Casino has been conducting fish baseline studies within the proposed mine project area each year since 2008. These studies have shown a broad-range of species in the area including; Arctic grayling; slimy sculpin; burbot; round whitefish; Chinook salmon; and chum salmon.

An estimated 18,000 square meters of fish habitat may be impacted by the Casino Project, and will require an authorization under the federal Fisheries Act by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. As a result, a Fish Habitat Compensation Plan (FHOP) is being developed to ensure a net benefit to fish populations using varying strategies such as new habitat creation, restoration or enhancement.

Casino is also exploring ways to improve habitat for Yukon River Chinook salmon. Our team is working closely with local partners and stakeholders, including Selkirk and Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nations and Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in, to identify options to improve Chinook salmon freshwater habitat.