Pacific Booker Minerals is questioning why the B.C. government rejected plans for its proposed Morrison Mine near Granisle.

The company says the mines and environment ministers refused to approve the open pit copper-and-gold project, even though the Environmental Assessment Office's report concluded practical means had been identified to prevent or reduce any potential negative impacts.

However, the EAO's executive director -- an associate deputy minister -- recommended the project not be approved, because of various uncertainties and long-term liability to the province.

Concerns about the impact of the mine's waste rock on water quality were a major issue during the assessment and Pacific Booker revised its plan last year.

On Monday, the government stated the ministers determined the potential long-term risks of the mine outweighed the potential benefits to the province.  It also noted the proposed mine's location next to Morrison Lake at the headwaters of the Skeena River, the province's second-largest sockeye salmon producer.

The Lake Babine Nation and other First Nations have opposed the mine.

Pacific Booker says it's now considering all available options to respond to the ministers' decision.

It also notes a federal review of the project is ongoing.