Mining firm seeks 5-year extension for Haines project

Constantine Mining has asked the state to extend its permit for the Palmer Project by five years. The company owns claims outside Haines and wants to continue surface work on 16 of them.

The request stems from a letter sent in August to the Alaska Department of Natural Resources. Constantine stated that the operations outlined in its current plan will take longer than originally permitted. The company previously applied in 2024 for approval through 2028. It now seeks an additional five years, which would extend its operations well into the 2030s.

David Charron, the DNR mining permitting manager, noted that applying one or two years in advance is standard practice. He pointed out that the state changed its rules in 2025 to allow for 10-year approvals, up from the previous five-year limit. Charron said the company is seeking parity with this new standard practice. The extension applies only to activities already approved on the 16 claims where Constantine is conducting drilling and road development.

The Palmer Project has been a point of contention in the Chilkat Valley for years. Proponents argue that increased industrial activity benefits the local economy. Critics worry that mining threatens the ecosystem, specifically the Chilkat River, which supports runs of all five Pacific salmon species. When Constantine first applied for approval, the DNR received 150 public comments. The Chilkat Indian Village submitted one of those comments, expressing opposition due to concerns over salmon runs and heritage resources.

The DNR stated that the requested extension does not alter previously approved work areas or the project's Plan of Operations. Constantine Mining did not provide comment for this story. The public can submit written comments on the extension until Nov. 6.