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DATE AND SIGNATURES PAGE
This report is current as of 25 January 2013.
“Conrad Huss, P.E.” | 25 January 2013 |
Signature | Date |
The Certificates of Qualified Persons are included in Appendix A.
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CASINO PROJECT
FORM 43-101F1 TECHNICAL REPORT
FEASIBILITY STUDY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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APPENDIX B: LIST OF CLAIMS | 205 |
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LIST OF FIGURES AND ILLUSTRATIONS
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LIST OF TABLES
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Table 22-5: Financial Model | 186 |
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LIST OF APPENDICES
APPENDIX | DESCRIPTION |
A | Feasibility Study Contributors and Professional Qualifications |
• Certificate of Qualified Person (“QP”) | |
B | List of Claims |
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1 SUMMARY
This report has been prepared by M3 Engineering & Technology Corporation (M3) of Tucson, Arizona to summarize the work performed in the preparation of a feasibility study, supplementary to the Canadian Standard NI 43-101, previously issued for the development of the Casino property (the “Property”) in the Yukon Territory in northern Canada for Casino Mining Corporation (“CMC”), a 100% owned subsidiary of Western Copper and Gold Corporation (“WCGC”).
1.1 KEYDATA
The key details about this project are as follows:
1. | Casino is primarily a copper and gold project that is expected to process 120,000 dry tonnes of material per day (t/d) or 43.8 million dry tonnes per year (t/y). Metals to be recovered are copper, gold, molybdenum and silver. | ||
2. | There are a total of 965 million tonnes of proven and probable mill ore reserves and 157 million tonnes of proven and probable heap leach reserves. Based on the economic analysis, the Property will produce the following over the life of the mine from heap leach and flotation: | ||
a. | Gold – 5.72 million ounces | ||
b. | Silver – 30.26 million ounces | ||
c. | Copper – 3.58 billion pounds | ||
d. | Molybdenum – 325 million pounds | ||
3. | The process will include a conventional single-line SAG mill circuit (Semi-Autogenous Ball Mill Crushing, or SABC) followed by conventional flotation to produce concentrate for sale. In addition to the concentrator, there will be a separate carbon-in-column facility to recover precious metals from oxide ore. Gold and silver bullion (doré) produced will be shipped by truck to metal refineries. | ||
4. | The Property will require the construction of a power plant and will generate its own electrical power using LNG to fuel the generator drivers. Additionally, the mine haulage vehicles and over-the-highway tractors which haul concentrates and LNG will utilize LNG as fuel. | ||
5. | The Property has several routes of access, including by the Yukon River, by aircraft, winter roads, and existing trails. A network of paved highways provides access to the region from the Port of Skagway, Whitehorse and northern British Columbia. Paved roads to the Property currently exist up to Carmacks. A new, all weather, gravel road will be constructed by the project to connect Casino to Carmacks via the existing Freegold Road. The new access road will, in general, follow the existing Casino Trail that will be upgraded to support trucking from Carmacks to Casino. | ||
6. | Fresh water will be sourced from the Yukon River. |
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7. | The major milestones in the schedule are as follows: | ||
a. | Full Notice to Proceed and construction start-up – first quarter 2016 | ||
b. | Heap Leach operation start-up – fourth quarter 2017 | ||
c. | Mill operation start-up – fourth quarter 2019 | ||
d. | Commercial Production – first quarter 2020 |
1.2 PROPERTYDESCRIPTION ANDOWNERSHIP
The Casino porphyry copper-gold-molybdenum deposit is located at latitude 62° 44'N and longitude 138° 50'W (NTS map sheet 115J/10), in west central Yukon, in the northwest trending Dawson Range mountains, 300 km northwest of the territorial capital of Whitehorse.
The area around Casino has been subject to increasing staking and exploration activity over the past few years. Two properties have defined reserves, the Carmacks Copper Project and the Minto Mine, both of which are discussed in Section 23, Adjacent Properties.
The project is located on Crown land administered by the Yukon Government and is within the Selkirk First Nation traditional territory and the Tr’ondek Hwechin First Nation traditional territory lies to the north. The proposed access road crosses into Little Salmon Carmacks First Nation traditional territory to the south.
The Casino Property lies within the Whitehorse Mining District and consists of 723 full and partial Quartz Claims and 85 Placer Leases acquired in accordance with the Yukon Quartz Mining Act. The total area covered by Casino Quartz Claims is 13,339.17 ha. The total area covered by Casino Placer Leases is 747.45 ha. CMC is the registered owner of all claims, although certain portions of the Casino property remain subject to royalty agreements. The claims covering the Casino property are discussed further in Section 4 of this document.
Figure 1-1 at the end of this section shows the site’s location in Yukon Territory as well as other points of interest relevant to this Report. Figure 1-2 and Figure 1-3 show the roadway paths from the Yukon River to the proposed site facilities.
1.3 GEOLOGY
The geology of the Casino deposit is typical of many porphyry copper deposits. The deposit is centered on an Upper Cretaceous-age (72-74 Ma), east-west elongated porphyry stock, the Patton Porphyry, which intrudes Mesozoic granitoids of the Dawson Range Batholith and Paleozoic schists and gneisses of the Yukon Crystalline Complex. Intrusion of the Patton Porphyry into the older rocks caused brecciation of both the intrusive and the surrounding country rocks along the northern, southern and eastern contact of the stock. Brecciation is best developed in the eastern end of the stock where the breccia can be up to 400 metres wide in plan view. To the west, along the north and south contact, the breccias narrow gradually to less than 100 metres. The overall dimensions of the intrusive complex are approximately 1.8 by 1.0 kilometres.
The main body of the Patton Porphyry is a relatively small, locally mineralized, stock measuring approximately 300 by 800 metres and is surrounded by a potassically-altered Intrusion Breccia in contact with rocks of the Dawson Range. Elsewhere, the Patton Porphyry forms discontinuous dikes ranging from less than one to tens of metres wide, cutting both the Patton Porphyry Plug and the Dawson Range Batholith. The overall composition of the Patton Porphyry is rhyodacite, with phenocrysts falling into a dacite composition and the matrix being of quartz latite composition. It is more commonly made up of distinct phenocrysts of abundant plagioclase and lesser biotite, hornblende, quartz and opaques.
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The Intrusion Breccia surrounding the main Patton Porphyry body consists of granodiorite, diorite, and metamorphic fragments in a fine-grained Patton Porphyry matrix. It may have formed along the margins, in part, by the stoping of blocks of wall rocks. An abundance of Dawson Range inclusions are prominent at the southern contact of the main plug, Wolverine Creek metamorphic rocks increase along the northern contact, and bleached diorite increases at the eastern contact of the main plug. Strong potassic alteration locally destroys primary textures.
1.4 MINERALIZATION
Primary copper, gold and molybdenum mineralization was deposited from hydrothermal fluids that exploited the contact breccias and fractured wall rocks. Better grades occur in the breccias and gradually decrease outwards away from the contact zone both towards the centre of the stock and outward into the granitoids and schists. The main mineralization types are:
- Leached Cap Mineralization (CAP)– This oxide gold zone is gold-enriched and copper-depleted due to supergene alteration processes as well as the lower specific gravity of this zone relative to the other supergene zones. Weathering has replaced most minerals with clay. The weathering is most intense at the surface and decreases with depth.
- Supergene Oxide Mineralization (SOX)– This zone is copper-enriched, with trace molybdenite. It generally occurs as a thin layer above the Supergene Sulphide zone. Where present, the supergene oxide zone averages 10 metres thick, and can contain chalcanthite, malachite and brocanthite, with minor azurite, tenorite, cuprite and neotocite.
- Supergene Sulphide Mineralization (SUS)– Supergene copper mineralization occurs in an up to 200 metre-deep weathered zone below the leached cap and above the hypogene. It has an average thickness of 60 metres. Grades of the Supergene sulphide zone vary widely, but are highest in fractured and highly pyritic zones, due to their ability to promote leaching and chalcocite precipitation. The copper grades in the Supergene Sulphide zone are almost double the copper grades in the Hypogene (0.43% Cu versus 0.23% Cu).
- Hypogene Mineralization– Hypogene mineralization occurs throughout the various alteration zones of the Casino Porphyry deposit, as mineralized stock- work veins and breccias. Significant Cu-Mo mineralization is related to the potassically-altered breccia surrounding the core Patton Porphyry, as well as in the adjacent phyllically-altered host rocks of the Dawson Range Batholith. The pyrite halo in this mineralization is host to the highest Cu values on the property.
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Native gold can occur as free grains in quartz (50 to 70 microns) and as inclusions in pyrite and/or chalcopyrite grains (1 to 15 microns). High grade smoky quartz veins with numerous specks of visible gold are also reported to exist.
1.5 EXPLORATIONSTATUS
In 2009, Quantec Geoscience Limited of Toronto, Ontario performed Titan-24 Galvanic Direct Current Resistivity and Induced Polarization (DC/IP) surveys as well as a Magnetotelluric Tensor Resistivity (MT) survey over the entire grid. Magnetotelluric Resistivity results in high resolution and deep penetration (to 1 km) and the Titan DC Resistivity & Induced polarization provides reasonable depth coverage to 750 m.
In 2010, all Pacific Sentinel’s historic drill core stored at the Casino Property was re-logged. The purpose of the re-logging was to provide data for the new lithology and new alteration models.
In 2011 and 2012, WCGC focused on geotechnical, metallurgical and baseline environmental studies, however certain of the drill holes were also drilled, logged and sampled for exploration purposes. In 2011, the program involved 41 drill holes for a total of 3,163.26 m. In 2012, six holes (228.07 m) were drilled for geotechnical purposes and 5 holes (1,507.63 m) were drilled for metallurgical sampling.
1.6 DEVELOPMENT ANDOPERATIONS
1.6.1 Mining and Processing
A mine plan was developed to supply ore to a conventional copper sulphide flotation plant with the capacity to process ore at a nominal rate of 120,000 tonnes per day, or 43.8 million tonnes per year. Actual annual throughput will vary depending on the ore hardness encountered during the period. The mine is scheduled to operate two 12 hour shifts per day, 365 days per year. Both sulphide copper-molybdenum ore and oxide gold ore will be processed. Copper-molybdenum ore will be transported from the mine to the concentrator facility and oxide gold ore will be transported from the mine to a crushing facility ahead of a heap leaching facility and a gold recovery facility.
Copper-molybdenum ore will be processed by crushing, grinding, and flotation to produce copper and molybdenum sulphide mineral concentrates. Copper concentrate will be loaded into highway haul trucks and transported to the Port of Skagway for ocean shipment to market. Molybdenum concentrate will be bagged and loaded onto highway haul trucks for shipment to market.
Oxide gold ore will be leached with an aqueous leach solution. Gold in the enriched (or pregnant) leach solution which will extracted by using carbon absorption technology to produce gold doré bars. The enriched leach solution will also be treated to recover copper and cyanide and produce a copper sulphide precipitate. The copper sulphide precipitate will be bagged and loaded onto highway haul trucks for shipment to market. Recovery methods are discussed more in depth in Section17.
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1.6.2 Metallurgical Testing and Metal Recoveries
Recent test work by METCON Research on the oxide cap material showed that good recoveries of gold and acceptable cyanide consumptions could be obtained by integrating the cyanide heap leach with the SART process. This process has been adopted for this feasibility study.
Flotation testing by G&T Metallurgical from 2008 to 2012 indicated that copper concentrate grades of 28% copper could be routinely achieved at good copper recoveries with a primary grind size of 80% passing 200 µm and a regrind of 80% passing 25 µm. Gold and silver will be recovered with the copper concentrate. Molybdenum will be recovered to a molybdenum concentrate in a separate flotation circuit.
The average metal recoveries expected from mill processing following the planned mill feed schedule are noted below:
• | Copper recovery to copper concentrate, percent | 86 | |
• | Gold recovery to copper concentrate, percent | 67 | |
• | Silver recovery to copper concentrate, percent | 53 | |
• | Molybdenum recovery to molybdenum concentrate, percent | 71 |
The metal recoveries expected from oxide cap heap leach processing are based on:
• | Gold recovery, percent | 66 | |
• | Silver recovery, percent | 26 | |
• | Copper recovery to SART precipitate, percent | 18 |
1.6.3 Infrastructure
The region is serviced by paved all-weather roads connecting the towns of Carmacks and Whitehorse in the Yukon with the Port of Skagway Alaska. With the completion of the 132 km Casino access road, the project will have an all-weather access route through Carmacks to Whitehorse (approx. 380 km) and to the Port of Skagway (550 km). The Port of Skagway has existing facilities to store and load-out concentrates as well as facilities to receive bulk commodity shipments, fuels and connection to the Alaska Marine Highway. The Port of Skagway is developing plans to expand these facilities to better serve the expanding mining activity in the Yukon and Alaska.
The City of Whitehorse is the government, financial and commercial hub of the Yukon with numerous business and service entities to support the project, and represents a major resource to staff the project. Whitehorse has an international airport and provides commercial passenger and freight services for the region. The proposed new access road alignment is shown in Section18.2 of this report.
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A new airstrip will be constructed at the mine to accommodate appropriately sized aircraft. The existing airstrip will be razed in preparation for grading for process facilities.
1.6.3.1 Power
Electrical power to the mine will be developed in two phases. An initial power plant designated the Supplementary Power Plant will be constructed near the main workforce housing complex to provide power to the camp, to construction activities, and to the heap leach facilities that go into operation before the concentrator facility is operational.
The Supplementary Power Plant will consist of three internal combustion engines (ICE), dual fuel driven generators (capable of using both LNG and diesel) with a combined power output of 20.1 MW.
A Main Power Plant will be constructed at the Casino concentrator complex and will supply the electrical energy required for operation of the mine, concentrator, oxide ore treatment facilities and all infrastructure facilities. The primary electrical power generation will be provided by two gas turbine driven generators and a steam generator, operating in combined cycle mode (CCGT) to nominally produce 125 MW. Two internal combustion engine (ICE) driven generators will provide another 18.6 MW of power for black start capability, emergency power, and to complement the gas turbine generation when required. The gas turbines and the ICEs will be fueled by natural gas (supplied as liquefied natural gas, or LNG).
LNG will be transported to the site from Fort Nelson, British Columbia via tanker trucks and stored on-site in a large, 10,000 m3 site-fabricated storage tank to supply the power plant. In addition to providing fuel for the power plants, the LNG facility will provide fuel for the mine haulage fleet and over the highway tractors used for hauling concentrates and LNG tankers. Distribution to the vehicles will be by two portable fueling stations and two mobile refuelers.
1.6.3.2 Water
The main fresh water supply will be supplied from the Yukon River. The water will be collected in a riverbank caisson and radial well system (Ranney Well) and pumped through an above-ground insulated 36” diameter by 17.4 km long pipeline with four booster stations to the 22,000 m3 capacity freshwater pond near the concentrator. The design capacity of the fresh water collection and transfer system will be approximately 3,400 cubic meters per hour.
The fire water requirement is 341 m3/h for two hours. This demand is satisfied by a fire reserve capacity of 682 m3 in the lower portion of the freshwater pond that will be unavailable for other uses.
Potable water will be produced by filtering and chlorinating fresh water and will be stored and distributed separately.
Process water reclaimed from the tailings pond and from the plant will be collected in a 63,700 m3 process water pond. The total process water supply to the plant required at design tonnage is 11,191 m3/h. The total feed to the pond consists of 7,122 m3/h combined thickener overflow, 3,228 m3/h reclaim water from the tailings pond and 841 m3/h fresh water makeup. Assuming the reclaim water system is not operating the plant can run for 19.7 hours with all other feed streams operating at the design rates.
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1.6.4 Permits
TheYukon Socioeconomic Assessment Board (YESAB) will assess the Casino Project for environmental and socio-economic effects under theYukon Environmental and Socioeconomic Assessment Act (YESAA). At the conclusion of the assessment, YESAB issues its recommendations to a decision body for consideration. For the Casino Project, it is expected that the designated decision body will be the Yukon Government.
After assessment, the project must secure certain permits and licenses. Mining related projects in the Yukon are regulated through territorial and federal legislation by various agencies, including government departments and independent quasi-judicial boards. The regulatory permitting and licensing processes are separate from YESAA. There is no single-window application process for regulatory permitting. Separate applications and information packages are required for each authorization and agency. The main pieces of legislation that will govern mining related activities for the Casino properties include:
- Quartz Mining Act;
- Waters Act;
- Territorial Lands (Yukon) Act;
- Environment Act;
- Highways Act;
- Dangerous Goods Transportation Act;
- Fisheries Act;
- Yukon Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Work on these permits is in progress. Environmental study results are detailed in Section 20 of this report.
1.7 MINERALRESOURCE ANDMINERALRESERVEESTIMATES
1.7.1 Metal Pricing
Table 1-1 shows a summary of metal pricing that has been used for this report. Long-term metal prices used in the financial model were converted from US dollars using a long term exchange rate of C$:US$ = 0.95 and are shown in Canadian dollars.
Table 1-1: Summary of Metal Pricing
Copper | Gold | Molybdenum | Silver | |
Resources | $2.00/lb | $875.00/oz | $11.25/lb | $11.25/oz |
Reserves | $2.75/lb | $1,300.00/oz | $14.50/lb | $23.00/oz |
Financial Model | $3.16/lb | $1,473.68/oz | $14.74/lb | $26.32/oz |
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1.7.2 Mineral Resource
Table 1-2 summarizes the mineral resources for the Casino Project.
Table 1-2: Mineral Resource-Inclusive of Mineral Reserve
Supergene and Hypogene Zones (Mill Resource) | Cutoff CuEq (%) | Ore Mtonnes | Copper (%) | Gold (g/t) | Moly (%) | Silver (g/t) | CuEq (%) |
Measured Mineral Resource Supergene Oxide Supergene Sulphide Hypogene Total Measured Resource | 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 | 25 36 32 93 | 0.28 0.39 0.32 0.34 | 0.52 0.41 0.38 0.43 | 0.026 0.029 0.026 0.027 | 2.38 2.34 1.94 2.21 | 0.77 0.84 0.73 0.78 |
Indicated Mineral Resource Supergene Oxide Supergene Sulphide Hypogene Total Indicated Resource | 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 | 36 216 711 963.6 | 0.23 0.24 0.17 0.19 | 0.21 0.22 0.21 0.21 | 0.019 0.019 0.023 0.022 | 1.44 1.72 1.65 1.66 | 0.46 0.50 0.45 0.46 |
Measured/Indicated Mineral Resource Supergene Oxide Supergene Sulphide Hypogene Total Measured/Indicated Resource | 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 | 61 252 743 1057 | 0.25 0.26 0.17 0.20 | 0.34 0.25 0.22 0.23 | 0.022 0.021 0.023 0.022 | 1.83 1.81 1.66 1.71 | 0.59 0.55 0.46 0.49 |
Inferred Mineral Resource Supergene Oxide Supergene Sulphide Hypogene Total Inferred Resource | 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 | 26 102 1568 1696 | 0.26 0.20 0.14 0.14 | 0.17 0.19 0.16 0.16 | 0.010 0.010 0.020 0.019 | 1.43 1.49 1.36 1.37 | 0.41 0.38 0.37 0.37 |
Leached Cap/Oxide Gold Zone (Heap Leach Resource) | Cutoff Gold (g/t) | Ore Mtonnes | Copper (%) | Gold (g/t) | Moly (%) | Silver (g/t) | CuEq (%) |
Measured Mineral Resource | 0.25 | 31 | 0.05 | 0.52 | 0.025 | 2.94 | N.A. |
Indicated Mineral Resource | 0.25 | 53 | 0.03 | 0.33 | 0.017 | 2.36 | N.A. |
Measured/Indicated Resource | 0.25 | 84 | 0.04 | 0.40 | 0.020 | 2.57 | N.A. |
Inferred Mineral Resource | 0.25 | 17 | 0.01 | 0.31 | 0.008 | 1.93 | N.A. |
CuEq is based on metal prices of US$2.00/lb copper, $US875/oz gold, US$11.25/lb molybdenum, and US$11.25/oz silver and assumes 100% metal recovery. |
The supergene oxide, supergene sulphide, and hypogene zones are mill resources and are tabulated at a 0.25% copper equivalent cutoff grade. Measured and indicated supergene and hypogene resources amount to 1.06 billion tonnes at 0.20% copper, 0.23 g/t gold, 0.022% molybdenum, and 1.71 g/t silver. Inferred resources are an additional 1.7 billion tonnes at 0.14% copper, 0.16 g/t gold, 0.019% molybdenum, and 1.37 g/t silver.
The leach cap contains potential heap leach ore and is tabulated at a 0.25 g/t gold cutoff grade. Measured and indicated heap leach ore amounts to 84.0 million tonnes at 0.04% copper, 0.40 g/t gold, and 2.57 g/t silver. Inferred resources are an additional 17 million tonnes at 0.01% copper, 0.31 g/t gold, and 1.93 g/t silver.
1.7.3 Mineral Reserve
The mill ore reserve amounts to 965.2 million tonnes at 0.204% copper, 0.240 g/t gold, 0.0227% molybdenum, and 1.74 g/t silver. Heap leach reserve is an additional 157.5 million tonnes at 0.292 g/t gold and 0.036% copper. Table 1-3 presents the mineral reserve for the Casino Project.
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Table 1-3: Mineral Reserve
Mill Ore Reserve: | Ore Ktonnes | Tot Cu (%) | Gold (g/t) | Moly (%) | Silver (g/t) |
Proven Mineral Reserve: | |||||
Mill Ore | 91,602 | 0.336 | 0.437 | 0.0275 | 2.23 |
Probable Mineral Reserve: | |||||
Mill Ore | 729,777 | 0.203 | 0.235 | 0.0240 | 1.78 |
Low Grade Stockpile | 143,828 | 0.122 | 0.139 | 0.0133 | 1.19 |
Total Probable Reserve | 873,605 | 0.190 | 0.219 | 0.0222 | 1.68 |
Proven/Probable Reserve | |||||
Mill Ore | 821,379 | 0.218 | 0.258 | 0.0244 | 1.83 |
Low Grade Stockpile | 143,828 | 0.122 | 0.139 | 0.0133 | 1.19 |
Total Mill Ore Reserve | 965,207 | 0.204 | 0.240 | 0.0227 | 1.74 |
Ore | Gold | Tot Cu | Moly | Silver | |
Heap Leach Reserve: | ktonnes | (g/t) | (%) | (%) | (g/t) |
Proven Mineral Reserve | 31,760 | 0.480 | 0.051 | N/A | 2.79 |
Probable Mineral Reserve | 125,694 | 0.244 | 0.032 | N/A | 2.06 |
Total Heap Leach Reserve | 157,454 | 0.292 | 0.036 | N/A | 2.21 |
1.8 COSTS ANDFINANCIALDATA
1.8.1 Capital Cost Estimate
The initial capital investment for complete development of the project is estimated to be $2.456 billion total direct and indirect cost. Table 1-4 shows the capital cost breakdown.
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Table 1-4: Capital Cost Estimate Summary
(millions) | |
Direct Costs Mining Equipment & Mine Development Concentrator (including related facilities) Heap Leach Operation Camp | $454 $904 $139 $70 |
Sub-Total | $1,566 |
Indirect Costs Infrastructure Costs Power Plant Access Road Airstrip Subtotal Infrastructure | $295 $209 $99 $24 $332 |
Contingency | $218 |
Owner's Costs | $44 |
Grand Total | $2,456 |
In addition to the above, the total life of mine sustaining capital is estimated to be $361.7 million. This capital will be expended during a 22 year period.
1.8.2 Operating Cost Estimate
Life of mine average operating cost is $8.52 per tonne for sulphide ore, which includes mining, concentrator plant and general and administrative costs. The life of mine average operating cost is $4.04 per tonne for oxide ore which includes processing only.
1.8.3 Financial Analysis
Net Income after Tax amounts to $6.7 billion for the life of the mine. The base case economic analysis (Table 1-5) indicates that the project has an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 20.1% after taxes with a payback period of 3.0 years.
Table 1-5 compares the base case project financial indicators with the financial indicators for other cases when the sales price, the amount of capital expenditure, operating cost, and copper recovery are varied from the base case values. By comparing the results of this sensitivity study, it can be seen that the project IRR’s sensitivity to variation in metal sales price has the most impact, while variation of operating cost, variation of mill recovery, and variation of capital cost are approximately equal.
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Table 1-5: Sensitivity Analysis (After tax figures)
Payback | ||||||
NPV @ 0% | NPV @ 5% | NPV @ 8% | NPV @ 10% | IRR | Years | |
Base Case (LTP) | $6,651 | $2,986 | $1,830 | $1,296 | 20.1% | 3.0 |
SEC Prices | $7,848 | $3,621 | $2,287 | $1,669 | 22.5% | 2.7 |
Spot Prices* | $7,744 | $3,597 | $2,282 | $1,672 | 22.7% | 2.6 |
Base-Case Sensitivities | ||||||
Metals Price +10% | $8,157 | $3,786 | $2,407 | $1,768 | 23.1% | 2.6 |
Metals Price -10% | $5,146 | $2,186 | $1,253 | $824 | 16.7% | 3.5 |
Capex +10% | $6,499 | $2,840 | $1,689 | $1,158 | 18.4% | 3.2 |
Capex -10% | $6,804 | $3,133 | $1,972 | $1,434 | 22.1% | 2.7 |
Opex +10% | $6,103 | $2,705 | $1,631 | $1,135 | 19.0% | 3.1 |
Opex -10% | $7,200 | $3,268 | $2,029 | $1,457 | 21.1% | 2.9 |
Mill Recovery +5% | $7,304 | $3,329 | $2,075 | $1,495 | 21.3% | 2.8 |
Mill Recovery -5% | $5,998 | $2,644 | $1,585 | $1,096 | 18.7% | 3.1 |
$ in millions | ||||||
*Spot prices are on the | Base Case | SEC Prices | Spot Prices* | |||
last day of October 2012 | Copper | $3.16 | Copper | $3.67 | Copper | $3.57 |
Molybdenum | $14.74 | Molybdenum | $14.67 | Molybdenum | $11.80 | |
Gold | $1,473.68 | Gold | $1.487.85 | Gold | $1,657.50 | |
Silver | $26.32 | Silver | $28.80 | Silver | $29.95 |
1.9 CONCLUSIONS ANDRECOMMENDATIONS
The Casino mineral occurrence can be successfully and economically exploited by proven and conventional mining and processing methods under the conditions and assumptions outlined in this report. Overall, the main risk and key metric for financial success is metal pricing.
Opportunities exist to enhance the project economics including:
- Conversion of some of the inferred resource into measured and indicated.
- Sharing of infrastructure development costs with other parties.
- Optimize the process during the basic and detailed engineering phases.
To further enhance the project, M3 recommends that CMC perform the following:
CMC should continue to further define the resource through exploration drilling, particularly in the more sparsely drilled area west of the main zone and deep drilling adjacent to the microbreccia pipe (approximately $2 million required).
CMC should continue with the environmental studies and permitting efforts now underway (approximately $ 5 million required) .
CMC should continue with the engineering effort in support of permitting (approximately $1 million required).
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- CMC should continue to monitor developments in the Yukon, northern British Columbia, and Alaska to be in a position to share infrastructure development (approximately $200,000 required).
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Figure 1-1: Casino Property Location
(Source: Yukon Highway Map, Yukoninfo.com)
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Figure 1-2: Road to Casino Concentrator Site from the Yukon River
(Source: M3)
Figure 1-3: Path from Yukon River to Proposed Fresh Water Pond
(Source: M3)
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2 INTRODUCTION
2.1 ISSUER ANDPURPOSE OFISSUE
This Report was prepared by M3 Engineering & Technology Corporation for Casino Mining Corporation (“CMC”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Western Copper and Gold Corporation (“WCGC”).
The purpose of this report is to provide an updated independent technical report and reserve estimate of the ore present on the Casino property. The estimate of mineral reserves contained in this report conforms to the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve definitions (November, 2010) referred to in National Instrument (NI) 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.
M3 provided engineering services to design a process plant, ancillary, and support facilities to bring the Casino Project into full production. This report supersedes the “Casino Project Pre-Feasibility Study Update, Yukon Territory, Canada” M3 report, dated April 29th, 2011.
Based on both in-house designs and contributions by others consultants, M3 prepared capital and operating cost estimates and performed an economic analysis to assess the economic viability of the project.
2.2 SOURCES OFINFORMATION
This Report builds upon prior data, including the following reports:
A 1995 scoping-level study titled “Pacific Sentinel Gold Corp., A Development Plan for Feasibility, Casino Project, Scoping Study and Overview Report, 25,000 TPD Open Pit Mine and Concentrator Complex.”
M3, 2008. “Casino Project Pre- Feasibility Study, Yukon Territory, Canada.” Prepared by M3 Engineering & Technology Corporation.
M3, 2011. “Casino Project Pre- Feasibility Study Update, Yukon Territory, Canada”. Prepared by M3 Engineering & Technology Corporation.
M3 and others also relied on a large body of metallurgical, geological, geotechnical and environmental data reports compiled by prior owners over the years. These reports as well as reports supplied by WCGC and CMC area are listed in references section.
To assist in estimating, M3 used quantity estimates and in some cases costs, data supplied by specialist subconsultants:
- Associated Engineering (“AE”): Main access road and port facility capital and operating quantities and costs,
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Knight Piésold (KP): Geotechnical quantities associated with the Heap Leach Facility, Waste Rock Storage Area, Water Supply and the Tailing Management Facility, and
Independent Mining Consultants (IMC): Mine capital and operating costs.
A summary of the Qualified Persons (“QPs”) responsible for the content of this report is shown in Table 2-1.
Table 2-1: Dates of Site Visits and Areas of Responsibility
QP Name | Company | Qualification | Site VisitDate | Area of Responsibility |
Conrad Huss | M3 Engineering & Technology Corporation – Tucson, AZ | P.E. | 12- Jun-2012 | Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 13, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 & 27. |
Tom Drielick | M3 Engineering & Technology Corporation – Tucson, AZ | P.E. | N/A | Sections 13 and 17. |
Jeff Austin | International Metallurgical and Environmental Inc. | P. Eng. | N/A | Section 13. |
Gary Giroux | Giroux Consultants Ltd. | P.Eng. | N/A | Section 14. |
Scott Casselman | Casselman Geological Services Ltd. | P. Geo | 2008- 2010 | Sections 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 14. |
Graham Greenaway | Knight-Piésold Consulting | P. Eng. | N/A | Section 18. |
Michael G. Hester | Independent Mining Consultants, Inc. | F Aus IMM | 22-Jul-2008 | Sections 15 and 16. |
Jesse Duke | Ibex Valley Environmental Consulting, Inc. | P. Geo | 9-May-2008, 2009, 2010 | Section 20. |
2.3 PERSONALINSPECTIONS
Various members of the project team conducted on-site inspections of the property. Among those visiting the site were the following:
Mike Hester, Independent Mining Consultants, conducted a walking tour of the open pit area and an examination of the core stored at the site on July 22, 2008.
Jesse Duke, Ibex Valley Environmental Consulting, first inspected the site on May 9, 2008, and has made several visits in 2009 and 2010.
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Ray Korpela, Associated Engineering Group, Ltd., performed a helicopter oversight of the proposed transportation routes and walked several of the sections on September 25th and 26th, 2007.
Scott Casselman, Casselman Geological Services Ltd., was a Site Project Manager at Casino for the 2008, 2009 and 2010 exploration programs.
Conrad Huss, M3 Engineering & Technology Corporation, current Project Manager for the Casino Project, conducted a walking tour of the open pit area, processing plant, heap leach, tailings management facility and a helicopter oversight of the proposed all-weather road, the air strip, the fresh water withdrawal point and the water pipeline route during his trip to site on June 12, 2012.
2.4 UNITS
This report generally uses the SI (metric) system of units, including metric tonnes. The term “tonne” rather than “ton” is commonly used to denote a metric ton, and is used throughout the report. Units used and abbreviations are listed in Table 2-2.
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Table 2-2: Abbreviations Used in This Document
Units | Abbreviations |
Amperes | A |
Cubic meters | m³ |
Cubic meters per hour | m³/h |
Current density | A/m² |
Density | t/ m³ |
Hectares | ha |
Hypogene | HYP |
grams/liter | g/L |
Kilo (1000) | k |
Kilogram | kg |
Kilometer | km |
Kilotonnes | ktonnes |
Liters | L |
Liters per second | L/s |
Mega (1,000,000) | M |
Meters | m |
Metric Tonne (1000 kg) | Tonne |
Millimeters | mm |
Overburden | OVB |
Oxide Gold/Leached Cap | CAP |
Parts per million | ppm |
Specific gravity | S.G. |
Square meters | m² |
Supergene sulphide | SUS |
Supergene oxide | SOX |
Temperature Celsius | °C |
Temperature Fahrenheit | °F |
Tonnage factor or specific volume | m³/tonne |
Tonnes per day | t/d |
Tonnes per year | t/y |
Volts | V |
Watts | W |
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3 RELIANCE ON OTHER EXPERTS
In cases where the study authors have relied on contributions of other qualified persons, the conclusions and recommendations are exclusively the qualified persons’ own. The results and opinions outlined in this report that are dependent on information provided by qualified persons outside the employ of M3 are assumed to be current, accurate and complete as of the date of this report.
Draft copies of reports received from other experts have been reviewed for factual errors by CMC and M3. Any changes made as a result of these reviews did not involve any alteration to the conclusions made. Hence, the statement and opinions expressed in these documents are given in good faith and in the belief that such statements and opinions are not false and misleading at the date of these reports.
M3 relied upon WCGC for project ownership data. M3 did not verify ownership or any underlying agreements. Mining is a risky business. The risk must be borne by the Owner. M3 does not assume any liability other than performing this technical study to normal professional standards.
The following sections describe additional information that this report relies upon beyond that which was provided by the QPs listed in Section 2.2.
3.1 METALLURGY ANDPROCESSENGINEERING
Outside reports that were relied upon included the following:
ALS Metallurgy (formally G&T Metallurgical Services) of Kamloops, BC, performed numerous metallurgical testing to advance the flotation process design. Tom Shouldice is the official contact. International Metallurgical and Environmental and CMC managed and oversaw this work with input from FLSmidth.
Starkey and Associates of Oakville, Ontario, performed a grinding circuit study. John Starkey is the official contact for Starkey and Associates. CMC managed and oversaw this work with input from FLSmidth.
SGS Lakefield Research Limited of Lakefield, Ontario,performed a grinding circuit study. Carlos Lozano is the official contact for SGS Lakefield. CMC managed and oversaw SGS’s work.
METCON Research of Tucson, AZ, USA, performed metallurgical testing to advance design of the gold heap leach. Rodrigo Carneiro is the official contact for METCON Research. CMC managed and oversaw METCON’s work.
M3 staff and consultants reviewed and evaluated metallurgical testing results from the tests listed above. In addition to supervising the effort, M3’s Tom Drielick also reviewed and approved design criteria, flow sheets and equipment lists for the metallurgical processes.
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3.2 TRANSPORTATION
Associated Engineering (B.C.) Ltd. assisted by Lauga & Associates Consulting, Ltd. performed updates of the studies of transportation options including selection and design of the access road route. Associated Engineers and Lauga also prepared a report on port facility options. Ray Korpela is the official contact for Associated Engineers, and Tom Lauga, P. Eng. is the official contact for Lauga and Associates.
The transportation costs for concentrates and bulk commodities used in the estimate are based on information from Trimac. The concentrate storage and load out was based on criteria developed by Alaska Industrial Development Authority (AIDA). M3 performed the research for and developed costs for handling and freight.
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4 PROPERTY DESCRIPTION AND LOCATION
4.1 LOCATION
The Casino porphyry copper-gold-molybdenum deposit is located at latitude 62° 44'N and longitude 138° 50'W (NTS map sheet 115J/09, 10 and 15), in west central Yukon, in the north-westerly trending Dawson Range mountains, 300 km northwest of the territorial capital of Whitehorse. Figure 1-1 in Section 1 is a map showing the location of Casino property in relation to the Yukon, British Columbia and the Northwest Territories. The property covers a total area of 13,124 ha.
The Yukon has a population of approximately 36,000 people. Whitehorse is the nearest commercial and population center to the project property, with a population of approximately 27,500 people. Whitehorse is 380 km from the mine site via Carmacks. No human settlements can be described as “local.” The village of Carmacks is about 150 km ESE and Pelly Crossing is about 115 km ENE. Beaver Creek, a tourist stop on the Alaskan Highway, is about 112 km WSW. Fairbanks, Alaska is 500 km WNW.
The Arctic Circle is 430 km to the north. The Yukon River flows about 16 km north of the site. Yukon Highway 1, the Alaskan Highway, is about 110 km west at the nearest point. Yukon Highway 2, the Klondike Highway, is about 100 km to the east at the nearest point. No year-round roads reach the property.
The international border and Alaska are about 111 km to the west at the nearest point. British Columbia is south approximately 300 km. The closest port is Skagway, Alaska.
The area around Casino has been subject to increasing staking and exploration activity over the past few years. Over 100 mining companies are now actively working in the general region. Two properties have defined reserves, the Carmacks Copper Project and the Minto Mine.
Exploration projects in the area include the following:
To the west, Kaminak Resources is exploring for gold on their Coffee Creek property. In 2012, Kaminak had an extensive drill program and announced the intent to produce a resource estimate in 2013.
To the north, Kinross Gold Corporation has acquired and explored the White Gold property.
To the east, Ethos Gold Corp. conducted reverse circulation drilling on their Betty Property in 2012. Also, further east, Northern Freegold Resources, Ltd. undertook a small drill campaign on their Freegold Mountain claims in 2012.
To the south Dehua International, a Chinese company, has acquired mineral claims.
The project is located on Crown land administered by the Yukon Government and is within the Selkirk First Nation traditional territory and the Tr’ondek Hwechin First Nation traditional territory lies to the north. The proposed access road crosses into Little Salmon Carmacks First Nation traditional territory to the south.
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4.2 LANDPOSITION ANDSTATUS
4.2.1 Property Description
The Dawson Range forms a series of well-rounded ridges and hills that reach a maximum elevation of 1,675 m above mean sea level (ASL). The ridges rise above the Yukon Plateau, a peneplain at approximately 1,200 m ASL, which is deeply incised by the mature drainage of the Yukon River watershed.
The characteristic terrain consists of rounded, rolling topography with moderate to deeply incised valleys. Major drainage channels extend below 1,000 m elevation. Most of the project lies between the 650 m elevation at Dip Creek and an elevation of 1,400 m at Patton Hill. The most notable local physical feature is the Yukon River which flows to the west about 16 km north of the project site.
The mean annual temperature for the Casino Project area is estimated to be -2.7 °C, with minimum and maximum monthly temperatures of -18.1 °C and 11.1 °C occurring in January and July, respectively. The mean monthly temperature values are presented in Table 5-1 in Section 5. The Mean Annual Precipitation (MAP) for the Casino Project area is estimated to be 500 mm, with 65% falling as rain and 35% falling as snow.
The Selkirk First Nation Traditional Territory encompasses the project area in the central portion of the Yukon.
Characteristic wildlife in the region includes caribou, grizzly and black bear, Dall sheep, moose, beaver, fox, wolf, hare, raven, rock and willow ptarmigan, and golden eagle.
The tops of hills and ridges are sparsely covered, most vegetation lies at the bottom and on the slopes of valleys. Vegetation consists of black and white spruce forests with aspen and occasionally lodgepole pine. Black spruce and paper birch prevail on permafrost slopes. Balsam poplar is common along floodplains. Scrub birch and willow form extensive stands in subalpine sections from valley bottoms to well above the tree line.
4.2.2 Environmental
See Section 20 for a list of permits either obtained or in progress. No environmental liabilities are expected to impact the Project.
4.2.3 Mineral Tenure
The Casino Property lies within the Whitehorse Mining District and consists of 723 full and partial Quartz Claims and 85 Placer Leases acquired in accordance with the Yukon Quartz Mining Act. The total area covered by Casino Quartz Claims is 13,339.17 ha. The total area covered by Casino Placer Leases is 747.45 ha. The claims are registered in the name of, and are 100%-owned by CMC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of WCGC. A list of claims is provided in Appendix B.
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The historical claims held by prior owners of the project and transferred as part of Western Copper’s plan of arrangement with Lumina Resources Corp. (“Lumina”) consist of 83 Casino “A” claims covering an area of 1,143 ha, 55 Casino “B” claims covering an area of 924 ha, and 23 claims in the “JOE” block covering an area of 322 ha.
The 188 VIK mineral claims, covering an area of 3,416 ha, were staked in June 2007 by CRS. In June 2008, an additional 94 “CC” claims, covering an area of 1,933 ha, and 63 “BRIT” claims covering an area of 1,223 ha were staked by CRS Copper Resources Corp. (“CRS”). In October, 2009, CRS staked 136 AXS mineral claims, covering an area of 2,845 ha. In May of 2010, CRS staked an additional 63 AXS claims, covering an area of 1,318 ha. In 2011, CRS staked 18 FLY claims covering 327 ha.
4.2.4 Option Agreements
On August 9, 2007, WCG exercised its option to acquire the 161 claims that comprise the Casino “A”, “B”, and “JOE” claims north and east of the Casino deposit in exchange for a $1 million cash payment to Great Basin Gold Ltd. (“GBG”).
The Casino “A” and “B” claims are subject to an option agreement (the “Casino B Option”) with Cariboo Rose Resources Ltd. (“Cariboo Rose”).
Pursuant to the Casino B Option, Cariboo Rose agrees to maintain the Casino “A” and “B” claims in good standing until May 2, 2020. In exchange, Cariboo Rose has the right to acquire the Casino “B” claims for $1 each, payable on May 2, 2020. Cariboo Rose may acquire the Casino “B” claims at any time prior to May 2, 2020 by making a $200,000 payment to CMC. Should Cariboo Rose make the $200,000 payment, it will be relieved of any further maintenance obligations respecting the Casino “A” claims.
4.2.5 Agreements and Royalties
Certain portions of the Casino property remain subject to certain royalties and production payments, as follows:
WCGC is required to make a $1 million payment to GBG within 30 days of a production decision involving either the Casino “A”, “B”, or “JOE” claims.
All Casino claims other than the Casino “B” claims are subject to a 2.75% Net Smelter Returns (NSR) Royalty in favour of 8248567 Canada Limited. WCGC has the option to repurchase 0.75% of the NSR Royalty (resulting in a 2.00% remaining NSR Royalty) for the following amount:
a. US$39 million, if the amount is paid on or prior to December 31, 2013; or
b. US$59 million, if the amount is paid after January 1, 2014 but on or before December 31, 2017.
