A Forum Energy Metals Corporation enters into a formal agreement with the Ya’thi Ne’ne’ Lands and Resource Office (YNLR) for the Northwest Athabasca Project located in the northern Athabasca region of Saskatchewan.
The goal of this agreement is to further mineral exploration in Nuhenéné, the Athabasca First Nations’ traditional territory recognized by Treaties 8 and 10, while upholding Indigenous rights, safeguarding the environment, and promoting the economic and social development of nearby communities.
“Our communities have a deep connection to Nuhenéné, and this agreement reflects a shared understanding of our role in its care. It’s encouraging to work with a partner like Forum that recognizes our rights and honours the role of Indigenous values in shaping how exploration happens,” said Mary Denechezhe, Board Chair of Ya’thi Néné Lands and Resources.
This commitment represents a shift in the Athabasca region towards collaborations between industry and Indigenous people that are respectful and beneficial. In an effort to make sure that exploration efforts in Nuhenéné are influenced by Indigenous values, directed by environmental responsibility, and intended to produce real benefits for Athabascan residents.
“We are proud to begin this partnership with the First Nations, communities, and people of the Athabasca region. Our goal is to continue to explore in a respectful and sustainable manner and continue to build and maintain our long-term relationships that foster collaboration, mutual growth, and shared opportunities for many years to come,” explained Rebecca Hunter, CEO of Forum Energy Metals.
The Athabasca Municipalities of Stony Rapids, Wollaston Lake, Uranium City, and Camsell Portage, as well as the Athabasca Denesułiné First Nations of Hatchet Lake First Nation, Black Lake First Nation, and Fond du Lac First Nation, control YNLR, a non-profit corporation.
With the goal of advancing and improving the environmental, social, economic, and cultural well-being of present and future Athabasca residents, YNLR was founded in June 2016.
Forum Energy Metals Corp. is concentrated on finding high-grade uranium deposits in the Athabasca Basin in Saskatchewan and Thelon Basin in Nunavut.