Snowline Gold and Na-Cho Nyäk Dun Forge a New Partnership for Yukon Mining Projects

VANCOUVER, BC — On January 17, 2026, Snowline Gold Corp. (“Snowline” or the “Company”), a Yukon-focused gold exploration and development company, and the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun (“FNNND”) signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a cooperative framework for future mine development on the Rogue Project and ongoing exploration in FNNND’s Traditional Territory.

Background to the MOU Signing

The MOU ceremony was held in Mayo, Yukon, and marked a milestone in the relationship between Snowline and FNNND. It was signed by Scott Berdahl, CEO & Director of Snowline Gold, and Chief Dawna Hope of the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun.

This agreement is designed to recognize FNNND’s governance role in any future mining development, to guide environmental and engineering studies, and to foster respectful collaboration between the parties.

Snowline Gold’s Vision and Commitment

Scott Berdahl expressed Snowline’s appreciation for the partnership with FNNND, stating that the MOU reflects shared values around environmental stewardship, operational integrity, and economic opportunity. According to him, this agreement provides a clear framework for responsible development while building strong communication channels.

Berdahl emphasized the Company’s intention to support FNNND citizens and respect the land, while working together to create meaningful long-term value for both parties.

First Nation’s Perspective on Collaboration

Chief Dawna Hope highlighted the importance of the agreement in fostering a new kind of relationship between her community and mining companies operating in their Traditional Territory. She noted that while the First Nation is not opposed to mining, development must occur in a way that respects Indigenous rights and community values.

The Chief stressed that economic development must happen sustainably — benefiting FNNND citizens, people living in the Yukon, and the broader environment, including the land and water systems that depend on careful stewardship.

Council Statements and Broader Impacts

The FNNND Council released a statement recognizing the MOU as a major step forward in enabling First Nations to govern activities within their Traditional Territories. They described the agreement as symbolic of a new era of collaboration, where mining activities can proceed in a way that honors First Nations’ rights and protects the land, water, wildlife, and people.

Key Elements of the Memorandum of Understanding

The MOU sets out a detailed process for ongoing engagement and consultation between Snowline and FNNND. Some of the most important components include:

• Free, Prior and Informed Consent — FNNND must give consent before construction begins on the Rogue Project.
• Compliance with FNNND Mining Policy — The mining policy guides all activities within the Traditional Territory.
• Collaborative Relationship — Both parties commit to a cooperative and productive working relationship.
• Future Agreements — The MOU provides the foundation for more advanced legal agreements based on the mining policy.
• Involvement of FNNND Citizens — Citizens of the First Nation will directly support decision-making processes.
• Capacity Funding — Financial support will be provided to ensure ongoing engagement and environmental studies.

About the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun

The First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun represents the northernmost community of the Northern Tutchone language and culture group. The name “Na-Cho Nyäk Dun” means “the People of where the Big Waters converge.”

The FNNND Traditional Territory spans over 160,000 square kilometres, with approximately 130,000 square kilometres located within the Yukon Territory. It extends from Fort McPherson in the north to the South MacMillan River and Pelly River in the south, and from the Dempster Highway in the west to the border with the Northwest Territories.

About Snowline Gold Corp.

Snowline Gold Corp. is a gold exploration and development company focused on the Yukon Territory. Its core asset, the Valley gold deposit, is a large, near-surface gold discovery located within the Rogue Project — situated in the southeastern portion of FNNND Traditional Territory.

A recent Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) suggests that the Valley deposit could support a long-life mining operation with strong production potential and low costs. The report complies with industry standards and is available on regulatory platforms and Snowline’s website.

Economic and Environmental Importance

This MOU does more than outline collaborative principles — it establishes an evolving framework that could influence resource development across Yukon. It aligns economic development with environmental stewardship and community rights.

Many observers see this agreement as a model for how resource companies can build respectful and mutually beneficial relationships with Indigenous communities. For the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun, the MOU reinforces their role as stewards of a land that has deep cultural and historical significance.

Looking Ahead

With the MOU in place, Snowline and FNNND will continue to engage on the Rogue Project and future initiatives in the Traditional Territory. Both parties have reiterated their commitment to working together in ways that protect cultural heritage, environmental quality, and economic opportunities.

As the project evolves, additional agreements and detailed plans are expected to emerge, reflecting ongoing consultations and shared priorities between Snowline and the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun.

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