Should WCGC or CMC maintain title to any Casino B claims after the period covered by the Casino B Option or acquire Casino B claims in any way; the 5% Net Profits Royalty in favour of 8248567 Canada Limited will be suspended and the NSR Royalty will apply to such claims.
The Casino “B” claims are subject to:
- 5% Net Profits Royalty in favour of 8248567 Canada Limited;
- 5% Net Profits Royalty in favour of GBG; and
- 5% Net Profits Royalty in favour of Archer Cathro & Associates Ltd.
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4.2.6 Placer Claims
There are 28 active placer claims held by others that are staked around Canadian Creek that overlap the Casino property mineral claims. There are no pre-existing agreements relating to these overlapping placer claims.
In the summer of 2010, Western Copper staked a 5-mile Placer Lease along Casino Creek and a 3-mile Placer Lease along Britannia Creek. In 2011, these leases were converted to claims. WCGC, through CMC, has 30 placer claims on Britannia Creek and 55 placer claims on Casino Creek.
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Figure 4-1: Project Road Access Map
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5 ACCESSIBILITY, CLIMATE, LOCAL RESOURCES, INFRASTRUCTURE AND PHYSIOGRAPHY
5.1 ACCESSIBILITY
The Casino Mine is located in Central Yukon, roughly 150 km due northwest of Carmacks, at approximately N62° 44’ 25”, W138° 49’ 32”. Current site access is by small aircraft using the existing 760 m airstrip by winter road and from the Yukon River.
Associated Engineering examined various route options for a year-round access road. The selected option, which appears to have the least environmental impact and the greatest stakeholder support, is a new 132 km unpaved road from the end of the Freegold Road, approximately 70 km northwest of the village of Carmacks. This road is further described in Section 18.2.
Either road or barge service will provide early access for construction equipment, camp construction and initial equipment. A new barge landing area at Britannia Creek and the Yukon River was prepared in 2010 and the lower 10 km of the 23 km road from the landing to the site was realigned.
The project plan includes a new airstrip, described in Section 18.1.6.
5.2 PHYSIOGRAPHY
The Casino property is located in the Dawson Range, a north-westerly trending belt of well-rounded ridges and hills that reach a maximum elevation of about 1,675 m. The hills rise above the Yukon Plateau, at about 1,250 m and deeply incised by mature dendritic drainages. Although the Dawson Range escaped Pleistocene continental glaciation, minor alpine glaciation has produced a few small cirques and terminal moraines.
The deposit area is situated on a small divide. The northern part of the property drains to Canadian Creek and Britannia Creek into the Yukon River. The southern part of the property flows southward via Casino Creek to Dip Creek to the Donjek River and northward to the Yukon River.
Outcrop is rare on the property. Soil development is variable ranging from coarse talus and immature soil horizons at higher elevations to a more mature soil profile and thick organic accumulations on the valley floors.
5.3 CLIMATE
The climate in the Dawson Range is subarctic. Permafrost is widespread on north-facing slopes, and discontinuous on south-facing slopes. WCGC installed an automated weather station at the site in 2009 and collected a certain amount of data.
The climate at the Casino Project area can generally be described as continental and cold. Winters are long, cold and dry, with snow generally on the ground from September through June.
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Summers are short, mild and wet, with the greatest monthly precipitation falling in July. The climate and hydrology at the Project site have been assessed based on both short term site data and longer-term regional data. Site data are available from a program operated from 1993 to 1995 and from the current program that was initiated in 2008. A summary of the hydrometeorological parameters is described below and the detailed analyses are presented in KPL report “Hydrometeorology Report” (Ref. No. VA101-325/3-1, June 15, 2010).
The mean annual temperature for the Casino Project area is estimated to be -2.7 °C, with minimum and maximum monthly temperatures of -18.1°C and 11.1°C occurring in January and July, respectively. The mean annual precipitation (MAP) for the Casino Project area is estimated to be 500 mm, with 65% falling as rain and 35% falling as snow. The mean monthly temperatures and precipitation are presented in Table 5-1.
Table 5-1: Mean Monthly Temperature and Precipitation Values
Parameter | ||
Month | Precipitation (mm) | Temperature (°C) |
Jan | 25 | -18.1 |
Feb | 19 | -14.2 |
Mar | 16 | -8.2 |
Apr | 15 | -0.1 |
May | 42 | 5.7 |
Jun | 74 | 9.8 |
July | 103 | 11.1 |
Aug | 65 | 9.1 |
Sept | 49 | 4.4 |
Oct | 35 | -3.3 |
Nov | 31 | -12.7 |
Dec | 26 | -16.5 |
Annual | 500 | -2.7 |
The estimated average annual lake evaporation is 308 mm at the Heap Leach Facility, based on climate data collected at site and used in conjunction with long-term regional climate data.
Based on the estimated MAP of 500 mm and a rain/snow ratio of 0.65/0.35, the annual snowfall value for Casino was estimated to be 175 mm. This is generally consistent with the 140 mm mean annual maximum snowpack value (snow water equivalent, SWE) recorded in the Project area at the Casino Creek snow course station (09CD-SC01) operated by the Yukon Department of Environment (1977-2009), Water Resources Branch.
Based on the complete years of snowpack data, the average monthly snowmelt distribution for the Casino Project area was estimated to be 40% in April and 60% in May, although there is considerable variation from year to year.
5.4 TRANSPORTATION ANDSHIPPING
Associated Engineering examined seven alternative routes for an all-weather road access to the mine. The analysis included consideration of the ports of Skagway and Haines as seawater ports for the mine. Their report also evaluated alternative modes of transportation include barge, pipeline, rail, air, and truck.
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It was concluded that trucking presents the most reliable means of transporting concentrate and supplies to and from the Mine. The selected access road route connects the site to the existing Freegold road, and is discussed in Section 18.2. Associated Engineering also examined port options and determined that the Skagway port provides the most advantageous port for both concentrate exports and mine supply imports. The port at Skagway offers a dedicated terminal and storage facility for receiving and load-out of concentrates.
Highway-capable trucks will carry inbound and outbound materials and supplies. No substantial rail cargo service exists within the Yukon Territory.
5.5 WATERRIGHTS
The project economics have been based on the assumption that rights can be obtained for withdrawal of water from the Yukon River.
5.6 POWERAVAILABILITY
There is no utility power available to serve site. The Project will need to generate its own power. See Section 18.8.
5.7 MININGPERSONNEL
There will be approximately 600 to 700 permanent mining personnel on site during production with an additional 100 to 200 contractor support personnel. Yukon Territory has a long mining history, so it is the intent to employ as many people from the Yukon Territory as possible, including from First Nations. However, it is recognized that additional personnel from outside the territory may be necessary to fully staff the site. Since the project site is in a remote location, mining personnel employed at the site from outside the territory will be flown between Casino and Whitehorse on a rotation basis. At Whitehorse, personnel will use commercial carriers to fly to and from areas outside the territory. See Sections 18.1.6 and 18.2 for information on the airstrip and the access road.
5.8 AVAILABLELAND ANDRIGHTS OFWAY
Western Copper Corporation’s land position includes claim boundaries extending to the north along the proposed water pipeline alignment and to the south along the proposed access road alignment as far as Dip Creek.
CMC has sufficient rights and available land at the Project site for the mine, tailing storage areas, waste disposal areas, heap leach pad areas and process plant areas.
Rights-of-way and permits will be required from various agencies for the access road.
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6 HISTORY
The Casino Property has had a long and varied exploration history. The first documented placer claims in the immediate area were recorded in April 1911, following a placer gold discovery on Canadian Creek by J. Britton and C. Brown. In 1917, D.D. Cairnes, of the Geological Survey of Canada, recognized huebnerite (MnWO4) in the heavy-mineral concentrates of the placer workings. He suggested that the gold and tungsten mineralization was derived from an intrusive complex on Patton Hill (which is now recognized as the core of the Casino porphyry deposit). The total placer gold production is unknown; the most recent work (1980-1985) yielded about 50 kg (1,615 troy ounces) of gold. During the Second World War, a small amount of tungsten was recovered.
The first mineral claims at Casino were staked by N. Hansen in 1917. In 1936 silver-lead-zinc veins were discovered by J. Meloy and A. Brown approximately 3 km south of the Canadian Creek placer workings. Over the next several years the Bomber and Helicopter vein systems were explored by hand trenches and pits. The Helicopter claims were staked in 1943 and the Bomber and Airport groups in 1947.
From 1948 to 1967 the focus of exploration on the property was for lead-silver mineralization at the Helicopter and Bomber veins. The property was optioned to Noranda in 1948 and then to Rio Tinto in 1963. During this time trenching, mapping and sampling were conducted.
In 1963, L. Proctor purchased the claims and formed Casino Silver Mines Limited to develop the silver-rich veins. Between 1965 and 1980, the silver-bearing veins were explored and developed intermittently by underground and surface workings. In total, 372.5 tonnes of hand-cobbed argentiferous galena, assaying 3,689 g/t Ag, 17.1 g/t Au, 48.3% Pb, 5% Zn, 1.5% Cu and 0.02% Bi, were shipped to the smelter at Trail, British Columbia.
B. Hestor noted that the area had porphyry deposit potential in 1963, but his observations did not become generally known. In 1967, the porphyry potential was recognized again, this time by A. Archer and separately by G. Harper. Archer's evaluation led to the acquisition of Casino Silver Mines Limited by the Brynelsen Group, and from 1968 to 1973 exploration was directed jointly by Brameda, Quintana, and Teck Corporation towards a porphyry target. Exploration included extensive geophysical and trenching program, but it was mainly thanks to the soil geochemistry, that the porphyry deposit was discovered in 1969.
Following the porphyry discovery, various parties including Brameda Resources, Quintana Minerals and Teck Corporation drilled the property. During this period (between 1969 and 1973), 5,328 m of reverse circulation drilling in 35 holes and 12,547 m of diamond drilling in 56 holes was completed.
In 1991, Archer, Cathro & Associates (1981) Ltd. optioned the property and assigned the option to Big Creek Resources Ltd. A drill program in 1992 consisting of 21 HQ (63.5 mm diameter) holes totalling 4,729 m systematically assessed the gold potential in the core of the deposit for the first time. The larger-sized core gave better recovery and more reliable assays than earlier drilling.
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In 1992, Pacific Sentinel Gold Corp. (PSG) acquired the property from Archer Cathro and commenced a major exploration program. The 1993 program included surface mapping and 50,316 m of HQ and NQ (47.6 mm diameter) drilling in 127 holes. All but one of the 1992 drill holes were deepened in 1993.
In 1994, PSG drilled an additional 108 drill holes totalling 18,085 metres. This program completed the delineation drilling set out in 1993 and investigated various geological, geotechnical, structural, and environmental aspects of the project. In addition, PSG performed a considerable amount of metallurgical, geotechnical and environmental work and completed a scoping study in 1995. The scoping study envisioned a large-scale open pit mine, conventional flotation concentrator that would produce a copper-gold concentrate for sale to Pacific Rim smelters.
First Trimark Resources and CRS Copper Resources obtained the property and using the Pacific Sentinel Gold data published a Qualifying Report on the property in 2003 to bring the resource estimate into compliance with National Instrument 43-101 requirements. The two firms combined to form Lumina Copper Corporation in 2004. An update of the Qualifying Report was issued in 2004.
Western Copper Corporation acquired Lumina Copper Corporation, and the Casino Deposit, in November 2006. In the fall of 2011, Western Copper Corporation spun out all other assets except the Casino Deposit and changed its name to Western Copper and Gold Corporation.
In 2007, Western Copper conducted an evaluation of the Bomber Vein System and the southern slope of the Patton Hill by VLF-EM and Horizontal Loop EM survey and soil geochemistry. Environmental baseline studies were also initiated in 2007.
In 2008, Western Copper reclaimed the old camp site, constructed a new exploration camp next to the Casino airstrip and drilled three drill holes (camp water well and two exploration holes) totalling 1,163 m. The main purpose of the drilling was to obtain fresh core samples for the metallurgical and waste characterization tests. Both exploration holes twinned PSG’s holes to confirm historic copper, gold and molybdenum grades. Later that year, M3 Engineering produced a pre-feasibility study for Western Copper.
In 2009, Western Copper completed 22.5 km of DC/IP surveying and MT surveying using the Quantec Geosciences Ltd. Titan system. As well, the company drilled 10,943 meters in 37 diamond drill holes. 27 holes were infill holes drilled to convert inferred and non-defined material to measured and indicated. Infill drilling covered the north slope of the Patton Hill that was mapped as “Latite Plug” on PSG maps. Drilling has identified supergene Cu mineralization and Mo mineralization in this area. The remaining 10 holes, totalling 4,327 m, were drilled to test geophysical targets.
In 2010, infill and delineation drilling continued with most of the drilling done to the North and West of the deposit as outlined by PSG. The drilling program also defined hypogene mineralization at the southern end of the deposit. In addition, the company drilled a series of geotechnical holes at the proposed tailings embankment area and within the pit and several holes for hydrogeological studies. The geotechnical drilling continued in 2011 (41 holes, 3,163 m) and 2012 (6 holes, 228 m).
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A breakdown of drilling by WCGC from 2010 to 2012 is as follows:
- 47 exploration holes for 12,200.11 m
- 11 combined hydrogeological holes for 1,689.58 m
- 53 geotechnical holes in the tailings embankment, heap leach pad, plant site, waste rock storage, airstrip, access road and water well areas, for 3,786.54 m
- 5 holes, 1,570.63 m for metallurgical sample
The total meterage drilled by Western Copper from 2008 to 2012 is 31,353.19 m.
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7 GEOLOGICAL SETTING AND MINERALIZATION
7.1 GEOLOGICALSETTING
The Casino deposit occurs in an overlapping zone of the Yukon Cataclastic Terrane to the north and the Yukon Crystalline Terrane to the south (Templeman-Kluit, 1976). An elongate band of ultramafic rocks 1 km north of the Casino deposit may occur along a major tectonic suture, which separates the two terranes. The southern terrane contains the Dawson Range Batholith with scattered roof–pendants and blocks of the Yukon Metamorphic Complex. The northern terrane is dominated by rocks of the Yukon Metamorphic Complex with scattered intrusions of the Coffee Creek Suite which are petrographically distinct from the Dawson Range Batholith. The latter are similar to rocks near Mount Nansen dated at 104 Ma. The regional geology is illustrated in Figure 7-1 summarizes the major units with isotopic ages. All isotopic dates are based on U-Pb ratios in zircons analyzed by J.R. Mortensen.
The Yukon Crystalline Terrane in the Dawson Range area is represented by the Devono- Mississippian Wolverine Creek Metamorphic Suite (Johnston, 1995) made up of sedimentary and igneous protoliths (Tempelman-Kluit, 1974; Payne et al., 1987). These meta-sedimentary rocks consist mainly of quartz-feldspar-mica schist and gneiss, quartzite, and micaceous quartzite, while the meta-igneous unit includes biotite-hornblende-feldspar gneiss and other orthogneisses, as well as hornblende amphibolite (Selby & Nesbit, 1997).
During the mid-Cretaceous, Wolverine Creek Metamorphic rocks of this area were intruded by the Dawson Range Batholith and subsequent Casino Intrusions (Selby et al., 1999). The Dawson Range Batholith is the main country rock of the Casino Property and is represented by a relatively homogeneous, medium- to coarse-grained, hornblende-bearing, potassic quartz diorite to granodiorite; and lesser fine- to medium-grained diorite and quartz monzonite veins, dykes, and plugs (Tempelman-Kluit, 1974).
The Casino Intrusions, better termed the Casino Plutonic Suite, were said to be composed of quartz monzonite stocks up to 18 kilometres across (Hart and Selby, 1998) trending westnorthwest parallel to the Big Creek Lineament and its northwestern extension. Mapping by Tempelman-Kluit (1974), and successively by Payne et al. (1987), associates this Casino Plutonic Suite with the mid-Cretaceous Dawson Range Batholith. Subsequently, Johnston (1995) grouped the intrusions with the late-Cretaceous Prospector Mountain Plutonic Suite based largely on field relationships that show stocks of the Casino Plutonic Suite cutting the Dawson Range Batholith. Later age determination by Mortensen and Hart in 1998, as well as geochemistry provided by Selby et al. (1999), placed the Casino Intrusions back into the mid- Cretaceous as fractionated magmas of the Dawson Range Batholith. Recent field relationships have proven that the ‘quartz monzonites’ of the Casino property, once thought to be separate intrusions, are actually intensely altered and recrystallized diorites of the Dawson Range Batholith.
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Figure 7-1: Regional Geology
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In the late Cretaceous, the Prospector Mountain Plutonic Suite intruded as stocks and apophyses into the Dawson Range Batholith (Johnston, 1995; Selby et al, 1999). In the Casino area, this suite is represented by Patton Porphyry: small, biotite-bearing, feldspar-porphyritic, hypabyssal rhyodacite to dacite intrusions near the center of the deposit and discontinuous centimeter- to metre-wide dikes northwest of the property. Here, early phases the Patton Porphyry grade into a mineralized intrusive breccia. Later, unaltered dykes of similar rock cut surrounding hydrothermally altered and mineralized rocks (Payne et al., 1987) suggesting there are multiple phases of this unit (Bower, 1995; Selby and Creaser, 2001). Hydrothermal alteration and mineralization occur in and adjacent to some of these late Cretaceous intrusions.
The Casino Property is sandwiched between parallel west-northwest-trending faults that form contacts between rocks of the Wolverine Creek Metamorphic Suite and the Dawson Range Batholith. In Figure 7-2 (Below), the fault furthest to the northeast is an extension of the Big Creek Fault thought to be dextrally offset by 20 to 45 km. A parallel fault 8 km to the southwest forms the southwest boundary of a sliver of Wolverine Creek Metamorphic Suite rocks and contains outcroppings of ultramafic rocks in a similar fashion to those seen along the Big Creek Fault.
Figure 7-2: Regional structures overlain on recent aeromagnetic survey
The Casino Property is bounded to the southeast by a northeast-trending regional structure known as the Dip Creek Fault. The left-lateral displacement of the Yukon River well east of the Casino Property is a reflection of sinistral movement along this fault. The east-trending Minto- Battle Fault is also sinistrally translated by the Dip Creek Fault (Johnston, 1999). This dextrally offset fault lies east of the Casino Property on the opposite side of Dip Creek with its extension lying south and southwest of the Casino Property.
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7.2 MINERALIZATION
7.2.1 Hydrothermal Alteration
Crystallization and exsolution of hydrothermal fluids from Patton Porphyry magmas produced porphyry style Cu-Mo-Au mineralization. Therefore, the Patton Porphyry, and associated Intrusive Breccia, is genetically related to the Cu-Mo-Au mineralization of the deposit.
Hydrothermal alteration at the Casino property consists of a potassic core centered on and around the main Patton Porphyry body, in turn bordered by contemporaneous, strongly developed and fracture controlled phyllic zone, a weak propylitic zone, and a secondary discontinuous argillic overprint. Mineralized stockwork veins and breccias on the Casino Property are closely associated with the hydrothermal alteration.
Potassic alteration minerals include texturally destructive K-feldspar, biotite, magnetite and quartz with lesser hematite, purple anhydrite and gypsum. Biotite is generally felted and pseudomorphic after hornblende. Occasionally, magnetite may form braided veinlets. In drill core potassic alteration is represented by dark brown to black biotite alteration and/or by pink potassium feldspar alteration.
The texturally destructive phyllic zone is found peripheral to, and locally overprints, the potassic zone of alteration. It has a distinctive ‘bleached’ appearance and can be structurally controlled. Phyllic alteration minerals include quartz, pyrite, sericite, muscovite (after biotite), and abundant tourmaline, as well as minor hematite and or magnetite towards the potassic zone. Quartz and sericite are generally alteration minerals after potassic and plagioclase feldspars. Biotite alters to muscovite or titanite and hornblende alters to chlorite, calcite, quartz and biotite. Tourmaline forms radiating disseminations and veinlets. Sulphides are typically high, with pyrite ranging from 5-10% throughout as disseminated blebs or cores to quartz ‘d’ veins.
Where intense phyllic overprints potassic alteration relict textures are destroyed and minerals are recrystallized, commonly to equal portions of quartz, plagioclase, and K-feldspar; up to 10 percent biotite; and trace apatite and titanite. Strongly zoned plagioclase and locally kinked biotite form subhedral lathes, surrounded by K-feldspar, locally strained quartz, and biotite. The colour is pale pink overall.
Propylitic alteration is rare on surface, but forms a wide halo around the deposit in gradational contact with the inner potassic alteration. Alteration minerals include epidote, chlorite and calcite, with lesser carbonate, clay, sericite, pyrite and albite. Hornblende and biotite are completely chloritized whereas feldspars look relatively fresh, and textures are generally well-preserved.
In typical porphyry copper deposits, advanced argillic alteration will occur above the phyllic alteration. It appears that on the Casino property, all evidence of advanced argillic alteration has been eroded or destroyed.
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Secondary argillic alteration is closely associated with the supergene zone and may appear locally as patches or pockets within potassic and phyllic alteration. It is poorly developed, appears bleached or pale green, and contains abundant clays (kaolinite, montmorillionite), and possible chlorite and/or carbonate. In drill core, this unit may be recognized by distinctive “pock-marks” along the surface of the core.
7.2.2 Supergene Mineralization
The Casino deposit is unusual among Canadian porphyry deposits as it has a substantially preserved, outcropping oxide gold leached cap; an upper well-developed, copper enriched supergene zone; and a lower copper-gold hypogene zone. Table 7-1 summarizes the main minerals identified in the Leached Cap and Supergene zones.
Leached Cap Mineralization (CAP)
The Leached Cap (oxide gold zone) is gold-enriched and copper-depleted due to supergene alteration processes as well as the lower specific gravity of this zone relative to the other supergene zones. It averages 70 metres thick and is characterized by boxwork textures filled with jarosite, limonite, goethite, and hematite. This weathering has completely destroyed rock textures and replaces most minerals with clay. The resulting rock is pale gray to cream in colour and is friable to the touch, and the clay is often stained yellow, orange, and/or brown by iron oxides. The weathering is most intense at the surface and decreases with depth.
Supergene Oxide Mineralization (SOX)
The poorly defined Supergene Oxide zone is copper-enriched, with trace molybdenite. It exists as a few perched bodies within the leached cap likely due to more recent fluctuations in the water table. This zone is thought to be related to present day topography, and is best developed where oxidation of earlier secondary copper sulphides occur above the water table, on well drained slopes. Where present, the supergene oxide zone averages 10 metres thick, and can contain chalcanthite, malachite and brocanthite, with minor azurite, tenorite, cuprite and neotocite. Where present, the supergene copper oxide zone grades into the better-defined supergene copper sulphide zone.
Supergene Sulphide Mineralization (SUS)
Supergene copper mineralization occurs in an up to 200 metre-deep weathered zone below the leached cap and above the hypogene. It has an average thickness of 60 metres and is positively correlated with high grade hypogene mineralization, high permeability, and phyllic and/or outer potassic alteration. Grades of the Supergene sulphide zone vary widely, but are highest in fractured and highly pyritic zones, due to their ability to promote leaching and chalcocite precipitation. Thus, secondary enrichment zones are thickest along contacts of the potassic and phyllic alteration; accordingly, the copper grades in the Supergene Sulphide zone are almost double the copper grades in the Hypogene (0.43% Cu versus 0.23% Cu). Grain borders and fractures in chalcopyrite, bornite and tetrahedrite may be altered to chalcocite, diginite and/or covellite. Chalcocite also locally coats pyrite grains and clusters, and may extend along fractures deep into the hypogene zone. Molybdenite is largely unaffected by supergene processes, other than local alteration to ferrimolybdite.
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In drill-core, the SUS zone is generally broken with decreasing clay alteration and weathering and is ‘stained’ dark blue to gray.
Table 7-1: Leached Cap & Supergene Minerals
Zone | Minerals Present | Average Thickness |
Leached Cap | jarosite, goethite, hematite, ferrimolybdite | 70 metres |
Supergene Oxide | chalcanthite, brochantite, malachite, azurite, tenorite, cuprite, neotocite, copper WAD native copper, copper-bearing goethite | 10 metres |
Supergene Sulphide | digenite, chalcocite, minor covellite, bornite, copper-bearing goethite | 60 metres |
7.2.3 Hypogene Mineralization
Mineralization of the Casino Cu-Au-Mo deposit occurs mainly in the steeply plunging, in-situ contact breccia surrounding the Patton Porphyry intrusive plug by crystallization and exsolution of hydrothermal fluids from late Cretaceous magmas of the Casino Plutonic Suite. The breccia forms an ovoid band around the main porphyry body with dimensions up to 250 metres, and has an interior zone of potassic alteration surrounded by discontinuous phyllic alteration, typical of some porphyry deposits.
Hypogene mineralization occurs throughout the various alteration zones of the Casino Porphyry deposit, as mineralized stock-work veins and breccias. Field relationships show that the potassic alteration came first as mineralized quartz veins of the phyllically altered zones, cut those of the potassically altered zones; Re-Os age dating showed that the dates of the potassic and phyllic alteration are contemporaneous at around 74.4 +/- 0.28 Ma. Significant Cu-Mo mineralization is related to the potassically- altered breccia surrounding the core Patton Porphyry, as well as in the adjacent phyllically-altered host rocks of the Dawson Range Batholith.
Mineralization in the potassic zone is mainly finely disseminated pyrite, chalcopyrite, molybdenite as well as trace sphalerite and bornite. The phyllic zones have increased gold, copper, molybdenite, and tungsten values concentrated in disseminations and veins of pyrite, chalcopyrite, and molybdenite along the inner side of the pyrite halo. The pyrite halo follows the potassic-phyllic contact, within the phyllic zone, and discontinuously surrounds the main breccia body. It is host to the highest Cu values on the property.
Chalcopyrite commonly occurs as veins, disseminations and irregular patches. In breccia and granodiorite west of the Casino Fault, disseminated chalcopyrite is more abundant than chalcopyrite in veins and veinlets, whereas to the east of the fault, chalcopyrite is controlled by brittle deformation and found in fractures and open space fillings. Pyrite to chalcopyrite ratios range from less than 2:1 in the core of the deposit, to greater than 20:1 in the outer phyllic zones. Locally, bornite and tetrahedrite can be coarsely intergrown with chalcopyrite.
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Molybdenite is not generally intergrown with other sulphides and occurs as selvages in early, high temperature, potassic quartz veins and as discrete flakes and disseminations.
Native gold can occur as free grains in quartz (50 to 70 microns) and as inclusions in pyrite and/or chalcopyrite grains (1 to 15 microns). High grade smoky quartz veins with numerous specks of visible gold are also reported to exist.
Late-stage, commonly vuggy, polymetallic veins (like those of the Bomber Vein) follow roughly parallel, steeply dipping fractures trending 150 to 170 degrees. Metallic mineralogy includes abundant sphalerite and galena, with less abundant tetrahedrite, chalcopyrite (commonly intergrown with tetrahedrite), and bismuth bearing minerals, and are geochemically anomalous in any or all of Ag, As, Bi, Cu, Cd, Mn, Pb, Sb, Zn, and locally W.
In drill-core, the hypogene zone is un-weathered and un-oxidized.
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8 DEPOSIT TYPES
8.1 GEOLOGY OF THECASINODEPOSIT
The geology of the Casino deposit is typical of many porphyry copper deposits. The deposit is centered on an Upper Cretaceous-age, east-west elongated tonalite porphyry stock that intrudes Mesozoic granitoids of the Dawson Range Batholith and Paleozoic schists and gneisses of the Yukon Crystalline Complex. Intrusion of the tonalite stock into the older rocks caused brecciation of both the intrusive and the surrounding country rocks along the northern, southern and eastern contact of the stock. Brecciation is best developed in the eastern end of the stock where the breccia can be up to 400 metres wide in plan view. To the west, along the north and south contact, the breccias narrow gradually to less than 100 metres. Little drilling has been done at the western end of the tonalite stock and it is not known if the breccia is present along this contact. Intruded into the tonalite stock and surrounding granitods and metamorphic rocks are younger, non-mineralized dykes of similar composition to the older tonalite stock and a late diatreme, which forms both pipe-like body in the west and a dyke-like body in the east. The overall dimensions of the intrusive complex are approximately 1.8 by 1.0 kilometres.
Primary copper, gold and molybdenum mineralization was deposited from hydrothermal fluids that exploited the contact breccias and fractured wall rocks. Better grades occur in the breccias and gradually decrease outwards away from the contact zone both towards the centre of the stock and outward into the granitoids and schists. A general zoning of the primary sulphides occurs with chalcopyrite and molybdenite occurring in the tonalite and breccias grading outward in to pyrite dominated mineralization in the surrounding granitoids and schists. Alteration accompanying the sulphide mineralization consists of an earlier phase of potassic alteration and a later overprinting of phyllic alteration. The potassic alteration typically has secondary biotite, K-feldspar as pervasive replacement and veins, stockworks of quartz and anhydrite veinlets. Phyllic alteration consists of sericite and silicification in the form of replacements and veins.
The Casino Copper deposit is somewhat unique amongst Canadian porphyry copper deposits in having a well-developed secondary enriched blanket of copper mineralization similar to those found in deposits in Chile and the Southwest United States such as Escondida and Morenci. Unlike other porphyry deposits in Canada, the Casino deposit’s enriched copper blanket was not eroded by the glacial action of ice sheets during the last ice age. At Casino, weather during the Tertiary Period leached the copper from the upper 70 metres of the deposit and re-deposited it lower in the deposit. This created a layer- like sequence consisting of an upper leached zone up to 70 metres thick where all sulphide minerals have been oxidized and copper removed leaving behind a bleached, iron oxide leached cap containing residual gold. Beneath the leached cap is a zone up to 100 metres thick of secondary copper mineralization consisting primarily of chalcocite and minor covellite with a thin, discontinuous layer of copper oxide minerals at the upper contact with the leach cap. The copper grades of the enriched, blanket-like zone can be up to twice that of the underlying non weathered primary copper mineralization. Beneath the secondary enriched mineralization the primary mineralization consists of pyrite, chalcopyrite and lesser molybdenite. The primary copper mineralization is persistent at depth and is still present at the bottoms of the deepest drill holes over 600 metres from surface.
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8.2 LOCALGEOLOGY
Historical descriptions of the geology of the Casino Property are somewhat variable and inconsistent. Systematic re-logging efforts of drill core from the entire property have recently simplified the geologic interpretation, shown in Figure 8-1 and Figure 8-2. The following table outlines the major geological units with relative and isotopic ages (where available) based on work done by Selby et al. (2001), and references therein.
Table 8-1: Stratigraphic Column
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Figure 8-1: Geology of the Casino Deposit
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Figure 8-2: Casino Property Geology – Cross Section
Casino property geology has been described in detail by Godwin (1975) and Payne et al. (1987), and was later summarized by Bower et al. (1995). Although groupings have changed, the majority of rock descriptions have not; therefore the following sections borrow significantly from all three reports.
8.2.1 Yukon Metamorphic Complex, Wolverine Creek Metamorphic Suite (YM)
The Wolverine Creek Metamorphic Suite rocks include meta-sedimentary and meta-igneous rocks (Tempelman-Kluit, 1974; Payne et al. 1987; Johnston, 1995) of Devono-Mississippian age (Johnston, 1995). They occur mainly in the northern and northeastern parts of the Casino deposit, as fragments in intrusion breccias and local roof pendants/screens throughout the Dawson Range Batholith (Bower et al., 1995). More common rock types in the deposit area are biotite-hornblende-feldspar diorite schist and gneiss. Less abundant types include meta-diorite/ amphibolite, quartz-rich and intermediate gneiss, quartzite, and micaceous quartzite.
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8.2.2 Dawson Range Batholith
The mid-Cretaceous Dawson Range Batholith is the main country rock of the deposit and is characterized by hornblende-biotite-quartz diorite, hornblende-biotite diorite, and biotite-hornblende granodiorite (Payne et al. 1987). Hornblende-biotite bearing phases are common throughout the deposit, and lesser biotite-hornblende bearing phases are generally north of Patton Hill (Godwin, 1975). Diorite is concentrated north and northeast of the deposit, particularly east of Casino Fault, and is considered to be the earliest phase of the batholith.
Casino diorites are typically dark gray to brown, locally inequigranular, and texturally similar to the meta-diorite of the Wolverine Metamorphic Suite. Average grain size is less than 1 millimetre, dominated by locally aligned and/or zoned plagioclase; hornblende; and interstitial, anhedral quartz. In places, primary biotite is more abundant than hornblende. Accessory minerals include up to 1 percent apatite and trace titanite. Some intrusions show foliation and increased mafic content near their margins, particularly north of the deposit and in the block east of the Casino Fault (Bower et al., 1995). Locally, mafic diorites are cut by later, more felsic phases of the Dawson Range Batholith (Johnston and Shives, 1995).
Granodiorite is generally pale gray, medium to coarse grain and equigranular to porphyritic. They can be distinguished by scattered, subhedral hornblende phenocrysts averaging 0.5 to 1.2 centimetres long; poikilitic K-feldspar; zoned plagioclase; and 10 to 20 percent mafic minerals, which may be layered. Plagioclase shows minor myrmekitic rims when in contact with K-feldspar. Anhedral quartz and K-feldspar are interstitial to earlier subhedral plagioclase, hornblende and biotite. Locally, quartz forms interlocking aggregates of slightly, to moderately strained grains. Accessory minerals include honey-coloured titanite and apatite to 1 percent each.
Rocks of the Dawson Range commonly display in-situ/crackle to intensely deformed cataclastic brecciation where in contact with the Patton porphyry intrusive plug. Elsewhere, this unit may be truncated by the late Cretaceous dykes and associated explosive breccias (modified from Bower, 1995).
8.2.3 Prospector Mountain Plutonic Suite – Casino Plutonic Suite
Late-Cretaceous igneous activity of the Prospector Mountain Plutonic suite is locally represented by the Patton Porphyry intrusive and associated breccias of the Casino Plutonic Suite.
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8.2.3.1 Patton Porphyry (PP)
The main body of the Patton Porphyry (72-74 Ma) is a relatively small locally-mineralized stock measuring approximately 300 by 800 metres and is surrounded by a potassically-altered Intrusion Breccia in contact with rocks of the Dawson Range. Elsewhere, the Patton Porphyry forms discontinuous dikes ranging from less than one to tens of metres wide, cutting both the Patton Porphyry Plug and the Dawson Range Batholith (Bower et al., 1995). Contacts between the Patton Porphyry and breccias are variable and range from sharply intrusive to gradational and brecciated. It has therefore been suggested by Bower et al. (1995) and Selby and Creaser (2001) that this suite consists of two or more episodes of high-level intrusions.
Godwin (1975) determined that the Patton Porphyry has an overall composition of rhyodacite, with phenocrysts falling into a dacite composition and the matrix being of quartz latite composition. It is more commonly made up of distinct phenocrysts of abundant plagioclase and lesser biotite, hornblende, quartz and opaques (Godwin, 1975). Phenocrysts average 4 millimetres in size, and can comprise up to 50 percent of the rock. Lathes of plagioclase are euhedral and zoned, and range in size from 2 to 7 millimetres, with some up to 2.5 centimetres in length (Bower et al., 1995). Biotite lathes range from 2-3 millimetres across, and make up 1-5 percent of the rock. They are kink-banded, subhedral, and locally chloritized. Hornblende phenocrysts are difficult to recognize due to their alteration, but have generally been replaced by chlorite and other opaques, and can be recognized by their diamond cross-section. Quartz phenocrysts are not always present but can be anhedral, embayed, and 3-5 millimetres in size. K-feldspar phenocrysts are rare but the mineral is abundant in the commonly medium to dark green, microcystalline matrix.
Smaller, possibly more evolved, discontinuous plugs of Patton Porphyry exist where K-feldspar and/or quartz megacrysts range from 3 to 20 mm in size, displaying ragged boundaries and intergrowths with surrounding grains (Godwin, 1975). Contacts between the main Patton plug and this unit are generally gradational or masked by alteration. Currently, the age-relationship between the megacrystic variety and the main plug is unknown.
Later Patton dykes in the south-central part of the deposit somewhat resemble the main Patton Porphyry body and contain 2 to 5 percent quartz phenocrysts and up to 35 percent plagioclase phenocrysts in an aphanitic latite groundmass (Bower et al., 1995). These dykes intruded after the main hydrothermal event and contain only minor base- and precious-metal mineralization, as well as locally abundant disseminated pyrite (Godwin, 1975). These dykes are of latitic to dacitic composition and are generally steeply dipping, striking between 130 and 160 degrees (Bower et al., 1995). On the Casino property, they are generally pale to light green with abundant plagioclase and lesser hornblende phenocrysts in a very fine- to extremely fine-grained matrix of plagioclase and K-feldspar (Payne et al., 1987). Wider versions of the dyke are coarser grained and may contain scattered quartz and/or biotite phenocrysts to 3 millimetres along with plagioclase and hornblende. Narrow versions with or without chilled dyke margins can be dark green with a glassy groundmass, and may show flow banding and/or lenticular structures near contacts (Bower et al., 1995). Outcrop of this unit can be mapped on surface trending northwest along Proctor Gulch.
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8.2.3.2 Intrusion Breccia (IX)
The Intrusion Breccia surrounding the main Patton Porphyry body consists of granodiorite, diorite, and metamorphic fragments in a fine-grained Patton Porphyry matrix. It may have formed along the margins, in part, by the stoping of blocks of wall rocks (Bower et al., 1995). The unit is rhyodacitic in composition and is inherently related to the Patton Porphyry intrusive (Godwin, 1975 and Payne et al., 1987). Local quartz grains are generally 1 to 2 millimetre unstrained crystals and crystal-fragments, and are texturally similar to quartz phenocrysts of the Patton Porphyry (Bower, 1995). Eroded fragments, ranging in size from less than one centimeter to greater than a few metres, are found proximal to their associated wall rocks, and therefore indicate limited transport and/or mixing (after Bower et al., 1995). For example, an abundance of Dawson Range inclusions are prominent at the southern contact of the main plug, Wolverine Creek metamorphic rocks increase along the northern contact, and bleached diorite increases at the eastern contact of the main plug. Strong potassic alteration locally destroys primary textures (Bower et al., 1995).
8.2.3.3 Explosion Breccia (MX)
Abundant fragments of the Patton Porphyry and its Intrusion Breccia are present in a late Cretaceous Explosion Breccia pipe. Godwin (1975) concluded that this pipe most likely represents a sub volcanic neck, brecciated from explosions caused by the rapid expansion of hot water (hydrothermal solutions) by vessiculation of rhyolitic magmas, and that any extrusive volcanic related to this event may have since been weathered away. This unit indicates multiple episodes of brecciation (Bower, 1995) as it contains 5 to 50 percent ragged fragments of altered intrusive breccia and host rock, with lesser fragments of late often quartz-phyric Patton Porphyry. Locally, the groundmass has a very fine-grained interlocking igneous texture; elsewhere it resembles milled rock flour (Bower, 1995) with up to 10 percent plagioclase and lesser quartz phenocrysts. Godwin also noted large angular cavities being a distinctive quality of this unit measuring up to 10 centimetres in size.
8.2.4 Property-Scale Structure
The largest fault affecting the known mineralized portion of the Casino Property, the Casino Creek Fault, trends at 310 degrees, forming an acute angle to regional structures (Figure 8-3). The right-lateral displacement of this fault has offset the eastern part of the Casino deposit by some 200 metres (Bower, et al., 1995). Similarly-directed faults are repeated throughout the Casino Property including one heading south from Canadian Creek, traveling through Patton Gulch, and forming a col in Patton Hill. This fault is aptly named the Patton Fault. The fault nearly bisects the known Casino Deposit but little movement has been noted or described. The West Fault, on the west side of the property is thought to be similarly-oriented. Most of these shear zones are denoted by brittle to gougy drill-core intercepts and may show increased amounts of hydrothermal veining including tourmaline, pyrite, magnetite, and gangue infilling fractures.
At the eastern part of the Casino deposit near the Casino Fault: a narrow zone of steeply-dipping, south-directed faults and conductors are interpreted from ground geophysics. This orientation may have weak repetitions throughout the deposit and is considered to be a mineralized, early structure predating the Casino Creek Fault system.
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West-directed fault systems have been noted in some early workings of the Casino ‘C’ anomaly (southeast along the Casino Creek Fault), have been suggested by airborne magnetics south of the deposit, and have been interpreted in air photos west of the deposit. In addition, this orientation proved to be prominent in veins in Pacific Sentinels study of oriented core in 1994. A suture between Dawson Range diorite and granodiorite along this orientation has locally incorporated older metamorphic rocks. This orientation is parallel to the Minto-Battle Fault and may have had a hand in dictating the overall shape of the main Patton stock and resultant mineralization.
Figure 8-3: Casino Deposit Structural Geology Map
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9 EXPLORATION
9.1 EXPLORATIONTECHNIQUES
Exploration on the property over its history has included multi-element soil geochemistry, geological mapping, geophysical surveys, trenching and drilling. Early drill targets were located primarily on the basis of coincident copper-molybdenum geochemical anomalies (Archer and Main, 1971).
Later in the project history, geophysical tools were used as target confirmation. Induced polarization surveys showed an area of high chargeability coincident with the phyllic halo of the porphyry deposit and an area of high resistivity coincident with the thickest part of the Leached Cap and the milled breccia pipe. Intermediate resistivity and low to moderate chargeability values over the deposit and broad areas to the north and west coincide with copper-gold-molybdenum soil geochemical anomalies. The zone of potassic alteration produced a strong ground-magnetic high, as did an area of magnetite-bearing diorite to the northwest. Drilling to test the geochemical and geophysical anomalies centred on Patton Hill partly defined a bulk tonnage porphyry deposit. Further potential below and around the main area drilled was indicated. This section discusses exploration programs in general. Drilling is specifically discussed in Section 10.
9.2 2008-2012EXPLORATIONPROGRAM
This section describes Western Copper’s exploration programs from 2008 through 2012 at the Casino Property. Prior exploration activities are described in the History Section of this report.
9.2.1 2008 Drilling Program
In 2008, Western Copper drilled three drill holes (camp water well and two exploration holes) totalling 1,163 m. The main purpose of the drilling was to obtain fresh core samples for the metallurgical and waste rock characterization tests. Both exploration holes twinned PSG’s holes and their role was also to confirm historic copper, gold and molybdenum grades.
