The extension of Teck’s Fording River Operations is critical to ensuring a strong and successful future for Teck’s steelmaking coal business.
By the Numbers
-
One-third of Teck’s current $3.9 billion economic contribution to the Elk Valley stems from Fording River Operations.
-
The Project will extend the lifespan of Fording River by several decades, and will maintain over 1,400 direct jobs and many more indirect jobs.
Project Flyover
In this GIS flyover, you will navigate through the Elk Valley and see the Project area in relation to our existing Fording River Operations and water treatment facilities. Watch the video below or visit Teck’s YouTube channel.
What
The Castle Project is a proposed extension of the Fording River Operations steelmaking coal mine. Extending the lifespan of the mine will maintain the jobs and economic benefits generated by the operation in a socially and environmentally responsible manner.
Provincial and federal regulators are reviewing the Project through a comprehensive evaluation of a range of potential effects. These include the environmental, economic, social, cultural and health effects that may occur over the life of the project. These reviews will conclude with a decision on whether the project can proceed.
Where
Located adjacent to and south of our existing Fording River Operations, the Project is approximately 30 km northeast of Elkford in the East Kootenay region in southeastern British Columbia.
As the Project is an extension of Fording River, we will make use of existing equipment and infrastructure to minimize the Project’s footprint.
When
The Project is currently in the design stage. At this time, we are developing specific aspects of the project using the feedback gathered from Indigenous Peoples, local communities and government agencies.
Following regulatory approvals, we anticipate pre-construction activities for the Project will begin in order to meet production requirements by 2026/2027. By the early 2030s, all steelmaking coal for Fording River would come from the extension.
Who
The Project team comprises more than 50 Teck employees and contractors, many of whom are based in the Elk Valley. Newly heading up the Teck project team is Sheila Risbud, Director, Castle Project.
“We understand the challenges that our operations in the Elk Valley face, particularly when it comes to water quality. Successfully delivering this Project by addressing issues head-on ensures that Teck can continue to grow the local economy by preserving jobs, maintaining procurement opportunities, and expanding our overall economic contributions – not just today, but also into the future,” says Sheila.
“We cannot talk about securing Teck’s long-term presence in the Elk Valley without recognizing the critical role that Indigenous communities play in our success,” adds Sheila. “Working closely with the Ktunaxa Nation Council, the project team is focused on understanding the current environment and project alternatives and mitigating impacts during the conceptual phase of our work. As the project advances, Teck’s engagement efforts will continue to focus on strengthening our relationship with the Ktunaxa people and those communities in the project area.
Why
Steelmaking coal is an essential ingredient in the production of steel. Also called metallurgical or coking coal, it is necessary for building infrastructure such as rail, bridges and schools and improving the quality of life for people around the world.
As we transition to a low carbon economy, steel and steelmaking coal used to make it are also required for everything from clean energy projects like wind or solar power to transportation alternatives like rapid transit, buses and hybrid vehicles. Learn more about steelmaking coal here.
You can learn more about the Project by visiting castleproject.teck.com.
