Conuma has announced its Plan to Explore initiative, which they say is an important step in ensuring outdoor enthusiasts are well-informed about the upcoming mining activities near the Shipyard – Titanic.
The company is still working through its permitting process, but is hoping to begin operation in the Big Windy Lower Pit in the near future.
But this will put the Shipyard – Titanic in range of blasting activities.
While there is little chance of rock being thrown into that area, the company is legally required to make sure that a certain area is clear of people. And, with the blast radius overlapping the Shipyard – Titanic area, there will need to be temporary closures before and after each blast—two hours before and one hour after.
The company expects to perform three or four blasts per week. “Conuma’s primary goal is to minimize disruption for those who love to explore the natural wonders of the Shipyard – Titanic Rock area while balancing the needs of mining activities,” says Elizabeth Ross, Communications Advisor for Conuma in a letter to council advising them of the plan. “We understand the significance of these trails to the outdoor community and are committed to keeping the public informed of any changes in accessibility. By doing so, we aim to facilitate a smooth transition as we advance our activities in the Big Windy Lower Pit and ensure that everyone continues to enjoy these beautiful landscapes safely and responsibly.”
Ross says the key is for people to stay connected with the “Plan to Explore” communications, which will provide updates on the Shipyard – Titanic Rock trail status and safety measures. “We invite the community to join us in this initiative, to stay informed and engaged every step of the way.”
She says the company is taking a four step process to make sure people know when the company is blasting in the area.
The first step will be physical signage, strategically posted to inform trail users of a possible interruption. Signage location will include: roadside signs on Highway 52 East & West, as well as along the Murray River Forest Service Road, signs at the trailhead, as well as Plan to Explore signs displayed in the Visitors Centre, Geopark Centre, District of Tumbler Ridge, and local businesses.
Second, there will be an online platform, which is accessible via a QR code or live link, which will tell people when the next blast is occurring.
Third, the company will produce a community newsletter, which will be emailed monthly with updates, events, and Plan to Explore reminders.
Finally, the company will alert people on their Facebook and Instagram pages to inform outdoor explores of the potential for trail interruptions due to blasting with details of the Plan to Explore initiative.
“Conuma is committed to maintaining transparency and providing timely information to the community, particularly regarding the temporary trail closures that will be necessary for safe access to these areas,” says Ross.
Above photo: Tegan and Radar out in the Shipyard-Titanic last week.
Trent is the publisher of Tumbler RidgeLines.