9.2.2 2009 Titan TM Geophysical Survey
Between July 16 and 29, 2009, Quantec Geoscience Limited of Toronto, Ontario performed Titan-24 Galvanic Direct Current Resistivity and Induced Polarization (DC/IP) surveys as well as a Magnetotelluric Tensor Resistivity (MT) survey over the entire grid. Magnetotelluric Resistivity results in high resolution and deep penetration (to 1 km) and The Titan DC Resistivity & Induced polarization provides reasonable depth coverage to 750 m.
The survey grid was centered on the Casino deposit covering 2.4 km by 2.4 km area. The grid consisted of nine (9) lines, spaced 300 m apart, each 2.4 km long and at an azimuth of approximately 64 degrees (perpendicular to Casino Creek Fault).
Results of Titan survey were used by Quantec to identify a series of drill targets within the survey grid and adjacent to the known mineralization. 10 holes, totalling 4,327 m, were drilled to test geophysical targets. Several distal PB-Zn veins and arsenopyrite rich veins were intercepted during this drilling, but porphyry copper mineralization wasn’t found.
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Results of Titan survey were later used to interpret structures within and around the Casino deposit.
9.2.3 2009 Drilling Program
In 2009, the company drilled 10,943 meters in 37 diamond drill holes. 27 holes (6,616 m) were infill holes drilled to upgrade inferred and non-defined material to measured and indicated classes. Holes CAS-004 and CAS-007 were designed to test inferred grades at the bottom of the proposed pit. Most of the infill drilling was done on the north slope of Patton Hill that was mapped as “Latite Plug” on PSG maps. Drilling has identified supergene Cu mineralization and Mo mineralization in this area.
9.2.4 2010 Drilling Program
In 2010, infill and delineation drilling continued with most of the drilling done to the North and West of the deposit. The drilling program also defined hypogene mineralization at the south end of the deposit. In addition, the company drilled a series of geotechnical holes at the proposed tailings embankment area and within the pit. Several hydrogeological holes were also drilled in 2010.
A breakdown of 2010 drilling by Western Copper is as follows:
- 46 exploration holes for 12,046.19 m
- 4 combined geotech/Hydrogeo holes for 1,170.50 m
- 6 geotech holes in the tailings embankment area for 395.21 m
- 6 Hydrogeological holes for 519.08 m
- 1 water well for 153.92 m
9.2.5 2010 Re-logging Program
From April to June 2010 all Pacific Sentinel’s core stored at the Casino Property was re-logged. The purpose of the re-logging was to provide data for the new lithology and new alteration models. All previously logged lithologies were grouped in four generalized lithological groups:
- WR – Dawson Range batholith granodiorite, diorite and earlier metamorphic rocks
- PP – Patton porphyry
- IX – intrusion breccia formed between Patton porphyry and Dawson range rocks
- MX – post-mineral explosion breccia
Alteration assemblages were re-logged according to the following criteria:
- Potassic – K-spar or biotite altered rocks
- Phyllic – Sericitised, Qz-Ser and silicified rocks
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- Propylitic – marked with the first appearance of secondary epidote and chlorite
- Argillic – argillic as the result of supergene weathering, not as hydrothermal alteration.
In most cases argillic Cu mineralization zones were also reinterpreted: in Western Copper holes weak assay leach assay Cu-AA05 and CN leach assay Cu-AA17a were used to define supergene zones.
- SOX = Cu grade > 0.10% and Cu -AA05 > 25% of the total Cu
- SUS = any Cu grade and Cu-AA17a >20% of the total Cu
Pacific Sentinel utilized different assay methods to determine oxide and supergene sulphide copper, as reported in 2008 Pre-Feasibility Study (M3 Engineering, 2008):
In 1994, selected samples in the Leached Cap, Supergene zone and the upper 50 m of Hypogene zone were composited two to one and subjected to a two-stage leach process. The filtered solution from a weak (3%) sulphuric acid initial leach was analyzed for copper by AAS. This result was designated weak acid soluble (CuW). This leach digested all copper oxide minerals (including neotocite, tenorite, malachite, azurite, chalcanthite, and brochantite), with the exception of cuprite. A second, stronger leach of (5%) sulphuric acid combined with 2% ferric sulphate. This leach digested from 25 to 50 percent of the copper present as supergene sulphide minerals such as chalcocite, digenite and covellite, without digesting a significant amount of the copper present as chalcopyrite and/or bornite. This leachate was analyzed for Cu by AAS and was designated moderate acid soluble (CuM). Copper remaining in the residue was undissolved chalcopyrite and/or bornite which was reported as insoluble sulphide copper or strong acid soluble copper (CuS).
Since the analytical procedures used in 1994 are not commonly available, Western Copper did a comparison of the modern supergene copper assay and historic supergene copper assays. Ninety (90) samples from different parts of supergene mineralization zone were assayed for copper after:
- 3% sulphuric acid leach
- 5% sulphuric acid leach
- 5% sulphuric acid + 2% ferric sulphate leach
- Cyanide leach
Plots have shown that CuW corresponds to currently utilized Cu-AA05 and that sum of CuW and CuM factored by 1.67 corresponds to CN leach copper.
CuW = Cu-AA05
(CuW+CuM) x 1.67 = Cu-AA17a
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9.2.6 2011 Exploration / Geotechnical Program
The 2011 exploration program on the Casino Project was primarily focused on geotechnical, and baseline environmental studies, however certain of the drill holes were drilled, logged and sampled for exploration purposes. The program commenced on May 16 and was completed on October 11 and involved 41 drill holes for a total of 3,163.26 m.
9.2.7 2012 Metallurgical Sampling and Geotechnical Program
In 2012, the drilling program on the property focussed on metallurgical and geotechnical studies. The program commenced on May 15 and was completed by July 11. Six holes (228.07 m) were drilled for geotechnical purposes and 5 holes (1,507.63 m) were drilled for metallurgical sampling. The program also included ongoing environmental baseline studies.
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10 DRILLING
This section describes the various drilling programs developed on the Property.
10.1 1992-1994DRILLINGPROGRAM
Drilling prior to 1992 (Figure 10-1) consisted of reverse circulation drilling and NQ diamond drilling. There is little documentation that specifically focused on this early drilling, its specifications or challenges. After the acquisition of Casino Silver Mines Ltd. by Archer Cathro, followed by PSG, the drilling is well documented.
During the intense campaigns from 1992 through 1994, (Figure 10-2) drilling was contracted to E. Caron Drilling Ltd. of Whitehorse. Up to six diamond drills were utilized. The 1994 drilling program fulfilled a variety of purposes: infill, delineation, geotechnical, structural and waste rock characterization. Infill drilling involved a program of angle and vertical holes designed to outline and more fully define the Leached Cap, (Oxide Gold zone) and Supergene Copper zones. Delineation drilling to the north, northeast, east, and southeast outlined the extent of the deposit area. Four oriented angle holes were drilled in the deposit area for geotechnical information regarding rock strength, structure and geological information regarding vein-set orientations. Five vertical holes were drilled on the periphery of the deposit area for waste rock characterization studies. Seven vertical holes were drilled in the periphery of the deposit area for geotechnical information. Eighteen vertical holes were drilled outside the deposit area for geotechnical and geological information regarding potential site development.
The combined drilling from 1992 through 1994 consisted of 71,437.59 m of HQ and HQ core from 236 holes.
Core recoveries were consistently in the 80% to 90% range in the Leached Cap and Supergene zones and 90% to 100% in the Hypogene zone.
Drilling can be carried out at Casino from March through November with minor logistical challenges, while conditions in the spring and fall require winter type drilling equipment. The use of a water supply truck is necessary with very cold weather conditions. Three reliable water supply sites exist on the property and can all be utilized during multiple drill rig programs.
10.2 2008 TO2012DRILLING
The drilling for 2008 to 2012 exploration programs was contracted to Kluane Drilling Ltd. from Whitehorse, Yukon. Up to three hydraulic diamond drills were utilized for these programs.
Water for the drilling was pumped from Canadian Creek (Canadian Creek bend, location of the old placer camp) and from Casino Creek.
Drilling was carried out from March through November. Conditions in the late winter and fall required winter-type drilling equipment. The main challenges during the winter drilling were water supply due to the low water level in both creeks and freezing of long water lines.
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All drilling was done using “thin wall” drill rods. Holes CAS-001 to CAS-007 were HTW size (core diameter 70.92 mm) and the remainder of the drilling was done primarily in NTW core size (core diameter 56.00 mm). For deeper holes, the hole would be collared in HTW and reduce to NTW generally around 200 to 300 m. In few cases holes were reduced to BTW core size (core diameter 42.00 mm).
Core recoveries were consistently in the 80% to 90% range in the Leached Cap and Supergene zones and 90% to 100% in the hypogene zone.
Down-hole orientation surveying was performed using an Icefield Tools MI3 Multishot Digital Borehole Survey Tool for holes CAS-002 to CAS-076. For holes CAS-077 to CAS-092 and the geotechnical and hydrogeological holes a Reflex Instruments downhole survey instrument was used.
Western Copper continued the drilling pattern established by PSG, utilizing a vertical drill hole orientation, for the most part and a nominal 100 metre grid spacing. Later in the program, Western Copper drilled a series of inclined holes in the northern part of the deposit. Several inclined holes were also drilled in the Western part of the deposit to establish contacts with the post-mineral explosion breccia and to confirm orientation of proposed N-S structure.
Geostatistics done in 2010 have shown that the 100 m spacing was sufficient for supergene mineralization which prevails in this area. The same studies have shown that the 100 m drill hole spacing is only marginally sufficient for hypogene copper mineralization.
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Figure 10-1: Casino Property Drilling Pre-1992
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Figure 10-2: Casino Property Drilling 1992 – 1994
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Figure 10-3: Casino Project Drilling from 2008 to 2012
10.3 SURVEYDATA-PHOTOGRAMMETRY
In April 1993 McElhanney Consulting Services Ltd. of Vancouver, BC, produced a map of the Casino area based on 1985 air photos provided by the Department of Energy, Mines and Resources.
New aerial photography was conducted in July 1993, by Lamerton & Associates of Whitehorse. The area they covered was mapped by Eagle Mapping Services Ltd. of Port Coquitlam, BC. Eagle Mapping utilized two government UTM co-ordinates systems, NAD83 and WGS84, in the derivation of the deposit grid co-ordinates at photo target station #11. The following transformation parameters were used to convert from UTM coordinates to Property Grid:
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ROTATION: | -0° 00' 05" |
SCALE: | 1.000453652 |
TRANSLATION: | -6703701.92 N |
-499861.96 E | |
ELEVATION SHIFT: | -8.32 m |
The contours on McElhanney and Eagle Mapping Services maps compare to within approximately five metres and often closer. Generally, Eagle Mapping contours are smoother, having more gradual changes in direction.
10.4 COLLARCOORDINATES
1992 to 1994 Collar co-ordinates (Northing, Easting and elevation) were surveyed using a total station Nikon C-100. Surveying of the 1992 and 1993 drill holes was undertaken by Lamerton & Associates. 1994 holes were surveyed by Z. Peter, Surveyor from Burnaby, B.C. It should be stressed that all Pacific Sentinel’s collar coordinates were surveyed in local grid coordinates.
2008-2012 drill collars were surveyed by Yukon Engineering Services from Whitehorse. The survey was done using Differential GPS units and the results are reported in UTM NAD83 coordinates.
Twenty eight (28) of Pacific Sentinel’s drill hole collars were also surveyed by Yukon Engineering for comparison purposes. Those were entered in data base with their new UTM NAD83 collar coordinates.
10.5 SPERRYSUNSURVEYS
In the 1993 drilling program, all drill holes, including deepened 1992 holes, were down-hole surveyed by a Sperry Sun magnetic compass tool to determine azimuth and dip. In the 1994 drilling program, only angle holes were Sperry Sun surveyed. Tests were normally performed every 152 m (500 ft.) down hole on vertical holes and every 76 m (250 ft.) down hole on angle holes. In the shallower angle hole program of 1994, Sperry Sun tests were taken at the bottom of the hole as well as half way up.
The Sperry Sun surveys taken in the 123 vertical holes drilled or deepened in 1993 had an average dip reading of 89.03° . Since the average deviation observed in the 123 vertical holes of the 1993 program was less than one degree, it was decided not to survey the vertical holes of the 1994 program.
10.6 LIGHT-LOGSURVEYSYSTEM
A Light-Log directional drill hole survey system, developed by H.J. Otte & Co., was used for sixteen angle holes at Casino, starting at hole 94-285 and continuing for most of the angle holes through the remainder of the 1994 drilling program. This system recorded, on film, the bending of the unit caused by the existent curvatures in a drill hole. The instrument’s timer activated the camera and advanced the film at pre-set time intervals, allowing time to lower the instrument between pictures (normally every 3 m). On completion of the survey, the film was developed. The values observed on the film were converted by a computer program to provide co-ordinates, dip, and azimuth at every three metre downhole interval.
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10.7 ACIDDIPTESTS
In the 1994 program, acid dip tests were performed in the vertical holes while Sperry Sun surveys were continued in the angle holes.
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11 SAMPLE PREPARATION, ANALYSES AND SECURITY
11.1 SAMPLINGMETHOD ANDAPPROACH
11.1.1 Core Processing
At the drill site, core was placed into wooden core boxes directly upon emptying the core tube. A wooden block marked with the depth in feet and meters was placed in the core box upon the completion of each drill run, which in good conditions was 10 feet. Core boxes were transported by drilling company truck less than 5 km to the core logging facility adjacent to the Casino Airstrip. There, core boxes were laid out in sequence on elevated tables in the core shack.
Boxes were labelled with black felt tip pens and embossed steel tags containing hole number, box number and interval of core within the box. Geotechnical data including core recovery, RQD, hardness and natural breaks were recorded for each drill run, as marked by the wooden core run blocks. This information was recorded by the geologist or trained logging assistant under direct supervision of a geologist. Logging of the geotechnical data followed codes and format outlined in a project specific manual prepared by Knight Piésold.
The geologist recorded key geologic information including lithology, zone, mineralization and alteration. The data was entered directly into a Microsoft Excel table for each drill hole. The codes and logging form followed as close as possible the format outlined in the Pacific Sentinel’s logging procedures. The 4-letter lithology codes, 3-letter copper mineralization zone codes and 4-digit alteration codes used in 2008-2012 drilling programs were all developed by Pacific Sentinel and modified by Western Copper.
Core was photographed after the geology log was completed and after the sampling intervals were marked.
11.1.2 Core Sampling
Sampling and analytical protocols in use prior to the PSG diamond drill programs are not well documented. In June 1992 core from 22 old holes was re-sampled by Archer Cathro, and the new assay results for all metals were compared to the originals. The results indicated 14 holes (64%) had identical results, while five holes (23%) had higher re-assays and three were inconclusive. When results of the old holes were compared with new holes drilled in the same locations, the results were similar to the re-sampling tests. Archer Cathro surmised that the higher gold results in the new holes were due to a combination of: improved drilling techniques that resulted in better core recovery, and advanced laboratory techniques that provided lower analytical detection limits.
The PSG core sampling followed rigorous procedures that were well documented and standardized throughout the drilling programs. In the 1992, 1993 and 1994 programs, exploration targets were sampled by HQ (63.5 mm diameter) core drilling; on occasion this was reduced to NQ (47.6 mm). The boxed core samples were transported by truck less than 5 km to a core logging facility adjacent to the Casino Airstrip for geotechnical logging, sample selection quality control designation and sampling by PSG personnel. The average core recovery for all PSG core was 94%, with Hypogene averaging 96%, Supergene 92% and the Leached Cap (Oxide Gold zone) averaging 89%. Sample intervals were marked by the geologist on the core generally at 3-meter-long intervals or at geological contacts. Core intervals were sampled by mechanical splitting. The remaining half core was returned to the boxes and stored in racks at the site. The average lengthwise half-split provided 10 to 15 kg of material, which was transported by charter aircraft (primarily DC-3) directly from the core sampling facility to Whitehorse, and then by commercial air freight to Vancouver for delivery to the sample preparation laboratory.
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In 2008, all samples were split using a conventional core splitter. In 2009, about 150 samples were split with a core splitter at the beginning of the program. From then on, in 2009 through 2012, all samples were cut with a core saw. All samples were split or cut on site and placed in individually labelled plastic sample bags with the unique sample number selected by the geologist logging the hole. The core samples were split lengthwise with half of the core placed in the sample bag, the other half returned to the core box. The samples were sent to ALS Chemex Labs in North Vancouver for analysis.
In 2008, 422 drill core samples were collected; in 2009, 3,832 drill core samples were collected; in 2010, 4,768 drill core samples were collected; in 2011, 387 drill core samples were collected; and in 2012, 533 drill core samples were collected.
11.2 SAMPLEPREPARATION
All original samples were sent to ALS Chemex Labs in North Vancouver for analysis. The standard analytical request for all samples was for preparation by procedure Prep-31A. This processed involved logging the sample into the tracking system, weighing, drying and crushing the entire sample to better than 70% -2 mm. A 250 gram split of the crushed material was then collected by riffle splitter and it was pulverized to better than 85% passing 75 microns. The resultant pulp was then sent for analysis.
Duplicate samples were sent to Acme Analytical Laboratories Ltd in Vancouver for analysis. At Acme, preparation procedure R150 was used. This processed involved logging the sample into the tracking system, weighing, drying and crushing the entire sample to better than 70% passing 10 mesh. A 250 gram split of the crushed material was then collected by riffle splitter and it was pulverized to better than 85% passing 200 mesh. The resultant pulp was then sent for analysis.
Sample Standards and Blanks arrived at the labs in pulverized form. These samples skipped the crushing and pulverizing stage and went to the analysis stage.
11.3 ASSAYANALYSIS
Chemex analyzed all 1992-1994 regular (mainstream) samples, 1992-1993 selected duplicate samples and 1994 random ½ core replicate samples. Min-En Laboratories, of North Vancouver, BC, analyzed the selected duplicate samples from 1992 and 1993, and random duplicate samples from 1994. The analytical procedures used prior to 1992 are unknown.
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Immediately prior to selecting each pulp’s analytical aliquot, each pulp sample was passed through a 20 mesh screen to eliminate lumps of agglomerated clay minerals.
The analytical processes used at ALS Chemex and for the sample duplicates at Acme Analytical Laboratories were similar.
11.3.1 Gold Analysis
At ALS Chemex gold assays were run using 30 gram sample of the pulp with fire assay and AA finish to a 0.005 ppm detection limit according to procedure Au-AA23. Results were reported in parts per million (ppm).
At Acme gold assays were run by using a 30 gram sample of the pulp with fire assay and ICP-ES finish to a 2 ppb detection limit according to procedure Group 3B. Results were reported in parts per billion (ppb).
11.3.2 Copper, Molybdenum and Silver Assay
Samples that returned over-limits for copper, molybdenum or silver in the ICP analysis were assayed by process OG62 at ALS Chemex. This process involved a four acid digestion and analysis by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectroscopy or Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. Results were reported in percent (%).
11.3.3 ICP Analysis
Samples sent to ALS Chemex were analyzed for multiple elements, including copper, molybdenum and silver by process ME-ICP61. This process involved a four acid “Near Total” digestion of 1.0 grams of sample pulp with Mass Emission-Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectroscopy for the analysis. This process returned results for: Ag (ppm), Al (%), As (ppm), Ba (ppm), Be (ppm), Bi (ppm), Ca (%), Cd (ppm), Co (ppm), Cr (ppm), Cu (ppm), Fe (%), Ga (ppm), K (%), La (ppm), Mg (%), Mn (ppm), Mo (ppm), Na (%), Ni (ppm), P (ppm), Pb (ppm), S (%), Sb (ppm), Sc (ppm), Sr (ppm), Th (ppm), Ti (%), Tl (ppm), U (ppm), V (ppm), W (ppm), and, Zn (ppm).
Samples sent to Acme were analyzed for multiple elements, including copper, molybdenum and silver by process Group 1EX. This process involved a four acid digestion of 0.25 grams of sample pulp with Mass Emission-Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectroscopy for the analysis. This process returned results for: Ag (ppm), Al (%), As (ppm), Au (ppm), Ba (ppm), Be (ppm), Bi (ppm), Ca (%), Cd (ppm), Co (ppm), Cr (ppm), Cu (ppm), Fe (%), K (%), La (ppm), Mg (%), Mn (ppm), Mo (ppm), Na (%), Nb (ppm), Ni (ppm), P (%), Pb (ppm), Sb (ppm), Sc (ppm), Sn (ppm), Sr (ppm), Th (ppm), Ti (%), U (ppm), V (ppm), W (ppm), Y (ppm), Zn (ppm) and, Zr (ppm).
11.3.4 Acid Soluble Copper Analysis
In 2008 and 2009, following receipt of the copper analyses, samples were selected for “non-sulphide” or “acid soluble” copper analysis. The criteria for “non-sulphide” selection was any sample that contained >100 ppm Cu in the Leached Cap, Supergene Zone, or top 50 m of the Hypogene Zone. A list of these samples was presented to ALS Chemex. ALS Chemex then retrieved the pulps and analyzed it by 5% sulphuric acid leach and AAS finish (procedure Cu-AA05).
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In 2010 to 2012, selected samples for “acid soluble” copper analyses were identified by the geologist logging the core and the request for this analysis was submitted when the samples were originally sent to the lab. The samples identified by the geologist were generally from the top of the hole down through the top 50 m of the hypogene zone. On a few occasions, after receiving the geochemical results additional samples were identified for “non-sulphide” copper analyses and ALS Chemex was requested to pull these sample pulps and perform the analysis.
11.3.5 Cyanide Soluble Copper Analysis
In 2010, a large number of samples from the 2008, 2009 and 2010 were identified for cyanide soluble copper analyses. These samples were selected to aid with identification of the Supergene Sulphide – Hypogene metallurgical boundary. The selected samples were analyzed by cyanide leach with AAS finish (ALS Chemex procedure Cu-AA17a). For samples that had already been received and processed at the lab, ALS Chemex retrieved the pulps and analyzed this material. For samples not yet sent to the lab, the geologist would identify the Supergene Sulphide – Hypogene boundary visually and samples 30 m on either side of the boundary were identified for cyanide leach copper analysis. On a few occasions, after receiving the geochemical results additional samples were identified for cyanide soluble copper analyses and ALS Chemex was requested to pull these sample pulps and perform the analysis.
11.3.6 Security
During the drilling campaigns at Casino the rigours of “chain of custody” were not as stringent as presently required. The remoteness of the Casino site provided a large degree of security as air traffic into the project was closely monitored. Further, the Casino gold grades were low and any metal contamination or grade enhancement would be quickly and easily identified. However, good sample handling procedures were in place during the PSG programs. Geologists supervised the sampling, and the samples were kept in a secure impoundment prior to shipping. The best vigilance on the samples was the attention to results, and in that regard PSG maintained a thorough quality assurance/quality control program (QA/QC).
Samples were shipped in rice bags with uniquely-numbered, non-re-sealable security tags. Each sample shipment was shipped from the Casino Property via air to Whitehorse. The samples were received at the airport by the project expediter and trans-shipped to the appropriate lab from there. In 2008 and early 2009, all shipments were sent by Byers Transport to North Vancouver. Later in 2009 and early 2010, samples for ALS Chemex were shipped by Byers Transport to the ALS Chemex preparation facility in Terrace, BC, where they were crushed and pulverized. The pulps were then shipped by ALS Chemex to North Vancouver for analyses. In May of 2010, ALS Chemex opened a preparation facility in Whitehorse. From then on, all samples were delivered to the Whitehorse preparation lab by the project expediter. The samples were crushed and pulverized in Whitehorse and the pulps were shipped to North Vancouver for analysis.
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If a shipment was received with a broken security tag, the lab would notify the project manager to determine if it the shipment was tampered with, or if the tag was accidentally damaged during shipping.
11.3.7 Quality Assurance and Quality Control
Exploration sampling and analysis prior to 1992 was not subjected to the rigours required of modern regulatory requirements, but work conducted by major companies, like Quintana and Teck Corporation generally followed geologically accepted good sampling practices.
However, details of the sampling and analytical methodology are unknown. Moreover, analytical quality, particularly with respect to the determination of gold in the less than 1.0 g/t range, has improved considerably since the pre-1992 work was done. It is for this reason that the assay result from these old holes was not used in this study.
During the 1993 and 1994 Pacific Sentinel Gold drilling programs at Casino, standards, reject duplicates, and half-core replicates were assayed at regular intervals in order to check the security of the samples as well as the quality and accuracy of the laboratory analyses. Further, in-house laboratory standards, duplicates, and blanks were also run and reported as normal assays on certificates.
Figure 11-1 and Figure 11-2 are flow charts illustrating the processing of drill core and quality control procedures from 1992 to 1994.
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Figure 11-1: Casino Drill Core Processing and Quality Control Procedures, 1992-93
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Figure 11-2: Casino Drill Core Processing and Quality Control Procedures 1994
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During the 2008 through 2012 drilling programs at Casino, standards and half-core duplicates were assayed at regular intervals in order to check the security of the samples as well as the quality and accuracy of the laboratory analyses. The standards and blanks were prepared by CDN Resource Laboratories Ltd. of Delta, BC.
11.3.8 Sample Standards
The sample standard used in 2008, 2009 and 2010 was prepared by CDN Resource Laboratories Ltd. of Delta, BC. The standard is a gold-copper-molybdenum standard, CDN-CM-4. It is certified by Duncan Sanderson, Licensed BC Assayer with independent certification by Dr. Barry Smee, Ph.D., geochemist. Round robin assaying for the standard was performed at 12 independent laboratories. CDN reports the recommended values and the “Between Lab” Two Standard Deviations of the standard values of:
Gold: 1.18 + 0.12 g/t | |
Copper: 0.508 + 0.025 % | |
Molybdenum: 0.032 + 0.004 % |
In 2008, 8 sample standards were submitted regularly with the sample shipments; in 2009, 81 standards were submitted; and in 2010, 86 standards were submitted (approximately 1 every 50th sample). ALS Chemex analyzed the standards along with the drill core samples by gold, copper and molybdenum assay, as well as multi-element ICP as described above.
The results from sample standard CDN-CM-4 for 2008, 2009 and 2010, for gold, copper and molybdenum analyses are plotted below.
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Figure 11-3: Sample Standard CDN-CM-4 Gold Assay Results
Figure 11-4: Sample Standard CDN-CM-4 Copper Assay Results
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Figure 11-5: Sample Standard CDN-CM-4 Molybdenum Assay Results
The three plots demonstrate that with very few exceptions (9 for gold, 2 for copper, and one for molybdenum), the values plot within the acceptable range of the certified standard. The plots also demonstrate that there is a reasonable spread of values within the recommended value range of 2 standard deviations as provided by CDN Resource Laboratories Ltd. There does not appear to be any systematic bias.
Later in 2010, a second sample standard (CDN-CM-7) was purchased from CDN Resource Laboratories Ltd. because they had run out of standard CDN-CM-4. This sample is also certified by Duncan Sanderson and Dr. Barry Smee. CDN reports the recommended values and the “Between Lab” Two Standard Deviations of this standard as:
Gold: 0.427 + 0.042 g/t
Copper: 0.445 + 0.027 %
Molybdenum: 0.027 + 0.002 %
Fifteen of these standards were submitted in 2010. ALS Chemex analyzed these standards in the same manner as standard CDN-CM-4, described above.
The results from sample standard CDN-CM-7 for 2010, for gold, copper and molybdenum analyses are plotted below:
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Figure 11-6: Sample Standard CDN-CM-7 Gold Assay Results
Figure 11-7: Sample Standard CDN-CM-7 Copper Assay Results
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Figure 11-8: Sample Standard CDN-CM-7 Molybdenum Assay Results
The three plots show good precision with the exception of samples 1 and 10 which are well below the expected values as certified by CDN. After checking the ALS Chemex internal standards for these batches and the sample duplicates from these batches of analyses there did not appear to be a systemic error in the batches. The suspicion is that an error may have occurred when the sample standards were inserted in the field, or when the standard was originally placed in the geochemical run at the lab. These anomalous errors are not considered significant considering that, in general, the great majority of standards returned analysis within the expect range.
11.3.9 Blanks
Commencing in 2010 sample Blanks were regularly inserted into the sample stream. Blanks are included as a check of the lower limit of the analytical range and to ensure that at all stages in the process, the equipment and instruments are thoroughly cleaned prior to running subsequent samples. This is particularly important for precious metals. A total of 75 blanks were submitted during the 2010 program, nominally one every 50 samples.
The Blank was also prepared by CDN Resource Laboratories Ltd (CDN-BL-6). It is certified for gold, platinum and palladium. The recommended values for these elements are:
Gold: <0.01 g/t | |
Platinum: <0.01 g/t | |
Palladium: <0.01 g/t |
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Since the reported recommended gold values by CDN are less than detection it is not included in a plot. The gold values of the Blanks analyzed ranged from below detection (<0.005 g/t) to a maximum of 0.046 g/t. The silver values ranged from <0.5 to 0.8 ppm; copper values ranged from 48 to 85 ppm; and molybdenum from 1 to 10 ppm.
11.3.10 Field Duplicate Drill Core Analysis
Field duplicates are separate samples taken in the same manner and at the same core interval as the original sample. They are used to measure inherent variability in metal content from a single location and sample medium, and give an idea of sample reproducibility in the field. Core duplicates were collected from the ½ core that remained following the collection of the original sample. The duplicate was collected by sawing the ½ core in half longitudinally, so that ¼ of the original core was collected. Duplicates were collected, nominally every 20th sample. Where duplicates were collected, only ¼ of the core remains stored in the core box on the property.
In 2008, 21 core duplicate pairs were collected; in 2009, 199 core duplicate pairs were collected; in 2010, 245 core duplicate pairs were collected. The original ½ core sample was shipped to ALS Chemex for analysis for gold, copper and molybdenum assay, as well as multi-element ICP as described above. The duplicate ¼ core sample was shipped to Acme Labs for analysis for gold, copper and molybdenum assay, as well as multi-element ICP in a manner identical to that performed at ALS Chemex, as described above. The results for the duplicate analyses for gold, silver, copper and molybdenum are demonstrate in comparison plots between the Acme and ALS Chemex values below:
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Figure 11-9: Plot of ALS Chemex gold assay versus Acme Labs gold assay for field
duplicate samples (2008, 2009 and 2010 data)
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Figure 11-10: Plot of ALS Chemex silver analyses versus Acme Labs silver analyses for
field duplicate samples (2008, 2009 and 2010 data)
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Figure 11-11: Plot of ALS Chemex copper assay versus Acme Labs copper assay for field
duplicate samples (2008, 2009 and 2010 data).
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Figure 11-12: Plot of ALS Chemex molybdenum assay versus Acme Labs molybdenum
assay for field duplicate samples (2008, 2009 and 2010 data).
The plots generally show good correlation between ALS Chemex and Acme Labs for all four elements of interest.
Often the “nugget effect” associated with gold and silver content will produce widely divergent values, which would plot as highly scattered data points. However, the gold and silver results from the duplicate samples show good correlation.
Ideally, a trend line of y=1x would show perfect reproducibility. This is rarely, if ever, the case due to the difference of mineral content between duplicate samples. The data trend line for gold returned y=1.105x. This demonstrates that Acme Lab results, as a whole, are 10.5% higher than ALS Chemex results. All samples cluster in close proximity to the trend line which indicates no strong “nugget effect” and good reproducibility.
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The data trend line for silver is y=1.228x. This demonstrates that Acme Lab analyses, as a whole, are 22.8% higher than ALS Chemex values. In general, the points cluster well around the trend line with the exception of one sample. This also demonstrates good reproducibility.
The results for duplicate analyses for copper demonstrate excellent reproducibility. The data trend line returned y=1.017x. The copper data clusters tightly around trend line with the exception of one value. In general, the Acme results are very slightly higher (1.7%) than the ALS Chemex results.
The molybdenum plot demonstrates slightly more scattered results with 8 points plotting far off the trend line (y=0.880x) . The trend line indicates that, in general, the Acme results for molybdenum are 12% lower than ALS Chemex results. Overall, however the duplicate results show good correlation. Molybdenite mineralization was observed in quartz veins in the drill core and it is possible that the 8 erratic values are reflecting a molybdenum “nugget effect”, where there is a variability of molybdenite concentration between samples.
The results of analyses from the sample standards, blanks and duplicates provide for acceptable Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA-QC) for the geochemical program at Casino for 2008 through 2010. The results also indicate that there is no evidence of tampering during the sample collection process, shipping or at the laboratory. There is also no evidence of systemic errors in the sample preparation and analytical processes.
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12 DATA VERIFICATION
Verification of the 1992 through 1994 diamond drilling investigation results was conducted on a full-time basis by one to two teams during the entire PSG exploration. Verification was done as the data was received from the field or the assay labs. The objective was to obtain an error free computer database of all the geological logs, geotechnical logs, assay results, ICP results, drill collar co-ordinates and down hole surveys.
Data entry and verification for historic data used in the updated resource estimate was documented in the Casino Project Pre-Feasibility Study, Yukon Territory, Canada, prepared by M3 Engineering and Technology Corp in 2008. Data entry and verification for the drilling programs conducted by Western Copper Corporation from 2008 through 2010 is documented below. The Western Copper database was verified on an ongoing basis by the Scott Casselman, Project Manager, as the data was received from the field or the assay labs. The objective was to obtain an error free computer database of all the geological logs, geotechnical logs, assay results, ICP results, drill collar coordinates and down hole surveys, for the 2008, 2009 and 2010 diamond drill holes.
12.1 DATAENTRY
Drill hole logging, sampling and geotechnical data was entered directly by the geologist or geotechnical logger working on the core in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. Upon completion of each hole these files was submitted to the Project Manager for checking. Upon receipt of analytical data from the lab, the data was merged with the sample intervals by the Project Manager and the data was checked.
Down hole survey information was recorded digitally by the down hole survey instruments and the dumped data was submitted by the operator to the Project Manager. This data was checked by the Project Manager. Hole collar surveying was performed by surveyors from Yukon Engineering Services Ltd and this data was provided to the Project Manager for inclusion into the project data base. This data was checked by the Project Manager.
Geotechnical data such as Specific Gravity measurements, Rock Quality Determinations (RQD), and core box intervals was first recorder on paper then transcribed into the computer.
Sample interval data was entered directly into the computer with the hole number and interval being also written in the sample booklets. The booklets were checked in the event of a discrepancy in sample intervals.
All the data was brought into Microsoft Excel for Windows spreadsheets where the data was organized into a standardized format. Once the data was checked it was posted on the Western Copper FTP site for use in the office. The data was merged into Geosoft Target software database for creation of drill plans and sections and for 3D modelling.
Original 1992 and 1993 field data was entered by Archer Cathro and Assoc. and by Nowak and Assoc., both of Vancouver, BC. Entry of the 1994 field data to a database was performed on site and in the Vancouver office by PSG personnel. All data was placed into a digital database. Assay, ICP, copper leach data, check assays and specific gravities were downloaded from the Chemex Labs computer bulletin board. Pacific Sentinel Gold Corp. personnel entered the down hole surveys and the collar surveys and were responsible for making corrections from the data verification process.
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12.2 VERIFICATIONPROCEDURE
The data verification process was performed under the supervision of the Project Manager. When errors were observed in geological, geotechnical or sample intervals, the Project Manager and geologist or technician would go back to the core and/or original notes or sample booklets and sort out the error and make appropriate corrections. Data verification was performed on an ongoing basis and kept as up to date as possible. At times where data were first recorded on paper, then transcribed to the computer, original copies of the hand notes were kept for future reference. All original data is kept in the Project Files.
Occasionally, in verification of field logs, when it was unclear which value was correct, or it seemed both may be in error, other sources such as the geologists' side logs, synoptic logs, drillers' time sheets, and/or core photographs were referred to and a decision was made by a geologist familiar with logging and sampling techniques.
12.3 ERRORS
The errors encountered during the data verification process varied depending upon the data being checked. Overall there were very few errors in the database. The most common error observed was in geological or sample intervals, where the “To” recording of a previous sample did not match the “From” recording of the subsequent sample. These were generally easy to sort out by the geologist or geotechnical logger.
Discrepancies with the assay, ICP and copper leach data involved values below the detection limit. Occasionally less than signs (<) were misplaced for the lower detection limit values. Anomalously high ICP values were occasionally rounded off differently in the assay certificates than in the assay data downloaded from the computer bulletin board.
The geological logs, especially theGeologformat of the 1992 and 1993 logs, had some errors introduced when the data entry personnel were unclear of the recording method the geologist was using. Additionally, changing definitions of many of the lithologic types required re-logging of many of the holes in the 1992 and 1993 programs. The process of combining the information from the old and new logs introduced some errors into the database. Due to the number of discrepancies encountered in theGeologdata of the 1992 and 1993 programs, a second verification of lithologies and alteration was performed after the errors detected in the first pass were corrected. Since the re-logging of the historic core in 2010, these errors associated with geological, mineralogical or alteration, have been eliminated.
The geotechnical logs were checked by the computer to find intervals with combinations of parameters that were suspect. These intervals were extracted from the database and the suspect values were checked against the originals and against other available information, such as core photos, to determine if they were in error. A large majority of the extracted parameters were correct and considered to be caused by normal variance of geotechnical characteristics.
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Errors detected in the field data of the geological logs, geotechnical logs, synoptic logs, specific gravity logs and down-hole survey data were often a result of human error in recording the original or in transcription. Wherever possible computer checks were done on the data; several types of errors were detected this way.
Errors found in the specific gravity data were due to the geotechnician assigning the wrong sample number to the interval from which the specific gravity was taken. These errors were detected by a computer check and confirmed by the data verification personnel.
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13 MINERAL PROCESSING AND METALLURGICAL TESTING
The Casino Project will produce copper flotation concentrates with contained gold and silver values, and molybdenite flotation concentrates. Gold in the form of doré, and a high grade copper sulphide product will also be produced from an oxide ore heap leach. All products will be shipped offsite for sale or further processing.
13.1 METALLURGICALSAMPLES
In the testwork commissioned by Pacific Sentinel Gold in the mid 90’s, all of the samples used were assay rejects that were nominally -10 mesh in particle size. These assay rejects were combined to prepare a number of composites that were sent to Lakefield Research for flotation and other testing under the direction of Melis Engineering, Ltd., to Brenda Process Technology for flotation testing, and to Kappes, Cassiday and Associates for copper and gold leaching.
The source of samples for the 2008 work was split HQ core that was retrieved from site in September 2007. The core had been at site since it was drilled in 1993 and 1994, but was stored under cover.
Samples for the G&T Metallurgical Services test program reported in early 2011 were split from fresh core from the 2010 drill program.
Samples for the comminution testing performed by Starkey and Associates, and comminution and flotation testing by G&T Metallurgical reported in early 2012 were retrieved from the 1993 to 2010 drill programs and consisted of split core.
A drill program to retrieve fresh hypogene core was completed in early 2012 and split core from this drilling campaign was used for the flotation tests reported by G&T Metallurgical in December 2012.
13.2 LEACHINGTESTS
13.2.1 Kappes, Cassiday and Associates
Kappes, Cassiday and Associates performed two studies in 1995 on the leaching of the oxide cap and supergene material. In the first study they leached a selection of oxide cap material with cyanide. In the second study they examined pre-leaching both oxide cap and supergene material with acid followed by cyanidation of the residue.
Gold extraction was affected by the amount of copper leached during cyanidation and ranged from 10-97.4% . Average gold extraction was 79.9% ..
Lime consumption during cyanidation averaged 3.9 kg/t without the acid pre-leach, and 4.1 kg/t with the acid pre-leach. Cyanide consumption was significant, averaging 5.5 kg/t without the acid pre-leach. There was not a significant difference between the lime consumption for the oxide copper composites and copper oxide composites.
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13.2.2 METCON
METCON ran two column tests on a composite sample blended to create gold and copper concentrations similar to the average reserve concentrations.
The ore was crushed coarsely to -3.8 cm (-1.5 inch), placed in 15 cm by 6 meter columns, and irrigated at 12 L/h/m2. One column was leached “open cycle” – a 0.5 g/L NaCN solution was fed to the top of the column and the pregnant solution was collected and assayed. The second column was “locked cycle” and solution was recycled. In the locked cycle column when the copper concentration in solution exceeded 50 mg/L, the solution was treated through a SART pilot plant discussed in the next section, and the gold was recovered on activated carbon.
The gold, silver, and copper extractions from the open and locked cycle tests compare favourably. Although the gold extraction was slightly higher for the open cycle test, both tests produced good gold recovery considering the coarse crush size.
Cyanide consumptions were similar based on titrations and the amount of cyanide added to the system for the locked cycle column at ~0.5 kg/t. Lime consumptions were similar to the bottle roll test work at approximately 3 kg/t.
Table 13-1: Extractions and Reagent Consumptions from Open Cycle and Locked Cycle Cyanidation
Assays (calculated head) (g/t) | Percent Extraction | Reagent Consumption (kg/t) | |||||||
Au | Ag | Cu | Au | Ag | Cu | NaCN* | NaCN** | CaO | |
Open Locked | 0.47 0.42 | 1.92 1.61 | 693 654 | 69.52 65.79 | 25.14 27.31 | 17.4 18.2 | 0.39 0.48 | 0.54 | 2.83 3.06 |
*based on titrations
**based on additions
13.3 SARTCOPPERRECOVERY
SART stands for Sulphidization, Acidification, Recycling and Thickening. In this process, a cyanide solution containing copper is treated to remove copper—gold is not affected.
In the locked cycle test described previously, the pregnant leach solution from the column was treated using a SART pilot plant several times before removing the gold with carbon and recycling the treated fluid to the column. The SART results are summarized in Table 13-2.
Table 13-2: SART Results
Pregnant Solution | Barren Solution after SART & Carbon | Copper | Reagent Consumption | ||||||||
Free NaCN (g/L) | Cu (ppm) | Au (ppm) | Ag (ppm) | Free NaCN (g/L) | Cu (ppm) | Au (ppm) | Ag (ppm) | Removal (%) | (g/L solution treated) | ||
S2- | H2SO4 | CaO | |||||||||
0.25 | 81 | 0.21 | 0.30 | 0.39 | 6.8 | 0.04 | 0.02 | 91.3 | 0.024 | 0.64 | 0.37 |
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13.4 COMMINUTIONTESTING
SGS Lakefield, under the direction of SGS Minnovex, performed a comprehensive comminution study. Fifty (50) split drill core samples, representing the first 6 years of production were sent to SGS and subjected to the several tests.
