Mining is Saskatchewan's third largest industry, and from May 20 to 26 that was celebrated with 2012 Mining Week.
"Our province is blessed with a wealth of mineral resources that have attracted the interest of investors from near and far," said Saskatchewan's minister of energy and resources, Bill Boyd. "Through sustainable development of those resources, our mining industry is creating jobs and prosperity for Saskatchewan people. It is helping us keep the Saskatchewan advantage."
The province's mining industry had a very strong year in 2011, with mineral sales valued at about $8.1 billion. Companies spent $293 million last year on exploration and are forecasted to spend $325 million in 2012.
Potash producers in Saskatchewan are expanding their existing mines and an estimated $13.2 billion is expected to be spent by 2020 to do so. Other international mining companies have potash projects on the drawing board and one new mine is in development.