Last evening the Klondike Placer Miners’ Association officially launched KPMA 101 an industry-led training and compliance education program for its members.
For Immediate Release: May 3, 2022
Whitehorse – The Klondike Placer Miners’ Association (KPMA) kicked off Mining Week by formally launching KPMA 101, an industry-led training and compliance education program for its members.
Built around three core components, KPMA 101 includes app-based training modules, onsite implementation support, and an adaptive management roundtable to ensure concepts are being communicated and implemented.
“We developed the program to meet the unique needs of the placer industry,” enthused Brooke Rudolph, KPMA executive director. “The app is free for all members and their employees, and it was built so modules can be downloaded to phones or tablets when in cell service, watched offline in the field and then reported on when back in service.”
Through KPMA 101, 20 training modules are being developed under the themes Earthworks & Reclamation, Planning & Regulatory, as well as Community & Engagement. Modules are industry-driven and reviewed by external expertise. They marry research, regulation and best practises with practical information to help implement into day-to-day operations. Modules reflect Yukon landscapes and governance, and feature real mines, real miners and real stakeholders.
“Access to the most up-to-date training and info on regulations helps ensure that mines can responsibly operate in the territory and continue to contribute to our economy while preserving our environment,” stated Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources John Streicker. “The Klondike Placer Miner Association’s new app helps give placer miners access to training modules, on-site support and regulatory information in real time, on mine sites across the Yukon. This innovative training and education program is a great resource for mining operations to ensure they have clarity on regulations as they operate.”
“I am happy that our focus on labour market development is providing Klondike placer miners with the ability to build on their skills and knowledge,” added Education Minister Jeanie McLean. KPMA 101 is incredibly accessible as it can be used on or offline and is free to download on any mobile device. This new resource will ensure that miners in the Klondike can stay up-to-date with mining regulations and training as they responsibly operate in the Yukon.”
KPMA 101 is rooted in proactive collaboration with Yukon and First Nation governments, and industry experts. The Klondike Placer Miners’ Association would like to thank the Department of Economic Development and the Department of Education for their financial support of this important initiative. And thank you to everyone who has contributed their time and talent, including staff at the Department of Energy, Mines and Resources, Department of Environment, Workers Compensation Health and Safety Board, Yukon Human Rights Commission, Ecofish Research, Ducks Unlimited, Drone North, Northern Sonic Drilling and Consulting, Department of Tourism and Culture, Tr’ondëk Hw’ëchin First Nation, Randy Clarkson, and the Yukon Placer Secretariat.
“KPMA illustrates our commitment to being a proactive, responsible and forward-looking industry,” said KPMA president Will Fellers. “It reflects our willingness to constantly improve and better our operations, and we look forward to working with other community members and First Nations to keep building a vibrant, sustainable industry that is doing it the right way.”
“The Yukon is a world-class mining jurisdiction because of our commitment to environmentally sustainable practices and strong regulatory clarity. This educational app will help to ensure that placer miners are provided with the most up to date information so they can continue to operate efficiently and responsibly,” affirmed Minister of Economic Development Ranj Pillai. “I want to thank the Klondike Placer Miner’s Association for their commitment to supporting the Yukon’s placer mining community.”
To learn more, visit kpma.ca/kpma-101 or KPMA 101 on YouTube for access to public video modules.
Quick Facts
The KPMA was established in 1974 to promote and protect the interests of the placer mining industry and acts as a voice for all Yukon’s placer miners providing leadership on, and advocating for, responsible and sustainable placer mining with technological and ethical advances to the benefit of all operators, our environment, and enriching the communities we are a part of.
In a 2021 survey of KPMA membership, industry reported:
- 90% of placer mines are family run
- On average, 2.5 generations live on site
- 80% of mines are owned, or co-owned, by women
- Almost 90% of operating expenses are spent locally in Yukon communities
For further information contact:
Krista Prochazka
Good Thinking Professional Services
867.336.1230
krista@goodthinking.pro