A summary of the grinding results appears in Table 13-3. As SGS reports, the samples tested were characterized as medium in hardness from the perspective of semi-autogenous milling and of medium in hardness with respect to ball milling.
Table 13-3: Summary of Comminution Results
Test Name | CEET CI | SPI (min) | RWI (kWh/t) | BWI (kWh/t) | MBWI (kWh/t) | AI (g) |
Average Std. Dev. Rel. Std. Dev. | 29.2 13.9 47.5 | 52.9 20.8 39.3 | 9.9 5.6 56.5 | 14.5 2.6 18.1 | 14.30 1.60 11.30 | 0.265 0.046 17.0 |
Minimum 10th Percentile 25th Percentile Median 75th Percentile 90th Percentile Maximum | 13.5 15.3 19.1 24.1 38.0 52.3 66.9 | 12.6 31.4 37.4 50.3 63.4 82.5 114.1 | 0.0 4.4 11.1 12.5 13.0 13.0 13.0 | 11.2 12.1 13.3 14.1 15.9 17.3 18.2 | 11.40 12.50 13.00 14.10 15.60 16.30 18.30 | 0.226 0.232 0.242 0.252 0.275 0.309 0.332 |
Additional comminution testing was performed in 2012 under the direction of FLSmidth and Starkey and Associates at G&T Metallurgical Services and FLSmidth laboratories. This program tested 11 composites of ore representing a combination of different zones, lithologies and alterations. The 11 composites represent over 80% of the material that will be processed through the mill.
Ore composite types that were not tested were mapped to similar composites that were tested by CMC geologists.
The 11 comminution composites were subjected to a series of tests at G&T Metallurgical’s laboratory and FLSmidth’s laboratory. The test results are summarized in the following tables.
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Table 13-4: Summary of SMC Tests and JK Parameters
Sample ID | DWi,kWh/m | 3DWi, % | Mia,kWh/t | Mih,kWh/t | Mic,kWh/t | A | B | SG | ta |
Composite 1 | 4.90 | 39 | 15.5 | 10.8 | 5.6 | 56.7 | 0.95 | 2.64 | 0.53 |
Composite 2 | 4.35 | 32 | 14.1 | 9.6 | 5.0 | 56.3 | 1.07 | 2.63 | 0.59 |
Composite 3 | 6.05 | 55 | 18.6 | 13.5 | 7.0 | 61.8 | 0.70 | 2.60 | 0.43 |
Composite 4 | 6.62 | 63 | 19.8 | 14.6 | 7.6 | 62.3 | 0.64 | 2.63 | 0.39 |
Composite 5 | 6.69 | 64 | 19.9 | 14.7 | 7.6 | 63.4 | 0.62 | 2.64 | 0.39 |
Composite 6 | 3.92 | 26 | 13.3 | 8.8 | 4.6 | 62.9 | 1.05 | 2.58 | 0.66 |
Composite 7 | 5.75 | 51 | 18.1 | 13 | 6.7 | 66.4 | 0.67 | 2.58 | 0.45 |
Composite 8 | 5.60 | 49 | 16.9 | 12.1 | 6.2 | 64.1 | 0.75 | 2.69 | 0.46 |
Composite 9 | 5.00 | 40 | 16.1 | 11.3 | 5.8 | 67.9 | 0.76 | 2.58 | 0.52 |
Composite 10 | 9.63 | 90 | 26.3 | 20.9 | 10.8 | 91.3 | 0.30 | 2.67 | 0.27 |
Composite 11 | 5.69 | 50 | 17.6 | 12.6 | 6.5 | 66.4 | 0.69 | 2.62 | 0.46 |
Table 13-5: Summary of SAGDesign Results and Crushed Bond Test Results
DML SAGDesign Test Results | G&T Crushed Bond Test Results | ||||||
Sample ID | Relative Density | Calc WSAG to 1.7 mm (kWh/t) | SAG Dis. Bond BWi (kWh/t) | BWi (kWh/t) | RWi (kWh/t) | Ai (g) | CWi |
Composite 1 | 2.66 | 8.19 | 16.18 | 13.5 | 12.9 | 0.162 | 9.41 |
Composite 2 | 2.60 | 6.78 | 17.26 | 14.1 | 12.3 | 0.176 | 10.00 |
Composite 3 | 2.66 | 9.39 | 15.70 | 14.1 | 14.5 | 0.198 | 13.62 |
Composite 4 | 2.72 | 12.41 | 18.36 | 15.5 | 15.5 | 0.199 | 13.84 |
Composite 5 | 2.64 | 9.56 | 18.26 | 15.3 | 14.6 | 0.156 | 11.20 |
Composite 6 | 2.67 | 5.05 | 16.37 | 13.7 | 10.4 | 0.118 | 10.22 |
Composite 7 | 2.69 | 7.45 | 16.12 | 13.4 | 12.4 | 0.155 | 14.57 |
Composite 8 | 2.82 | 7.71 | 17.82 | 15.2 | 14.1 | 0.170 | 12.27 |
Composite 9 | 2.57 | 6.48 | 14.35 | 12.9 | 11.4 | 0.158 | 11.03 |
Composite 10 | 2.71 | 11.68 | 18.93 | 16.6 | 14.9 | 0.161 | 13.23 |
Composite 11 | 2.67 | 8.50 | 17.23 | 15.1 | 13.5 | 0.170 | 10.33 |
Average | 2.67 | 8.47 | 16.96 | 14.5 | 13.3 | 0.166 | 11.79 |
A circuit consisting of one 40 ft diameter (12.2 m) SAG mill and two 28 ft diameter (8.2 m) ball mills in closed circuit with three pebble crushers was selected, based on discussions with M3 and FLSmidth, as a circuit that would likely meet the design tonnage. This circuit was modeled by FLSmidth using the parameters developed by SGS, G&T Metallurgical, and FLSmidth. The results of this exercise are shown in Table 13-6.
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Table 13-6: Predicted Production Rate
Project SampleNumber | Client SampleInformation | BWi | Production Rate (mtpd) |
G&T (kWh/t) | |||
1 | Composite 1 | 13.5 | 133,805 |
2 | �� Composite 2 | 14.1 | 128,064 |
3 | Composite 3 | 14.1 | 128,064 |
4 | Composite 4 | 15.5 | 116,582 |
5 | Composite 5 | 15.3 | 118,018 |
6 | Composite 6 | 13.7 | 131,818 |
7 | Composite 7 | 13.4 | 134,798 |
8 | Composite 8 | 15.2 | 118,790 |
9 | Composite 9 | 12.9 | 139,987 |
10 | Composite 10 | 16.6 | 108,854 |
11 | Composite 11 | 15.1 | 119,674 |
Average | 14.5 | 125,314 |
13.5 FLOTATION
13.5.1 2008 G&T Metallurgical Work
In 2008 Western Copper and G&T Metallurgical reviewed the previous metallurgical work and developed a new flotation program. In order to prevent oxidation, the program used split drill core rather than assay rejects as had been done for the previous work.
The new work focused on two composites at two different levels of oxide copper – an “oxide composite” and a “sulphide composite”. The composites were prepared to be close to the average grade of ore received for the first 5 years. Assays for these composites are shown in Table 13-7.
Table 13-7: G&T Flotation Composite Assays
Cu(%) | Mo (%) | Fe (%) | Au (g/t) | ||||
Total | WAS | CNS | Total | AS | |||
Oxide Composite Sulphide Composite | 0.275 0.260 | 0.132 0.016 | 0.042 0.032 | 0.019 0.021 | 0.006 0.002 | 3.225 3.525 | 0.345 0.255 |
13.5.1.1 Oxide Composite
Copper recovery and grade from the oxide composite was very poor. Various combinations of sulphidizing the ore, changing grind size, using different reagents were attempted. Based on the poor performance of the oxide flotation, no further testing on the oxide composite was performed.
13.5.1.2 Sulphide Composite
Copper recovery from the sulphide composite was much better than that achieved for the oxide composite. Copper concentrate grades greater than 28% were routinely achieved.
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Copper recoveries of 70-82% were obtained into concentrates grading from 26.8 to 32.2% copper in cleaner tests. Good recovery of copper was obtained with both a primary grinds with K80’s of 147 and 121 µm, and regrinds with K80’s less than 22 µm. A coarser grind with a K80 of 209 µm was examined in rougher tests and shown to be less favourable than the finer particle sizes selected for cleaner testing.
13.5.1.3 Locked Cycle Tests
Duplicate locked cycle tests at both primary grind K80’s of 121 µm and 147 µm were performed as well as one locked cycle at a primary K80 of 209 µm. The results from these tests indicate that a grind with a K80 of 147 µm, 85.6% copper can be recovered into a 28.5% copper concentrate. Molybdenum recovery was variable and ranged from 26.5% to 69.4% . Gold recovery was more consistent and averaged 64.0% .
13.5.1.4 Variability Testing
A total of 63 individual split drill core intervals were tested for variability. These samples were chosen to primarily represent the first 6 years of production and covered a broad range of total copper, acid soluble copper, molybdenum and gold values. Each of these samples was individually ground and floated in a cleaner test with regrind under the conditions determined from the locked cycle tests.
13.5.2 2009 - 2011 G&T Metallurgical Work
13.5.2.1 2009 Fresh Core Tests
In 2009, a new drilling campaign was initiated which included two holes in the middle of the deposit – CAS-002 and CAS-003. A composite from CAS-002 had 92% copper recovery into a concentrate grading about 28% copper in cleaner tests. Similarly, a composite from CAS-003 had 87% of the copper in the feed recovered into a concentrate grading 26% copper. Moly recoveries were high in both tests at approximately 90%.
13.5.2.2 2010 Supergene Sulphide Composite Tests
The material tested in the 2010 test program (reported at the beginning of 2011) was a composite of supergene material that was obtained from the drilling campaigns in 2009 and 2010. This material represented ore that will be fed to the mill in the later years of the operation. The feed grade averaged 0.30% copper and 0.037% molybdenum.
One of the main objectives of the 2010 test program was to evaluate coarser grinds than were tested in the 2008 test program. Results of this evaluation indicate that copper flotation response is virtually unaffected by primary grind size between 142 and 253 µm for this composite. Molybdenum flotation recovery to the bulk rougher concentrate was lower at grinds coarser than 179 µm. Molybdenum recovery was also reduced at elevated pH levels.
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13.5.2.3 2010 Supergene Sulphide Composite Locked Cycle Tests
Locked cycle tests at primary grind K80’s of 142 &micro;m and 222 &micro;m were performed. The results from these tests are presented in Table 13-8. The effect of regrind size on bulk concentrate copper grade and the effect of primary grind and regrind size on moly recovery are indicated in the table.
Table 13-8: Locked Cycle Test Results
P. Grind | Regrind | Cycle | Assay - percent or g/t | Distribution - percent | |||||||
Test | K80 µm | K80 µm | Cu | Mo | Fe | Au | Cu | Mo | Fe | Au | |
KM2721-33 | 222 | 19 | IV | 30.8 | 1.6 | 23.6 | 20.2 | 82.9 | 34.7 | 5.2 | 71.9 |
KM2721-33 | 222 | 19 | V | 28.2 | 1.4 | 26.5 | 19.9 | 81.6 | 34.2 | 6.2 | 69.7 |
KM2721-34 | 222 | 20 | IV | 26.1 | 1.6 | 25.7 | 17.8 | 88.6 | 48.8 | 7.0 | 68.4 |
KM2721-34 | 222 | 20 | V | 25.7 | 1.5 | 26.6 | 19.9 | 86.6 | 45.1 | 7.5 | 64.7 |
KM2721-35 | 142 | 19 | IV | 26.3 | 1.9 | 27.8 | 18.6 | 87.3 | 57.1 | 7.1 | 71.4 |
KM2721-35 | 142 | 19 | V | 25.1 | 1.7 | 27.6 | 16.1 | 86.4 | 54.3 | 7.6 | 66.1 |
KM2721-36 | 222 | 37 | IV | 17.8 | 1.4 | 31.1 | 13.1 | 81.7 | 55.7 | 9.6 | 67.0 |
KM2721-36 | 222 | 37 | V | 18.8 | 1.4 | 30.4 | 10.1 | 82.8 | 51.2 | 10.9 | 61.5 |
KM2721-37 | 222 | 31 | IV | 21.2 | 1.4 | 31.1 | 11.7 | 83.2 | 54.1 | 9.2 | 62.4 |
KM2721-37 | 222 | 31 | V | 20.8 | 1.7 | 31.3 | 11.7 | 83.9 | 59.7 | 9.9 | 65.7 |
13.5.2.4 Pyrite Flotation
Pyrite flotation was examined as a process to produce tailings samples that had low levels of residual sulphur, and thus could be deemed “not acid generating”.
The locked cycle tests outlined in Table 13-8 included a pyrite rougher to reduce the sulphide concentration of the tailings. Pyrite flotation tailings from these tests obtained tailings averaging less than 0.08% sulphur.
13.5.3 2011 – 2012 G&T Metallurgical Work
WCGC retained International Metallurgical and Environmental to assist in the metallurgical testing, and continued to perform the testing at G&T Metallurgical Services (name changed to ALS Metallurgy in late 2012).
13.5.3.1 New Flowsheet Development
In previous testing campaigns, in order to achieve acceptable recoveries from the conventional copper flotation flowsheet’s tested, 15-20% of the feed material needed to be reground. The focus of the new flowsheet development was to reduce the material sent to the regrind mills.
The new flowsheet development centered on a flowsheet where rougher concentrate was sent to the first cleaning stageprior to regrinding, the first cleanerconcentrate went to regrinding and the second and third cleaner tails were returned to the first cleaner. By utilizing this flowsheet, the amount of feed material that needed to be reground dropped from 15-20% to 3 to 5%.
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Locked cycle test results from the composites tested using this flowsheet are shown in Table 13-9. The results show similar recoveries to previous test work using a conventional copper flotation flowsheet.
Table 13-9: Locked Cycle Test Results
P. Grind | Regrind | Assay - percent or g/t | Distribution - percent | ||||||||
Composite | Tests | K80 µm | K80 µm | Cu | Mo | S | Au | Cu | Mo | S | Au |
HYP1 | 38, 42 | 218 | 19 | 26.0 | 1.98 | 33.1 | 24.6 | 82.1 | 64.9 | 24.9 | 61.1 |
HYP2 | 39, 43 | 216 | 16 | 26.3 | 1.31 | 32.8 | 23.9 | 81.7 | 37.1 | 14.6 | 56.1 |
SUS1 | 44, 46 | 192 | 17.5 | 21.8 | 1.77 | 33.9 | 23.6 | 77.7 | 59.5 | 24.9 | 75.9 |
SUS2 | 47 | 190 | 14 | 24.1 | 0.85 | 38.1 | 28.3 | 62.8 | 32.8 | 20.4 | 64.4 |
13.5.3.2 Tests using Fresh Core
While supergene flotation tests were performed on fresh core obtained during the 2010 campaign, no flotation tests had been performed on fresh hypogene core with the exception of a limited number of tests performed in 2009.
In 2012, a drilling campaign was executed to obtain fresh hypogene core from the first years of mining that represented the predominate mineralization that would be fed to the mill. In total five holes were drilled (CAS-088 to CAS-093), and from these five holes, three composites were made representing lithologies: Patton porphyry (PP), Intrusion breccia (IX), and Dawson range batholith (WR).
Table 13-10: Hypogene Composites
Cu(%) | Mo | Fe | Au | |||
Total | WAS | CNS | (%) | (%) | (g/t) | |
PP Composite | 0.14 | 0.004 | 0.008 | 0.030 | 2.95 | 0.22 |
IX Composite | 0.17 | 0.006 | 0.012 | 0.071 | 2.39 | 0.22 |
WR Composite | 0.19 | 0.005 | 0.013 | 0.019 | 2.50 | 0.18 |
Locked Cycle Recoveries using these fresh composites were significantly better than previous testing on oxidized core and are shown in Table 13-11. Note that the primary grind size for these tests was also higher than the target of 200 µm, in some cases significantly, so it would be expected that actual plant recovery would be better than these tests indicate.
Table 13-11: Locked Cycle Test Results
P. Grind | Regrind | Assay - percent or g/t | Distribution - percent | ||||||||
Composite | Tests | K80 µm | K80 µm | Cu | Mo | Ag | Au | Cu | Mo | Ag | Au |
PP | 23 | 234 | 31 | 18.6 | 7.5 | 126 | 15.6 | 89.9 | 77.9 | 46.5 | 57.3 |
IX | 24 | 254 | 32 | 24.6 | 4.3 | 107 | 24.3 | 87.2 | 78.6 | 46.0 | 55.4 |
WR | 25 | 211 | 31 | 17.5 | 1.50 | 82 | 13.5 | 91.9 | 89.4 | 53.8 | 67.2 |
13.5.3.3 Pilot Plant Testing and Copper/Molybdenum Separation
A pilot plant was performed on hypogene and supergene composites taken from the drilling campaign to produce representative tailings for environmental testing, geotechnical testing and thickener testing and to produce sufficient copper/molybdenum concentrate for copper moly separation tests. Unfortunately, there was not sufficient feed material to obtain operating information from the pilot plant.
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Although suitable copper/molybdenum concentrate was produced to perform several copper/molybdenum separation tests, only one cleaner test was performed as the results from this test were sufficiently good to warrant no further testing. The results from this test are shown in Table 13-12.
Table 13-12: Copper/Molybdenum Separation Cleaner Test
Cumulative Product | Cum. Weight | Assay - percent or g/t | Distribution - percent | |||||||
% | grams | Cu | Mo | Fe | S | Cu | Mo | Fe | S | |
Final Conc. | 3.1 | 31.2 | 0.39 | 57.4 | 0.8 | 37.9 | 0.1 | 94.1 | 0.1 | 2.6 |
Second Conc. | 3.5 | 35.5 | 2.38 | 51.3 | 3.8 | 37.6 | 0.5 | 95.7 | 0.4 | 3.0 |
Rougher Conc. | 6.1 | 62.5 | 9.04 | 29.7 | 15.3 | 38.0 | 3.5 | 97.4 | 2.9 | 5.3 |
Tails | 93.9 | 953.8 | 16.5 | 0.05 | 33.9 | 44.3 | 96.5 | 2.6 | 97.1 | 94.7 |
Feed | 100.0 | 1016.3 | 16.0 | 1.87 | 32.8 | 43.9 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 |
13.5.4 Interpretation of Flotation Test Results
The most current work at G&T Metallurgical has shown good copper recovery to copper concentrates that routinely achieve 28% or greater for various drill core samples from the deposit using the reagent scheme developed. The conclusions from this work are unambiguous and will be used as the basis of this study.
13.5.4.1 Supergene – Copper
It was difficult to achieve good copper concentrate grades from supergene oxide material that had copper oxide concentrations greater than 25-30% of the total copper. For this reason, during operation of the mill, supergene oxide ore should be blended in with the other ore to achieve an oxide copper percentage less than 25%.
The supergene ore contains a certain percentage of oxide copper minerals (this is what defines it as being supergene material). Oxide copper minerals will be poorly recovered by the flotation process, so in the interpretation of the results, it is important to examine the recovery ofsulphide copper to a copper concentrate. Sulphide copper can be calculated by subtracting the concentration of oxide copper from the total copper. Supergene mineralization at Casino has been assayed forweak acid soluble copper, which is approximately equal to the amount of oxide copper in the sample assayed, but may under or over represent the amount of oxide copper present depending on the specifics of the mineralization.
Sulphide copper recovery as a function of and sulphide copper grade is shown in Table 13-13 for the supergene locked cycle tests by G&T Metallurgical. Recovery appears to be fairly consistent.
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Table 13-13: Supergene Locked Cycle Recoveries to Concentrate
Feed Assays | Recovery to Concentrate | ||||||||
Cu (%) | Au | Mo | Total | Sulphide | |||||
Test | Total | WAS | Sulphide | (g/t) | (%) | Cu | Cu | Au | Mo |
KM2721 | |||||||||
33 | 0.3 | 0.03 | 0.27 | 0.25 | 0.036 | 82.3 | 91.4 | 70.7 | 34.5 |
34 | 0.3 | 0.03 | 0.27 | 0.25 | 0.036 | 87.6 | 97.3 | 66.4 | 46.9 |
35 | 0.3 | 0.03 | 0.27 | 0.25 | 0.036 | 86.8 | 96.4 | 68.8 | 55.7 |
36 | 0.3 | 0.03 | 0.27 | 0.25 | 0.036 | 82.3 | 91.4 | 64.4 | 53.3 |
37 | 0.3 | 0.03 | 0.27 | 0.25 | 0.036 | 83.5 | 92.8 | 64.1 | 57 |
KM3134 | |||||||||
44 | 0.3 | 0.056 | 0.244 | 0.37 | 0.022 | 79.9 | 98.2 | 75.5 | 64.6 |
46 | 0.3 | 0.056 | 0.244 | 0.47 | 0.022 | 75.6 | 93.0 | 76.1 | 54.6 |
47 | 0.3 | 0.094 | 0.206 | 0.47 | 0.028 | 62.8 | 91.5 | 64.4 | 32.8 |
Averaging the locked cycle tests results indicates that an average of 94% of the sulphide copper was recovered to a copper concentrate. This result also closely mirrors the variability results. Thus the overall copper recovery for the supergene material will be:
Cu Recovery = 94 x (Cutotal – CuWAS)/(Cutotal)
13.5.4.2 Supergene – Gold
Averaging the gold recovery from Table 13-13, an average gold recovery of 69% to copper concentrate is obtained:
Au Recovery = 69%
13.5.4.3 Supergene – Molybdenum
In most of the tests, no attempt was made to optimize the molybdenum recovery. For this reason, the molybdenum recovery is quite variable.
Examining the locked cycle tests in Table 13-13, an average molybdenum recovery of 55% to copper concentrate was chosen, which represents the average molybdenum recovery when the two low outliers are removed.
Recovery of molybdenum from the copper-molybdenum concentrate to a molybdenum concentrate was not specifically tested for the supergene material, but it is expected to be similar to that obtained in hypogene tests that achieved approximately 95% molybdenum recovery to a molybdenum concentrate. Molybdenum recovery throughout the plant is equal to the recovery to the copper-molybdenum concentrate multiplied by recovery to a molybdenum concentrate and is shown below:
Mo Recovery = 52.25%
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13.5.4.4 Supergene – Silver
Unfortunately, silver recovery was not determined in all test programs. The 2011 test program followed silver. Averaging the silver recovery from these locked cycle tests indicates that a silver recovery of 60% should be achievable:
Ag Recovery = 60%
13.5.4.5 Hypogene
Hypogene recoveries are based on the December 2012 flotation work performed by ALS Metallurgy on “fresh” core that had been drilled earlier specifically for flotation test work.
The following table shows cleaner circuit recoveries for both copper and molybdenum for all three locked cycle tests with hypogene material. Copper concentrate grades have been corrected to reflect the removal of molybdenum and represent final concentrate grades in terms of copper.
Table 13-14: Cleaner Circuit Recoveries for Locked Cycle Test Results
Test and Cycle no. | Cu Con Grade %Cu | Cu Recovery % | Mo Recovery % | Au Recovery % |
WR Composite | ||||
Cycle 4 | 17.8 | 96.4 | 95.0 | 86.0 |
Cycle 5 | 17.9 | 96.9 | 95.6 | 88.0 |
IX Composite | ||||
Cycle 4 | 22.8 | 96.9 | 81.7 | 83.3 |
Cycle 5 | 21.2 | 96.7 | 80.8 | 80.6 |
PP Composite | ||||
Cycle 4 | 26.1 | 97.1 | 90.4 | 88.0 |
Cycle 5 | 26.5 | 97.1 | 91.1 | 84.9 |
Copper, molybdenum and gold recovery, when a primary grind size of 200 to 220 µm is used is summarized in Table 13-15 and is based on both locked cycle testing and open circuit rougher flotation tests. Molybdenum recovery was variable and the higher grade molybdenum sample (IX) had the lowest molybdenum recovery indicating that reagent conditions could possibly improve this recovery. Within the cleaning circuit copper and gold recoveries were very constant, irrespective of the final copper concentrate grade.
Table 13-15: Predicted Recoveries to Copper/Molybdenum Concentrate
Process Stream | Cu | Mo | Au |
Rougher Circuit Recovery | 95 | 92 | 78 |
Cleaner Circuit Recovery | 97 | 90 | 85 |
Metal Recovery | 92.15 | 82.8 | 66 |
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13.5.4.6 Hypogene – Copper-Molybdenum Separation
One test was performed to determine how well molybdenum could be separated from a copper/molybdenum concentrate, which indicated that approximately 95% molybdenum recovery could be achieved. Thus the overall recovery of molybdenum will be equal to: Mo Recovery = 78.6%
13.5.4.7 Hypogene – Silver Recovery
Hypogene silver recovery was followed in the last set of tests on fresh core. Reviewing these recoveries a silver recovery of 50% was chosen.
Ag Recovery = 50.0%
13.6 DEWATERINGTESTS
Flotation tailing from the 2008 test program piloting were submitted to Outotec for dynamic high rate thickening tests. Results were favourable and a thickener underflow of over 55 percent solids was achieved. Flocculant addition was 22 g/t. The solids loading rate of 1.05 t/m2h was demonstrated. Rheology on the thickened material was low.
13.7 DETERMINATION OFRECOVERIES ANDREAGENT AND OTHERCONSUMABLECONSUMPTIONS
As described in the preceding sections, the following recoveries, reagent and other consumable consumptions will be used. Where values were unknown, typical values based on M3’s experience were used:
Table 13-16: Heap Leach Operational Parameters
Parameter | Value | Units |
Gold recovery | 66 | Percent |
Copper recovery | 18 | Percent |
Silver recovery | 26 | Percent |
Crush size | -1 | inch |
Irrigation rate | 12 | L/h/m2 |
Lift height | 8 | m |
Reagent consumptions | ||
NaHS | 0.025 | kg/t ore |
Sulfuric acid | 0.328 | kg/t ore |
Hydrochloric acid | 0.010 | kg/t ore |
Lime (CaO) | 3.270 | kg/t ore |
Sodium hydroxide | 0.130 | kg/t ore |
Sodium cyanide (NaCN) | 0.500 | kg/t ore |
Activated Carbon | 0.500 | g/t ore |
Anti-scalant | 0.003 | kg/t ore |
Flocculent | 0.350 | g/t ore |
Primary crusher liners | 0.040 | kg/t |
Secondary crusher liners | 0.085 | kg/t |
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Table 13-17: Flotation Operational Parameters
Parameter | Value | Units |
Copper recovery | ||
Supergene | Recovery = 94 x (Cutotal– CuWAS)/(Cutotal) | percent |
Hypogene | 92.15 | percent |
Gold recovery | ||
Supergene | 69 | percent |
Hypogene | 66 | percent |
Molybdenum recovery (final conc) | ||
Supergene | 52.25 | percent |
Hypogene | 78.6 | percent |
Silver recovery | ||
Supergene | 60 | percent |
Hypogene | 50 | percent |
Bond work index | 14.5 | kWh/t |
Primary grind size (P80) | 200 | µm |
Regrind size (P80) | 25 | µm |
Reagent consumptions | ||
Lime | ||
Supergene | 2.5 | kg/t ore |
Hypogene | 1.0 | kg/t ore |
Aerophine 3418A | ||
Supergene | 8.4 | g/t ore |
Hypogene | 4.0 | g/t ore |
Aerofloat 208 | ||
Supergene | 16.7 | g/t ore |
Hypogene | 8.0 | g/t ore |
MIBC | 10 | g/t ore |
Fuel Oil | 7.44 | g/t ore |
PAX | 40 | g/t ore |
NaSH | 0.053 | kg/t ore |
Flocculent | 25.4 | g/t ore |
SAG Mill – Liners | 0.040 | kg/t ore |
Ball Mill – Liners | 0.048 | kg/t ore |
SAG Mill – Balls | 0.400 | kg/t ore |
Ball Mill – Balls | 0.400 | kg/t ore |
Regrind – Balls | 0.0410 | kg/t ore |
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14 MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATES
14.1 KEYRESULTS
Table 14-1 summarizes the mineral resources for the Casino Project.
Table 14-1: Mineral Resources
Supergene and Hypogene Zones (Mill Resource) | Cutoff CuEq (%) | Ore Mtonnes | Copper (%) | Gold (g/t) | Moly (%) | Silver (g/t) | CuEq (%) |
Measured Mineral Resource | |||||||
Supergene Oxide | 0.25 | 25 | 0.28 | 0.52 | 0.026 | 2.38 | 0.77 |
Supergene Sulphide | 0.25 | 36 | 0.39 | 0.41 | 0.029 | 2.34 | 0.84 |
Hypogene | 0.25 | 32 | 0.32 | 0.38 | 0.026 | 1.94 | 0.73 |
Total Measured Resource | 0.25 | 93 | 0.34 | 0.43 | 0.027 | 2.21 | 0.78 |
Indicated Mineral Resource | |||||||
Supergene Oxide | 0.25 | 36 | 0.23 | 0.21 | 0.019 | 1.44 | 0.46 |
Supergene Sulphide | 0.25 | 216 | 0.24 | 0.22 | 0.019 | 1.72 | 0.50 |
Hypogene | 0.25 | 711 | 0.17 | 0.21 | 0.023 | 1.65 | 0.45 |
Total Indicated Resource | 0.25 | 963.6 | 0.19 | 0.21 | 0.022 | 1.66 | 0.46 |
Measured/Indicated Mineral Resource | |||||||
Supergene Oxide | 0.25 | 61 | 0.25 | 0.34 | 0.022 | 1.83 | 0.59 |
Supergene Sulphide | 0.25 | 252 | 0.26 | 0.25 | 0.021 | 1.81 | 0.55 |
Hypogene | 0.25 | 743 | 0.17 | 0.22 | 0.023 | 1.66 | 0.46 |
Total Measured/Indicated Resource | 0.25 | 1057 | 0.20 | 0.23 | 0.022 | 1.71 | 0.49 |
Inferred Mineral Resource | |||||||
Supergene Oxide | 0.25 | 26 | 0.26 | 0.17 | 0.010 | 1.43 | 0.41 |
Supergene Sulphide | 0.25 | 102 | 0.20 | 0.19 | 0.010 | 1.49 | 0.38 |
Hypogene | 0.25 | 1568 | 0.14 | 0.16 | 0.020 | 1.36 | 0.37 |
Total Inferred Resource | 0.25 | 1696 | 0.14 | 0.16 | 0.019 | 1.37 | 0.37 |
Leached Cap/Oxide Gold Zone | Cutoff | Ore | Copper | Gold | Moly | Silver | CuEq |
(Heap Leach Resource) | Gold (g/t) | Mtonnes | (%) | (g/t) | (%) | (g/t) | (%) |
Measured Mineral Resource | 0.25 | 31 | 0.05 | 0.52 | 0.025 | 2.94 | N.A. |
Indicated Mineral Resource | 0.25 | 53 | 0.03 | 0.33 | 0.017 | 2.36 | N.A. |
Measured/Indicated Resource | 0.25 | 84 | 0.04 | 0.40 | 0.020 | 2.57 | N.A. |
Inferred Mineral Resource | 0.25 | 17 | 0.01 | 0.31 | 0.008 | 1.93 | N.A. |
CuEq is based on metal prices of US$2.00/lb copper, US$875/oz gold, US$11.25/lb molybdenum, and US$11.25/oz silver and assumes 100% metal recovery. |
The supergene oxide, supergene sulphide, and hypogene zones are mill resources and are tabulated at a 0.25% copper equivalent cutoff grade. Measured and indicated supergene and hypogene resources amount to 1.06 billion tonnes at 0.20% copper, 0.23 g/t gold, 0.022% molybdenum, and 1.71 g/t silver. Inferred resources is an additional 1.7 billion tonnes at 0.14% copper, 0.16 g/t gold, 0.019% molybdenum, and 1.37 g/t silver.
The leach cap contains potential heap leach ore and is tabulated at a 0.25 g/t gold cutoff grade. Measured and indicated heap leach ore amounts to 84.0 million tonnes at 0.04% copper, 0.40 g/t gold, and 2.57 g/t silver. Inferred resource is an additional 17 million tonnes at 0.01% copper, 0.31 g/t gold, and 1.93 g/t silver.
Copper equivalent (CuEq) is determined using the following metal prices: Cu - US$2.00/lb, Au - US$875.00/oz, Ag - US$11.25/oz and Mo - US$11.25/lb and is calculated as follows:
CuEq % = (Cu %) + (Au g/t x 28.13/44.1) + (Mo % x248.06/44.1) + (Ag g/t x 0.36/44.1)
The copper equivalent calculation reflects gross metal content and does not apply any adjustment factors for difference in metallurgical recoveries of gold, copper, silver and molybdenum.
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The current resource estimation for Casino was based on 305 drill holes, 34 of which were completed in 2009 and an additional 56 completed in 2010. In addition, WCGC geologists reinterpreted the geologic model during the 2010 field season, re-logging older Pacific Sentinel drill holes from drilling in the 90’s. Finally the collar coordinates previously reported in Mine Grid Units were converted by Yukon Engineering Services to NAD83 UTM coordinates.
Analysis of the drill data with contact plots showed copper values within the leached cap, supergene horizons and hypogene needed to be evaluated independently while Au, Ag and Mo could be combined. In addition the lithologies Intrusive Breccia, Patton Porphyry and Dawson Range Granodiorites had higher grades for all variables than the post mineral explosion breccia and were estimated separately. Erratic high values for all variables were capped based on their grade distributions within the various mineral domains. Uniform down-hole 15 m composites were produced that honored the domain boundaries.
14.2 DATAANALYSIS
A total of 305 drill holes within the area of interest and totaling 95,655 m were provided by WCGC for analysis. Assays reported as less than some detection limit were assigned a value of ½ that limit. Assays reported as not sampled (NS) were left blank. A total of 348 gaps in the assay record at surface (OB) or within the hole were assigned a nominal value of Cu = 0.001%, Au= 0.002 g/t, Mo= 0.0001% and Ag = 0.1 g/t.
WCGC geologists reassessed the Casino geologic model during the 2010 field season. The lithologic model and oxidation zone models were digitized from cross sections and three dimensional surfaces were created in GemCom software. The contacts were joined to produce three-dimensional geologic solids to control the grade estimation procedure.
14.3 COMPOSITES
Uniform down hole composites 15 m in length were produced for each of the mineralized Domains. Intervals less than 7.5 m at the domain contacts were combined with adjoining samples to produce a uniform support of 15 ± 7.5 m. The composite statistics are tabulated below.
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Table 14-2: 15 m Composite Statistics Sorted by Mineral Domain
Variable | Domain | Number | Mean | S.D. | Min. | Max. | C.V. |
Cu (%) | CAPCU1 | 1,027 | 0.038 | 0.032 | 0.001 | 0.217 | 0.85 |
WAS CU | 666 | 0.012 | 0.016 | 0.001 | 0.167 | 1.28 | |
CAPCU2 | 52 | 0.014 | 0.021 | 0.003 | 0.113 | 1.44 | |
WAS CU | 20 | 0.006 | 0.005 | 0.001 | 0.022 | 0.94 | |
SUPCU1 | 1,697 | 0.266 | 0.188 | 0.003 | 1.750 | 0.71 | |
WAS CU | 1,644 | 0.055 | 0.060 | 0.001 | 0.919 | 1.09 | |
SUPCU2 | 33 | 0.106 | 0.074 | 0.017 | 0.267 | 0.70 | |
WAS CU | 33 | 0.017 | 0.011 | 0.002 | 0.050 | 0.67 | |
HYPCU1 | 3,307 | 0.168 | 0.128 | 0.002 | 1.513 | 0.76 | |
HYPCU2 | 114 | 0.056 | 0.043 | 0.005 | 0.318 | 0.77 | |
Au (g/t) | ALLREST | 6,034 | 0.249 | 0.213 | 0.003 | 3.328 | 0.85 |
ALLMX | 196 | 0.127 | 0.125 | 0.009 | 0.629 | 0.98 | |
Mo (%) | ALLREST | 6,034 | 0.020 | 0.025 | 0.0001 | 0.521 | 1.22 |
ALLMX | 196 | 0.005 | 0.007 | 0.0001 | 0.040 | 1.40 | |
Ag (g/t) | ALLREST | 6,034 | 1.70 | 2.51 | 0.10 | 80.80 | 1.47 |
ALLMX | 196 | 1.48 | 0.89 | 0.30 | 5.13 | 0.60 |
Note: WAS Cu refers to Weak Acid Soluble Cu assays taken in Leached Cap and Supergene zones
14.4 VARIOGRAPHY
A variogram study using pairwise relative semivariograms was completed for all the domains west of the Casino Fault. The similar units east of the fault did not have enough data to determine variography and as a result the west models were used for all east domains. In each case semivariograms were produced in the four principal directions of E-W, N-S, SW-NE and NW-SE. These were used to determine the maximum continuity in the horizontal plane. Vertical or down hole semivariograms were produced to establish the nugget effect and the vertical continuity. In almost all cases the maximum continuity was in the east-west direction. In all cases nested spherical models were fit to the data. The semivariogram parameters are tabulated below.
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Table 14-3: Semivariogram Parameters for Cu, Au, Mo and Ag in Domains
DOMAIN | VARIABLE | AZ / DIP | C0 | C1 | C2 | Short Range (m) | Long Range (m) |
CAPCU1 Leached Cap | Cu | 080 / 0 | 0.05 | 0.10 | 0.35 | 40 | 180 |
350 / 0 | 0.05 | 0.10 | 0.35 | 40 | 50 | ||
0 / -90 | 0.05 | 0.10 | 0.35 | 60 | 140 | ||
SUPCU1 Supergene | Cu | 012 / 0 | 0.05 | 0.06 | 0.14 | 30 | 150 |
282/ 0 | 0.05 | 0.06 | 0.14 | 30 | 80 | ||
0 / -90 | 0.05 | 0.06 | 0.14 | 30 | 50 | ||
HYPCU1 Hypogene | Cu | 090 / 0 | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.10 | 80 | 100 |
0 / 0 | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.10 | 50 | 80 | ||
0 / -90 | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.10 | 100 | 200 | ||
ALL REST | Au | 155 / 0 | 0.08 | 0.04 | 0.10 | 40 | 90 |
65/ 0 | 0.08 | 0.04 | 0.10 | 30 | 40 | ||
0 / -90 | 0.08 | 0.04 | 0.10 | 50 | 140 | ||
Mo | 155 / 0 | 0.08 | 0.05 | 0.18 | 40 | 84 | |
65/ 0 | 0.08 | 0.05 | 0.18 | 20 | 34 | ||
0 / -90 | 0.08 | 0.05 | 0.18 | 40 | 140 | ||
Ag | 135 / 0 | 0.10 | 0.05 | 0.08 | 30 | 50 | |
45 / 0 | 0.10 | 0.05 | 0.08 | 20 | 40 | ||
0 / -90 | 0.10 | 0.05 | 0.08 | 40 | 74 |
14.5 BULKDENSITY
An extensive specific gravity data base has been compiled for Casino over the years with a total of 11,600 measurements taken on drill core by the Wt. in Air-Wt. in Water method. The results are tabulated below as a function of oxidation zone.
Table 14-4: Bulk Density
Domain | Number | Minimum SG | Maximum SG | Average SG |
Leached Cap | 1,986 | 1.62 | 3.59 | 2.52 |
Supergene Oxide | 797 | 1.61 | 3.74 | 2.58 |
Supergene Sulphide | 3,442 | 1.46 | 3.85 | 2.62 |
Hypogene | 5,375 | 1.26 | 4.67 | 2.65 |
Total | 11,600 | 1.26 | 4.67 | 2.62 |
Specific gravity increases with depth in general and as a function of alteration. As a result, the average specific gravity for each alteration zone was used to determine a weighted average for each block in the model.
Block SG = ((%Cap*2.52) + (%SOX*2.58) + (%SUS*2.62) + (%HYP*2.65))/ %Below Topo - % OVB
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14.6 BLOCK MODEL
A block model with blocks 20 x 20 x 15 m was superimposed over the geologic solids. The block model was coded for lithology on a bench by bench basis by WCGC using the majority rule for each block. Once the model was coded for lithology it was compared to the various surfaces namely: surface topography, overburden, leached cap, supergene oxide, supergene sulphide and hypogene with the percentage of each recorded for each block. The block mode origin was as follows:
Lower Left Corner | ||
609492.73 E 6957332.60 N | Column size = 20 m Row size = 20 m | 138 Columns 113 Rows |
Top Model | ||
1530 Elevation No Rotation | Level size = 15m | 72 Levels |
14.7 GRADEINTERPOLATION
Grades for Cu, Au, Mo and Ag were interpolated into blocks by Ordinary Kriging. Copper was estimated for Leached Cap, Supergene and Hypogene zones for both the combined IX, PP and WR lithologies and the MX lithology in separate runs. For each domain hard boundaries were used so that, for example, in the Leached Cap portion of blocks within the MX lithology, only Leached Cap Composites within MX were used. The kriging exercise was completed in each Domain in four passes. The maximum number of composites used, from one hole, was set to 3, insuring that for all estimated blocks a minimum of two drill holes were required. In all passes, if more than 16 composites were found, the closest 16 were used. The copper grade for any given block was the weighted average of Leached Cap Cu, Supergene Cu and Hypogene Cu.
An estimate for weak acid soluble copper in the Leached Cap and Supergene zones was also made. Weak acid soluble Cu assays were used along with the variograms for total Cu. A similar kriging procedure above was used.
The estimation of gold, molybdenum and silver was completed for the combined IX, PP and WR lithologies and then for the MX lithology. A similar strategy using 4 passes with expanding search ellipses was used. Again a minimum of 4 composites and maximum of 16 composites were required to estimate a block with a maximum of 3 from one hole allowed. Due to shorter ranges in Au, Mo and Ag, a larger fifth pass was required to estimate grades into blocks with a Cu grade estimated.
Table 14-5 through Table 14-9 show tabulations of the mineral resource at copper equivalent cutoffs of 0.20%, 0.25%, and 0.30% for supergene and hypogene zones, and at gold cutoff grades of 0.25 g/t, 0.30 g/t, 0.35 g/t, and 0.40 g/t gold for the leached cap. The CuEq is determined using the following metal prices: Cu - US$2.00/lb, Au - US$875.00/oz, Ag - US$11.25/oz and Mo - US$11.25/lb as follows:
CuEq % = (Cu %) + (Au g/t x 28.13/44.1) + (Mo % x248.06/44.1) + (Ag g/t x 0.36/44.1)
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The copper equivalent calculations reflect gross metal content and do not apply any adjustment factors for difference in metallurgical recoveries of gold, copper, silver and molybdenum. This information can only be derived from definitive metallurgical testing which has yet to be completed.
