It supported historic underground mining operations from 1905-08, producing ~20,000 tons of ore grading 4.9% copper, 2.2 g/t gold and 30 g/t silver. Over the past 34 years, previous owners expended some US $41 million to complete 195,000 feet of drilling in 246 holes.
In 2007-08, a 2,800-foot underground development drive and 500 feet of crosscuts were constructed to facilitate cost-effective underground drilling at Niblack. Although just 28 underground holes were completed to the end of 2008, the last two returned grades significantly higher than the historic average.
Heatherdale geologists believe these two holes are a portent for the discovery of a major new area of high-grade, precious metals enhanced mineralization.
An underground diamond drilling program is currently underway at Niblack with the goal of expanding a new precious metals enriched mineral body recently discovered to the southwest of the Lookout Deposit.
Key project infrastructure is already in place at the Niblack property, including 1.5 miles of road, 3,300 feet of underground development, a water treatment plant and discharge system, a dock and barge camp.
Project Infrastructure click to enlarge |
Niblack Property click to enlarge |
