The Yukon is known to have significant deposits of rare earth minerals, which are essential components in the manufacturing of electronics, clean energy technologies, and defense equipment.
Some of the rare earth minerals that have been identified in the Yukon include yttrium, europium, neodymium, dysprosium, terbium, and gadolinium. These minerals are primarily found in the form of bastnaesite and monazite, which are rare earth-bearing minerals.
The development of rare earth mines in the Yukon is still in its early stages, and there are only a few active exploration projects in the region. However, there is growing interest in the development of these resources, given the increasing demand for rare earths in the global economy.
The development of rare earth mines in the Yukon has the potential to create jobs and generate economic growth in the region. However, there are also concerns about the environmental impact of mining activities and the potential for disruption to traditional Indigenous ways of life. As such, any development of these resources will need to be balanced against the needs and concerns of local communities and the environment.
Rare earth deposits in the Yukon are primarily found in the southeast and southwest regions of the territory. Some of the most promising deposits are located near the communities of Watson Lake and Beaver Creek.
In the Watson Lake area, rare earth minerals are found in the form of bastnaesite and monazite, which are hosted in quartz veins and pegmatites. The deposits in this region are believed to be some of the largest and richest rare earth deposits in North America.
In the Beaver Creek area, rare earth minerals are found in the form of monazite and xenotime, which are hosted in placer deposits. These deposits are believed to be lower-grade than those in Watson Lake, but they are still considered to be economically viable.
Other rare earth deposits have also been identified in various parts of the Yukon, including the Kluane region and the Selwyn Basin. However, these deposits are still in the exploration stage, and their economic viability has yet to be determined.