The gold-dominant Leached Cap zone resource estimates remained unchanged at a gold cutoff grade of 0.40 g/t Au (Table 14-5); copper equivalent values are presented for this zone for comparative purposes.
Table 14-5: Leached Cap/Oxide Gold Zone
Class | Cutoff Au (g/t) | Tonnes (million) | Cu (%) | Au (g/t)) | Mo (%) | Ag (g/t) | Weak Acid Sol. Cu (%) | CuEQ (%) |
Measured | 0.25 g/t | 30.6 | 0.05 | 0.52 | 0.025 | 2.94 | 0.016 | 0.56 |
Indicated | 0.25 g/t | 53.2 | 0.03 | 0.33 | 0.017 | 2.36 | 0.010 | 0.37 |
Inferred | 0.25 g/t | 17.1 | 0.01 | 0.31 | 0.008 | 1.93 | 0.004 | 0.27 |
Total Measured + Indicated | 83.8 | 0.04 | 0.40 | 0.020 | 2.57 | 0.012 | 0.44 | |
Measured | 0.30 g/t | 27.9 | 0.05 | 0.55 | 0.025 | 3.04 | 0.016 | 0.58 |
Indicated | 0.30 g/t | 29.7 | 0.03 | 0.38 | 0.016 | 2.52 | 0.010 | 0.39 |
Inferred | 0.30 g/t | 9.0 | 0.01 | 0.35 | 0.006 | 1.92 | 0.004 | 0.28 |
Total Measured + Indicated | 57.6 | 0.04 | 0.46 | 0.020 | 2.77 | 0.013 | 0.48 | |
Measured | 0.35 g/t | 25.5 | 0.06 | 0.57 | 0.026 | 3.14 | 0.016 | 0.60 |
Indicated | 0.35 g/t | 15.2 | 0.03 | 0.44 | 0.016 | 2.75 | 0.011 | 0.43 |
Inferred | 0.35 g/t | 3.4 | 0.01 | 0.39 | 0.006 | 2.01 | 0.004 | 0.31 |
Total Measured + Indicated | 40.7 | 0.05 | 0.52 | 0.022 | 2.99 | 0.014 | 0.54 | |
Measured | 0.40 g/t | 23.0 | 0.06 | 0.59 | 0.025 | 3.23 | 0.015 | 0.61 |
Indicated | 0.40 g/t | 9.0 | 0.04 | 0.48 | 0.017 | 2.88 | 0.012 | 0.47 |
Inferred | 0.40 g/t | 1.1 | 0.01 | 0.44 | 0.006 | 2.09 | 0.004 | 0.34 |
Total Measured + Indicated | 32.0 | 0.05 | 0.56 | 0.023 | 3.13 | 0.015 | 0.57 |
Table 14-6: Supergene Oxide Zone
Class | Cutoff CuEQ (%) | Tonnes (million) | Cu (%) | Au (g/t)) | Mo (%) | Ag (g/t) | Weak Acid Sol. Cu (%) | CuEQ (%) |
Measured | 0.20 % | 25.0 | 0.28 | 0.52 | 0.026 | 2.38 | 0.094 | 0.77 |
Indicated | 0.20 % | 40.4 | 0.22 | 0.20 | 0.018 | 1.37 | 0.058 | 0.44 |
Inferred | 0.20 % | 31.3 | 0.24 | 0.16 | 0.008 | 1.35 | 0.087 | 0.38 |
Total Measured + Indicated | 65.4 | 0.24 | 0.32 | 0.021 | 1.76 | 0.072 | 0.56 | |
Measured | 0.25 % | 25.0 | 0.28 | 0.52 | 0.026 | 2.38 | 0.094 | 0.77 |
Indicated | 0.25 % | 36.4 | 0.23 | 0.21 | 0.019 | 1.44 | 0.060 | 0.46 |
Inferred | 0.25 % | 26.1 | 0.26 | 0.17 | 0.010 | 1.43 | 0.097 | 0.41 |
Total Measured + Indicated | 61.4 | 0.25 | 0.34 | 0.022 | 1.83 | 0.074 | 0.59 | |
Measured | 0.30 % | 24.9 | 0.28 | 0.52 | 0.026 | 2.39 | 0.094 | 0.77 |
Indicated | 0.30 % | 31.7 | 0.24 | 0.23 | 0.021 | 1.54 | 0.063 | 0.49 |
Inferred | 0.30 % | 22.3 | 0.27 | 0.18 | 0.010 | 1.46 | 0.104 | 0.44 |
Total Measured + Indicated | 56.6 | 0.26 | 0.36 | 0.023 | 1.91 | 0.077 | 0.61 |
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Table 14-7: Supergene Sulphide Zone
Class | Cutoff CuEQ (%) | Tonnes (million) | Cu (%) | Au (g/t)) | Mo (%) | Ag (g/t) | WeakAcid Sol. Cu (%) | CuEQ (%) |
Measured | 0.20 % | 36.4 | 0.39 | 0.41 | 0.029 | 2.34 | 0.062 | 0.83 |
Indicated | 0.20 % | 223.6 | 0.24 | 0.22 | 0.019 | 1.70 | 0.034 | 0.49 |
Inferred | 0.20 % | 129.0 | 0.18 | 0.18 | 0.009 | 1.40 | 0.031 | 0.34 |
Total Measured + Indicated | 260.0 | 0.26 | 0.25 | 0.020 | 1.79 | 0.038 | 0.54 | |
Measured | 0.25 % | 36.3 | 0.39 | 0.41 | 0.029 | 2.34 | 0.062 | 0.84 |
Indicated | 0.25 % | 216.0 | 0.24 | 0.22 | 0.019 | 1.72 | 0.034 | 0.50 |
Inferred | 0.25 % | 102.1 | 0.20 | 0.19 | 0.010 | 1.49 | 0.034 | 0.38 |
Total Measured + Indicated | 252.3 | 0.26 | 0.25 | 0.021 | 1.81 | 0.038 | 0.55 | |
Measured | 0.30 % | 36.0 | 0.39 | 0.41 | 0.029 | 2.34 | 0.062 | 0.84 |
Indicated | 0.30 % | 200.1 | 0.25 | 0.23 | 0.020 | 1.78 | 0.035 | 0.52 |
Inferred | 0.30 % | 82.1 | 0.21 | 0.19 | 0.011 | 1.54 | 0.036 | 0.40 |
Total Measured + Indicated | 236.1 | 0.27 | 0.26 | 0.022 | 1.86 | 0.039 | 0.57 |
Table 14-8: Hypogene Zone
Class | Cutoff CuEQ (%) | Tonnes (million) | Cu (%) | Au (g/t)) | Mo (%) | Ag (g/t) | CuEQ (%) |
Measured | 0.20 % | 32.7 | 0.31 | 0.38 | 0.025 | 1.94 | 0.72 |
Indicated | 0.20 % | 779.3 | 0.16 | 0.20 | 0.022 | 1.59 | 0.43 |
Inferred | 0.20 % | 1,967.7 | 0.13 | 0.15 | 0.018 | 1.30 | 0.34 |
Total Measured + Indicated | 812.0 | 0.16 | 0.21 | 0.022 | 1.61 | 0.44 | |
Measured | 0.25 % | 32.4 | 0.32 | 0.38 | 0.026 | 1.94 | 0.73 |
Indicated | 0.25 % | 710.6 | 0.17 | 0.21 | 0.023 | 1.65 | 0.45 |
Inferred | 0.25 % | 1,568.2 | 0.14 | 0.16 | 0.020 | 1.36 | 0.37 |
Total Measured + Indicated | 743.0 | 0.17 | 0.22 | 0.023 | 1.66 | 0.46 | |
Measured | 0.30 % | 32.1 | 0.32 | 0.38 | 0.026 | 1.95 | 0.73 |
Indicated | 0.30 % | 620.5 | 0.18 | 0.22 | 0.025 | 1.71 | 0.47 |
Inferred | 0.30 % | 1,144.7 | 0.15 | 0.17 | 0.023 | 1.43 | 0.40 |
Total Measured + Indicated | 652.6 | 0.18 | 0.23 | 0.025 | 1.72 | 0.49 |
Table 14-9:Combined Supergene and Hypogene Zones
Class | Cutoff CuEQ (%) | Tonnes (million) | Cu (%) | Au (g/t)) | Mo (%) | Ag (g/t) | CuEQ (%) |
M+I | 0.20 % | 1,137.5 | 0.19 | 0.23 | 0.021 | 1.65 | 0.47 |
M+I | 0.25 % | 1,056.9 | 0.20 | 0.23 | 0.022 | 1.71 | 0.49 |
M+I | 0.30 % | 945.6 | 0.21 | 0.25 | 0.024 | 1.77 | 0.51 |
Inferred | 0.20 % | 2,128.1 | 0.13 | 0.16 | 0.017 | 1.39 | 0.34 |
Inferred | 0.25 % | 1,696.4 | 0.14 | 0.16 | 0.019 | 1.37 | 0.37 |
Inferred | 0.30 % | 1,249.1 | 0.16 | 0.18 | 0.022 | 1.44 | 0.40 |
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14.8 MODELVERIFICATION
To determine if any bias exists, the mean grades of the composites used to estimate the blocks were compared to the mean grades of the blocks estimated. When a comparison is done for all blocks estimated, the kriged grades are similar, but lower in all categories. This is most likely caused by the large number of inferred blocks estimated on the periphery and a depth in the deposit where the composites used are the lower grades on the edge of the mineralized system. When the comparison is restricted to just measured and indicated blocks, which are tighter to the data, the comparison is much closer. Comparisons between estimated results and drill holes on cross sections were also made and the results were satisfactory.
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15 MINERAL RESERVE ESTIMATES
15.1 MINERALRESERVE
The mine and plant production schedules defines the mineral reserve for a mining project. Table 15-1 presents the mineral reserve for the Casino Project based on the production schedule presented in Section 16.
The mill ore reserve amounts to 965.2 million tonnes at 0.204% copper, 0.240 g/t gold, 0.0227% molybdenum, and 1.74 g/t silver. Heap leach reserve is an additional 157.5 million tonnes at 0.292 g/t gold and 0.036% copper.
For this reserve estimate, measured mineral resource was converted to proven mineral reserve and indicated mineral resource was converted to probable mineral reserve, with one exception. The low grade mill ore stockpile is considered probable mineral reserve regardless of the original classification of the in-situ material. The parameters used to determine mineral reserves are shown in the following sections.
Table 15-1: Mineral Reserve
Mill Ore Reserve: | Ore Ktonnes | Tot Cu (%) | Gold (g/t) | Moly (%) | Silver (g/t) |
Proven Mineral Reserve: | |||||
Mill Ore | 91,602 | 0.336 | 0.437 | 0.0275 | 2.23 |
Probable Mineral Reserve: | |||||
Mill Ore | 729,777 | 0.203 | 0.235 | 0.0240 | 1.78 |
Low Grade Stockpile | 143,828 | 0.122 | 0.139 | 0.0133 | 1.19 |
Total Probable Reserve | 873,605 | 0.190 | 0.219 | 0.0222 | 1.68 |
Proven/Probable Reserve | |||||
Mill Ore | 821,379 | 0.218 | 0.258 | 0.0244 | 1.83 |
Low Grade Stockpile | 143,828 | 0.122 | 0.139 | 0.0133 | 1.19 |
Total Mill Ore Reserve | 965,207 | 0.204 | 0.240 | 0.0227 | 1.74 |
Heap Leach Reserve: | Ore ktonnes | Gold (g/t) | Tot Cu (%) | Moly (%) | Silver (g/t) |
Proven Mineral Reserve | 31,760 | 0.480 | 0.051 | N/A | 2.79 |
Probable Mineral Reserve | 125,694 | 0.244 | 0.032 | N/A | 2.06 |
Total Heap Leach Reserve | 157,454 | 0.292 | 0.036 | N/A | 2.21 |
IMC does not know of any mining, metallurgical, infrastructure or other factors that might materially affect the mineral reserve. The mineral reserve is consistent with current CIM and NI 43-101 guidelines.
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15.2 DESIGN ECONOMICS
15.2.1 Economic Parameters and NSR Calculations
15.2.1.1 Commodity Prices
Table 15-2 summarizes the economic parameters for mine design and scheduling. The commodity prices used for design are $2.75 per pound copper, $1,300 per ounce gold, $14.50 per pound molybdenum, and $23.00 per ounce silver. These were specified by WCGC personnel. Also, for this study, it is assumed that the US$ to C$ exchange rate is 1:1.
15.2.1.2 Mining
The base mining cost of $1.60 per total tonne was estimated by IMC. The mining cost estimate from the March 2011 Preliminary Feasibility Study (PFS) was updated with revised equipment parts, fuel and blasting agent costs. The estimated mine operating cost for the 2011 PFS was $1.51 per total tonne, so this estimate is about a 6% increase.
15.2.1.3 Flotation Ore Processing
Flotation ore refers to the supergene oxide, supergene sulphide, and hypogene zones of the orebody. The base unit costs for ore processing and G&A are estimated at $6.54 and $0.36 per ore tonne respectively, based on the 2011 PFS study. For flotation ore, the plant recoveries are estimated as follows:
Copper recovery = 100%(Cut% - Cuw% - 0.022%) / Cut%
Gold Recovery = 66%
Molybdenum Recovery = 57%
Silver Recovery = 50%
Where,
Cut% = Total copper grade
Cuw% = Weak acid soluble copper grade
These recoveries and recovery equations were provided by WCGC personnel.
The copper, gold, and silver payable percentages shown on Table 15-2 are typical terms for copper concentrates, assuming a clean concentrate with a copper concentrate grade of 28% copper or greater. Table 15-3 shows the details of the off-site costs for the copper concentrate. The 2011 PFS study was based on smelter treatment terms of $80 per tonne concentrate and refinery terms of $0.080 per pound recovered copper. The land freight, terminal handling charge, and ocean freight charge amounts to $158.11 per dry metric tonne (about $145 per wet metric tonne) based on the parameters used for the 2011 PFS. IMC assumed moisture content of 8.5% and 0.5% concentrate loss during shipping. Copper smelting, refining, and freight charges amount to $0.480 per pound payable copper. This does not include any charges for marketing or insurance. Gold and silver refining is estimated at $6.00 per ounce gold and $0.50 per ounce silver respectively.
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Due to the 0.5% concentrate loss estimate payable percentages at the mine site are 99.5% of the smelter payables, which is factored into the NSR calculation.
The 2011 PFS assumed an 85% payable percentage for molybdenum in concentrate. This is assumed to be the net payable after treatment and transportation charges. This is applicable to a clean moly concentrate with a moly grade of about 50% or greater.
15.2.1.4 Heap Leach Ore
Heap leach ore refers to ores in the leach capping of the orebody. Heap leach ore processing is estimated at $3.70 per ore tonne for crushed ore. It is assumed that all G&A costs are charged to the flotation ore.
Heap leach recoveries are estimated at 65% for gold, 20% for copper, and 20% for silver. Gold and silver from the heap leach will report to a typical doré which will be sent to a refinery. Typical terms are shown on Table 15-2. The payable percentage is estimated at 98% for gold and silver. The transportation and refining charges are estimated at $1.611 per ounce gold and $0.661 per ounce silver. The transportation portion of this cost is estimated as $10,000 per tonne doré, or about $0.311 per ounce gold and silver.
It is also assumed that the heap leach process will produce a copper concentrate with a grade of about 60% copper. Smelting, refining, and freight terms are assumed the same as for the flotation concentrate. This results in a smelting, refining, and freight charge of about $0.267 per pound copper. Details of this calculation are shown in Table 15-4.
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Table 15-2: Economic Parameters for Mine Design (C$) g ( )
Parameter | Flotation Ore | Heap Leach |
Commodity Prices: | ||
Copper Price Per Pound | 2.75 | 2.75 |
Gold Price Per Ounce | 1300.00 | 1300.00 |
Silver Price Per Ounce | 23.00 | 23.00 |
Molybdenum Price Per Pound | 14.50 | N.A. |
Mining Cost Per Total Tonne: | ||
Mining Cost | 1.600 | 1.600 |
Processing and G&A Per Ore Tonne | ||
Processing | 6.540 | 3.700 |
G&A | 0.360 | 0.000 |
Total Processing and G&A | 6.900 | 3.700 |
Average Plant Recoveries: | ||
Copper Recovery | Note 1 | 20.0% |
Gold Recovery | 66.0% | 65.0% |
Silver Recovery | 50.0% | 20.0% |
Molybdenum Recovery | 57.0% | N.A. |
Refinery Payables: | ||
Copper Payable | 96.5% | 96.5% |
Gold Payable | 97.5% | 98.0% |
Silver Payable | 97.5% | 98.0% |
Molybdenum Payable | 85.0% | N.A. |
Payable Concentrate (0.5% Conc Loss) | 99.5% | Cu Only |
Offsite Costs: | ||
Copper SRF Cost Per Pound | 0.480 | 0.267 |
Gold Refining Per Ounce (Note 4) | 6.000 | 1.611 |
Silver Refining Per Ounce (Note 4) | 0.500 | 0.661 |
Molybdenum Freight/Treatment Per Pound | Note 2 | N.A. |
NSR Factors (Apply to Recovered Grades): | ||
Copper Factor (Note 3) | 48.06 | 52.57 |
Gold Factor (Note 3) | 40.36 | 40.91 |
Silver Factor (Note 3) | 0.702 | 0.704 |
Moly Factor (Note 3) | 270.36 | N.A. |
NSR Cutoff Grades: | ||
Breakeven Cutoff (C$/t) | 8.50 | 5.30 |
Internal Cutoff (C$/t) | 6.90 | 3.70 |
Stockpile Cutoff (C$/t) ($1.00 Rehandle) | 7.90 | N.A. |
Note 1: Cu Recovery = 100%(Cut% - Cuw% - 0.022%)/Cut% | ||
Note 2: Moly offsite costs are accounted in payable percentage | ||
Note 3: NSR factors are applied to recovered grades | ||
Note 4: Includes dore transport of $0.311 per ounce ($10,000/t) |
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Table 15-3: Copper SRF Cost Per Pound – Basis: 1 Tonne of Concentrate at the Destination
Parameter | (units) | Value | Comments | ||||||
Copper Concentrate Grade | (%Cu) | 28 | WC assumption | ||||||
Moisture Content | (%) | 8.50% | IMC assumption | ||||||
Concentrate Loss | (%) | 0.50% | IMC assumption | ||||||
Payable Percentage | (%) | 96.50% | Typical for clean concentrate with 28% or greater Cu grade. | ||||||
Payable Copper/Tonne | (lbs) | 595.7 | Concentrate grade x payable % x 22.046 | ||||||
Treatment Cost Per Tonne | (US$) | 80.00 | 2011 Pre-feasibility Parameter. Section 1.25.8.1 | ||||||
Treatment Cost Per Lb | (US$) | 0.134 | |||||||
Refining Cost Per Lb | (US$) | 0.080 | 2011 Pre-feasibility Parameter. Section 1.25.8.1 | ||||||
Land Freight per WMT | (US$) | 40.00 | 2011 Pre-feasibility Parameter. Section 1.25.8.1 | ||||||
Terminal Charge per WMT | (US$) | 27.00 | 2011 Pre-feasibility Parameter. Section 1.25.8.1 | ||||||
Ocean Freight per WMT | (US$) | 78.00 | 2011 Pre-feasibility Parameter. Section 1.25.8.1 | ||||||
Total Freight Per DMT (Note 1) | (US$) | 158.11 | Includes paying for lost concentrate | ||||||
Total Freight Per Lb | (US$) | 0.265 | |||||||
Total SRF Cost Per Lb | (US$) | 0.480 | Smelting, refining,and freight | ||||||
Total SRF Cost Per Lb | (C$) | 0.480 |
Table 15-4: Copper SRF Cost Per Pound – Leach Ore – Basis: 1 Tonne of Concentrate at the Destination
Parameter | (units) | Value | Comments | ||||||
Copper Concentrate Grade | (%Cu) | 60.0 | Arcadis | ||||||
Moisture Content | (%) | 8.50% | IMC assumption | ||||||
Concentrate Loss | (%) | 0.50% | IMC assumption | ||||||
Payable Percentage (Note 1) | (%) | 96.50% | Typical for clean concentrate with 28% or greater Cu grade. | ||||||
Payable Copper/Tonne | (lbs) | 1276.5 | Concentrate grade x payable % x 22.046 | ||||||
Treatment Cost Per Tonne | (US$) | 80.00 | 2011 Pre-feasibility Parameter. Section 1.25.8.1 | ||||||
Treatment Cost Per Lb | (US$) | 0.063 | |||||||
Refining Cost Per Lb | (US$) | 0.080 | 2011 Pre-feasibility Parameter. Section 1.25.8.1 | ||||||
Land Freight per WMT | (US$) | 40.00 | 2011 Pre-feasibility Parameter. Section 1.25.8.1 | ||||||
Terminal Charge per WMT | (US$) | 27.00 | 2011 Pre-feasibility Parameter. Section 1.25.8.1 | ||||||
Ocean Freight per WMT | (US$) | 78.00 | 2011 Pre-feasibility Parameter. Section 1.25.8.1 | ||||||
Total Freight Per DMT (Note 2) | (US$) | 158.11 | Includes paying for lost concentrate | ||||||
Total Freight Per Lb | (US$) | 0.124 | |||||||
Total SRF Cost Per Lb | (US$) | 0.267 | Smelting, refining,and freight | ||||||
Total SRF Cost Per Lb | (C$) | 0.267 |
NSR values were calculated for each model block to use to classify blocks into ore and waste. For the heap leach ore:
NSR_au = ($1300 – $1.611) x 0.65 x 0.98 x gold / 31.103
NSR_cu = ($2.75 - $0.267) x 0.20 x 0.965 x 0.995 x copper x 22.046
NSR_ag = ($23.00 - $0.661) x 0.20 x 0.98 x silver / 31.103
NSR = NSR_au + NSR_cu + NSR_ag
The internal NSR cutoff grade for heap leach ore is the processing cost of $3.70 per ore tonne since all the recoveries and refining costs are accounted for in the NSR calculation. The breakeven NSR cutoff grade for heap leach ore is $5.30 per tonne (mining plus processing). For flotation ore, the NSR values are calculated as:
NSR_cu = ($2.75 – $0.480) x rec_cu x 0.965 x 0.995 x 22.046
NSR_au = ($1300 – $6.00) x 0.66 x 0.975 x 0.995 x gold / 31.103
NSR_mo = $14.50 x 0.57 x 0.85 x 0.995 x moly x 22.046
NSR_ag = ($23.00 - $0.50) x 0.20 x 0.975 x 0.995 x silver / 31.103
NSR = NSR_cu + NSR_au + NSR_mo + NSR_ag
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where,
rec_cu = 1.00 x (cut – cuw – 0.022%)
The internal NSR cutoff grade is the processing plus G&A cost of $6.90. Breakeven NSR cutoff is $8.50. The stockpile re-handle cutoff grade is estimated at $7.90 per ore tonne which covers processing plus G&A costs plus mining re-handle estimated at about $1.00 per tonne.
It is important to note that the parameters presented in this section are initial estimates used for the mine design process and are not the final economic parameters developed for the financial analysis of the project.
15.2.2 Slope Angles
Slope angles recommendations were developed by Knight Piesold Ltd. (KP) and documented in the report “Open Pit Geotechnical Design”, dated October 12, 2012. Table 15-5 shows the recommended angles by design sector and Figure 15-1 shows the design sectors.
Forty five degree inter-ramp angles were recommended for most of the slope sectors. The north sectors of the main pit and west pit were recommended to be designed at 42 degree inter-ramp angles. For the small amount of overburden on the north wall the recommended angle was 27 degrees. The slope angle recommendations also specified that there be no more than 200 m of vertical wall at the inter-ramp angle without an extra wide catch bench (16 m instead of 8 m).
IMC used an overall slope angle of 42 degrees in the floating cone runs to approximate overall slope angles with the KP inter-ramp angles and also to account for the location of haulage roads.
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Table 15-5: Recommended Slope Angles (Knight-Piesold)
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Figure 15-1: Open Pit Design Sectors (Knight-Piesold)
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16 MINING METHODS
16.1 INTRODUCTION
Independent Mining Consultants, Inc. (IMC) was commissioned by WCGC to provide mine planning services for the Casino Copper-Gold Project, Yukon Territory, Canada. The work was done to support a Feasibility Study (FS) conducted by M3 Engineering and Technology Corporation (M3).
IMC’s scope of work is summarized as follows:
- Develop a mine plan and mine production schedule;
- Determine mine equipment and mine labor requirements;
- Estimate the mine capital and mine operating costs.
IMC also provided these services for a Preliminary Feasibility Study (PFS), also conducted by M3, and completed during April 2011. The mining plan for this current study is similar to the 2011 study. The plan represents a commercially viable development, but has not necessarily been optimized. Accordingly, as the project develops, the percentage of waste and ore may change to accommodate earlier start-up and corresponding better financial metrics.
This report is in metric units. Ktonnes is an abbreviation for 1,000 metric tonnes. Linear measurements are expressed in meters or kilometers and liquid volumes in liters or cubic meters. Gold and silver grades are expressed in grams per metric tonne (g/t). Quantities of gold metal are often abbreviated as koz for 1000 troy ounces; klbs and mlbs are abbreviations for one thousand (1000) and one million (1,000,000) US pounds of copper metal, respectively.
Currency is in Canadian dollars as of the 4th quarter of 2012 and the exchange rate for mining is assumed to be US$ 1 = C$ 1.
16.2 RESOURCE MODEL
See Section 14 for details on the Resource Model. The resource block model was provided to IMC by WCGC. The model was developed by Giroux and Associates (Giroux) during 2010. The block model was based on regular 20m by 20m by 15m high blocks. The main variables included in the block model were:
- The percentage of the block in the various lithology domains.
- The percentage of the block in the various ore type domains (leach cap, supergene oxide, supergene sulphide, hypogene).
- Grades of total copper and weak acid soluble copper by ore type domain.
- Gold, silver and molybdenum grades.
- A resource classification code to denote measured, indicated, and inferred blocks.
- Bulk density.
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IMC did validate ore tonnages and grades for each domain with resource tabulations published by Giroux. IMC did not audit the resource block model.
Subsequent to completion of the 2011 PFS additional geologic data was incorporated into the model. These items included:
- An expanded lithologic interpretation to better define rock types in the waste zones, and
- An interpretation of alteration types to better define potential ore types for metallurgical characterization.
Block grades were not re-calculated; they are the same as the original model.
16.3 OPEN PIT DESIGN
A mine plan was developed to supply ore to a conventional copper sulphide flotation plant with the capacity to process approximately 124,000 tonnes per day, or 45.4 million tonnes per year, though actual annual throughput is based on ore hardness. The mine is scheduled to operate two 12 hour shifts per day, 365 days per year. This will require four mining crews.
The final pit design was based on a floating cone shell at $2.75 per pound copper, $1300 per ounce gold, $14.50 per pound molybdenum, and $23.00 per ounce silver.
Five mining phases were also developed for the study. The phase designs include haul roads and adequate working room for large mining equipment. The roads are 36m wide at a maximum grade of 10%. The width will accommodate trucks up to the 360 tonne class, such as the Caterpillar 797F truck.
Figure 16-1 shows the final pit design. As was discussed in Section 15.2.2, slope angle recommendations were provided by Knight Piesold Ltd. (KP).
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Figure 16-1: Final Pit Design
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16.4 MINE PRODUCTION SCHEDULE
The top section of Table 16-1 shows the proposed plant production schedule. Total mill ore is 965.2 million tonnes at 0.204% copper, 0.240 g/t gold, 0.0227% moly, and 1.74 g/t silver. The average NSR value of this ore is $18.53 per tonne. For Years 2 through 21, full production years, ore throughput varies from a low of 44,695 ktonnes in Year 11 to a high of 46,249 ktonnes in Year 13, depending on ore hardness.
The Bond Work Index and mill throughput rate have been assigned to model blocks based on rock type, ore type, and alteration based on the recommendations in the FLSmidth report “Casino Project Circuit Design Basis – Update on Testwork and Mill Sizing/Selection”. The ore schedule has been developed based on plant hours, so throughput varies by year. It was reported to IMC that all necessary efficiency factors were incorporated in throughput rates so IMC has based the schedule on 8,760 plant hours per year.
The table also shows the average Bond Work Index and throughput rate (hours per ktonne). The throughput units are somewhat unconventional, but for the model a parameter that can be weight averaged by tonnes is necessary. Copper recovery was also incorporated into the model on a block by block basis, based on total and soluble copper grades. The average recovered copper grade is 0.167%, indicating an average copper recovery of 82.1% .
The table also shows the various components of the mill ore. Direct feed ore is ore that is scheduled to be processed the same year it is mined. This amounts to 789.0 million tonnes at 0.216% total copper, 0.248 g/t gold, 1.81 g/t silver, and 0.0244% moly. This is about 82% of total ore. The average NSR value of this ore is $19.76 per tonne. Note that Year 1 ore production is 34.5 million tonnes, about 75% of nominal capacity (125,000 tpd) and is made up of ore mined during preproduction and Year 1.
As was done for the PFS, the SOX ore in mining phase 1 that was mined during preproduction and Year 1 is stockpiled and processed during Years 4 through 12 at the rate of 3.6 million tonnes per year. This is done to maintain the ratio of weak soluble copper to total copper at less than 25%. This ore amounts to 32.4 million tonnes at 0.260% total copper, 0.486 g/t gold, 2.35 g/t silver, and 0.0250% moly. The NSR value for this ore is $24.84 per tonne. For the PFS this ore amounted to 35.8 million tonnes and was processed over ten years instead of nine years. The reduction in the size of this stockpile is due to the following: 1) 1.2 million tonnes of SOX mined during Year 2 was processed that year, instead of being stockpiled, and 2) the cutoff grade for the SOX stockpile was raised, sending the more marginal grade SOX to the low grade stockpile to defer processing to the end of open pit operations.
The operating schedule also results in a significant amount of low grade ore that is stockpiled and processed at the end of the mine life during Years 19 through 22. This amounts to 143.8 million tonnes at 0.122% total copper, 0.139 g/t gold, 1.19 g/t silver, and 0.0133 g/t moly.
The reclaim schedules for both the SOX ore and low grade are on a last-in-first-out (LIFO) basis, consistent with stockpiles build up in lifts and reclaimed in reverse order.
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Based on the schedule the commercial life of the project is 21.5 years after an approximate 3 year preproduction period.
Table 16-2 shows the mine production schedule. The upper section of the table shows the direct feed ore. 4.9 million tonnes of this is mined during preproduction and stockpiled near the crusher to be part of the Year 1 ore feed.
For economic purposes, an NSR value was calculated for each ore block to classify blocks into ore and waste. The NSR is in $US (=$C) per tonne and reflects gross revenue less concentrate freight, concentrate treatment charges, and refining. Process recoveries and treatment payable amounts are incorporated into the NSR calculation as are allowances for concentrate loss in shipping and marketing costs. The schedule shows that in Year 2, the NSR cutoff grade is high, $15.50 per tonne and declines to the internal cutoff grade of $6.90 per ore tonne toward the end of the mine life. The declining cutoff grade balances mine and plant capacities over the mine life to maximize the amount of metal produced given the mine total material rate limit.
The second section of the table shows the SOX mill stockpile ore that is mined during preproduction and Year 1. The average soluble copper to total copper ratio for this ore is 33.8% . The third section of the table shows low grade ore produced by year. This is material with an NSR cutoff grade between $7.90 per tonne and the operating cutoff for the year.
The bottom of Table 16-2 also shows the schedule of gold ore mined from the leach cap ore zone by year. It is assumed that this is processed by crushing and heap leaching. Gold ore is defined as leach cap ores with an NSR above $3.70 with leach economics and total copper less than 0.1% . This ore amounts to 157.5 million tonnes at 0.292 g/t gold, 2.21 g/t silver, and 0.036% total copper. This is considerably more ore (about double) what was considered for the PFS. The PFS was limited to 81.6 million tonnes of ore.
The bottom of Table 16-2 summarizes tonnages. It can be seen that life of mine total material from the pit is 1.78 billion tonnes. Preproduction is 70.0 million tonnes staged over three years. Year 1 total material is scheduled at about 91.2 million tonnes after which the peak material movement of 100 million tonnes per year is maintained over much of the mine life. Total waste is 657.9 million tonnes so the waste to ore ratio is about 0.58 if mill ore (including SOX), low grade, and gold ore are all counted as ore.
The upper section of Table 16-3 shows a proposed stacking schedule for the gold ore. This is based on the ability to crush and stack 9,125 ktonnes per year (25,000 tpd for 365 days/year). The second section of the table shows mine production of gold ore. The third and fourth sections show up to 9,125 ktonnes of mined ore as direct crusher feed and the excess going to a stockpile. Both are shown at average grades for the year. The bottom of the table shows the stockpile reclaim on a last-in-first-out basis (LIFO). The stockpile gets to a maximum size of almost 40 million tonnes with this scenario.
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Table 16-1: Proposed Mill Production Schedule
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Table 16-2: Mine Production Schedule – All Ore Types
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Table 16-3: Gold Ore Stacking Schedule
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16.5 WASTE MANAGEMENT
Total waste in the IMC mine plan amounts to 657.9 million tonnes. This material is disposed in the tailing storage facility. The material will be placed by trucks and dozers and the pond water level will cover the material soon after it is placed. This material, by domain, is as follows:
- 17.5 million tonnes of overburden.
- 210.0 million tonnes of leach cap material.
- 49.2 million tonnes of supergene oxide material.
- 138.0 million tonnes of supergene sulphide material.
- 241.9 million tonnes of hypogene material.
- And, 1.3 million tonnes that is not classified.
Additional rock storage facilities during the life of the project include:
- The heap leach pad which at the end of the project will contain 157.5 million tonnes of spent, non-reactive ore.
- A low grade stockpile, amounting to 143.8 million tonnes, which will be processed at the end of the mine life.
- There will also be supergene oxide (SOX) ore stockpile south of the pit to store phase 1 SOX ore. It will be reclaimed during mining years 4 through 12. The maximum size of this facility is estimated at 32.4 million tonnes.
- There will be a stockpile for gold leach ore east of the pit. This is expected to reach a maximum size of 40 million tonnes at the end of Year 3 and will be reclaimed by the end of Year 15.
Figure 16-2 shows the maximum extent of these various facilities. They are all constructed in lifts from the bottom up. The low grade stockpile, gold ore stockpile, and SOX stockpile are designed with 30m lifts at angle of repose with a 20m setback between lifts to make the overall slope angle about 2H:1V. This is assumed to be adequate since these are not permanent facilities.
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Figure 16-2: Maximum Extent of Pit and Stockpiles
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16.6 MINE EQUIPMENT
Mine equipment requirements were sized and estimated on a first principles basis, based on the mine production schedule, the mine work schedule, and estimated equipment shift productivity rates. The size and type of mining equipment is consistent with the size of the project, i.e. peak material movements of 100 million tonnes per year. The mine equipment estimate is based on owner operation and assumes a well-managed mining operation with a well-trained labor pool, and that all the equipment is new at the start of the operation.
Table 16-4 shows the major equipment requirements by time period for Casino. This represents the equipment required to perform the following duties:
- Develop access roads from the mine to the crusher, various stockpiles, and the waste storage area.
- Mine and transport mill ore and gold leach ore to the crushers.
- Mine and transport ore to various stockpiles as required.
- Reclaim stockpiled ore and transport it to the crushers.
- Mine and transport waste to the co-disposal site.
- Maintain the haul roads and stockpiles and truck dumping sites at the co-disposal site.
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Table 16-4: Mine Major Equipment Fleet Requirement
Equipment Type | Capacity/ Power | Time Period | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
-3 | -2 | -1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | ||
P&H 320XPC Drill | (457 mm) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
P&H 4100XPC Cable Shovel | (67.6 cu m) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
Cat 994F Wheel Loader | (17 cu m) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Cat 797F Truck | (360 mt) | 4 | 5 | 8 | 17 | 20 | 23 | 22 | 18 | 19 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 22 | 24 | 19 | 21 | 23 | 20 | 19 | 15 | 15 | 12 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
Cat D11T Track Dozer | (634 kw) | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Cat D10T Track Dozer | (433 kw) | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Cat 854K Wheel Dozer | (597 kw) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
Cat 24M Motor Grader | (397 kw) | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Water Truck - 30,000 gal | (113,562 l) | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Cat 345D Excavator | (2.7 cum) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Atlas Copco ECM 720 Drill | (140 mm) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Cat 992K Wheel Loader | (10.7 cu m) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Cat 777F Truck | (90 mt) | 3 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 6 | 10 | 10 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
TOTAL | 17 | 22 | 26 | 46 | 47 | 50 | 53 | 54 | 55 | 55 | 55 | 55 | 53 | 60 | 55 | 53 | 56 | 50 | 46 | 40 | 34 | 30 | 17 | 17 | 18 |
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16.7 MINE CAPITAL COSTS
The estimated mine capital cost developed by IMC includes the following items:
- Mine major equipment
- Mine support equipment and initial spare parts
- Mine preproduction development expense
The estimated cost of the following mining facilities was developed by others and is included in the infrastructure capital budget:
- The mine shop and warehouse
- Fuel and lubricant storage facilities
- Explosive storage facilities
- Office facilities
Table 16-5 summarizes the mine capital cost by category for initial and sustaining capital. The initial capital period is considered to be the four year period from Years -3 through Year 1, as these are the years of significant capital build-up.
Table 16-5: Mining Capital – Mine Equipment and Mine Development (US$x1000)
Initial Capital by Time Period | Initial Capital | Sustaining Capital | Total Capital | |||||||||||||||||||||
Category | Yr -3 | Yr -2 | Yr -1 | Year 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Major Equipment | 85,281 | 7,675 | 21,781 | 141,770 | 256,507 | 160,070 | 416,577 | |||||||||||||||||
Support Equipment @ | 15.00% | 12,792 | 1,151 | 3,267 | 21,265 | 38,476 | 24,011 | 62,487 | ||||||||||||||||
Equipment Subtotal | 98,073 | 8,827 | 25,048 | 163,035 | 294,983 | 184,081 | 479,064 | |||||||||||||||||
Equipment Contingency @ | 10.0% | 9,807 | 883 | 2,505 | 16,304 | 29,498 | 0 | 29,498 | ||||||||||||||||
Mine Development | 23,537 | 55,306 | 76,952 | 0 | 155,795 | 0 | 155,795 | |||||||||||||||||
TOTAL MINE CAPITAL | 131,418 | 65,015 | 104,504 | 179,339 | 480,276 | 184,081 | 664,357 | |||||||||||||||||
Exclusions: Mine shop and warehouse, fuel and lubricant storage, explosives storage, and offices. |
Mine preproduction development of $155.8 million is based on the estimated mine operating costs during the preproduction period. The cost estimate is based on owner operating costs with large equipment plus a contingency to provide additional allowance for additional road construction or other site preparation and subcontracting portions of the mining, etc. Table 16-6 shows the components of the cost during mine development by year. Total preproduction development is estimated as 70.0 million tonnes, so the unit rate amounts to $2.23 per tonne.
Table 16-6: Mine Development Direct Costs Plus Contingency
Item | Year -3 | Year -2 | Year -1 | Total |
Owner Operating Cost – Large Equip | 19,037 | 47,406 | 69,352 | 135,795 |
Mine Development Contingency | 4,500 | 7,900 | 7,600 | 20,000 |
Total Mine Development Cost | 23,537 | 55,306 | 76,952 | 155,795 |
%Contingency | 23.6% | 16.7% | 11.0% | 14.7% |
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16.8 MINE OPERATING COSTS
Table 16-7 summarizes the mine operating costs. Total cost, the cost per total tonne, and cost per ore tonne are shown by various time periods. The $155.8 million preproduction development cost is the source of the mine development capital cost reported on Table 16-5 in the previous section. During commercial production the unit costs for mining are $1.513 per total tonne and $3.054 per ore tonne.
Table 16-7: Summary of Total and Unit Mining Costs
Total | Cost Per | Cost Per | |||||||||||||
Material | Ore | Total Cost | Total Ton(ne) | Ore Ton(ne) | |||||||||||
Category | (kt) | (kt) | (US$) | (US$/t) | (US$/t) | ||||||||||
Mine Development (Years -3 to -1) | 70,000 | 0 | 155,795 | 2.226 | 0.000 | ||||||||||
Commercial Production (Years 1 to 22) | 1,948,369 | 965,207 | 2,947,482 | 1.513 | 3.054 | ||||||||||
All Time Periods | 2,018,369 | 965,207 | 3,103,277 | 1.538 | 3.215 | ||||||||||
Commercial Production Years 1 - 5 | 513,298 | 217,151 | 759,870 | 1.480 | 3.499 | ||||||||||
Commercial Production Years 6 - 10 | 526,405 | 226,992 | 828,778 | 1.574 | 3.651 | ||||||||||
Commercial Production Years 11 - 15 | 532,660 | 227,790 | 821,638 | 1.543 | 3.607 | ||||||||||
Commercial Production Years 16-18 | 212,570 | 134,770 | 364,228 | 1.713 | 2.703 | ||||||||||
Commercial Production Years 19-22 (Stockpile) | 163,436 | 158,504 | 172,968 | 1.058 | 1.091 |
Table 16-7 also breaks out the mining cost by several time periods. Years 19 to 22 are low grade stockpile re-handle.
The estimate is based on assumed prices for commodities such as fuel, explosives, parts, etc. that are subject to wide variations depending on market conditions. It is also assumed that the truck fleet, including the water trucks, is fueled by a combination of liquid natural gas (LNG) and diesel fuel. The current estimate is based on the following estimated prices for key commodities:
- Diesel fuel delivered to the site for $1.041 per liter,
- LNG/diesel for trucks delivered at $0.48 per liter diesel equivalent,
- Electrical power at $0.10 per kwh,
- Bulk blasting agents at $0.75 per kg delivered to the site, and
- Tires at approximately 75% of US list prices.
16.9 SUMMARY OF MINE CAPITAL AND OPERATING COSTS
Table 16-8 summarizes the Casino mine capital and operating costs for the life of the project.
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Table 16-8: Summary of Mine Capital and Operating Costs
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17 RECOVERY METHODS
17.1 PROCESS DESCRIPTION
The Casino process plant will consist of two processing facilities, one for sulphide ore and one for oxide ore.
