ALBERTA – October 20, 2025 – Peaskie Minerals Inc. is pleased to respond to the Government of Alberta’s announcement regarding new regulatory changes that will expand silica sand exploration and extraction opportunities on public lands.
The streamlined regulations, announced by Ministers Todd Loewen (Forestry and Parks), Brian Jean (Energy and Minerals), and Rebecca Schulz (Environment and Protected Areas), will reduce red tape, shorten decision times, and enhance accessibility for silica sand producers operating on public lands across the province.
“These changes will have significant impact on the ability to grow the industry in Alberta and provide security of supply for the oil and gas sector,” said Keith Arsenault, CEO of Peaskie Minerals Inc. “Most of these operations are in rural Alberta, providing significant economic benefits and employment opportunities to the counties in which we operate. I want to extend my thanks to Minister Loewen, Minister Schulz, and Minister Jean, for putting Alberta first.”
Silica sand is a critical component in oil and gas production, particularly for operations in the Montney and Duvernay formations. Alberta currently produces only one-third of the silica sand it requires, with 8.4 million tonnes needed in 2024 and projected demand reaching 12 million tonnes by 2035.
The new regulatory framework has provided Peaskie Minerals with the confidence and security of raw material supplies needed to proceed with significant capital investment in 2025, including expansion of production capacities and hiring additional personnel to bring more Canadian, domestic product to market.
“This, along with the strong support we have received from both Thorhild County and Westlock County, our main locations of operations, have us positive on the future of our Canadian industry,” Arsenault added.
By reducing Alberta’s reliance on imported silica sand, these regulatory changes will create good-paying jobs for Albertans, support economic independence, and strengthen supply chains for the province’s vital energy sector.
About Peaskie Minerals Inc.
Peaskie Minerals Inc. is a leading producer of silica sand for Alberta’s oil and gas industry, with primary operations in Thorhild County and Westlock County.
Official News Release: https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=950924714A464-B230-D8A3-FAD08804D05ED8E0