Endomines plans new gold mines and visitor center in Ilomantsi, North Karelia

Endomines Finland, a mining company, is planning new gold mines and a visitor center for the public in Ilomantsi, North Karelia. The company currently operates the Hattuvaara Pampalo gold mine and another recently opened mine in Hosko. Last year, Endomines extracted around 400 kilograms of gold in Ilomantsi, and this year, production is expected to increase by 15-35 percent, resulting in an estimated yield of 460-540 kilograms.

The company is also exploring a new mining area along the southern gold line, approximately 15 kilometers south of Pampalo. With extensive mineral exploration underway, Endomines aims to significantly boost gold production over the next decade compared to current levels.

Should the new mining area development along the southern gold line proceed, there are plans to establish a visitor center that will showcase daily mining operations. According to plans, visitors will be able to learn about the environmental impacts of mining through engaging exhibits. Endomines CEO Kari Vyhtinen envisions additional activities at the site, such as gold panning, a small museum, and possibly even a goldsmith creating jewelry from Pampalo gold.

However, no decision has yet been made regarding the establishment of the visitor center, as the environmental impact assessment and permitting process for the new mine must be completed first. The project for the new gold production area and visitor center is estimated to require a significant investment of 50-90 million euros, with more precise figures to emerge as planning progresses.

This mining expansion is expected to create additional jobs in Ilomantsi, with the CEO anticipating around 200-300 direct positions, in addition to indirect employment effects. Currently, Endomines employs about 50 people in Ilomantsi, with an equal number of contractors, approximately one-third of whom are local residents.