The sulphide ore processing facility will produce mineral concentrates of copper and molybdenum using conventional flotation technology. The copper concentrate will be dewatered and transported as a filtered cake by highway trucks. The molybdenum concentrate will be dewatered and packaged in super sacks for transport. Gold and silver contained in the sulphide ore will be recovered as a fraction of the copper concentrate.
The oxide ore processing facility will produce gold and silver Doré bars via heap leach and carbon adsorption technology. Copper contained in the oxide ore will be recovered as a copper sulphide precipitate using SART technology.
Figure 17-1 is a simplified schematic of the overall process for processing both the sulphide ore and the oxide ore. This provides the basis for the process description that follows.
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Figure 17-1: Overall Process Flowsheet
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17.2 SULPHIDE ORE PROCESS PLANT DESCRIPTION
The following items summarize the process operations required to extract copper and molybdenum from the sulphide ore:
- Size reduction of the run-of-mine (ROM) to minus 200 mm.
- Stockpiling primary crushed ore and then reclaiming with feeders and a belt conveyor.
- Size reduction of the ore in a semi-autogenous (SAG) mill - ball mill grinding circuit with pebble crushing.
- Concentration and separation of the copper and molybdenum sulphide minerals by froth flotation to produce a bulk (copper/molybdenum) concentrate.
- Separation of the bulk concentrate into separate copper and molybdenum concentrates.
- Final copper concentrate will be thickened, filtered, and loaded in highway haul trucks for shipment.
- Final molybdenum concentrate will be filtered, dried, and packaged in bags for shipment.
- Concentration of the bulk flotation tailing in a pyrite flotation circuit. Pyrite flotation circuit tailing will have a low sulphide sulfur concentration.
- Subaqueous deposition of the pyrite concentrate in the tailing storage facility.
- Flotation tailing will be thickened and transported by a gravity pipeline to a tailing impoundment area. The tailing will be cycloned with underflow recovered as sand for tailing dam construction and overflow reporting to the tailing disposal impoundment site
- Storing, preparing, and distributing reagents used in the sulphide ore process.
- Water from tailing and concentrate dewatering will be recycled for reuse in the process. Plant water stream types include: process water, fresh water, potable water, and fire water.
17.2.1 Crushing and Coarse Ore Stockpile
Run of Mine (ROM) sulphide ore will be trucked from the mine to the primary crusher, and fed to the crusher via a dump pocket. The primary crusher will be a 1,524 mm x 2,870 mm (60”x113”), or equivalent, gyratory crusher, with an open side setting of 200 mm. The crushed ore will drop into a discharge bin equipped with an apron feeder. The apron feeder will discharge onto a belt conveyor that will discharge the primary crushed ore to a covered, conical ore stockpile.
Primary crushed ore will be stockpiled on the ground in a covered, conical ore stockpile. A reclaim tunnel will be installed beneath the stockpile. The stockpile will contain approximately 75,000 tonnes of “live” ore storage. Ore will be moved from the “dead” storage area to the “live” storage area by front-end loader or bulldozer.
Ore for the single grinding line will be withdrawn from the coarse ore reclaim stockpile by variable speed, apron feeders. The feeders will discharge to a conveyor belt which will provide the new feed to the SAG mill in the primary grinding circuit.
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17.2.2 Grinding and Classification
Ore will be ground to rougher flotation feed size in two stages: first, a primary semi-autogenous (SAG) mill circuit and, second, a ball mill circuit. The SAG mill will operate in closed circuit with a pebble trommel screen and pebble crushers. The ball mills will operate in closed circuit with hydrocyclones.
The SAG mill, 12.2 m diameter x 7.9 m Effective Grinding Length (EGL), will be equipped with a 29 MW gearless wrap-around drive. SAG mill product will discharge through a trommel screen. Trommel undersize will flow by gravity to the primary cyclone feed sump where it will combine with the discharge of the ball mills. Trommel oversize will be transported by belt conveyors to the pebble crushing circuit.
The pebble crushing circuit will consist of a surge bin, belt feeders and three short-head, cone type crushers, each equipped with 750 kW, or equivalent, drives. The cone crushers will discharge onto the SAG feed conveyor. Pebbles may bypass the pebble crushing circuit via a diverter gate, ahead of the pebble crusher surge bin, to the SAG feed conveyor.
Secondary grinding will be performed in two ball mills operated in parallel. Each ball mill, 8.5 m diameter x 13.4 m EGL, will be equipped with a 22 MW gearless wrap-around drive. Each ball mill will operate in closed circuit with two parallel clusters of hydrocyclones. Discharge from both ball mills will be combined with the undersize from the trommel in the primary cyclone feed sump and will be pumped to the hydrocyclone clusters via variable speed horizontal centrifugal slurry pumps. Hydrocyclone underflow will return by gravity to the ball mills. Hydrocyclone overflow (final grinding circuit product), with a target particle size distribution of 80 percent finer than 200 microns, will flow by gravity to the flotation circuit.
17.2.3 Flotation
17.2.3.1 Bulk (Copper/Molybdenum) Flotation
Hydrocyclone overflow will flow by gravity to the bulk (copper-moly) flotation circuit. The copper-moly flotation circuit will consist of two rows of mechanical rougher flotation cells, two rows of mechanical first cleaner flotation cells, two concentrate regrind mills operated in closed circuit with hydrocyclones, one row of mechanical second cleaner flotation cells, and four copper-moly third cleaner flotation column cells.
Rougher flotation concentrate will flow by gravity to a sump and will be pumped by variable speed, horizontal centrifugal pumps to the first cleaner flotation circuit. Tailing from the rougher flotation cells will flow by gravity to the pyrite scavenger flotation circuit.
Pyrite concentrate will join the first cleaner tailing at the pyrite thickener. Tailing from the pyrite flotation circuit (final tailing) will flow by gravity to the tailing thickeners.
First cleaner flotation concentrate will flow by gravity to the regrind cyclone feed sump. Tailing from the first cleaner flotation cells will be combined with the concentrate from the pyrite flotation section in the pyrite thickener.
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Copper-moly concentrate regrinding will be performed in two vertical tower mills operated in parallel. The vertical mills will operate in closed circuit with hydrocyclones. Vertical mill discharge will be combined with copper-moly first cleaner flotation concentrate in the regrind cyclone feed sump and will be pumped by variable speed, horizontal centrifugal slurry pump to hydrocyclone clusters. Hydrocyclone underflow will be split by dedicated hydrocyclones for each regrind mill and will report back to the regrind mills. Hydrocyclone overflow (final regrind circuit product), with a target particle size distribution of 80 percent finer than 25 microns, will flow by gravity to the copper second cleaner flotation circuit.
Second cleaner concentrate will flow by gravity to the third cleaner feed sump and will be pumped by horizontal centrifugal pumps to the third cleaner column for upgrading. Tailing from the second cleaner flotation cells will return to the first cleaner flotation circuit.
Third cleaner concentrate will flow by gravity to the molybdenum separation circuit. Tailing from the third cleaner flotation columns will return to the second cleaner flotation circuit.
The quantity and size of the flotation cells that will be installed in the bulk flotation circuit are shown in Table 17-1.
Table 17-1: Bulk Flotation Cells
STAGE | QUANTITY OF CELLS | SIZE OF CELLS (m3) |
Copper Rougher | 14 | 300 |
Pyrite Scavenger | 8 | 300 |
Copper 1stCleaner | 12 | 100 |
Copper 2ndCleaner | 6 | 100 |
Copper 3rdCleaner | 4 | 3.05 m dia. column |
Flotation reagents will be added at several points in the bulk flotation circuit as required.
17.2.3.2 Molybdenite Flotation
Concentrate from the final cleaner of the bulk flotation circuit with report to a copper-moly thickener. Thickened copper-moly concentrate will be pumped by variable speed, horizontal centrifugal slurry pumps to the molybdenite (moly) flotation circuit.
The moly flotation circuit will consist of two agitated rougher conditioning tanks, one row of separation (rougher) flotation cells, one row of first cleaner flotation cells, a concentrate regrind circuit, one second cleaner flotation column, one third cleaner flotation column, and one fourth cleaner flotation column.
Concentrate from the moly rougher cells will be pumped to the moly first cleaner flotation cells. Tailing from the moly rougher cells, which will be the final copper concentrate flotation product, will flow by gravity to the copper concentrate thickener.
Concentrate from the moly first cleaner cells will flow by gravity to the moly concentrate regrind circuit. Tailing from the moly first cleaner flotation cells will flow by gravity to the copper concentrate thickener.
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In order to reduce consumption of NaHS and nitrogen, the rougher and first cleaner cells will be hooded and the flotation gas will be recycled.
Moly concentrate regrinding will be performed in vertical mill, operated in open circuit. First cleaner moly concentrate will flow by gravity to a regrind sump and be pumped by a variable speed, horizontal centrifugal slurry pump through the mill. Reground moly first cleaner concentrate will be pumped to the moly second cleaner flotation column.
Concentrate from the moly second cleaner column will flow by gravity to the moly third cleaner flotation circuit. Tailing from the moly second cleaner flotation column will be pumped to the moly first cleaner flotation circuit.
Concentrate from the moly third cleaner column will flow by gravity to the moly fourth cleaner flotation circuit. Tailing from the moly third cleaner flotation column will be recycled to the moly second cleaner flotation circuit.
Concentrate from the moly fourth cleaner column, which will be the final moly concentrate flotation product, will flow by moly concentrate dewatering circuit. Tailing from the moly fourth cleaner column will be recycled to the moly third cleaner flotation circuit.
The quantity and size of the flotation cells that will be installed in the moly flotation circuit are shown in Table 17-2.
Table 17-2: Moly Flotation Cells
STAGE | QUANTITY OF CELLS | SIZE OF CELLS (m3) |
Moly Rougher | 7 | 8.50 |
Moly 1stCleaner | 7 | 2.83 |
Moly 2ndCleaner | 1 | 2.0 m dia. column |
Moly 3rdCleaner | 1 | 1.25 m dia. column |
Moly 4thCleaner | 1 | 1.0 m dia. column |
Flotation reagents will be added at several points in the moly flotation circuit as required.
17.2.4 Concentrate Dewatering and Storage
17.2.4.1 Copper Concentrate Dewatering
Moly rougher flotation tailing (copper concentrate) and moly first cleaner flotation tailing (copper concentrate) will flow by gravity to a copper concentrate thickener. Thickened copper concentrate will be filtered in three tower type copper concentrate pressure filters. Filter cake will discharge to conveyor belt that will discharge to a covered copper concentrate stockpile.
Copper concentrate will be reclaimed by front-end loader onto highway haulage trucks. The loaded haul trucks will proceed to a wash station and be cleaned before exiting the concentrate load out area. This procedure will ensure against tracking of concentrate from the facility.
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17.2.4.2 Molybdenite Concentrate Dewatering
Moly concentrate from the final moly cleaner flotation circuit will flow by gravity to an agitated filter feed tank. Moly concentrate slurry will be filtered in one tower type moly concentrate pressure filter. Filter cake will discharge to a Holo-Flite type dryer. The dryer will discharge to the moly concentrate storage bin.
Moly concentrate will be withdrawn from the dried moly concentrate storage bin by a packaging system and will be bagged in super-sacks for shipment by trucks to market.
17.2.5 Pyrite Concentrate Deposition
Pyrite concentrate and tailing from the copper first cleaner flotation circuit will collect in a pyrite thickener. Thickened pyrite concentrate will be flow by gravity to the Tailings Management Facility (“TMF”) for subaqueous deposition.
17.2.6 Tailing Dewatering
Tailing from the pyrite scavenger flotation will flow by gravity to two tailing thickeners operated in parallel. Overflow solution from the tailing thickeners will be pumped by horizontal centrifugal pumps to the process water pond for reuse in the mill. Thickened tailing will flow by gravity to the TMF.
17.2.7 Reagents
Reagent storage, mixing, and distribution will be provided for all of the reagents used in the sulphide processing circuits. The following is a list of the reagents used in the process plant:
- Sodium-diisobutyl dithiophosphinate (Aerophine 3418A Promoter)
- Sodium diethyl dithiophosphate/sodium di-secondary butyl dithiophosphate (Aerofloat 208 Promoter)
- Methyl Isobutyl Carbinol (MIBC, frother)
- Pebble Lime (CaO, pH modifier)
- Fuel Oil (#2 Diesel fuel, moly collector)
- Sodium Hydrosulfide (NaHS, copper mineral depressant)
- Flomin D-910 (copper mineral depressant)
- Flocculant
- Potassium amyl xanthate (PAX – pyrite flotation)
17.2.8 Water System
17.2.8.1 Fresh Water
The water source for Casino is the Yukon River, 17 km away.
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Fresh water will be pumped from the fresh water intake tank through a series of booster stations, pumps, and pipelines to the plant site area. Fresh water will collect in a fresh/fire water pond at the process site. The design capacity of the fresh water collection and transfer system will be approximately 3,400 cubic meters per hour.
Fresh water and fire water will be supplied from the fresh/fire water pond to the facility by gravity. Fresh water will be distributed to:
- A chlorinator package and subsequent potable water tank, for use in offices, laboratory, dry, and rest rooms
- A mine water tank for mine road dust control
- A gland seal water tank to supply seal water for mechanical equipment
- The ADR Fresh/Fire water tank
- The process water pond
- The fire water distribution system in the mill site area
17.2.8.2 Process Water
Water reclaimed from the Tailing Management Facility (TMF), designated as process water, will be pumped from water barges at the TMF pond through a series of booster tanks, booster pumps, and pipelines to the plant site area. Process water will collect in a process water pond at the process site. Overflow solution from the tailing, bulk concentrate, and copper concentrate thickeners will also be pumped to the process water pond. Process water will be distributed from the process water pond by gravity flow through a pipeline to mill process water usage points.
17.3 OXIDE ORE PROCESS PLANT DESCRIPTION
The following items summarize the process operations required to extract gold from the oxide gold ore.
- Size reduction of the run-of-mine (ROM) ore to minus 200 mm using a primary gyratory crusher.
- Size reduction of the primary crushed ore to minus 50 mm through screening and a secondary cone crusher.
- Stacking crushed ore by overland conveyors and a stacker onto a heap leach pad and, subsequently, leaching the ore with cyanide solution.
- Recovering gold and silver from the pregnant leach solution on activated carbon in carbon in column tanks (CIC).
- Recovering copper from the pregnant leach solution by the Sulphidization, Acidification, Recycling and Thickening (SART) process.
- Treating gold and silver loaded carbon recovered from the CIC circuit by acid washing, cold stripping with cyanide solution to remove copper, hot stripping with caustic solution to remove gold, and thermal reactivation of the carbon.
- Recovering gold from the pregnant carbon stripping solution as cathode sludge on stainless steel mesh cathodes in an electrowinning cell.
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- Melting the cathode sludge with fluxes to produce a gold-silver Doré bar, the final product of the ore processing facility.
- Storing, preparing, and distributing reagents to be used in the process.
17.3.1 Crushing, Conveying, and Stacking
The Oxide ore will have a primary crusher and conveyor system separate from the Sulphide ore.
Run of mine (ROM) oxide ore will be trucked from the mine to the primary crusher apron feeder. Alternatively, ROM may be stockpiled in the ROM Stockpile if the primary crusher is down for maintenance. A front end loader will reclaim ore from the stockpile and dump onto the primary crusher apron feeder. The apron feeder will provide the feed to the primary crusher. The primary crusher will be a 1,372 mm x 1,905 mm (54”x75”), or equivalent, gyratory crusher. The primary crusher will discharge onto a secondary screen feed belt conveyor.
Secondary screen feed conveyor will discharge onto the secondary screen. Screen undersize will discharge onto the fine ore transfer conveyor. Screen oversize will discharge onto secondary screen discharge belt conveyor, which discharges into secondary crusher feed bin.
Secondary crusher belt feeder will draw ore from the bin and provide feed to the secondary cone crusher, which will be equipped with a 750 kW, or equivalent, drive. Cone crusher discharge will combine with undersize from the secondary screen on the fine ore transfer conveyor. Lime will be added to this conveyor, which discharges onto the intermediate transfer conveyor.
The intermediate transfer conveyor discharges onto a series of overland transfer conveyors, with the last overland conveyor discharging onto the telescoping stacker feed conveyor. The telescoping stacker feed conveyor discharges onto the leach pile stacking conveyor, which places crushed ore onto the heap leach pile.
17.3.2 Heap Leaching
The heap leach pad will consist of liners and a low-permeability soil liner. A perforated pipe drainage system will enhance drainage of leach solutions away from the liner, reduce hydrostatic head, and facilitate pregnant solution recovery. A 600 mm thick layer of sized river gravel or crushed and screened rock will be placed on the liner. This layer is necessary to protect the liner from crushed ore stacking and to allow unimpeded leach solution flow to the drainage pipe system.
Barren process solution will be applied to ore lots. Solution will be applied with drip emitters to minimize evaporation losses. When an ore lot has completed the primary leach cycle, solution application will be stopped and another ore lift (or layer) will be placed on top of the previous lift. Leach solution application will resume. The process of layering and leaching the ore will repeat for a maximum of eight ore lifts or layers on the leach pad. When the last process leach cycle is completed on the last lift, the ore heaps will be rinsed with freshwater to recover the remaining gold and rinse the residue.
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Pregnant solution discharging from the ore heaps will be collected in a network of pipe placed throughout the overliner material that will direct the solution to the in-heap collection area.
Pregnant solution will be pumped from the in-heap collection area using horizontal, centrifugal pregnant solution pumps. The pump discharge pipes will be combined in a single pipeline to the carbon-in-column (CIC) / SART circuit for recovery of gold and copper.
An events pond will be installed to handle any overflow that might occur during a large precipitation event. Water that accumulates in the events pond will be periodically pumped by a submersible pump to the barren solution system feeding leach solution to the ore heaps.
The pond system has been sized to contain normal operating solutions and stormwater. Ponds will be fenced to reduce the risk of danger to wildlife.
17.3.3 Carbon ADR Plant/SART
Gold and silver will be recovered from heap leach pregnant solution by adsorption of their ions on activated carbon followed by desorption and electrowinning of a gold and silver solid product. Copper will be recovered from the pregnant solution by the SART process where the copper will be precipitated by the addition of sulphide to produce a copper sulphide product.
The process steps required to recover gold and silver by the carbon adsorption method include:
- loading gold and silver on activated carbon in a carbon in column (CIC) circuit
- acid washing of the carbon to remove water scale and acid soluble copper
- cold stripping of carbon (elution) to remove copper
- stripping gold and silver from the carbon using a hot caustic solution
- electrowinning gold and silver from the stripping solution in a precious metal sludge using an electrolytic cell
- reactivating stripped carbon by thermal regeneration
- melting the precious metal sludge in a crucible furnace to produce Doré bars.
The process steps required to recover copper by the SART method include:
- bleeding a portion of the pregnant solution to the SART process
- adding sodium hydro-sulphide to the solution
- decreasing the pH of the solution with acid, thereby precipitating copper
- removing the copper precipitate from the solution by thickening, filtration, and drying
- increasing the pH of the solution with lime, thereby precipitating gypsum
- removing the gypsum from the solution by thickening
- shipping the filtered copper sulphide product to a smelter for refining
17.3.3.1 Carbon-in-Column (CIC) Circuit
Gold will be recovered from pregnant leach solution in a two-train, five-stage carbon-in-column (CIC) circuit. Pregnant leach solution will pass through a stationary screen to remove trash prior to being introduced into the CIC tank line. The majority of the pregnant solution will pass directly to the CIC circuit, and the remainder will be processed for copper recovery by the SART process and then be returned to the CIC circuit.
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The CIC circuit will consist of two parallel trains of five CIC tanks operated in series. Each CIC tank will be a flat bottom tank with an internal distribution plate between the bottom and the carbon charge. It will be possible to bypass any tank by using a manually operated dart-valve.
Solution (barren solution) will exit the CIC lines, be combined, and pass through a safety, single deck, vibrating screen to capture carbon unintentionally washed from the carbon columns. Screen oversize (carbon) will be transferred by gravity to a carbon quench tank.
Carbon will be advanced through the circuit by a series of recessed impeller, horizontal centrifugal pumps. Loaded carbon advanced from the first CIC vessel will be pumped by the first carbon transfer pump from each train to a carbon distributor tank. Carbon will be advanced through from tank to tank by additional, dedicated carbon transfer pumps – one pump for each CIC vessel.
Regenerated and new carbon will be sized by screening on single-deck, vibrating screens. Screen undersize will flow by gravity to a carbon fines tank. Screen oversize will flow by gravity to the last carbon column on either of the CIC lines when carbon is advanced.
Barren solution will discharge from the CIC tank line and flow into a barren solution tank. Vertical turbine pumps will pump barren solution from the barren solution tank to the heap leach barren solution distribution system. The pump discharge lines will be combined to a single pipeline to the heap leach area.
Cyanide solution will be added to the barren solution tank and/or the first CIC columns.
17.3.3.2 SART Circuit
A portion of the heap leach pregnant solution, approximately 150 cubic meters per hour, will be pumped to the SART process. Sodium hydrosulphide will be added to the solution through an inline mixer. Downstream of this in-line mixer, sulfuric acid will be added to the solution prior to mixing in the precipitation reactor.
The discharge from the precipitation reactor will flow by gravity to a covered copper sulphide thickener. Most of the underflow from this thickener will be recirculated to the precipitation reactor, while the balance of the thickener underflow will be advanced to a copper sulphide neutralization tank. Overflow solution from the copper sulphide thickener will collect in a neutralization feed tank.
Sodium hydroxide will be added to the copper thickener underflow neutralization tank. Neutralized copper sulphide, thickened slurry will be fed to the copper sulphide filter press. The filter cake will discharge onto the copper sulphide filter cake belt conveyor, which discharges into a bin. The filtered cake will pass through a dryer. Dried copper sulphide will collect in a bin, be loaded into supersacks, and transported by flatbeds trucks to market.
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Copper sulphide thickener overflow will collect in a neutralization feed tank. Neutralization feed pump will transfer the overflow solution to the first neutralization reactor. Lime and recirculated gypsum thickener underflow will be added to this reactor, which overflows into the second neutralization reactor.
Neutralized solution will flow by gravity to a covered, gypsum thickener. A portion of the thickener underflow will be recirculated to the first neutralization reactor. The balance of the underflow will be pumped to a gypsum holding tank.
Gypsum thickener overflow will collect in a treated solution tank, where an anti-scalant will be added. This treated solution will be returned to the CIC circuit.
A scrubber will collect fumes from the precipitation reactor, the copper sulphide thickener, the copper sulphide neutralization tank, the neutralization feed tank, the neutralization reactors, the gypsum thickener, and the sodium hydro-sulphide storage tank. The pH of the scrubber will be adjusted by NaOH. Some scrubber discharge will be recirculated, but net scrubber discharge will report to the first neutralization reactor.
17.3.3.3 Carbon Acid Wash
Loaded carbon will be acid washed in a column. A dilute hydrochloric acid solution will be pumped into the bottom of the acid wash tank, flow up through the vessel, and overflow to the acid tank. This pump will either be operated to circulate solution through the carbon or the carbon may be left to soak. After completion of the acid wash solution cycle, the batch of spent acid solution will be pumped to the acidifying reactor tank in the SART circuit.
A caustic (basic) solution will be pumped into the bottom of the acid wash tank at the end of its cycle, flow up through the vessel, and overflow to the acid tank. The caustic solution pump will either be operated to circulate solution through the carbon or to fill the acid wash tank and allow the carbon to soak. Upon completion of the acid wash cycle, the caustic solution will be used to neutralize the acid solution to pH 8 to 10. Neutralized solution will be pumped to the barren tank.
17.3.3.4 (Copper) Cold Stripping
The acid washed loaded carbon will be cold stripped to remove copper before hot stripping to remove gold.
Water will be added to the acid washed carbon and the carbon and water slurry will be pumped from the acid wash vessel to one of the two strip columns. Water transferred with the carbon (carbon transfer water) will be drained through an internal screen in the bottom of the cold strip tank and will drain to a carbon fines tank.
Cyanide solution will be pumped into the top of the cold strip tank, flow down through the vessel, and discharge through the internal screen. The carbon will then be soaked for the cold strip cycle. Upon completion of the cold strip cycle, the strip solution will be transferred to the SART circuit.
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The drained carbon will be rinsed with barren solution to remove the copper strip solution. The rinse solution will also be transferred to the carbon fines tank.
17.3.3.4.1 Carbon Elution Circuit
Elution will be by pressure Zadra techniques. Barren strip solution, containing sodium hydroxide (caustic) will be heated by a solution heating system and circulated through the bottom of the elution vessel by a horizontal centrifugal pump. The solution will flow up through the column, exit the top as pregnant solution, and flow through a heat recovery heat exchanger. The cooled solution will flow to the electrowinning (EW) barren return tank.
After completion of the elution cycle, the strip solution will be drained through an internal screen in the bottom of the elution tank and will be transferred to the carbon fines tank.
17.3.3.5 Electrowinning
Gold and silver will be recovered from pregnant strip solution by the electrowinning process.
Pregnant strip solution will be pumped from the EW barren return tank to an electrowinning cell. Knitted stainless steel mesh cathodes will be used in the cells for deposition of the gold and silver. The stripped solution will discharge from the cell and flow back to the EW barren return tank.
When the electrowinning cycle has been completed, the solution will be pumped from the EW barren return tank to the barren strip solution tank. A high pressure, water wash system will remove the metal sludge from the cathodes and wash it into an electrowinning wash/ sludge tank. Sludge slurry will be pumped by a diaphragm pump to a plate and frame, pressure filter. Filter cake will be cleaned from the filters by hand and placed in filter cake boats for refining.
17.3.3.6 Smelting
Filter cake will be mixed with fluxing materials and charged to an electric, crucible furnace. The melted charge will be poured into conical molds. Doré (gold and silver) will sink to the bottom of the mold, and slag glass containing fused fluxes and impurities, will float to the top of the mold. Doré will be sampled for gold content using vacuum tube samples.
After cooling and solidifying, the molds will be dumped and the slag will be knocked off the Doré buttons by hand. A vertical drill press will be available as a back-up sample method for Doré buttons.
Buttons will be cleaned under a water stream using a needle gun, weighed, and stamped with an identification number and weight. Doré buttons will be the final product of the operation and will be stored in a safe until shipment.
Slag will be crushed and screened to recover high-grade chips that will be returned to the melting furnace. Remaining slag will be returned to the heap leach.
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Fumes from the melting furnace will be collected through ductwork and cleaned in a bag house dust collector system before discharging to atmosphere.
17.3.3.7 Carbon Regeneration
Barren, stripped carbon will be sized on a single deck, vibrating screen. Screen undersize will flow by gravity to the carbon fines tank. Screen oversize will flow by gravity to a kiln feed tank.
Carbon will be withdrawn from the kiln feed tank by a screw conveyor feeder. The feeder will discharge to a horizontal, propane gas fired, carbon regeneration kiln.
The carbon regeneration kiln will discharge into carbon quench tank. Quenching will be done in a conical bottom tank. Regenerated carbon will be transferred from this tank to an activated carbon storage tank. New carbon, after being soaked and attrition agitated in a separate tank, will be added as required. Carbon and water slurry will be pumped from this tank by recessed impeller, horizontal, centrifugal pump to carbon sizing screens for use in the CIC circuit.
17.3.4 Reagents
Reagent storage, mixing, and distribution will be provided for all of the reagents used in the oxide processing circuits. The following is a list of the reagents used in the process plant:
- Sodium Cyanide (NaCN)
- Caustic (sodium hydroxide, NaOH)
- Pebble Lime (CaO)
- Hydrochloric Acid (HCl)
- Sodium Hydro-Sulphide (NaHS)
- Sulphuric acid (H2SO4)
- Activated Carbon
- Antiscalant
- Flocculant
17.3.5 Water System
Water will be supplied from the fresh water pond on-site to an ADR fresh/fire water tank. Water from this tank will supply a variety of destinations to meet process, mine, and fire water requirements.
17.4 PRIMARY PROCESS DESIGN CRITERIA
The design of the Casino ore processing facilities is based on the following criteria. All units of mass are in dry metric tonnes unless otherwise specified.
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17.4.1 Primary Process Design Criteria – Sulphide Circuit | |
17.4.1.1 Run-of-Mine Ore Characteristics |
Maximum mine-run ore size, mm | 900 | |||
Ore specific gravity | 2.7 | |||
Ore bulk density, mine-run sulphide ore, t/m3 | 1.68 | |||
Ore bulk density, mine-run waste material, t/m3 | 1.68 | |||
Ore bulk density, primary crushed, t/m3 | 1.68 | |||
Ore assay (life of mine average) | ||||
Percent Copper | 0.202 | |||
Percent Molybdenum | 0.0229 | |||
Gold, grams per tonne | 0.238 | |||
Silver, grams per tonne | 1.740 | |||
Ore assay (for mill design; first five years average) | ||||
Percent Copper | 0.293 | |||
Percent Molybdenum | 0.0236 | |||
Gold, grams per tonne | 0.357 | |||
Silver, grams per tonne | 2.050 | |||
Ore abrasion index, Bond, (Ai)(g) | 0.265 | |||
Ore work indices: | ||||
Crushing index, SGS Method, (CI) | 29.2 | |||
Rod mill work index, Bond, (RWi) kWh/t | 9.9 | |||
Ball mill work index, Bond, (BWi) kWh/t | 14.5 | |||
Modified Ball Mill Wi, SGS Method, (ModBWi) kWh/t | 14.3 | |||
SAG power index, SPI (minutes) | 52.9 | |||
Ore moisture content, %, design | 3 |
17.4.1.2 Production Schedule
Ore Crushing and Milling Rate, average, t/y | 43,800,000 | |||
Ore Crushing and Milling Rate, average, t/d | 120,000 |
17.4.1.3 Primary Crushing Operating Schedule
Days per year | 365 | |||
Hours per day | 24 | |||
Shifts per day | 2 | |||
Hours per shift | 12 | |||
% Utilization (excluding start-up) | 80 | |||
Ore crushing rate, flow sheet design, t/h | 6,250 | |||
Ore crushing rate, maximum operating, t/h | 8,100 |
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17.4.1.4 Grinding, Flotation, and Concentrate Handling Operating Schedule
Days per year | 365 | |||
Hours per day | 24 | |||
Shifts per day | 2 | |||
Hours per shift | 12 | |||
% Availability (excluding start-up) | 93 | |||
Ore processing rate, flow sheet design, t/h | 5,376.3 | |||
Ore processing rate, maximum operating, t/h | 6,183 |
17.4.1.5 Metal Production Schedule Based on Mill Feed Schedule
17.4.1.5.1 Supergene sulphide (SUS) ores, and mixed Supergene (SUS/SOX) ores
Copper recovery to copper concentrate, percent | 94% of sulfide copper | |||
Copper concentrate grade, percent copper | TBD | |||
Gold recovery to copper concentrate, percent | 69% | |||
Molybdenum recovery to molybdenum concentrate, percent | 52.3% | |||
Molybdenum concentrate grade, percent molybdenum | 50% | |||
Silver recovery to copper concentrate, percent | 60% |
17.4.1.5.2 Hypogene (HYP) ores
Copper recovery to copper concentrate, percent | 92.1% | |||
Copper concentrate grade, percent copper | TBD | |||
Gold recovery to copper concentrate, percent | 66% | |||
Molybdenum recovery to molybdenum concentrate, percent | 78.6% | |||
Molybdenum concentrate grade, percent molybdenum | TBD | |||
Silver recovery to copper concentrate, percent | 50% |
17.4.2 Primary Process Design Criteria – Oxide Circuit
17.4.2.1 Run-of-Mine Ore Characteristics
Mine-run maximum ore size, millimeters | 900 | |||
Mine-run ore specific gravity | 2.65 | |||
Mine-run particle size distribution, p80, mm | 400 | |||
Mine-run ore moisture content, %, design | 2 | |||
Ore angle of repose, degree | 37 | |||
Ore angle of draw down, degree | 60 | |||
Ore gold assay, g/t, design | 0.45 | |||
Ore silver assay, g/t, design | 3.00 | |||
Ore copper grade, %, design | 0.05 | |||
Ore stacked density, t/m3 | 1.75 |
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17.4.2.2 Production Schedule
Crushing, Conveying, and Stacking Rate, DTPY | 9,125,000 | |||
Crushing, Conveying, and Stacking Operating Schedule | ||||
Days per year | 300 | |||
Hours per day | 24 | |||
% Availability (excluding start-up) | 75 | |||
Ore Leaching Rate, DTPY | 9,125,000 | |||
Leaching and Gold Recovery Operating Schedule | ||||
Days per year | 365 | |||
Hours per day | 24 | |||
% Availability (excluding start-up) | 98 |
17.4.2.2.1 Heap Leach Pile
Leach Operating Schedule: | ||||
Days per year | 365 | |||
Ore placement days per year | 300 | |||
Hours per day | 24 | |||
Leach Operating Cycle Days: | ||||
Stack leach pile section | n/a | |||
Cure leach pile | n/a | |||
Leach solution application, primary | 60 | |||
Leach solution application, secondary | through subsequent ore lifts | |||
Drain solution from leach pile | n/a | |||
Total cycle | n/a | |||
Leach Pile: | ||||
Pad ore storage capacity, tonnes | 157,500,000 | |||
Pile slope | 2.5:1 | |||
Maximum ore thickness, meters | 150 | |||
Number of ore lifts | n/a | |||
Thickness of ore lift, meters | 8.0 | |||
Ore pile setback, meters | 9 | |||
(to be used for design of benches between ore lifts and setback from solution collection channels.) |
Leach Pad Liner:
In ponding areas, the liner system will be a double layer composite system, consisting of an 80-mil LLDPE liner, a compacted, low-permeability soil liner, and a 60-mil LLDPE liner. In non-ponding areas, the liner system will be a single-liner composite system, consisting of an 80-mil LLDPE liner and a compacted, low-permeability soil liner. A leak detection layer underlies the low permeability soil liner for both the ponding and non-ponding systems. The leak detection layer consists of a sand layer and perforated collection pipes. The leachate collection system will be installed within the overliner layer. The collection system will consist of a perforated pipe network, which enhances drainage of the leachate away from the liner, reduces hydrostatic head, and facilitates pregnant solution recovery.
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Leach Solution: | ||||
Application method | distribution network with emitters | |||
Application rate, L/h/m2 | 12 | |||
Precipitation, mm/year | 500 | |||
Pan Evaporation rate, mm/year | 308 | |||
Retained solution, leach pile % moisture (wet) | 10 | |||
Operating solution, leach pile % moisture (wet) | 12 | |||
Barren Solution Flow Rate: | ||||
Average, balanced flow, m3/h | 1,312 | |||
Pregnant Solution Flow Rate: | ||||
Average, m3/h | 1,223 |
17.4.2.2.2 Events Pond
Pond Size: | ||||
Storage capacity, total m3 | 112,900 |
Total storage capacity of the stormwater pond will contain all rainfall over the lined leach pad area with 100 percent runoff from an estimated 100-year, 24-hour storm event.
Pond side slopes | 3:1 | |||
Max pond depth, meters | 20 | |||
Freeboard at design containment, meters | 0.3 |
Pond Liner:
The events pond liner system will be a triple layer composite system, consisting of a 60-mil HDPE liner, a compacted, low-permeability soil liner, and a 60-mil HDPE liner. A leak detection layer, consisting of a synthetic ‘geonet’ drainage layer, underlies the low-permeability soil layer.
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18 PROJECT INFRASTRUCTURE
The Project site is located about 300 km northwest of Whitehorse, about 190 km west of Minto, about 200 km northwest of the Village of Carmacks, and about 18 km southwest of the Yukon River, near Patton Hill. The approximate elevation of the mine is 1,300 m.
The mine site is remote from significant population centers, but the site is accessible by several existing winter roads. About 180 km of the roads from Whitehorse to the site are paved. The paved roads include the Alaska Highway and the Klondike Highway. Both highways pass through Whitehorse.
Based on the Port Study by Associated Engineering, the Skagway port is the optimal port to utilize in terms of both concentrate exports and mine supply imports. Whitehorse has an international airport with daily flights to Vancouver. The mine site has an airstrip used to access the site by light aircraft.
The Yukon electrical grid is at a significant distance from the mine and at the current time the utility does not have enough generating capacity to fulfill the requirements for the Casino mine. The cost effective solution to provide power for the project is to build and operate an on-site power plant.
18.1 SITE LAYOUT AND ANCILLARY FACILITIES
18.1.1 General
Project facilities will lie east of Patton Hill. The open pit mine is located between the headwaters of Casino Creek and Canadian Creek and will occupy an area of more than 300 ha. The mine waste rock storage area (WRSA) will cover nearly 210 ha and will be located south of the pit.
A small valley about 1 km south of the pit (within the Tailings Management Facility (TMF) area) will be filled with oxide ore to form the heap leach pad. An earthen embankment at the eastern end of the pad will provide structural support for the heap leach. A spill and runoff control collection pond termed the “Events Pond” will be built directly downhill from the heap leach pad. The heap leach pad, events pond, and embankments will cover about 101 ha in total. The metallurgical recovery plant (gold plant) will lie immediately southeast of the leach heap.
The Tailings Management Facility (TMF) will be located southeast of the pit and plant site within the valley formed by headwaters of Casino Creek. It will retain an ultimate volume of 974 Mt of tailings together with 598 Mt of potentially reactive waste rock. The TMF will cover about 1,120 ha. The TMF will include a water reclaim system to collect process water and return it to the process.
There are two primary crushers: one for the oxide ores and one for the sulphide ores. The primary gyratory crusher pad where each primary crusher will be located will be constructed east of the pit. An overland conveyor belt will carry the sulphide ore 1.6 km to the southwest from the crusher to the coarse ore stockpile, which is located immediately northwest of the processing plant. The crushed oxide ore will be carried to the heap leach by a separate overland conveyor.
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The concentrator consisting of the grinding mills, flotation circuits, reagent mixing, storage and distribution systems, concentrate filter facility and thickeners will be located on an area of relatively flat terrain about 2 km south of the pit and crusher.
Low-grade ore will be placed in several temporary stockpiles adjacent to the plant site and crusher for processing in later years. Figure 18-1 shows the overall project site layout.
Figure 18-1: Overall Site Plan
18.1.2 Truck Shop
A truck shop and associated facilities will occupy about 2.4 ha adjacent to the open pit mine’s eastern exit.
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18.1.3 Residence Camp
A nominal 1,000-man capacity camp will be installed to support construction with additional camps for off-site construction provided by the contractor(s). The construction camp will be converted to serve as residence for the operations staff as construction activities wind down.
18.1.4 Operational Support Facilities
The majority of ancillary buildings are proposed to be located at the processing plant site. The Administration building will provide office space for both the construction effort and operations. The change house (mine dry) and laboratory buildings will be located near the mill and flotation buildings. A warehouse and laydown area will be provided for receiving and storage of parts and supplies, and for maintenance of plant mechanical and electrical equipment. A light vehicle maintenance building is proposed at the plant site apart from the truck shop. All of these buildings will be pre-engineered steel structures.
18.1.5 Guard Shed/Scale House
A Guard Shed/Scale House at the facility entrance will house a guard around the clock. The guard will also operate the truck scale. The guard shed will be of modular construction.
18.1.6 Airstrip
The Casino Mine site is remote and the required workforce is expected to be 1,000 during construction and 600 to 700 during operations. Access to the site for this number of personnel will be best served by aircraft. The project plan includes a new 2,000 m airstrip and pre-engineered building for employee transport to and from the site. The airstrip is planned to be located about 15 km southwest of the mine on a flat area downstream of the TMF embankment adjacent to Dip Creek.
Figure 18-2 shows the current Casino airstrip and the mill plant site.
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Figure 18-2: Current Casino Airstrip
WCGC intends to replace the existing small airstrip with a larger facility that permits all-season operations. Two possible aircraft have been considered to fly to the site. These are the Hawker-Sidley HS 748 turbo-prop aircraft which can be configured with 40-58 seats and the Bombardier Dash 8-100 or 200 series turbo-prop aircraft which can be configured with 37-39 seats.
Given the size of the workforce, it is expected that flights will originate from Whitehorse connecting with scheduled flights from Vancouver or other major centres.
The Dip Creek Valley airstrip site poses few aeronautical challenges and provides safe aircraft operations during all visible weather conditions. The airstrip design criteria have been developed to conform to the Transport Canada Aerodrome Standards and Recommended Practices (TP 312). The airstrip consists of a Code 3C non-instrument runway generally oriented northeast to southwest. It is 2,000 m long with 60 m overrun beyond the thresholds at each end for a total length of 2,120 m. The required runway width is 30 m and the total graded width is 80 m. The airstrip embankment is raised a minimum of 1.5 m above the existing ground to provide a stable base and to prevent any ground ice from melting. There is a taxiway at the northeast end connecting to an apron for aircraft unloading and a parking area at the start of the airstrip access road. Figure 18-3 shows the location of the proposed new airstrip.
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Figure 18-3: Proposed New Airstrip Location
18.1.7 Airstrip Access Road
The airstrip access road consists of approximately 14 km of single lane gravel road starting from the airstrip in the Dip Creek Valley and climbing to connect with the tailings dam access road at the mine site. The road design criteria satisfies the guidelines in the BC Ministry of Forests and Range Forest Road Engineering Guidebook (2nd Edition, 2002) for a 30 km/h design speed. Road construction methods are similar to those of the main access road with the road raised on a fill embankment in the wet valley bottoms and built with both cut and fill as it climbs the slopes out of the valleys. The lower design speed and narrower cross-section allow for more flexibility in the alignment and profile. The road follows more closely to the natural topography.
18.2 BYPASS AND ACCESS ROADS
18.2.1 Service Roads
Service roads will connect the various mine and process facilities together with the ancillaries. The roads will be constructed with a minimum 4 m wide all-weather gravel surface. In general, the maximum grade for the road will be 10%.
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An existing road leads northward from the mine facility to the Yukon River along Britannia Creek. The new fresh water pipeline will roughly follow this road. The roadway will be graded and improved as a service road to facilitate construction, access, inspection, and maintenance of the pipeline.
18.2.2 Access Road
A winter access road from Kluane Lake near the Alaska Highway has been used in the past to service the Casino Mine. Historically, access to the area has been available via the Casino Trail, and WCGC has used this access in recent years.
Access to the site is also available from a barge landing at the junction of Britannia Creek and the Yukon River was prepared in 2010 and the lower 10 km of the 23 km road to the site realigned to avoid all but one creek crossing at Canadian Creek. That creek crossing was replaced by a 15 m bridge in 2011.
