June marked a milestone for the Province of Manitoba and the Potash and Agri Development Corporation of Manitoba (PADCOM), as the first-ever Manitoban potash mining operation started production.

 The plant sits approximately 16km west of Russell, in Harrowby, MB- a resource-rich location surrounded by other succesful potash mines in nearby SK.

"After years of researching the potential of this resource, we are pleased to get to this historic point of producing the very first potash in Manitoba," Said Daymon Guillas, President of PADCOM. "it will be a catalyst for more economic development in our region and the entire province,"

The site uses an innovative selectve solution minig process, which involves injecting heated brine into the ground to dissolve potash and the extract the solution. The unique, low-disturbance process has a smaller environmental footprint than the traditional room and pillar method. This means that the mine will be a carbon-neutral facility, and the use of green Manitoba Hydro energy could make the PADCOM facility the lowest carbon-emitting potash mine in the world.

PADCOM has already invested more that #12 million for the project, of which Gambler First Nation is a 20% equity partner. PADCOM has commited to sharing 11% of net profits with local First Nations, the Manitoba Metis Federation, and other local governments.

"Gambler First Nation is pleased to be an active partner on this project," said Chief David LeDoux, Gambler First Nation. "PADCOM's approach to this develpment respect the land, the environment, and the people in our region."

For more information on PADCOM, visit www.manitobapotash.ca.