The federal government has decided not to designate Wyloo's Eagle's Nest project for an impact assessment, which examines the possible environmental, health, social and economic impacts of a project.

Impact Assessment Agency of Canada president Terence Hubbard says there are other means to address concerns about the project including several federal and provincial laws that must be followed.

Neskantaga First Nation requested the impact assessment of the proposed mine, saying it will have a severe effect on its homelands, especially the Attawapiskat River and its tributaries that it relies on for traditional ways of living.

The Ontario government has signed partnership deals with two First Nations in an effort to build the mine and roads to the remote part of northern Ontario.

Webequie First Nation and Marten Falls First Nation have both recently submitted provincial environmental assessments on two roads that would connect their homelands to the Ring of Fire and Ontario's highway system.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 24, 2026.