Associated Engineering examined various route options for a year-round access road to Casino. The selected option which appears to have the least environmental impact and the greatest stakeholder support is a new road from the end of the existing Freegold Road approximately 70 km northwest of the village of Carmacks. The Casino Mine access road is a 132 km, two-lane, gravel resource road designed to accommodate B-Train Double (BTD) and Tridem trucks. The road design criteria satisfies the guidelines in the BC Ministry of Forests and Range Forest Road Engineering Guidebook (2nd Edition, 2002) for a 70 km/h design speed with some 50 km/h sections where road geometry is limited by the terrain.
In order to maximize the design speed and avoid unstable terrain, the route is located as much as possible in valley bottoms. The road surface elevation is designed to be 2.0 m above existing ground in these areas, with the fill material placed over undisturbed soils. This embankment height stabilises the road against washouts and protects against permafrost degradation under the road.
Where the road climbs out of the valley bottoms, the road construction method includes both cut and fill. Permafrost rich areas may require buttressing of cut slopes with a layer of angular rock fill on top of filter fabric. This will prevent permafrost degradation and act as a retaining structure to improve slope stability.
Most of the fill required for road construction will be developed from borrow pits located along the road alignment and then hauled to where it is needed. The section of road from the Selwyn River to the mine is located in soil that is mainly suitable for road embankment construction and can be utilized for fill. Further soil testing may reveal other locations with borrow suitable for road construction which will result in shorter haul distances and reduced road construction costs.
There are 18 major bridge crossings located along the main access road. These include crossings of Bow Creek, Big Creek, Hayes Creek, and Selwyn River along with several tributaries and side channels. Associated Engineering completed Hydro-technical analysis and topographic site surveys to provide the necessary information to then complete conceptual bridge designs for each crossing. There are also 71 major culvert crossings that have been identified for the main access road with estimated diameters ranging from 1,500 mm to 2,400 mm. Detailed hydro-technical analysis has not been completed for the culvert crossings. Culverts in fish bearing streams will be embedded to provide a simulated natural stream bottom.
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Smaller 500 mm and 600 mm culverts will be used to control road drainage with the culvert spacing determined by road gradient and natural depressions in the topography. Figure 18-4 shows the proposed mine access road route.
Figure 18-4: Proposed New Access Road
18.3 PORT FACILITIES
The Port of Skagway is located 560 km from the Casino site and has been selected as the port of export for the project. The port has historically exported up to 600,000 tonnes annually of lead and zinc concentrates and currently exports the copper concentrates from Capstone Mining, Minto operation. An engineering evaluation has determined that the existing concentrate storage and handling facilities at Skagway can be economically up-graded to serve the Casino export requirements. The Port of Skagway and AIDEA have expressed interest in providing concentrate storage and load-out services to Casino in their to be expanded facilities, consistent with the conceptual design prepared by WC&G. The feasibility study operating cost reflects exporting of copper concentrate through the Port of Skagway facilities. Figure 18-5 shows a conceptual rendering of the proposed port facilities expansion at Skagway.
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Figure 18-5: Conceptual Rendering of Skagway Port Facilities
18.4 PROCESS BUILDINGS
18.4.1 Crushing Plant
There will be two primary crushers. One crusher will do the initial crushing of the sulphide ore, and the other will do the initial crushing of the oxide ore. Each primary crusher will be housed within 38 m and 34.5 high concrete structures, respectively, placed only a few meters below existing grade in order to minimize blasting of bedrock. These structures will be surrounded by “U”-shaped Mechanically Stabilized Earth (Hilfiker or equivalent) retaining walls to form the truck maneuvering area around the dump hopper, roughly at the elevation of the exit from the pit.
18.4.2 Gold Recovery & SART Building
The oxide crushing facility and overland conveyor will feed the heap leach pad, and the pregnant solution from there will feed the ADR/SART Gold Recovery facility. The ADR (Adsorption, Desorption and Recovery) and SART (Sulphidization, Acidification, Recycling, and Thickening) facilities will be located in a single structure.
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18.4.3 Grinding
The Grinding Building (Mill) will house the 40 ft. diameter SAG mill and two 28 ft. diameter ball mills. The SAG mill and ball mill areas will each have a 90-tonne overhead bridge crane for maintenance.
18.4.4 Flotation/Reagent Storage & Mixing
The flotation circuits will be located within a structurally independent building adjacent and connected to the grinding building. Reagent storage and mixing facilities will be fully enclosed and placed adjacent to the flotation building. The 8,000 t lime silo will be located apart from the Mill/flotation building.
18.5 TAILINGS MANAGEMENT FACILITY
Tailings and reactive waste rock will be deposited in an impoundment located in the Casino Creek valley southeast from the open pit. The Tailings Management Facility (TMF) has been designed to provide sufficient capacity to store approximately 956 million tonnes of tailings (including cyclone sand tailings used as embankment fill) and co-disposal of up to 658 million tonnes of potentially reactive waste rock and overburden materials.
The embankments will be developed in stages throughout the life of the project using a combination of suitable non-reactive overburden, cyclone sand and waste rock materials from the plant site, open pit and/or local borrow sources. The Main Embankment will be expanded in stages across the Casino Creek valley.
A preliminary water balance model was developed for the TMF to assess the various flows to and from the facility, to predict the variation in supernatant pond volume during operations and to estimate make up water requirements. The water balance indicates that the operation requires a make-up water supply system to supplement natural run-off captured by the TMF to meet the project water demand.
Seepage water losses from the TMF will be collected in seepage collection systems constructed downstream of the embankments. The seepage will be pumped back into the TMF.
Details of the site characteristics, geotechnical and water management considerations for the tailings facility design, tailings distribution systems, seepage collection and reclamation and closure are contained in the Knight Piésold “Report on Feasibility Design of the Tailings Management Facility” (Ref. No. VA101-325/8-10).
18.6 WASTE ROCK STORAGE AND STOCKPILES
A total of approximately 658 million tonnes of waste rock and overburden will be mined from the open pit. The results of an updated waste characterization study indicate that almost all of the waste material is PAG and ML. The current plan is to store this potentially reactive material subaqueously within the Tailings Management Facility (TMF).Approximately 157.5 million tonnes of gold ore will be processed at the Heap Leach Facility (HLF). This gold ore will be stored in a temporarily stockpile near to the crusher and will report to the heap leach facility over a period of about 18 years, starting in the pre-production years (3 years prior to mill start-up) and continuing up to Year 15 of mill operations. HLF operations will commence during preproduction stripping of the open pit.
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During mine operations approximately 144 million tonnes of Low Grade ore and 32 million tonnes of Supergene Oxide (SOX) ore will be stored in temporary stockpiles. The SOX ore will be stockpiled during the pre-production years and in Year 1 of mill operations, and report to the mill during Years 4 to 12 together with direct feed mill ore. Low Grade ore will be stockpiled up to Year 17 and milled during the last four years of mine operations (Years 19 to 22).
It is anticipated that approximately 2 to 3 million tonnes of Non-Acid Generating (NAG) waste rock (leach cap material) will be produced during pre-production mining. This material will be used in the construction of the TMF Starter (Stage 1) embankment. Any NAG waste rock that is either unsuitable for use as a construction material or in excess of construction material requirements will be placed in the Waste Storage Area or an adjacent surface dump.
Details of the site characteristics, geotechnical conditions, Waste Storage Area and stockpiles design, stability assessment, water management, and reclamation and closure are contained in the Knight Piésold report “Waste Storage Area and Stockpiles Feasibility Design” (Ref. No. VA101-325/8-12).
18.7 LEACH PAD
Information provided by site investigations and design studies indicate that the construction and operation of a Heap Leach Facility (“HLF”) is possible at this site. However, the cold climate and presence of extensive permafrost requires special design and operational considerations.
The proposed facility is located on a southeast facing hill-slope approximately one kilometre south of the deposit area. HLF operations will commence during pre-production stripping of the open pit. The design was carried out for an ore tonnage of 157.5 million tonnes. The heap leach pad will be stacked with ore and leached from Year -3 through Year 15 of mine operations. The ore will be leached at a nominal rate of 9.125 million tonnes per year. The following is a summary of the design features, operational requirements and construction methods which will be required for the proposed facility:
Pumping of pregnant solution to a gold extraction plant, located southeast of the plant site area.
Excavation of the pad foundation down to competent bedrock in areas with permafrost to eliminate potential settlement and instability resulting from thawing of ice-rich overburden. These materials will require containment and sediment control upon thawing. The extent of ice-rich overburden throughout the heap leach pad area has been estimated as approximately two metres deep.
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An events pond for temporary storage of storm runoff and pregnant solution overflow during shut down will be constructed at the foot of the HLF confining embankment. The events pond will be included as part of the pre-production schedule.
A composite liner system comprising a LLDPE liner, compacted soil liner and leak detection and recovery system to maximize leachate collection and minimize seepage losses will be constructed over the upper portion of the leach pad. A double composite liner system comprising two LLDPE liners, a compacted soil liner and a geotextile layer will also be constructed in the lower portion of the leach pad (potential ponding area) and events pond and will include a leak detection and recovery system for intercepting and collecting any leakage through the inner liner.
Borrow materials for the confining embankment, events pond and soil liner construction may utilize suitable overburden (residual and colluvial soils) and weathered bedrock along well drained, non-frozen, south-facing slopes east or west of the HLF. Suitable non-reactive mine waste rock may also be used for HLF construction.
The heap leach pad will be developed in five stages by loading in successive lifts upslope from the confining embankment. This will provide initial stability and minimize initial capital costs. The pad will be developed in eight metre lifts constructed at repose bench face angles of approximately 1.4H:1V. Bench widths approximately nine metres wide will be left at the toe of each lift to establish a final overall slope angle of 2.5H:1V.
Operations will involve the irrigation of a weak cyanide solution over the ore lift and the recovery of pregnant solution by means of solution collection pipes and pumps. The solution will be pumped to the gold extraction plant for metal extraction and recycled for re-use in the leaching process. The irrigation lines will be buried to prevent freezing during winter conditions.
The final heap leach pad required for an ore tonnage of 157.5 million tonnes will have a surface area of approximately 1,501,000 m2. An events pond will provide storage for excess leachate and storm water runoff. The heap leach pad confining embankment and events pond will require approximately 1,067,000 m3 of embankment and drainage fill for construction. The required storage capacity for the events pond is approximately 110,000 m3. The total quantity of geosynthetic liner required for the heap leach pad and confining embankment is approximately 1,587,000 m2. The total quantity of geosynthetic liner for the events pond is approximately 50,300 m2.
18.8 POWER GENERATION AND DISTRIBUTION
18.8.1 Power Generation
Electrical power generation for the project will be developed in two phases. An initial power plant designated the Supplementary Power Plant will be constructed in the vicinity of the main workforce housing complex to provide power to the camp, for construction activities, and to oxide crushing, conveying and heap leach facilities that go into operation before main power plant is operational.
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The Supplementary Power Plant will consist of three internal combustion engines (ICE), dual fuel driven generators (capable of using both LNG and diesel) with a combined power output of 20.1 MW.
A Main Power Plant will be constructed at the Casino main mill and concentrator complex to supply the electrical energy required for operations throughout the mine site. The Supplementary Power Plant will supplement, and to a limited extend provide backup for, the Main Power Plant if one of the gas turbines is out of commission. The primary electrical power generation will be provided by two gas turbine driven generators and a steam generator, operating in combined cycle mode (CCGT) to produce up to 125 MW. Two internal combustion engine (ICE) driven generators will provide another 18.6 MW of power for black start capability, emergency power, and to complement the gas turbine generation when required. The gas turbines will be fueled by natural gas (supplied as liquefied natural gas, or LNG). The internal gas combustion engines will have LNG fuel capability only.
18.8.2 LNG Receiving, Storage and Distribution Facilities
LNG will be transported to the site from Fort Nelson, British Columbia via tanker trucks and stored on-site in a large 10,000 m3 site-fabricated storage tank to provide fuel for the power plant. An LNG receiving station is provided to unload the LNG tankers and transfer the LNG into the storage facility. A LNG vaporization facility is provided to convert the LNG into gas at a suitable supply pressure to operate the power generation equipment. In addition to providing fuel for the power plants, the LNG facility will provide fuel for the mine haulage fleet, and fuel for over-the-highway tractors hauling concentrates, lime, grinding media, and LNG from Fort Nelson. Distribution to the on-site vehicles will be by two portable fueling stations, and two mobile refuelers.
18.8.3 Power Distribution
The power system for the Casino project consists of two generating stations and the distribution system.
The main generating station will consist of a combined cycle plant with two 43 megawatt (MW) gas turbines (GT) and a 29 MW steam turbine (ST). There will also be two 9 MW natural gas powered reciprocating engine generators at the main power plant. These units will all generate power at 13.8 kilovolts (kV) which will be stepped up to 34.5 kV through four (4) 13.8 kV to 34.5 kV transformers for the distribution system.
The second generating station will be located at the main/construction camp site and will consist of three 6.7 MW natural gas/diesel powered reciprocating engine generators. These units will generate power at 13.8 kV and will connect to the 34.5 kV distribution system through one 13.8 kV to 34.5 kV transformer. This station will be the first installed and will provide power for the project construction.
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The 34.5 kV distribution systems will radiate from a 34.5 kV switchgear line-up with feeders to the SAG mill, Ball Mill #1, Ball Mill #2, and feeders to the mill and flotation areas in cable tray using insulated copper conductors. Overhead line feeder circuits with aluminum conductor steel reinforced (ACSR) will be provided for the tailings reclaim water, fresh water from the Yukon River, crushing/conveying and SART/ADR, camp site and two feeders to the pit loop.
Electric power utilization voltages will be 4,160 volts for motors 300 horsepower (hp) and above, 575 volts for three-phase motors 250 hp and below. For lighting, small loads and building services 480/277 or 208/120 volts will be the utilization voltage.
18.9 WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
18.9.1 Oxide Ore Processing
Initial water requirements for the gold plant and oxide ore heap leach operations will be met by pumping water retained behind a temporary coffer dam located at or near an elevation of 825 m within the TMF catchment area along Casino Creek. The coffer dam will provide a source of fresh water for the process. Over time, water usage from the coffer dam will be replaced by reclaim water supplied from the TMF.
18.9.2 Sulphide Ore Processing
The main fresh water supply will be supplied from the Yukon River. The water will be collected in a riverbank caisson and radial well system (Ranney Well) and pumped through an above ground insulated 36 inch diameter by 17.4 km long pipeline with four booster stations. The design flow rate of the system is 3,400 m3/h.
The fire water requirement is 341 m3/h for two hours. This demand is satisfied by designing the storage pond with a fire reserve capacity of 682 m3 in the lower portion of the pond that will be unavailable for other uses.
Potable water will be produced by filtering and chlorinating fresh water and will be stored and distributed separately.
Process water reclaimed from the tailings pond and from the plant will be collected in a 63,700 m3 process water pond.
18.10 WASTEWATER DISPOSAL
Packaged sewage treatment plant systems will accept and treat all sanitary wastewater.
18.11 COMMUNICATIONS
No communications infrastructure exists in the area of the site. The project will develop communications infrastructure to meet construction and operations requirements.
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19 MARKET STUDIES AND CONTRACTS
No contracts are yet in place for the sale of concentrates to smelters/refineries. Transport and process costs have been included based on prevailing conditions at worldwide smelters.
Markets for copper and silver remain strong, with the market for molybdenum being more volatile. Figure 19-1 shows copper prices from August 2005 through January 2012.
The author reviews metal pricing and warehouse inventories for the various metals on a continual basis. Figure 19-2 demonstrates Kitco’s 5-year LME copper warehouse stock levels.
Note: These prices are NOT adjusted for inflation. They are strictly a historical record.
Figure 19-1: Price of Copper
- Spot Price = Price that a commodity is actually selling for at a recorded instant.
- Historical Price = A 36-month average that is typically used for US SEC filings.
- Futures Price Forecast = A 24-month average indicative of where the price may be headed.
- Weighted Average = A price based on 36 months of historical data plus 24 months of futures.
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Figure 19-2: 5 Year LME Copper Warehouse Stock Level
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20 ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES, PERMITTING AND SOCIAL OR COMMUNITY IMPACT
20.1 INTRODUCTION
WCGC, through their subsidiary Casino Mining Corporation (“CMC”) has prepared a feasibility study of the Casino property located 300 km north of Whitehorse in the Dawson Range (see Figure 1-1). To support this study, this section provides further details on the Yukon Government’s environmental/socio-economic assessment process and regulatory approvals required to bring this property into production.
20.2 SITE ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
20.2.1 Location and Terrain
The property in located in the Dawson Range, an area that forms a series of well-rounded ridges and hills that reach a maximum elevation of 1,675 m above mean sea level (ASL). The ridges rise above the Yukon Plateau, a peneplain at approximately 1,200 m ASL, which is deeply incised by the mature drainage of the Yukon River watershed. The property lies in the Klondike Plateau ecozone (172) within the Boreal Cordillera Ecoregion. Initial data collected by CMC show the mean annual temperature for the area is approximately -2.7°C with a summer mean of approximately 10°C and a winter mean of -16.3°C. Mean annual precipitation has been measured as 500 mm.
The characteristic terrain consists of rounded, rolling topography with moderate to deeply incised valleys. Major drainage channels extend below 1,000 m elevation. Most of the project lies between the 650 m elevation at Dip Creek where the air strip will be located and an elevation of 1,400 m at Patton Hill. The most notable local physical feature is the Yukon River, which flows to the west about 16 km north of the project site.
Widespread and discontinuous permafrost occurs throughout the area with cryoplanation terraces, peat plateaus, pingos, palsas, polygons and tussock fields common.
20.2.2 Surface and Groundwater Quality and Hydrology
The property is within the Yukon River drainage basin. The Yukon River is the longest river in Yukon and Alaska and the third longest river in North America. It flows northwest from the Coastal Range Mountains of northern British Columbia, through the Yukon Territory and Alaska to the Bering Sea. The watershed's total drainage area is approximately 840,000 km2 (323,800 km2 in Canada).
Surface and groundwater in the Casino property area has elevated metal concentrations due to naturally occurring acid rock drainage likely caused by natural oxidation of the large mineral deposit. Groundwater quality data indicates elevated concentrations of dissolved metals including aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, copper, iron, uranium and zinc, as well as elevated concentrations of fluoride and total dissolved solids (TDS) and low pH. Similar to groundwater quality, baseline surface water quality in Casino Creek is affected by a small alpine stream, Proctor Gulch, which is acidic and contains elevated levels of metals. This stream drains into upper Casino Creek, causing elevated levels of total aluminum, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, and zinc. Other surface water quality parameters that are affected include acidic pH levels and high sulphate concentrations. The majority of the creeks in the area observe peak discharges during the month of May, and daily fluctuations in discharge due to thawing of the permafrost active layer and rainfall events from June to September.
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20.3 POLITICAL ANALYSIS
20.3.1 Yukon Political Environment
Yukon is presently enjoying a strong resurgence in mining and exploration, which has generally received good local press and public support. Yukon completely escaped the 2008-2009 economic downturn experienced by the rest of Canada and the world. This is fuelled in a large part by exploration success in the Dawson Range copper-gold belt (where Casino is located) and the move to commercial production by three Yukon mining operations; Alexco’s Bellekeno silver mine, Yukon Zinc’s polymetallic Wolverine mine and Sherwood Copper’s Minto mine. In addition, two other proposed mines are well advanced in the permitting process – the Cantung tungsten project owned by North American Tungsten and Victoria Gold’s Eagle project.
Over the last 10 years, the Yukon has experienced a period of political stability as the majority conservative Yukon Party government carries out its mandate with the continued support of a pro-industry (Conservative) federal government in Ottawa. Yukon Party government has been in power since 2002, and is currently in the second year of a third term (five years) winning a majority of seats in the Territorial Legislative Assembly. Land and resources administration and control have been transferred to the territorial government where most of the assessment and permitting is conducted).
The federal conservative government has been announcing a number of significant policies and programs designed to improve the investment climate in Canada’s north as part of their “Northern Strategy.” (See:http://www.northernstrategy.gc.ca/cns/cns-eng.asp) This includes actions towards further improvements to the regulatory system, the creation of a “Northern Major Projects Office” to coordinate the participation of federal departments in project reviews, and changes to resource revenue sharing agreements between the federal and Yukon governments, so that more of the tax benefits from mining stay in the Yukon.
The new revenue sharing agreement with the Yukon Government recently announced will see a larger share of the royalties from Yukon mining projects flow to Yukon First Nations that have settled land claims. (Casino is in Selkirk Traditional Territory. The agreement applies to Selkirk First Nation and Casino as the area is subject to settled claims.)
The overall economic outlook for Yukon is very good and linked to success in the mineral sector, which is strongly supported by the current conservative Yukon Party government. Our current assessment of the permitting timeline for Casino would place final government decisions on the project during the term of the current government. Given the strong and growing dependence on the mining industry for Yukon’s current economic prosperity, any new government would likely continue to offer an attractive investment climate for mining development.
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20.4 YUKON GOVERNMENT APPROACH TO MINE DEVELOPMENT
Yukon is in a period of sustained growth driven by the mining sector. The Conference Board of Canada’s Territorial Outlook, winter, 2012 recently reported that Real GDP in Yukon will increase by 3.7 percent in 2012 and the pace of growth is forecast to accelerate in both 2013 and 2014 (SeeConference Board of Canada Centre for the North:http://www.centreforthenorth.ca/blogs/latestnews/miningpotentialgivestheterritoriesbrightecono micpr). They project that over the next decade, several new mines will come into production. They go on to say between 2013 and 2020, mining output in Yukon will grow by an average compound rate of 10.7 per cent per year. Casino was not considered in the forecast as this project was still at the pre-feasibility stage. Casino will result in much higher impact on GDP and significant upward revision of the economic outlook for the territory as it moves towards production.
The Casino project will have far-reaching effects on the Yukon, and will move the territory to a new level of economic prosperity that will transform the Yukon Government’s ability to provide services and fund programs in support of a growing and dynamic population. A report completed for CMC in 2012 by Myers, Norris Penny describes the economic impacts of the Casino project on government revenues based on the Pre-Feasibility Study Update released in May 2011 (Economic Impacts of the Casino Mine Project, Myers, Norris Penny LLP, January 2012. Unpublished internal report prepared for Casino Mining Corporation.). Total direct, indirect and induced economic impacts over the life of mine for the project include output of $16.4 billion; GDP of $9.8 billion; wages and salaries of $2.8 billion; federal tax of $950 million; Yukon tax of $1.8 billion; and additional taxes of $67 million. While this report has not been updated to reflect this feasibility study, the analysis provides an important benchmark.
20.4.1 Selkirk First Nation APPROACH to Mine Development
The Selkirk Traditional Territory, which includes the Casino property in the Dawson Range, encompasses the project areain the central portion of the Yukon. The Selkirk First Nation concluded a land claims agreement with the federal government in 1997. This agreement was negotiated under the Umbrella Final Agreement (UFA) that was used as the framework or template for individual agreements for all Yukon land claims that have been settled to date. The land claims agreement includes provisions related to ownership of lands by Selkirk (“Settlement Land”) and management of these lands and resources. Discussions with Selkirk First Nation have been ongoing since 2008. Negotiations towards a formal agreement between the company and the First Nation are underway.
20.5 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PROCESS
As of November 2005, the Yukon Socioeconomic Assessment Board (YESAB) must assess most projects in Yukon for environmental and socio-economic effects under theYukon Environmental and Socioeconomic Assessment Act(YESAA).
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20.5.1 Role of the Yukon Environmental Assessment Board
YESAB is an independent Board established under YESAA to administer the assessment process under YESAA. YESAA establishes a number of obligations and responsibilities of the Board with respect to the conduct of reviews, including:
- Determining the adequacy of the proposal;
- Seeking information and views from agencies and First Nations that have expressed an interest;
- Determining the scope of the project;
- Consulting with First Nations;
- Notifying other agencies and governments that are decision bodies as defined by YESAA;
- Establishing rules for the conduct of evaluations;
- Determining whether or not a project will have an adverse socio-economic or environmental impact;
- Recommending to decision bodies that a project proceed subject to specific terms and conditions if negative effects can be mitigated by those terms and conditions; and
- Establishing a Panel of the Board for further review under certain circumstances.
For more information see the official website of the Yukon Socioeconomic Assessment Board:http://www.yesab.ca/index.html.
A project is assessed by YESAB at one of three levels. Smaller projects areevaluated at one of YESAB’s six designated offices (located in six communities around the Yukon). The three-member Executive Committee of YESABscreens projects of greater magnitude, with presumably greater potential for significant effects. The Executive Committee may make a recommendation for the project to receive a further level of assessment:a panelreview.
Development of Casino into a fully operational mine triggers an environmental assessment under YESAA as all activities related to the construction, operation, modification or closure of a mine are listed as assessable activities inSchedule 1 of the Activities Regulations. Furthermore, the level of assessment for the Casino project would be at the Executive Committee screening level as several of the activities meet or exceed the activity thresholds listed inSchedule 3 of the Activities Regulations.
Work on the environmental baseline data package required to support a formal application for assessment and licenses in nearing completion. The baseline programs were initiated in 2008 and will continue through 2013 and provide detailed and comprehensive information about the project.
Information requirements from government agencies and the scope of the review are well understood. This has been done through a series of early meetings with review agencies. All components of the baseline program have been subject to early review and discussion in meetings with Yukon Government departmental staff, Water Board staff, First Nations Government representatives, Environment Canada and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
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There have also been a number of formal sessions with staff and Executive Committee members of the Yukon Environmental and Socioeconomic Assessment Board (YESAB). These discussions are continuing and are helping to build an understanding of the proposed project by review agencies in advance of a complex submission.
For assessment under YESAA, the scope of the Casino project is expected to include the proposed Freegold Road Extension and may include necessary upgrading of the existing Freegold Road as this would be the primary means of access to the main highway system during construction and operation of the mine. Baseline data has also been collected to support the assessment of the access road.
Timelines for recent major mining projects in Yukon suggest that the YESAB screening process should be completed within 2 years. One of the critical factors that influences the time required to complete the screening is whether or not the information provided in the project proposal is deemed to be adequate for the purposes of completing the assessment. This is why the early meetings with review agencies are taking place to appropriately define the scope of the project and information requirements at an early stage so that baseline studies and other information gathering is relevant and in sufficient detail for the assessment.
20.5.2 Consideration of Recommendations and Issuance of Decision Documents
At the conclusion of the screening, the Executive Committee issues its recommendations to a Decision Body for consideration. For all Executive Committee screenings, the designated Decision Body for Yukon Government is the Development Assessment Branch within the Government of Yukon Executive Council Office. (The Development Assessment Branch is also responsible for coordinating the Yukon Government’s input to the review process). Recommendations issued by YESAB may be accepted, rejected or varied in the decision document, or a recommendation may be referred back to the Executive Committee for reconsideration. The Decision body has 60 days to issue a decision document, or 45 days in which to refer the recommendations back to the Executive Committee for reconsideration. Regulatory permitting, discussed in the following section, would follow on the heels of a positive decision document being issued.
20.6 LICENSING
Mining related projects in the Yukon are regulated through territorial and federal legislation by various agencies, including government departments and independent boards. The regulatory permitting and licensing processes are separate from theYukon Environmental and Socioeconomic Assessment Act(YESAA). There is no single-window application process for regulatory permitting. Separate applications and information packages are required for each authorization and agency.
The main pieces of legislation that will govern mining related activities for the Casino properties include:
- Quartz Mining Act;
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- Waters Act;
- Territorial Lands (Yukon) Act;
- Environment Act;
- Highways Act;
- Dangerous Goods Transportation Act;
- Fisheries Act;
- Yukon Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Authorizations are processed and issued following completion of the YESAA screening and issuance of a decision document by the decision bodies. However, some agencies will conduct preliminary reviews of applications or begin drafting authorizations prior to the issuance of a positive YESAA decision document. Timeframes for authorizations vary from agency to agency.
A brief overview of the legal framework for issuing the two most important licenses follows.
20.6.1 Quartz Mining Act
The purpose of theQuartz Mining Act is to regulate hard rock exploration and mining-related activities in the Yukon. The Act includes a specific requirement for a proponent to secure a “Quartz Mine License” (Section 135) for mining projects. TheQuartz Mining Act and associated Regulations are administered by the Yukon Government, Energy Mines and Resources, Mineral Resources Branch. TheSecurity Regulation defines the form and amount of security acceptable to the Minister of EMR, as well as mechanisms to adjust the amount of security held during the course of the operation.
The Quartz Mine License is staged. It has been designed with sufficient flexibility to allow adjustments as may be required as the project evolves. Part 1 covers mine development, and provides a mechanism to approve initial construction activities that do not require a water license. Part 2 covers mine construction and operation, and covers specific mine operational plans and environmental protection plans.
20.6.2 Waters Act
The purpose of theWaters Act is to regulate the use of water and deposition of waste into water in the Yukon Territory. This territorial statute outlines provisions for the development of regulations for prescribing types of undertakings and licensing criteria, application information requirements, and financial security. This act also establishes the Yukon Water Board. TheWaters Act defines provisions for public hearings, compensation to affected parties, and allows the Board to make rules related to administrative procedures. Under the Act, quartz mining activities are regulated and classified according to water use and waste disposal criteria.
A producing mine at the Casino properties will require a Type “A” Water Use License issued by the Yukon Water Board. This license will include conditions related to water use and waste disposal, water control and diversion structures, the submission of studies and plans, monitoring and surveillance, and the modification and construction of water-related structures.
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20.7 PROJECT ASSESSMENT AND PERMITTING TIMELINE
Baseline environmental work was initiated in 2008 and will be complete in 2013. This includes wildlife, fisheries and terrestrial studies, archaeological and heritage resource investigations, socioeconomic studies, First Nation and community consultation, geochemistry, hydrology, hydrogeology, air quality and weather data collection. Geotechnical work around the tailings management facility will be completed in 2013. This work will form the basis of a project proposal to be submitted for YESAB screening and the subsequent authorizations which are required. Additional work underway includes negotiations with the Department of Fisheries for a habitat compensation agreement, closure planning and water management modeling.
Preliminary engineering and baseline environmental work for the 132 km access road that was initiated in 2010 is also nearly complete. The access road will be part of the scope of the YESAB review. This work includes wildlife and terrestrial surveys, archaeological investigations and continued fisheries and hydrology data collection at key watercourse crossings in support of engineering to refine the route alignment.
20.8 BONDING, RECLAMATION AND CLOSURE PLANS
A reclamation and closure plan must be prepared by the mine owner and submitted for review and approval by the government prior to receiving a Quartz Mining License. The reclamation and closure plan must be updated periodically throughout the operating mine life (minimum every five years). A conceptual plan will be expected to support the environmental assessment process, while a detailed plan is expected to be required as a condition for the Quartz Mine License. Provisions for changes and updates as mining progresses are also expected. The Yukon Government will require the company to post security for this project. Both theYukon Waters Act and theYukon Quartz Mining Act have provisions for security to be held by government.
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21 CAPITAL AND OPERATING COSTS
21.1 BASIS OF CAPITAL COST ESTIMATE
In general, M3 based this capital cost estimate on its knowledge and experience of similar types of facilities and work in similar locations. To assist in the estimating, M3 used quantity estimates, and in some cases, costs supplied by specialist sub-consultants, such as the following:
- Associated Engineering (AE): Main access from Carmacks to site, the new airfield, and the road to the airfield.
- Knight Piésold (KP): Geotechnical quantities associated with the Heap Leach Facility, Waste Rock Storage Area, Water Supply and the Tailing Management Facility.
- Independent Mining Consultants (IMC): Mine capital and operating costs.
“Initial Capital” is defined as all capital costs through to the end of construction or the end of Year 1 of the mine life. Capital costs predicted for later years are carried as sustaining capital in the financial model.
All costs are from end of 3rd quarter 2012 Canadian dollars except as noted otherwise. The values in this report assume an exchange rate of 1:1 between U.S. and Canadian dollars.
Based on the level of engineering completed and definition of scope, M3 estimated the contingency at 10% of the direct and indirect costs (Contracted Cost). The contingency was estimated on an area and cost category basis. The costs provided by others also contain a suitable contingency.
21.1.1 Assumptions
The capital costs are based on this project being executed by experienced EPCM contractor(s) in the hard rock mining industry with a recent record of bringing projects on budget or under budget. In addition, it is assumed that all contracts and subcontracts are based on a lump-sum basis or a competitively bid unit cost basis, such as per cubic yard of concrete placed. In particular, no time and material contracts are anticipated nor should they be allowed in order to ensure this budget is best maintained. In addition, it is assumed that at least two sufficiently sized self-performing local contractors are in place for all trades, such as civil, concrete, steel, architectural, mechanical, electrical, instrumentation and controls, and process piping. Certain contractors will have multiple trade capabilities.
WCGC will order major material supplies (i.e., structural and mechanical steelwork) as well as bulk orders (i.e., piping and electrical). These will be issued to construction contractors on site using strict inventory control.
Budgetary quotes were obtained for the mining equipment, crusher, mills, cyclones, and other large equipment. Negotiation of budget quotes in final purchasing may result in better capital costs.
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All equipment is priced as new. Opportunity may exist at the time of project execution to obtain suitable used equipment for capital cost savings. All costs to date by Owner are considered as sunk costs.
Any costs incurred for the scoping study, the pre-feasibility study and the completion of a feasibility study (including field drilling and lab testing) are not included.
21.1.2 Exclusions and Qualifications
This capital cost estimate excludes the following items.
1. | Future escalation from the end of 4thquarter of 2012 is excluded. | |
2. | The cost of all prior studies; including this feasibility study, are excluded. | |
3. | Start-up and initial operating expenses subsequent to Owner’s acceptance of the plant ready to accept feed are excluded. | |
4. | Future foreign currency exchange variation from the estimate is excluded. | |
5. | The cost to provide insurance coverage for the duration of the project is excluded. | |
6. | Environmental and ecological considerations, other than those already incorporated in the estimate basis, are excluded. | |
7. | Any future changes in regulations, codes and standards are excluded. | |
8. | Geotechnical conditions inconsistent with the current project geotechnical investigation results and upon which the estimate is based are excluded. | |
9. | Any disposal of toxic or contaminated materials encountered during the execution of the project that arise from pre-existing conditions are excluded. | |
10. | Financial charges and interest during the course of construction. | |
11. | Salvage value of all residual construction materials, vehicles, camps, and temporary buildings not specifically identified in the estimate are excluded. | |
12. | Training of operations personnel and the cost to prepare training manuals. |
This capital cost estimate depends on the following qualifications:
1. | Environmental permits and licenses (such as the permit for Yukon River water) required to operate the facilities are obtained in a timely manner. | |
2. | Construction permits are available to support the project schedule. | |
3. | Unfettered access to the project site is assured for the duration of the project development and operation. |
21.1.3 Estimate Accuracy
The accuracy of this estimate for those items identified in the scope-of-work is estimated to be well within the range of plus 15% to minus 10%.
Total mine and plant mechanical equipment cost is estimated at $629,826,996. Most of that came directly from escalated 2012 vendor quotes. Much of the electrical equipment estimates were derived from recent quotes as well.
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Outside consultants provided estimates for the main access road, and airfield. These estimates are stated to be accurate to ±25%.
21.1.4 Contingency
Based on the level of engineering completed and definition of scope, M3 calculates its contingency at 10% of the direct and indirect costs (Contracted Cost). Contingency is intended to cover unallocated costs from lack of detailing in scope items. It is a compilation of aggregate risk from all estimated cost areas. The Capital Cost Estimate spreadsheet contains a contingency calculation matrix.
21.1.5 Documents
Documents available to the estimators include the following:
a) | Design Criteria | (Yes) | |
b) | Equipment List | (Yes) | |
c) | Equipment Specifications | (Duty Only) | |
d) | Construction Specifications | (Partial) | |
e) | Flowsheets | (Yes) | |
f) | P&ID’s (Preliminary) | (Yes) | |
g) | General Arrangements | (Yes) | |
h) | Architectural Drawings | (Yes) | |
i) | Civil Drawings | (Partial) | |
j) | Concrete Drawings | (No) | |
k) | Structural Steel Drawings | (No) | |
l) | Mechanical Drawings | (No) | |
m) | Main Electrical One-Lines | (Yes) | |
n) | Electrical Schematics | (No) | |
o) | Electrical Physicals | (No) | |
p) | Instrumentation Schematics | (No) | |
q) | Instrument Log | (No) | |
r) | Piping Drawings/Line List | (Partial) | |
s) | Piping/Valve Takeoff | (Yes) | |
t) | Valve List | (No) | |
u) | Cable and Conduit Schedule | (No) | |
v) | Electrical Takeoffs | (Yes) | |
w) | Structural Takeoffs | (Yes) | |
x) | Pump Calculations | (Preliminary) | |
y) | Reclamation Program | (Yes) |
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21.1.6 Construction Labour
21.1.6.1 Labour Rate
In 2007 M3 canvassed construction contractors in the Yukon and elsewhere in Northern Canada for wage rates for the various construction trades. Based on this survey, Table 21-1 presents a breakdown of the average hourly pay rate for construction trades that is used in this study. The hourly rate includes overtime based on a 70-hour week. Overtime is applied by the contractor against a base wage plus certain other fees and taxes. Adjustment was made current for 2012 rates.
Table 21-1: Average Hourly Pay for Construction Trades
Job | Hourly Rate |
Labourer | $54.44 |
Carpenter | $74.82 |
Electrical | $74.82 |
Structural | $74.82 |
Operator | $74.82 |
Mechanical | $74.82 |
Concrete Finisher | $74.82 |
Piping | $74.82 |
Foreman | $80.94 |
General Foreman | $87.06 |
21.1.6.2 Camp Cost
The camp rate is $85.00 per day based on a prior study for anther Yukon project which determined a camp rate of $75.00 per day. The Casino rate was increased to $85.00 to account for higher expenses to bring camp labour in from population centers. This rate is consistent with information collected from a canvas of large construction projects in Northern Canada.
21.1.6.3 Transportation
The study assumes construction labour will be drawn from population centers in the Whitehorse area. Additional labour will be sourced from locations in Canada such as Vancouver, Edmonton, or Calgary. Where appropriate, employees will be flown into camp by air charter. The study assumes air charter rates will be competitive with typical airfares over similar distances by commercial air service. The reason for the assumption is that the guarantee of a full plane and a normal schedule will encourage competition among charter carriers. The estimate reflects this approach.
21.1.6.4 Productivity
The estimate assumes that US and Canadian productivity rates are comparable. In order to maintain productivity during winter months, work will be carried out inside heated buildings. During that time, care will be taken to minimize any work that must be done outside in inclement weather.
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Project construction was scheduled to minimize outdoor winter work. Certain special design elements and expenses, such as the 90-tonne overhead cranes in the grinding areas, are included in project plans to allow construction to proceed indoors during the winter.
21.1.7 Direct Costs
21.1.7.1 Sitework
Civil earthwork quantities for the major civil structure (Heap Leach Facility, Waste Rock Storage Area and Tailings Management Facility) are based on preliminary designs by KP.
Site earthworks are generally classified as follows:
- Clearing & Grubbing
- Spread & compact
- Haul Material and/or equipment
- Excavation-rock by hand
- Site excavation soils
- Site backfill not compacted
- Site excavation rock
- Site backfill mechanical compacted
- Structural excavation
- Structural backfill
- Cut to fill
- Rock backfill hand compact
- Cut to waste
- Soil backfill hand compact
- Borrow to fill
Other civil works are:
- Crushing
- ABC (base course)
- Riprap dumped
- Polyvinyl & Polyethylene Liners
- Subgrade preparation
Specific labour, material and equipment costs apply to each category. Costs are based on standard worker productivity figures for construction trades derived from cost estimating handbooks and equipment productivity information obtained from manufacturers. M3 sometimes adjusts these factors according to M3 cost estimator experience and judgement.
In general, the estimate assumes overburden and suitable (non-acid-generating) mine waste will be used as the bulk fill material for the tailings and heap leach embankments and other large fills.
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Therefore, mine haulage cost estimates cover excavation, transportation and dumping of material in major structural fills.
Tailings dam and heap leach embankment core and filter material are borrowed and compacted; shell material is only compacted as the tailings shell material is exclusively mine waste.
General site excavation, grading and backfill quantities for the process plant buildings and ancillary structures were calculated using Autodesk’s Land Development program for AutoCAD applied to preliminary facility layouts by M3 and foundation depths specified by KP (i.e., “generally encountered at shallow depths of from 1 to 3 metres”). Site platforms were benched and sloped according to general arrangements for the facilities and to minimize earthmoving where possible.
Likewise, ponds were located and arranged to take advantage of existing land contours where possible and to minimize earthmoving.
Service roads are designed according to M3 standard road designs. Quantities were calculated by AutoCAD.
The study assumes the existing network of exploration roads will suffice for construction roads. The cost of a winter road is based on an estimate supplied by AE. AE also supplied the estimated costs for the access road to the plant area as described below. Haul road estimates were supplied by IMC.
21.1.7.2 Concrete
Concrete quantities were based on either parametric factors collated from constructed projects and current construction designs, or from direct material takeoffs from drawings. M3 applied parametrics to estimate concrete quantities for the crushing plant foundations, coarse ore (overland) conveyor footings, coarse ore stockpile building footings, reclaim tunnel and feeders, grinding and flotation sections, concentrate handling and tailings thickener walls and floor. M3 used takeoffs for simpler structures such as building foundations. Concrete costs were estimated based upon an informal survey of current and recent projects in the Yukon.
21.1.7.3 Structural Steel
Structural steel and concrete quantities for the process plant buildings were estimated using parametric factors collated from constructed projects and current construction designs for projects of a similar size and nature. Other areas were estimated from direct material take-offs from drawings of conceptual designs.
Steel costs were based upon a recent large steel purchase for a mine plant of similar scale. Competitive bids were collected from the US, Canada, and Mexico. M3 considers the resulting bid prices to be representative of world structural steel prices for the purposes of this study.
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21.1.7.4 Architectural
Architectural costs are based on M3 records of similar sized projects for the major buildings. Yukon unit rates are applied to the quantities previously calculated.
21.1.7.5 Electrical
Electrical equipment prices are recent historical prices from projects of similar scale with suitable escalation applied.
21.1.7.6 Piping
Piping in most areas is estimated as a percentage of the mechanical equipment cost added to an adjusted labour cost. Pipe quantities for the heap leach were developed by KP. M3 applied costs from historical data to KP’s quantities.
