qathet Regional District (qRD) directors have expressed no objection to the application submitted by Imperial Limestone Co. to convert a mineral claim on Texada Island to a mining lease.
At the March 22 regional board meeting, directors also voted to renew a mining lease for a period of 30 years, subject to two parcels of land being removed from the mineral claim area. The application is required to obtain a completed riparian area assessment by a qualified environmental professional, and that all streamside protection and enhancement areas be removed from the lease areas.
The applicant is also required to obtain a site level assessment conducted by a qualified professional to determine the nature, location and any necessary protection measures for sensitive ecosystems, and that any such land be removed from the lease area.
According to a staff report, the province refers the lease application to local governments to review and comment on the suitability of the proposed lease area for mining purposes, and leaseholders must obtain a mining permit before undertaking mining activities within the lease area.
