A new booming industry is taking off in the province, as the Potash and Agri Development Corporation of Manitoba (PADCOM) begins mining at Manitoba's first-ever potash mine.
This new operation is located near the Manitoba-Saskatchewan border near the town of Harrowby. the town will likely see some growth as this mine really ramps up production.]
The newly completed mine is looking to put out some sizeable numbers, up to 250,000 tonnes of potash annually.
These production numbers could see some series profit, and PADCOM's President Daymon Guillas says they're looking to invest back into communities.
“It will be a catalyst for more economic development in our region and the entire province.”
PADCOM has committed to sharing 11 percent of net profits with local First Nations, Manitoba Métis Federation, and other local governments as part of their efforts to share the wealth.
This potash mine isn't just a good move for the economy, but also for the environment, as its use of hydroelectricity and its unique low-disturbance process for mining make it the lowest carbon-emitting potash mine on the planet.
The site uses an innovative selective solution mining process, which involves injecting heated brine into the ground to dissolve potash and then extract the solution.
Premier Heather Stephenson noted having this large-scale operation in our province will move Manitoba up on the global stage of mining, as well as being a massive boon to local agriculture, as potash is a critical mineral used as a fertilizer.
From fertilizer to farms, to financial standings, this new mining operation is going to be growing a lot in this province.
