Stortjärnhobben exploration and mining project

Stortjärnhobben
 

The gold mineralization in Stortjärnhobben was discovered in outcrop during block exploration in 1997. It has been investigated with several diamond drilling programs and geophysical surveys from 1997 onwards. Today, a total of 52 core holes of 5,950 drill meters have been drilled in 14 profiles on a kilometer-long zone south of Stortjärnen.

Investigations to date indicate that the gold-bearing zone, which has been traced 750 meters along strike, consists of arsenopyrite- and magnesite-impregnated intermediate volcanics, from surface to depths of 75-180 meters. Gold grades are high and visible free gold has been observed in both drill core and outcrops. Enrichment tests carried out with mineralized material from the drill cores, in Svartliden's enrichment plant, indicate a possible yield of 90 percent. In order to estimate the mineral resources and possible ore reserves, further exploration is planned in the area. Mining is expected to take place initially in a small open pit or underground. Drilling has so far been limited to shallower parts and the deposit is open at depth. 

Lappland Guldprospektering AB was granted an exploitation concession on February 12, 2007 for an initial period of 25 years on 21.75 ha for the deposit called Stortjärnhobben K No. 1. The decision was based on a proven deposit that is likely to be economically exploitable. The processing concession means that the area is dedicated for mining activities under the Environmental Code. 

The Geological Survey of Sweden (SGU) classified the area on February 14, 2008 as being of national interest with regard to the extraction of substances and materials, which is a strength in further work for environmental permits. 

Plans for the near term include a 5,000 meter drill program from new angles further up-dip to better understand the grades and extent of the deposit. The deposit is adjacent to an existing forestry road which in turn connects to the public road network.