January 17, 2020
An updated bedrock geology map and database will aid explorers and academic researchers investigating the mineral-rich Slave Geological Province.
The updated map, resulting from several years of data collection and analysis, has been published by the Northwest Territories Geological Survey (NTGS) in partnership with the Canada-Nunavut Geoscience Office. Dr. Mike Stubley, a former Government of Northwest Territories employee and highly-experienced geologist, led the work. The updated map is based on Dr. Stubley’s original map published by the NTGS in 2005.
Underlying eastern Northwest Territories and western Nunavut, the Slave Geological Province is well known for its excellent mineral potential and long and prosperous history of mining. Among other geological elements, the updated map contains improved information on rock types favorable for mineral exploration and the location of known kimberlite bodies. Kimberlite is a rare and unique rock type, and some kimberlite bodies contain diamonds.
The significance of the project extends beyond mineral exploration and academic research. The updated map has already been used in assessing potential routes for the proposed Slave Geological Province all-season road.
The NTGS is a science-mandated division of the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment. The research conducted by the division enables government, residents and investors to make informed decisions and advance the knowledge economy.
Quote:
“The Slave Geological Province is an economic breadbasket for the Northwest Territories. Mining and exploration regularly contribute more than 20% of total economic activity in the territory, and the vast majority of that takes place in the mineral-rich Slave Province. With renewed data, industry and academics alike can work to better understand the geology and mineral potential of this region and advance the territory’s economy.”
- Katrina Nokleby, Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment
Quick Facts:
- The NWT’s three active diamond mines (Ekati, Diavik and Gahcho Kue) are all located within the Slave Geological Province.
- Data for the updated map was contributed by a number of companies including Diamondex Resources Ltd., Strongbow Exploration Inc., GGL Diamond Corp., Kennady Diamonds, Aurora Geosciences, TMAC Resources, MMG Resources, BNT Gold Resources, North Arrow Minerals, and Miramar Mining Corp.
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Media Contact:
Briony Grabke
Senior Communications Officer
Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment
Phone: (867) 767-9202 ext. 63049
Email: Briony_Grabke@gov.nt.ca