding.

"We lived through the boomtown of Trans Mountain [Pipeline], the effects that had on this town. We've learned our lesson. We need to get ahead of this."

Blackwell says he will begin having discussions with the province after hearing community feedback.