Lahontan Gold Corp. has initiated a metallurgical testing program at its Santa Fe project with the objective of increasing gold and silver recoveries from the mixed oxide-sulfide transition zone. This program follows the Preliminary Economic Assessment findings, which reported a gold recovery rate of 49% in this domain. The company aims to improve upon this figure, with test results anticipated later this year. Enhanced recoveries could substantially influence the project's economic viability and production forecasts.
The Santa Fe project is a cornerstone of Lahontan's development strategy, featuring a history of gold and silver production and holding considerable resources. The transition zone represents a critical area where significant resources remain underutilized. Improving recovery rates here is viewed as essential for realizing the project's full potential. CEO Kimberly Ann emphasized the significance of this testing, stating that better recoveries could directly improve project economics.
Concurrently, Lahontan is planning an expanded drilling campaign for 2025, focused on resource expansion and project optimization. The company has obtained approval from the Bureau of Land Management to access additional high-priority drill sites, facilitating further exploration and development activities. These efforts are supported by historical data and recent analyses indicating strong metallurgical potential at Santa Fe.
Lahontan's collaboration with leading consultants for the PEA update underscores its dedication to advancing the project toward production. Located within the Walker Lane region, known for its mining productivity, the Santa Fe project is poised to contribute to the area's legacy of gold and silver production. The outcomes of the metallurgical testing and subsequent drilling initiatives will be pivotal in shaping the project's future trajectory and economic outcomes.
