News release

Mining Conference to be Held in Halifax

Natural Resources (to July 2018)

Gold mining in Nova Scotia and its history, geology, and impact will be the special focus at the Department of Natural Resources Mining Matters conference in Halifax on Wednesday, Nov. 9, and Thursday, Nov. 10.

The conference will provide a forum for geologists, prospectors, and people involved in community economic development across the province to discuss the role of mineral resources in the province's economic growth.

"Mining Matters is an important conference for anyone interested in the minerals that can be developed for the economic, artistic, and recreational benefit of Nova Scotians," said Scott Swinden, executive director of mineral resources for the Department of Natural Resources. "This province is blessed with a bountiful supply of minerals that adds to the economic base of the province. Besides gold and coal, we have deposits of stone, such as granite and marble, that can compete with any supplier in the world in quality and appearance."

On Wednesday, the main topic at the conference will be gold deposits and mining techniques, and the potential economic impact of gold in Nova Scotia's economy. Other topics to be explored include: the legacy of glacial lakes in Nova Scotia; and an overview of mineral deposit projects. Elizabeth Kosters of Acadia University will provide a special luncheon presentation entitled Geological and Cultural Ingredients of the Katrina Catastrophe.

The second day of the conference will offer presentations on groundwater resources, mitigating coastal hazards, naturally-occurring radionuclides in Nova Scotia, and arsenic and mercury contamination from historical gold mine tailings. Representatives of the Mi'Kmawey Debert Cultural Centre will speak on Tan Wetapesksi'k (Where we come from).

"Geology plays a key role in the everyday lives of Nova Scotians, whether it is linked to the occupations of those employed in the mining industries, or even those who walk through some of the province's communities and cities and enjoy the stone facades of our older and historic buildings," said Mr. Swinden.

The conference will take place at the Westin Nova Scotian Hotel and is open to the public.