Our Story

The CanLava Mine started back in 1992 with a vision of taking an environmentally friendly solution, that being red basalt and black scoria and developing a broader market for it in Western Canada. This vision was built around the Nazko Cone Volcano just west of Quesnel in beautiful British Columbia. With a clear vision and goal, CanLava Mining was built.

This beautiful Volcano provides us with a high-quality red vesicular basalt and black scoria, which are considered types of Volcanic Lightweight Aggregates. This volcano is also one of the largest deposits of Lava Rock in North America. Completely natural and eco-friendly, these materials are excellent solutions to many different challenges.

In 2012, a new ownership group was formed. With strong beliefs in social and environmental responsibility, they set out to make changes where and when possible. The current CanLava Group has delivered on that promise by reaching out to the Nazko First Nation, to pioneer a strong relationship with the community of the Nazko First Nation, founded on mutual trust and respect. Through this relationship, CanLava has created employment opportunities, supported the local school and community center, and has been working closely with the Nazko First Nation on developing business opportunities. CanLava strives to enhance operations, grow its markets, and continues to develop the resource.

Black Lava Volcano Mine Site
using tephralite for concrete paving

Our Business

CanLava operates one of the largest volcanic deposit quarries in North America. Through mining and production, CanLava provides quality Lightweight Volcanic Aggregates: Red Basalt and Black Scoria. CanLava provides solutions for lightweight concrete, geotechnical applications, traction challenges, and the home and garden. TephraLite is sold to contractors and concrete producers, LavaScape is sold to landscape supply centers, greenhouses, nurseries and do-it-yourself home owners, while LavaGrip is sold to everyone as a traction-aid for slippery conditions. CanLava can transport the products in bulk or in bags all across Canada and the United States.

Our Mission

β€œTo develop and grow markets that we can deliver natural quality solutions to, while ensuring our integrity and commitment to one another.”