Li-FT Power Ltd. announced the completion of the first full year of its baseline environmental studies programme for its lithium project near Yellowknife, Canada. This milestone marks a crucial step in the regulatory process, paving the way for environmental assessment and the development of a mining plan.
Data collected on natural and human environments
The programme, conducted in partnership with Det’on Cho Environmental, an Indigenous-owned firm held by the Yellowknives Dene First Nation, focused on areas surrounding identified pegmatite dykes and potential infrastructure locations. The studies covered aquatic, atmospheric, terrestrial and human components using a methodology combining scientific approaches and Indigenous knowledge.
In the aquatic domain, surveys addressed bathymetry, hydrology, water quality, and aquatic habitat and species. Fieldwork occurred monthly between April and September. Atmospheric monitoring included noise, vibration and light assessments conducted in late summer, alongside ongoing air quality and meteorological measurements.
Ongoing work and laboratory analysis
Terrestrial studies covered vegetation, soils, terrain, permafrost, host rock geochemistry and wildlife. These activities took place between May and September, while laboratory analysis and wildlife camera monitoring are still underway. Human environment studies focused initially on heritage resources, traditional land use and integration of Indigenous knowledge.
The programme builds on data gathered in 2023 and 2024, supplemented by extensive geological records from the Yellowknife region, an area with a long-standing history of mineral exploration. Future phases will be refined in close collaboration with Indigenous communities and regulators, based on engagement carried out in 2024 and 2025 and outcomes to date.
Progressing towards regulatory milestones
The company indicated that the collected data would form the foundation of economic studies and mine development planning. LIFT’s management team highlighted the importance of this initial phase in ensuring a development approach based on measurable and regulatory-compliant parameters.
