Residents in northern Saskatchewan will see increased drilling activity this summer as mining companies look to explore new opportunities for mineral deposits. 110 new holes are expected to be drilled in an area including Creighton.

Energy and Resources Minister Bronwyn Eyre says seven junior mining companies were approved under an exploration incentive program.

“This exploration incentive will promote the discovery of new mineral resource opportunities, which in turn can generate jobs and economic benefits in northern Saskatchewan,” Eyre said.

Other area’s which will see drilling activity include Prince Albert and La Ronge.

“MAS Gold Corp. is focused on gold exploration in the La Ronge Green Belt,” said MAS Gold Corp. Vice President of Exploration David Tupper.

The Saskatchewan Mining Association says one-in-five jobs in the north are linked to mining, with the industry contributing approximately $300 million to the local economy.

(PHOTO: Mining activity. MBC file.)