Mining in Saskatchewan
By: Evan Lucyk
Saskatchewan is often regarded as an agricultural community to those outside of the province, with the mining industry often being overlooked. However, mining is one of the province’s most thriving sectors. Today we have decided to share an overview of the degree of production, economic impacts of mining in the province, and the impacts on workers and the environment.
The scale of production and the amount Saskatchewan lands have to offer is extensive. Two of the most abundant resources in the area are potash and uranium. The province is the top potash producer globally. According to the Saskatchewan Mining Association, the province is responsible for 30% of global production and has the largest and richest potash resources. Saskatchewan is also the second leading producer of uranium, providing nearly 16% of the global supply.
The mining industry provides a substantial economic benefit to Canada. In 2018, the total value of Canadian mining production was $47.0 billion, with gold leading in mineral production valued at $9.6 billion, coal at $6.4 billion, and potash at $5.5 billion. Not only is it good for both federal and provincial economies, but the industry also employs many Canadians in over 120 different occupations and pays substantial wages—the average weekly salary of employees in mining is almost twice the weekly salary of those in other sectors.
It makes a substantial financial impact on Saskatchewan when the mining industry is supported on a local level. Purchases made for resources in-province provide nearly four times more economic benefit than when made from out of province suppliers. According to a study conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers and commissioned by the Saskatchewan Industrial and Mining Suppliers Association, every dollar spent supporting Saskatchewan suppliers would produce $1.51 in total provincial economic activity for every dollar spent. However, purchasing from out of province suppliers would only generate $0.39. The study also found that when out-of-province resource companies purchase from Saskatchewan suppliers, every dollar spent generates $1.12 for the province.
Environmental sustainability is important to the industry. Dozens of workers are employed across the province to ensure that operations meet or exceed environmental standards and limits. Saskatchewan miners are dedicated to participating in new research and implementing new technologies when advancements are innovated to limit environmental harm. These technologies are created to help the mining industry improve combustion efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and increase resource conservation. In addition to contributing to more environmentally-conscious practices, using up-to-date technologies ensures the industry maintains cost-effectivity and productivity and provides the safest possible operation. This factor contributes to mining being one of the safest industries in Saskatchewan, and in Canada, with the average recordable injury frequency rate sitting at 1.057.
Mining in Saskatchewan has a substantial resource output, an impact on the economy, and champions sustainability and safety practices. As a Saskatchewan based producer, Bit Service is proud to be a part of such a highly productive and innovative industry. We are excited to see where the future of mining takes the province.