Prospectors assistance available in B.C.

The British Columbia government is offering up to $10,000 for qualified prospectors to explore for deposits on or off existing claims in the province.

Prospectors are given half of their approved funding up front, with the remainder provided after the work has been carried out and the results and eligible expenses submitted.

The government has also unveiled its “Explore B.C.” program, which will provide up to 1/3 of exploration costs (to a maximum of $150,000) to eligible mining and exploration companies and individuals. Operating mines can also get assistance to increase reserves and extend mine life.

“These programs help get prospectors out in the field to do the high-risk exploration work that is needed to replenish our mineral reserves, sustain the industry and create jobs,” said Mines Minister Anne Edwards. Thomas Richards, a prospecting instructor, said the level of expertise and professionalism within the province’s prospecting community matches that found within the geologic community.

“Individual prospectors have been much more successful in the discovery of mineral showings than all other competing professionals,” Richards said. “But this success rate is not given credit.”

He said government or industry grubstakes are an effective way to help prospectors find new showings, but he also called for better communication between geologists and prospectors. Towards this end, he proposed a training centre whereby a network of geologists would be available to give independent appraisals and help prospectors interpret mineral properties in the field. “This program would enhance the in-the-field training and assistance that is the heart of the mineral exploration industry,” Richards stated.