The association is being formed in response to the growth the mineral exploration sector has experienced over the past few years. A prepared release from the association says the value of mineral production in the province is expected to be close to $6 billion in 2012.
“The time is right to create a strong independent voice and network for our prospectors around the province, and to roll out new training opportunities including workshops and field trips to the prospecting community,” said the release.
It also hopes to create an organization that can make representation and have dialogue with the provincial government to build on the successful programs and supports that are already in place.
Close to 120 prospectors have joined the new association.
An interim steering committee has been established and a fundraising campaign started that in six weeks has raised over $30,000 through membership fees and contributions from individuals and mineral exploration and mining companies.
The association has been endorsed by the National Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada and the national group has committed $10,000 in matching funds.
The groups wants to attract more young people to look seriously at prospecting and to spread an awareness about the opportunities that are available to aboriginal people who take up the activity.
The organizational meeting will be held at Hotel Stephenville from 7 to 10 p.m. and all prospectors and those interested in getting involved in prospecting are encouraged to attend.
For more information, contact Norm Mercer at normmercer@gmail.com.
