2012- The Terrace Economic Development Authority in partnership with Geoscience BC has re-analyzed stream sediment samples from the area around Terrace, Kitimat and Prince Rupert as part of a geochemistry project in the Lower Skeena region. Geochemistry studies the chemical composition of the Earth, using small samples of rocks, soil or sediment. The reanalysis of archived stream sediment samples is recognized as a cost-effective means of obtaining new and improved geochemical information.
These samples were originally collected in the late 1970s and re-analyzed in the 1990s. However, with technological advancements, the samples were now able to be analyzed for over 90 different elements using the same methods commonly used by the mineral exploration community today. Samples from over 2100 sites were analyzed, covering an area of 17,500 square kilometers.
The results were published through Geoscience BC’s website in December 2008 and provide a valuable addition for the database of geological information of the Lower Skeena region, which in turn should help the exploration of the area. More information on the project and results can be found at www.geosciencebc.com/s/2007-007.asp.
Terrace is in position to benefit economically from the mining industry as the surrounding area is home to the start of the Northwest Transmission Line which is scheduled for completion in 2013. The Northwest Transmission Line is a 335 km, 287 kV transmission line that will become a reliable source of clean power for industrial developments in northwest British Columbia. Upon the completion of the transmission line, mining has the potential to generate thousands of jobs in the region, creating an economic boom for Terrace and surrounding areas.
