Kapa Gold Inc. has announced significant progress regarding its Blackhawk Gold Project, including updates on permitting, historic drilling, and surface sampling. The company is taking steps to ensure environmental compliance while preparing for future exploration activities.
Key Takeaways
- Kapa Gold has initiated biological surveys to protect sensitive species around drill sites.
- The company has submitted bonding to San Bernardino County for drilling on patented claims.
- Recent sampling results indicate promising gold and silver grades in two target areas.
- Historic drilling data has been compiled to enhance resource evaluation.
- Procurement for drilling contractors is underway, with negotiations expected to conclude soon.
Permitting and Environmental Compliance
Kapa Gold has begun biological surveys in the areas surrounding its proposed drill holes at the Blackhawk Gold Project. This initiative aims to identify and avoid any sensitive species during exploration activities. Additionally, the company has submitted the necessary bonding to San Bernardino County, which is a crucial step for obtaining permits to drill on its patented claims.
Recent Sampling Results
In January 2024, Kapa Gold commenced baseline studies and geological work, including a channel rock chip sampling program. This program focused on two main target areas: the Timber-Boat-Hilltop zone (TBH) and the Santa Fe zone. A total of 21 samples were collected, revealing significant grades:
Sample ID |
Target Area |
Gold (gpt) |
Silver (gpt) |
Copper (%) |
Lead (%) |
Zinc (%) |
5936 |
Santa Fe |
59 |
128 |
1.14 |
7.36 |
0.96 |
The results highlighted Santa Fe as a potential open-pit target and TBH as a possible shallow skarn target. A follow-up exploration phase conducted in December 2024 further confirmed these findings, with grades reaching up to 1.42 gpt Au and 75.4 gpt Ag in the Timber area.
Historic Drilling Data Compilation
During 2024, Kapa Gold uncovered a cache of historic drilling documents, which included data from 16 previously unassessed drill holes. This information has been compiled to create a 3D model using Leapfrog software, allowing for better visualization of drill hole intercepts at the Santa Fe, Lookout, and Cliff targets. Although the historic sample results lacked validation certificates, the company plans to prioritize twin holes in its upcoming exploration program.
Future Exploration Plans
The next phase of sampling is set to focus on the Santa Fe zone, particularly near five historic drill holes that appear to be thrust fault-controlled. This sampling will involve testing 20 to 30 meters of the open cliff face, mirroring the results from historic drill holes BEAR 10-13. This detailed approach aims to enhance geological understanding and assist in selecting final drill holes for both twinning and potential step-outs.
Drilling Contractor Procurement
To ensure efficient advancement of the Blackhawk Gold Project, Kapa Gold has initiated a procurement process for drilling contractors. The tender process attracted strong interest, with seven contractors submitting proposals. After thorough evaluation, two contractors have been shortlisted, and negotiations are currently underway. The company anticipates finalizing the selection by mid-March, followed by the issuance of a Letter of Intent (LOI).
Kapa Gold remains committed to advancing the Blackhawk Gold Project while prioritizing environmental stewardship and community engagement. The company aims to leverage its strategic exploration initiatives to deliver significant shareholder value in the promising Blackhawk Mining District.
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