Li-FT Power Ltd is pleased to announce that the 2025 Environmental Baseline Studies Programme for the Yellowknife Lithium Project is largely complete. The conclusion of the Programme is a significant milestone for the Project, marking the successful completion of the first of two years of seasonal baseline data that are required for advanced permitting activities, including Environmental Assessment. Data from the Programme will also inform mine planning activities, including economic studies.
The Programme was led by Det’on Cho Environmental, an Indigenous-owned environmental services firm owned by the Yellowknives Dene First Nation, under the direction of Li-FT and in close collaboration with the Company’s management and technical teams. The Programme focused on areas immediately adjacent to known pegmatite dykes and potential infrastructure locations, including areas that may be located upstream, downstream, and downwind of potential project activities.
The Programme was aimed at characterising existing conditions in the aquatic, atmospheric, terrestrial, and human environments in the Project area using approaches grounded in the scientific method and Indigenous knowledge:
Aquatic – The programme included bathymetry, hydrology, hydrogeology, and water quality surveys as well as fish and aquatic habitat assessments. Field programmes occurred on an approximately monthly basis from April to September.
Atmospheric – The programme included noise, vibration, and light surveys and air quality and meteorological monitoring. Noise, vibration, and light surveys were conducted in late summer. Air quality and meteorological monitoring began in the summer and will continue year-round going forward.
Terrestrial – The programme included vegetation, soils, terrain, permafrost, host rock geochemistry, and wildlife programmes. Field programmes were conducted between May and September. Laboratory analyses and wildlife camera programmes are ongoing.
Human – Initial programmes focused on heritage resources, land and resource use, and Indigenous Knowledge integration and will grow over time.
The Programme built on data collected in 2023 and 2024 as well as extensive historical records from the region, which has been well studied due to its proximity to Yellowknife and long history of mineral exploration and mining. Future programmes will be refined in close collaboration with local Indigenous communities and regulatory authorities, building on previous engagement in 2024 and 2025, and Programme outcomes to date.
April Hayward, CSO of Li-FT, commented, “The safe and successful completion of our first full year of seasonal environmental baseline data collection is a significant achievement and an important milestone for the Project. This work will provide the foundation for informed, responsible decision-making as we continue to advance the Project through mine planning, economic studies, and Environmental Assessment. We are grateful for the ongoing support of our Indigenous partners and remain committed to working closely and collaboratively with local communities and regulatory agencies to ensure we gather the data and information we need to support responsible development.”
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