Lahontan Gold Corp. has mobilized a track-mounted MDP-1500 RC drill rig to its flagship Santa Fe Mine in Nevada's Walker Lane trend, initiating a 25-hole, 4,000-meter reverse-circulation drill program. The campaign focuses on the York and Slab zones, areas with near-surface oxide mineralization where previous drilling has demonstrated extensive gold and silver potential. This strategic move represents a shift from broad resource definition to the technical groundwork necessary for mine planning and permitting, underscoring the company's progress toward mineral exploitation at Santa Fe.
The drill program is specifically designed to expand and upgrade oxide gold and silver resources. By concentrating on shallow oxide reserves, Lahontan aims to convert existing resources into more defined categories that support detailed mine planning. This technical advancement is crucial for the project's progression, as it provides the data required for scheduling and permitting activities anticipated in the coming year. The company's long-term strategy involves advancing Santa Fe from exploration into planning, with the current drill work serving as a foundational step toward these objectives.
The mobilization of the drill rig and the launch of this program highlight Lahontan's commitment to accelerating development at Santa Fe. The Walker Lane trend is a prolific mineral belt, and successful resource conversion at Santa Fe could enhance the project's economic viability. For investors and stakeholders, this development signals tangible progress, as detailed resource data is essential for securing permits and advancing toward production. The company's news and updates are available in its newsroom, providing further context on its activities.
This drill program's implications extend beyond immediate resource expansion. By upgrading resources, Lahontan strengthens its path toward mine planning for 2026, potentially de-risking the project and attracting further investment. The focus on oxide mineralization is particularly significant, as these deposits often involve lower-cost extraction methods, improving the project's feasibility. As the company advances Santa Fe, this drill work represents a critical phase in transitioning from exploration to development, with potential impacts on Nevada's mining sector and the broader gold market.