21.1.7.7 Instrumentation
Instrumentation in most areas is estimated as a percentage of the mechanical equipment cost added to an adjusted labour cost. These allowances are based on M3 cost estimator experience and judgment. Allowances range from 1.5% to 5%.
21.1.7.8 Demolition
Demolition costs for any existing facilities have been included. These are presented as end of mine life costs and are not in initial capital.
21.1.7.9 Mine Operations
The estimated cost of the mining equipment and facilities was developed by IMC and is included in Section 16 of this report.
21.1.7.10 Heap Leach and Gold Recovery Plant
Heap Leaching
Leach heap earthwork is the highest cost element of the gold recovery plan. Quantities were estimated by KP for the heap embankment, events pond and water supply system. Unit costs were applied by M3 according to the methods described above in the discussion of civil and earthwork.
- Pipe and pump costs were estimated using M3 historical information.
- Mobile equipment costs were copied from the mine equipment quotes.
Tailings embankment construction requires placement of a coffer dam upstream. The coffer dam will be built during early construction stages so collected water can supply the heap leach operation. The cost of the coffer dam therefore falls within Area 675 – Heap Leach & Gold Recovery Water System. The costs were estimated according to the method described above in the Civil and Earthworks discussion.
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Sulphidization–Acidification–Recycling–Thickening (SART)
The sulphidizing column and the two thickeners were priced based on vendor quotes. The remaining equipment is tankage, agitators and other standard process equipment estimated based on M3’s data library with appropriated scaling and escalation.
Civil quantities were based on AutoCAD calculations. Construction materials were based on material takeoffs.
Historical information was the basis for electrical equipment estimates.
Piping and instrumentation estimates were based on allowances set according to M3 cost estimator experience and judgment.
Adsorption Desorption Recovery (ADR)
Summit Valley Engineering, a major worldwide provider of such plants, supplied a vendor quote for the ADR plant installed equipment including piping. This number was supplemented with equipment quotes as the area was better defined. M3 estimated the cost of civil works based on AutoCAD calculations and an engineered building with foundation based upon the plant square footage. M3 applied an allowance for instrumentation.
21.1.7.11 Sulphide Flotation Plant
Major process plant equipment such as the primary crusher, grinding mills, pebble mills, large capacity conveyor belts, cyclone clusters, large-capacity pumps, and major electrical components were priced from vendor budgetary quotations. Other equipment prices were was based on M3’s historical records, including budgetary and equipment purchase pricing from similar projects. Some historic records were scaled to correct for size or capacity difference.
All equipment is priced as new. Installation costs are based on allowances for materials and the cost estimator’s judgment and experience for labour.
M3 requested updates for a number of vendor quotes for some commonly used equipment for which historic information was available.
Quantities for concrete, and structural steel were developed based on parametric factors collated from constructed projects or current construction designs, and applied on a unit area or unit volume basis. M3 applied parametrics to estimate costs for the crushing plant, coarse ore (overland) conveyor footings, coarse ore stockpile building, reclaim tunnel and feeders, grinding and flotation sections, concentrate handling and tailings thickener walls and floor. M3 engineers made certain adjustments to accommodate the support of the overland conveyor head by the cover building and the use of Grade 50 rather than A36 steel.
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Ancillary building architectural costs are based on M3 records of similar sized projects for the major buildings. Yukon unit rates are applied to the quantities previously calculated.
Process piping costs are factored from mechanical equipment costs, except for major pipe lines such as the tailings and reclaim lines and the fresh water supply line, including service piping.
Allowances for instrumentation within the plant have been factored as a percent of permanent equipment cost. This allowance is based on experience with similar installations and the judgement of the cost engineer.
Construction equipment costs were estimated according to the tasks performed and the crew hours involved. Construction equipment is included as a part of the direct cost. Owner will not supply any construction equipment (such as forklifts and crane for unloading or water trucks for dust suppression or dozers) to the project.
21.1.7.12 Power Generation
Costs for the gas turbine power generation plant were estimated on a cost per kWh basis. These costs were based on consultations with vendors and on budget quotes for equipment. The design criteria used in this study were provided by WCGC.
21.1.7.13 Main Access Road
AE selected the main access route and designed the 132 km gravel road which is an extension of the Freegold Road from the town of Carmacks to the site. AE’s estimate included all construction costs, including the road construction crew support camp.
21.1.8 Indirect Costs
21.1.8.1 Freight
A freight allowance is included on equipment and bulk material cost. The following taxes have been considered for this estimate:
- Sales tax is not included in the cost of equipment.
- GST is not included as it is a pass through cost.
- Payroll taxes are included in the labour rates.
Working capital is not included in the capital cost but is accounted for in the financial model.
Sustaining Capital is not included in the initial Capital Cost Estimate but has been estimated on the same basis as the initial capital. The major components of sustaining capital are expansion of Heap Leach Facility pad, additions to the mine equipment fleet in later years, and Tailings Management Facility expansions including return water pump station relocation and installation of a second pump station in later years. Estimated costs are applied in future years in the financial model. Sustaining costs are included in the financial model.
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A construction camp with executive, supervisor, and labourer quarters to hold the anticipated maximum construction manpower of 980 people is included in the estimate. Additional camp housing for contractors engaged in developing the site prior to the construction camp being erected, is provided by those contractors and is included within the civil costs. A camp operating cost of $85 per day per person is also included.
Labour costs were estimated by applying hourly quantities to common construction metrics. M3 cost estimators use in-house data vendor information, published cost estimating guides and experience and judgment to determine the hourly quantities. Construction trade labour rates average approximately $71.83 per hour.
21.1.8.2 Temporary Facilities
The construction camp is included in the estimate and will serve also as the operations camp. The cost of the camp is based on a budgetary quote from The Britco Group, an established supplier of this type of facility in Northern Canada. Sanitary facility and water supply costs are separate from the overall cost of the camp.
Also separate from the camp cost is the supplemental power plant that will provide power to the camp, and to the construction site until the main power plant comes online. The supplemental plant will consist of three dual-fueled (LNG and diesel) generators. The same generator will later supply standby power for operations. The cost for the supplemental power plant was based on a cost per kWh basis developed from vendor budgetary quotes.
Water for construction and initial operation of the camp will be provided from a well and contractors will be responsible for their own connections. Contractors’ temporary facilities, office, storage and warehousing are assumed to be covered in the contractors’ overhead and profit, which is included in the labour rate.
21.1.8.3 Other Indirect Field Costs
Mobilization and demobilization is estimated to be 0.5% of direct field cost. Contractors’ home office supervision is included in the contractors’ fee and hence is included in the labour rate. Overall site safety and first aid is a function of the EPCM contractor and is covered in the EPCM costs.
21.1.8.4 Commissioning Costs
Costs are included for plant acceptance and initiation of operations as per the following:
- Mechanical completion – by Contractor
- Pre-Operational Testing – by Contractor
- Initial fills – procurement by Owner
- Start-up – by Owner with Contractor support
- Demonstration test if needed – by Owner
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21.1.8.5 Taxes
The following taxes have been considered for this estimate:
- Sales tax is included in the cost of equipment.
- GST is not included as it is a pass through cost.
- Payroll taxes are included in the labour rates
21.1.8.6 Working Capital
Operating working capital will vary by year depending on sales revenue. Operating working capital is allowed at six months of sales revenue to provide cash to meet operating expenses prior to receipt of sales revenue. All the working capital is recaptured at the end of the mine life and the final value of the account is $0.
21.1.8.7 Construction Capital Start-up Spares
Construction capital start-up spares are estimated at $1 million.
21.1.8.8 Sustaining Capital
The major components of sustaining capital are expansion of leach pad, additions to the mine equipment fleet in later years, and tailings pond expansions including return water pump station relocation. Estimated costs are applied in future years in the economic model.
21.1.9 Owner’s Costs
Costs Included in Estimate
Owner’s costs prior to the start of project engineering and construction are deemed sunk and not included in this estimate. Owner’s costs incurred during the project development include:
- First fills and consumables
- Owner’s team
- Project insurance
- Bonding
- Permitting
- Land acquisition
- Consultants other than EPCM
- Letters of credit
- Office equipment, furniture and hardware
21.2 MINE CAPITAL
See Section 16.7 for a discussion of capital costs for mining.
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21.3 CAPITAL COST ESTIMATE TABULATION
The initial capital investment for complete development of the project is estimated to be $2.456 billion total direct and indirect cost. Table 21-2 shows the summary of the cost breakdown.
Table 21-2: Capital Cost Estimate Summary
(millions) | ||
Direct Costs | ||
Mining Equipment & Mine Development | $454 | |
Concentrator (including related facilities) | $904 | |
Heap Leach Operation | $139 | |
Camp | $70 | |
Sub-Total | $1,566 | |
Indirect Costs | $295 | |
Infrastructure Costs | ||
Power Plant | $209 | |
Access Road | $99 | |
Airstrip | $24 | |
Subtotal Infrastructure | $332 | |
Contingency | $218 | |
Owner's Costs | $44 | |
Grand Total | $2,456 |
21.4 OPERATING COSTS
This section addresses the following costs:
- Process Plant Operating & Maintenance Cost
- General and Administrative Costs
The operating and maintenance costs for the Casino operations are summarized by areas of the plant and shown in Table 21-3. Cost centers include mine operations, process plant operations, and the General and Administration area. Process operating costs were determined on year by year of operations shown below is (Year 2) for illustration, based on an annual mill ore tonnage of 45.9 million tonnes that will produce approximately 474,000 tonnes of copper concentrates and 14,000 tonnes of molybdenum concentrates. The heap leach plant costs are based on gold ore processed of 9.13 million tonnes and production of approximately 55,000 ounces of gold, 134,000 ounces of silver, and 978 tonnes of copper precipitates. These costs were adjusted on a year by year basis and incorporated into the financial model.
Life of mine average operating cost is $8.52 per tonne for sulphide ore, which includes mining, concentrator plant and general and administrative costs. The life of mine average operating cost is $4.04 per tonne for oxide ore which includes processing only.
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Table 21-3: Operating Cost – Mine Site Cost Summary
Concentrator Processing Units Base Rate (tonnes/year ore) | 45,928,000 | ||||
Heap Leach Processing Units Base Rate (tonnes/year ore) | 9,125,000 | ||||
Total Tons Mined | 119,634,000 | ||||
Year 2 | |||||
Cost | $/Mill Ore | ||||
Mining Operations | |||||
Drilling | $8,745,347 | $0.07 | |||
Blasting | $24,896,712 | $0.21 | |||
Loading | $10,812,550 | $0.09 | |||
Hauling | $63,209,823 | $0.53 | |||
Roads and Dumps | $24,843,919 | $0.21 | |||
Mine Services | $10,496,884 | $0.09 | |||
Mine Administration | $5,080,065 | $0.04 | |||
Subtotal Mining | $148,085,301 | $1.24 | |||
Processing Operations | |||||
Concentrator | $/Mill Ore | ||||
Primary Crushing & Stockpile Feed | $15,760,839 | $0.34 | |||
Grinding, Classification & Pebble Crushing | $135,099,648 | $2.94 | |||
Flotation & Regrind | $55,927,236 | $1.22 | |||
Concentrate Thickening/Filtration | $6,414,688 | $0.14 | |||
Tailings Dewatering & Disposal | $18,786,502 | $0.41 | |||
Fresh Water/Plant Water | $1,384,185 | $0.03 | |||
Flotation Reagents | $996,442 | $0.02 | |||
Ancillary Services | $4,259,720 | $0.09 | |||
Subtotal Concentrator | $238,629,260 | $5.20 | |||
Supporting Facilities | $/Mill Ore | ||||
Laboratory | $1,493,255 | $0.03 | |||
General and Administrative | $12,980,264 | $0.28 | |||
Subtotal Supporting Facilities | $14,473,519 | $0.32 | |||
Total Mill Ore Cost | $401,188,080 | $8.74 | |||
Heap Leach | $/Heap Leach Ore | ||||
Heap Leach - Gold Ore | $11,947,477 | $1.31 | |||
ADR/SART - Gold Ore | $24,938,440 | $2.73 | |||
Subtotal Heap Leach | $36,885,917 | $4.04 |
21.5 PROCESS PLANT OPERATING & MAINTENANCE COSTS
The process plant (concentrator and heap leach) operating costs are summarized by cost elements of labour, power, reagents, maintenance parts and supplies and services. The process plant operating costs are shown by cost element in Table 21-4 and Table 21-5.
21.5.1 Process Labour & Fringes
Process labour costs were derived from a staffing plan and based on prevailing daily or annual labour rates referenced from an industry survey for Canadian wages and benefits. Labour rates and fringe benefits for employees include all applicable social security benefits as well as all applicable payroll taxes.
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21.5.2 Power
Power costs were based on obtaining power from a LNG fuelled power plant at a rate of $C0.095 per kWh. Power consumption was based on the equipment list connected kW, discounted for operating time per day and anticipated operating load level. A summary of the power cost and consumption are shown at the end of this section.
21.5.3 Reagents
Reagents for the process plants are shown below:
- Copper Flotation Reagents
Lime
Fuel Oil
3418A
A208
MIBC
Flocculent
PAX
- Moly Flotation Reagents
NaSH
FloMin
Flocculent
Fuel Oil
- Heap Leach Reagents
NaSH
Sulfuric Acid
Hydrochloric Acid
Lime
Sodium Hydroxide
Sodium Cyanide (NaCN)
Carbon
Anti-scalant
Consumption rates were determined from the metallurgical test data or industry practice. Budget quotations were received for reagents supplied to Skagway, AK, or from local sources where available with allowance for freight to site.
21.5.4 Maintenance Wear Parts and Consumables
Grinding media and part consumption are based on industry practice for the crusher and grinding operations. An allowance was made to cover the cost of maintenance of all items not specifically identified and the cost of maintenance of the facilities. The allowance made was 5.0% of the direct capital cost of equipment, which totalled approximately $17.4 million for the concentrator and $0.6 million for the heap leach plants.
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21.5.5 Process Supplies & Services
Allowances were provided in concentrator, heap leach process plants for outside consultants, outside contractors, vehicle maintenance, and miscellaneous supplies. The allowances were estimated using historical information from other operations and projects. Operating costs for the process plants are summarized in Table 21-4 and Table 21-5.
21.6 GENERAL ADMINISTRATION
General and administration costs include labour and fringe benefits for the administrative personnel, human resources, and accounting. Also included are office supplies, communications, insurance, employee transportation and camp, and other expenses in the administrative area. Labour costs for G&A are based on a staff of 40. Labour rates are based on a daily rate and include benefits. All other G&A costs were developed as allowances based on historical information from other operations and other projects. Laboratory costs estimates are based on labour and fringe benefits, power, reagents, assay consumables, and supplies and services. All other laboratory costs were developed as allowances based on historical information from other operations and other projects. Note that laboratory services are likely to be contracted out. This estimate retains the costs under the assumption that contract and in-house laboratory services costs are equal.
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Table 21-4: Operating Cost – Concentrator Cost Summary – Typical Year of Operation
Processing Units Base Rate (tonnes/year ore) | 45,928,000 | ||||
Year 2 | |||||
Annual Cost | |||||
Primary Crushing & Stockpile Feed | |||||
Labor and Fringes | $1,880,617 | $0.04 | |||
Power | $4,337,849 | $0.09 | |||
Liners | $5,961,487 | $0.13 | |||
Maintenance | $3,283,346 | $0.07 | |||
Supplies & Services | $297,540 | $0.01 | |||
Subtotal Primary Crushing & Stockpile Feed | $15,760,839 | $0.34 | |||
Grinding, Classification & Pebble Crushing | |||||
Labor and Fringes | $1,888,598 | $0.04 | |||
Power | $59,641,303 | $1.30 | |||
Liners | $13,060,044 | $0.28 | |||
Grinding Media | $49,718,262 | $1.08 | |||
Maintenance | $10,269,551 | $0.22 | |||
Supplies and Services | $521,890 | $0.01 | |||
Subtotal Grinding, Classification & Pebble Crushing | $135,099,648 | $2.94 | |||
Flotation & Regrind | |||||
Labor and Fringes | $2,197,068 | $0.05 | |||
Power | $12,106,688 | $0.26 | |||
Reagents | $37,775,148 | $0.82 | |||
Maintenance | $3,730,342 | $0.08 | |||
Supplies and Services | $117,990 | $0.00 | |||
Subtotal Flotation & Regrind | $55,927,236 | $1.22 | |||
Concentrate Thickening/Filtration | |||||
Labor and Fringes | $2,795,731 | $0.06 | |||
Power | $1,703,291 | $0.04 | |||
Maintenance | $1,130,776 | $0.02 | |||
Supplies and Services | $784,890 | $0.02 | |||
Subtotal Concentrate Thickening/Filtration | $6,414,688 | $0.14 | |||
Tailings Dewatering & Disposal | $0.00 | ||||
Labor and Fringes | $1,982,129 | $0.04 | |||
Power | $12,956,737 | $0.28 | |||
Maintenance | $2,516,858 | $0.05 | |||
Supplies and Services | $1,330,777 | $0.03 | |||
Subtotal Tailings Dewatering & Disposal | 18,786,502 | $0.41 | |||
Fresh Water/Plant Water | |||||
Labor and Fringes | $495,416 | $0.01 | |||
Power | $517,277 | $0.01 | |||
Maintenance | $284,282 | $0.01 | |||
Supplies and Services | $87,210 | $0.00 | |||
Subtotal Fresh Water/Plant Water | $1,384,185 | $0.03 | |||
Flotation Reagents | |||||
Labor and Fringes | $495,416 | $0.01 | |||
Power | $185,547 | $0.00 | |||
Maintenance | $238,529 | $0.01 | |||
Supplies and Services | $76,950 | $0.00 | |||
Subtotal Flotation Reagents | $996,442 | $0.02 | |||
Ancillary Services | |||||
Labor and Fringes | $846,540 | $0.02 | |||
Power | $644,306 | $0.01 | |||
Maintenance | $2,691,924 | $0.06 | |||
Supplies and Services | $76,950 | $0.00 | |||
Subtotal Ancillary Services | $4,259,720 | $0.09 | |||
Total Process Plant | $238,629,260 | $5.20 |
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Table 21-5: Operating Cost – Heap Leach Cost Summary – Typical Year of Operation
Processing Units Base Rate (tonnes/year ore) | 9,125,000 | |||
Processing Units Base Rate (doré oz/year) - Gold Ore | 86,164 | |||
Heap Leach | ||||
Labor and Fringes | $984,192 | $0.11 | ||
Power | $2,976,920 | $0.33 | ||
Liners | $3,706,324 | $0.41 | ||
Maintenance | $2,905,200 | $0.32 | ||
Supplies & Services | $1,374,840 | $0.15 | ||
Subtotal Heap Leach | $11,947,477 | $1.31 | ||
ADR/SART (Gold Ore) | ||||
Labor and Fringes | $2,071,038 | $0.23 | ||
Power | $1,339,918 | $0.15 | ||
Reagents | $19,983,647 | $2.19 | ||
Maintenance | $964,148 | $0.11 | ||
Supplies and Services | $579,690 | $0.06 | ||
Subtotal ADR/SART (Gold Ore) | $24,938,440 | $2.73 | ||
Total Process Plant | $36,885,917 | $4.04 |
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22 ECONOMIC ANALYSIS
The financial evaluation presents the determination of the Net Present Value (NPV), payback period (time in years to recapture the initial capital investment), and the Internal Rate of Return (IRR) for the project. Annual cash flow projections were estimated over the life of the mine based on the estimates of capital expenditures and production cost and sales revenue. The sales revenue is based on the production of copper concentrate with gold and silver credits, molybdenum concentrate, and gold & silver doré. The estimates of capital expenditures and site production costs have been developed specifically for this project and have been presented in earlier sections of this report.
All amounts are in Canadian dollars with an exchange rate of 1:1 with the US dollar except as noted otherwise.
22.1 MINE PRODUCTION STATISTICS
Mine production is reported as supergene oxide ore, supergene sulfide ore, hypogene ore, gold ore and waste material from the mining operation. The annual production figures were obtained from the mine plan as reported earlier in this report. The financial model reflects the stockpiling of low grade ore and its subsequent processing at the end of mine life.
The life of mine ore and waste quantities and ore grade are presented in Table 22-1.
Table 22-1: Life of Mine Ore, Waste Quantities and Ore Grade
Tonnes (000’) | Copper % | Moly % | Gold g/t | Silver g/t | |
Supergene Oxide Ore | 60,010 | 0.235% | 0.022% | 0.340 | 1.806 |
Supergene Sulphide Ore | 255,864 | 0.258% | 0.021% | 0.250 | 1.811 |
Hypogene Ore | 649,332 | 0.179% | 0.024% | 0.227 | 1.702 |
Gold Ore | 157,454 | 0.036% | 0.292 | 2.209 | |
Waste | 657,867 | ||||
Total Material Mined | 1,780,527 | 0.180% | 0.020 | 0.247 | 1.803 |
22.2 PLANT PRODUCTION STATISTICS
In the current plan, all the Mill Ore and Gold Ore is processed directly, with the Low Grade Mill Ore being stockpiled and processed at the end of mine life. The Gold Ore will begin to be processed in Year -3, that is, three years before mill ore processing begins.
The gold ore processing by heap leaching will produce to two products, a gold and silver doré and a copper precipitate. The estimated production over the life of the heap leach is 975,000 ounces of gold, 2,907,000 ounces of silver, and 22.6 million pounds of copper.
Production from the flotation plant will produce a copper-gold and silver concentrate and a molybdenum concentrate. The estimated copper concentrate production for the life of the flotation plant is 6.06 million tonnes containing 3.7 billion pounds of copper and 5.0 million ounces of gold and 28.8 million ounces of silver. The estimated molybdenum concentrate production for the life of the flotation plant is 277,000 tonnes containing 341.9 million pounds of molybdenum.
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22.3 CAPITAL EXPENDITURE
22.3.1 Initial Capital
The base case financial indicators have been determined on the basis of 100% equity financing of the initial capital. The base case assumes LNG is used to fuel the power plant from initial start-up of the concentrator and the haulage units throughout the life of the mine. Any acquisition cost or expenditures prior to the full project production decision have been treated as “sunk” cost and have not been included in the analysis.
The total capital carried in the financial model for new construction is $2.456 billion in Canadian dollars and is expended over a five-year period (4 years of construction plus one additional year for finalizing invoices and other miscellaneous items). The cash flow for the new construction is shown being expended in the years before production and ending in the first year of production. The initial capital includes Owner’s costs and contingency and the capital for the power plant.
22.3.2 Sustaining Capital
A schedule of capital cost expenditures during the production period was estimated and included in the financial analysis under the category of sustaining capital. The total life of mine sustaining capital is estimated to be $361.7 million. This capital will be expended during a 22 year period.
22.3.3 Working Capital
Accounts receivable for sale of the metals vary by year depending on sales revenue. Operating working capital is allowed at two months of sales revenue to provide cash to meet operating expenses prior to receipt of sales revenue. In addition, working capital for accounts payable is being allowed for 30 days, also an allowance for plant consumable inventory is estimated in Year -3 for the Heap Leach plant and -1 for the process plant. All the working capital is recaptured at the end of the mine life and the final value of the account is $0.
22.3.4 Salvage Value
A $31.5 million allowance for salvage value has been included in the cash flow analysis.
22.4 REVENUE
Annual revenue is determined by applying selected metal prices to the annual payable metal contained in the concentrates and doré estimated for each operating year. Sales prices have been applied to all life of mine production without escalation or hedging. The base case financial evaluation uses long term prices that were based on analyst consensus of C$3.16 per pound of copper, C$1,473.68 per oz of gold, C$26.32 per oz of silver and C$14.74 per pound of molybdenum with an exchange rate of US$0.95 per C$. Two other price cases were used; the SEC and a spot price at the end of December 2012. Prices used are as shown in Table 22-2.
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Table 22-2: Metal Prices Used in Financial Model
Base Case Long Term Price | SEC | Spot | |
Copper (C$/lb) | 3.16 | 3.67 | 3.57 |
Molybdenum (C$/lb) | 14.74 | 14.67 | 11.80 |
Gold (C$oz) | 1,473.68 | 1,487.85 | 1,657.50 |
Silver (C$oz) | 26.32 | 28.80 | 29.95 |
The revenue is the gross value of payable metals sold before transportation and smelting charges.
22.5 TOTAL CASH OPERATING COST
The sulphide average cash operating costs are $10.44 per tonne of mill ore processed. Included in these costs are the mining operations, concentrator, general administration cost and smelter and transportation cost. Heap Leach process operating cost is $4.10 per tonne of leach ore. Included in these costs are the heap leach operations, ADR/SART operations and transportation and refining.
Specifics of operating costs are discussed in Section 21.
22.6 TOTAL CASH PRODUCTION COST
Total Cash Production Cost is the Total Cash Operating Cost plus royalties, reclamation & closure, property tax and salvage income. The sulphide average cash production cost including these items totals $12.58 per tonne of mill ore processed. The Heap Leach costs remain the same at $4.10 per tonne of leach ore as the sulphide process bears these additional costs alone.
22.6.1 Royalty
A NSR royalty will be paid using a rate of 2.75% totalling $604.6 million over the life of the mine.
It is estimated that $1.357 billion will be paid in Yukon mining royalties. Yukon mining royalties are based on a sliding scale of 12% of revenues less operating expenses, depreciation and pre-production expenses.
Corporate income taxes paid is estimated to be $2.878 billion for the life of the mine based on a 30% combined federal and territorial corporate income tax rate of taxable income. A deduction of depreciation for class 41A assets is being taken which results in no income tax being paid until initial capital is fully depreciated. These deductions against income are applied each year, but cannot create a loss.
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22.6.2 Property Tax
An allowance of $100,000 per year was included in the cash flow to account for property tax.
22.6.3 Reclamation & Closure
$125.9 million spread over four years (one year of production and three years of post-production) was allowed for post-closure reclamation & final closeout.
22.7 TOTAL PRODUCTION COST
Total Production Cost is the Total Cash Cost plus depreciation. Depreciation is calculated by the 25% Declining Balance method starting with the first year of production. The last year of production is the catch-up year if the assets are not fully depreciated by that time. An additional deduction for the initial capital is being taken in the early years until the initial capital is fully depreciated.
22.8 PROJECT FINANCING
It is assumed the project will be all equity financed.
22.9 NET INCOME AFTER TAX
Net Income after Tax amounts to $6.7 billion for the life of the mine.
22.10 NPV AND IRR
The base case economic analysis (Table 22-3) indicates that the project has an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 20.1% after taxes with a payback period of 3.0 years.
Table 22-3 compares the base case project financial indicators with the financial indicators for other cases when the sales price, the amount of capital expenditure, operating cost, and copper recovery are varied from the base case values. By comparing the results of this sensitivity study, it can be seen that the project IRR’s sensitivity to variation in sales price has the most impact, while variation of operating cost, variation of mill recovery, and variation of capital cost are approximately equal.
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Table 22-3: Sensitivity Analysis (After tax figures)
NPV @ 0% | NPV @ 5% | NPV @ 8% | NPV @ 10% | IRR | Payback Years | |||||||||||
Base Case (LTP) | $6,651 | $2,986 | $1,830 | $1,296 | $20.1% | 3.0 | ||||||||||
SEC Prices | $7,848 | $3,621 | $2,287 | $1,669 | $22.5% | 2.7 | ||||||||||
Spot Prices* | $7,744 | $3,597 | $2,282 | $1,672 | $22.7% | 2.6 | ||||||||||
Base-Case Sensitivities | ||||||||||||||||
Metals Price +10% | $8,157 | $3,786 | $2,407 | $1,768 | 23.1% | 2.6 | ||||||||||
Metals Price -10% | $5,146 | $2,186 | $1,253 | $824 | 16.7% | 3.5 | ||||||||||
Capex +10% | $6,499 | $2,840 | $1,689 | $1,158 | 18.4% | 3.2 | ||||||||||
Capex -10% | $6,804 | $3,133 | $1,972 | $1,434 | 22.1% | 2.7 | ||||||||||
Opex +10% | $6,103 | $2,705 | $1,631 | $1,135 | 19.0% | 3.1 | ||||||||||
Opex -10% | $7,200 | $3,268 | $2,029 | $1,457 | 21.1% | 2.9 | ||||||||||
Mill Recovery +5% | $7,304 | $3,329 | $2,075 | $1,495 | 21.3% | 2.8 | ||||||||||
Mill Recovery -5% | $5,998 | $2,644 | $1,585 | $1,096 | 18.7% | 3.1 | ||||||||||
$ in millions | ||||||||||||||||
*Spot prices are on the | Base Case | SEC Prices | Spot Prices* | |||||||||||||
last day of October 2012 | Copper | $3.16 | Copper | $3.67 | Copper | $3.57 | ||||||||||
Molybdenum | $14.74 | Molybdenum | $14.67 | Molybdenum | $11.80 | |||||||||||
Gold | $1,473.68 | Gold | $1.487.85 | Gold | $1,657.50 | |||||||||||
Silver | $26.32 | Silver | $28.80 | Silver | $29.95 |
Ore produced during the first four years is substantially higher in copper, gold, silver, and molybdenum than the life-of-mine average. The results are more robust cash flow during those years allowing payback in 3.0 years under the base case. Table 22-4 illustrates the difference during these early years.
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Table 22-4: Project Cash Flow
Years 1-4 | Life of Mine | |||
Average Annual Pre-Tax Cashflow ($ thousand) | $773,371 | $531,211 | ||
Average Annual After-Tax Cashflow ($ thousand) | $682,163 | $400,386 | ||
Average NSR (sulphide ore) | $31.59 | $22.59 | ||
Average Annual Mill Feed Grade | ||||
Copper (%) | 0.307% | 0.204% | ||
Gold (g/t) | 0.371 | 0.240 | ||
Silver (g/t) | 2.103 | 1.74 | ||
Molybdenum (%) | 0.025% | 0.023% | ||
Average Concentrate Production | ||||
Copper (dry ktonnes) | 395 | 275 | ||
Molybdenum (dry ktonnes) | 12 | 13 | ||
Average Annual Metal Production | ||||
Copper & Molybdenum Concentrate (M lb) | ||||
Copper (Mlbs) | 245 | 171 | ||
Gold (kozs) | 399 | 260 | ||
Silver (kozs) | 1,777 | 1,425 | ||
Molybdenum (Mlbs) | 15.3 | 15.5 | ||
Gold/Silver Doré | ||||
Gold (kozs) | 52 | 54 | ||
Silver (kozs) | 157 | 162 | ||
Copper Precipitate | ||||
Copper (Mlbs) | 1.4 | 1.3 |
The Financial Model is shown on the following page in Table 22-5.
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Table 22-5: Financial Model
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23 ADJACENT PROPERTIES
Numerous quartz mineral claim blocks registered to other owners are staked adjacent to and in the general vicinity of CMC’s claim block. No known mineral exploration activity is being pursued on these claims at the present time.
Placer claims have been staked on Canadian and Britannia Creeks, some of which overlap with mineral claims on the Casino claim block. During a visit on September 25, 2007, members of the project team observed evidence of recent activity on the Canadian Creek placer claims.
Some of the placer claims overlap the Casino claims in the area of the pit. There is no priority in circumstances where placer and quartz claims overlap and negotiations with the holders of the placer claims will be necessary to determine an appropriate resolution to this situation.
The Bomber and Helicopter Ag-Pb-Zn, +/- Au polymetallic vein occurrences located approximately 2 km S-SW of the Casino porphyry deposit are within CMC’s claim block. These occurrences became known in the late 1920’s, preceding the discovery of the Casino porphyry deposit by several decades. The majority of work has been undertaken on the Bomber showing where locally high grade silver, sphalerite and galena mineralization occurs in a series of four sub-parallel, northwest trending quartz barite shears that dip steeply to the west and cut Dawson Range batholith granodiorite. The Bomber vein was last mined from 1978 to 1980 when 49 m of drifting, 55 m of raising and extensive surface trenching was carried out. In 2007 WCGC ran VLF, TMF and soil sampling grids to identify additional exploration targets and possible extensions of the vein shears. A follow-up exploration program is planned for this area.
23.1 CARMACKS PROJECT
Copper North Mining Corporation is actively developing the oxide copper deposit at Carmacks located about 115 km ESE of the Casino deposit and 200 km NW of Whitehorse. Carmacks will be open pit mining with crushing, heap leaching, and copper recovery by solvent extraction/ electrowinning to produce about 14,500 t/y of cathode copper over eight years.
23.2 MINTO MINE
In October 2007, Sherwood Copper Corp. commenced operations at the Minto Mine about 240 km NW of Whitehorse and about 80 km east of the Casino Deposit. The Minto mine is an open pit mine and flotation concentrator presently treating about 2,400 tonnes per day of ore, with a planned expansion to 3,500 tonnes per day.
The Carmacks and Minto deposits share some geologic and mineralogical similarities. Neither one is similar to the Casino deposit.
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24 OTHER RELEVANT DATA AND INFORMATION
24.1 PROJECT EXECUTION PLAN
The Project Execution Plan describes, at a high level, how the project will be carried out. This plan contains an overall description of what the main work focuses are, project organization, the estimated schedule, and where important aspects of the project will be carried out. The plan is to start operations with the Heap Leach Facility, to be followed by the concentrator. Key milestones include the following:
- Full Notice to Proceed and construction start-up – first quarter 2016
- Heap Leach operation start-up – fourth quarter 2017
- Concentrator start-up – fourth quarter 2019
- Commercial Production – first quarter 2020
24.1.1 Focus
The proposed project execution plan incorporates an integrated strategy for engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCM). The primary objective of the execution methodology is to deliver the project at the lowest capital cost, on schedule, and consistent with the project standards for quality, safety, and environmental compliance.
The majority of mechanical and electrical equipment required for the project will be procured within North America. Concrete, building construction materials and timber products will be sourced primarily in the Yukon. Structural and miscellaneous steel, piping, tanks, electrical and miscellaneous process equipment will be largely sourced within Canada, and to the extent practical, within the region. Some commodities, such as structural steel, may be sourced out of country.
24.1.2 Engineering
The project will enter the basic engineering phase in the fourth quarter of 2013. Basic Engineering would be followed by Detailed Engineering in the third quarter of 2014. It is particularly important to identify priorities for long lead procurement and priorities for early construction that support the overall construction schedule. Engineering must be completed to the point that key procurement and construction activities have been decided contractually prior to the project’s Notice to Proceed. Some funding may need to be committed to achieve this status.
24.1.3 Procurement
Equipment and bulk material suppliers will be selected via a competitive bidding process. Similarly, construction contractors will be selected through a pre-qualification process followed by a competitive bidding process. The project will employ a combination of lump sum and unit price contracts as appropriate for the level of engineering and scope definition available at the time contracts are awarded.
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Procurement of long lead equipment and materials will be scheduled with their relevant engineering tasks. This will ensure that the applicable vendor information is incorporated into the design drawings and that the equipment will be delivered to site at the appropriate time, as well as support the overall project schedule. Particular emphasis will be placed on procuring the material and contract services required to establish the temporary construction infrastructure required for the construction program.
As mentioned before, it is the objective of WCGC and M3 to have the construction documents completed for bidding, bids offered and received, and contractors accepted and prepared to begin work well before the “Full Notice to Proceed.” Contractors will be selected, and a hold will be put on their contracts awaiting the release of funds and the notice to proceed. January 25, 2016 is the anticipated “Full Notice to Proceed.”
24.1.4 Project Services
The EPCM contractor will be responsible for management and control of the various project activities and will ensure that the team has appropriate resources to accomplish WCGC’s objectives. For example, M3 has a completely integrated project services system from construction documents through procurement, cost control, project accounts, warehousing, and start-up.
24.1.5 Construction Management
The construction program is scheduled to start after the full notice to proceed, identified at this time as 25 January 2016. The completion of one lane of the all-weather road will be of the highest priority. It will necessary to get the large earth-moving equipment onto the site to begin major work. This work will include the clearing and grubbing of the airfield and approaches, the access road to the airfield, the mine site including the main plant building pad, the heap leach pad, the north and south access roads within the mine site, and the Tailings Management Facility. In particular, the clearing of timber will begin in the first quarter of 2016. Completion of an all-weather road will allow mine pre-stripping and clearing and grubbing for heap leach construction to begin in the second quarter of 2016.
Erection of the construction camp will be divided into two phases. The first phase, scheduled to start in June 2016, will be the relocation of the existing camp from the new mill plant site and the construction of the new pioneer camp, which will include three Worker’s dorms, one Supervisor’s dorm, and a kitchen/diner/recreation unit for approximately 264 personnel. The first phase should be completed by September 2016. The second phase will begin the following construction season with further site preparation and construction of the foundations. The second phase will expand the construction camp by approximately 684 personnel for a total of approximately 948 personnel. It will include seven additional Worker’s dorms, one additional Supervisor’s dorm, and two new Executive dorms. It will also include additional kitchen/dining facilities, and recreation facilities. The entire construction camp will be completed in May 2018.
Though the concrete plant is not expected to be able to be transported to the site until 2017, it is anticipated that sand and aggregate, as well as cement if appropriate storage can be assured, can be staged in 2016 by utilizing the limited access road from Carmacks as well as barges during the four months that barge traffic is available (June, July, August, and September). Additionally, it is anticipated that a low-volume batch or portable concrete mixer will be utilized in 2016 to facilitate the construction schedule.
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Processing construction will begin with the Oxide Primary Crushing Building and the ADR/SART Facility in in the second quarter of 2017. Processing construction will finish with full commercial production of the concentrator in the first quarter of 2020. The objective is to have sufficient structures enclosed by the third quarter of 2017 so that mechanical and electrical work can continue during the colder months.
24.1.6 Contracting
Contracting is an integral function in the project’s overall execution. Contracting for the Casino Project will be done in full accord with the provisions of the WCGC EPCM contract.
A combination of vertical, horizontal, and design construction contracts will be employed as best suits the work to be performed, and as best suits the degree of engineering and scope definition available at the time of award. A site-installed concrete batch plant will supply concrete to all construction contractors. The Owner-furnished construction camp will be utilized by all construction contractors. Camp operations will be provided by the EPCM through 2017, and will be taken over by WCGC-contracted service providers in 2018 when production starts. Early earthwork contractors will be expected to provide their own camps, as they will be on site prior to the erection of the site camp.
The mass earthwork contract will cover all mine pre-stripping, clearing, grubbing, bulk excavation, and leach pad preparation. The estimate assumes a single contractor performs this work, to achieve economies of scale, and the elimination of interfacing issues. The contractor will require only one major mobilization for all work.
24.1.7 Labour
The labour market in northwestern Canada at this time is scarce. Many contractors in the Yukon are open shop. Construction labour will likely need to be imported from major population centers by air, including possibly Alaska.
24.1.8 Construction Completion and Turn-over Procedure
The Construction Completion Procedure is part of the Construction Quality Plan. Contractors are to enter into contractual agreements with WCGC to perform certain portions of the work, which includes quality control of their work. Facilities will be verified and accepted in a stepwise documented process of mechanical completion and pre-operational testing. The main steps are as follows:
- Mechanical completion of components,
- Pre-commissioning of instrumentation,
- Pre-operational testing of overall systems,
- Start-up by Owner, and
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- Full commercial production.
24.1.9 Quality Plan
A project-specific Quality Plan will be developed and implemented. The Quality Plan is a management tool for the EPCM contractor, through the construction contractors, to maintain the quality of construction and installation on every aspect of a project. The plan, which consists of many different manuals and subcategories, will be developed during the engineering phase and available prior to the start of construction. The Quality Plan ensures compliance with various technical and accounting activities that will take place.
24.1.10 Health and Safety Plan
The Health and Safety Plan (HASP) will be established for the construction of the Casino Project and any other authorized work at the project site. The HASP covers both contractor personnel and operational personnel working at the project, and any on any other authorized work for the project.
The HASP specifies regulatory compliance requirements, training, certifications and medical requirements necessary for Contractors to complete the project. Along with the Operations Procedures, the HASP is to be followed by all Contractor personnel working at the site.
24.1.11 Camp Transition
The camp is being built as a construction camp. However, it is expected that this camp will also become the permanent operations personnel camp. The camp usage will transition from construction to operations during the latter stages of construction prior to start-up.
24.1.12 Project Schedule
At the present time, the study has developed a sequence of efforts that should be followed as well as an estimated schedule through which the project will likely proceed. The schedule is shown in Figure 24-1.
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Figure 24-1: Overall Project Schedule
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24.2 GEOTECHNICAL STUDY
Knight Piésold Ltd. (KPL) conducted an updated foundation and geotechnical assessment for the proposed plant site at the Casino Project, a copper-gold mine located in west central Yukon, Canada. This report is the result of previous geotechnical site investigation programs and laboratory testing carried out in 1993, 1994 and 2010 by KPL.
24.3 RECLAMATION
Preliminary closure requirements for the waste storage areas will include on-going monitoring of surface and groundwater quality and flow rates, and periodic inspection of the waste rock pile, as required.
Reclamation will be carried out in conjunction with on-going environmental monitoring to ensure that sediment control and water quality objectives are met. The final waste rock bench crests will be rounded to provide long-term stability. The bench tops of the final waste rock pile will be covered with a suitable topsoil layer and re-vegetated.
24.4 TAILING FACILITY SITE GEOTECHNICAL CONDITIONS
Several geotechnical site investigation programs were conducted by KPL in the area of the TMF from 1993 to 1994 and recently in 2010. The programs included drillholes and test pits to investigate the geotechnical characteristics and foundation conditions, and to evaluate the geological factors affecting design of a TMF. The geotechnical data has been used to evaluate the tailings basin and embankment foundation conditions.
The site investigations conducted in the area of the proposed TMF site included the following:
Preliminary surficial geotechnical investigations were carried out at the Casino Project during the period of June 4 to October 1, 1993. The investigations were carried out as part of the Placer Lease Agreement Program to provide a preliminary overview of the surficial materials and foundation conditions for the various potential mine-site components, including the Open Pit, Plant site, Heap Leach Pad, Waste Rock Storage and Tailings Impoundment sites. The investigation program included the excavation of geotechnical trenches for visual description and characterization of surficial materials, and for the collection of representative samples for laboratory testwork. The laboratory testwork was carried out on-site by KPL and included particle-size analyses, natural moisture contents, Atterberg limits, compaction tests and permeability tests. The results of the investigations are included in KPL report “Report on Preliminary Surficial Geotechnical Investigations” (Ref. No. 1831/1, March, 1994).
Geotechnical and hydrogeological investigations conducted in 1994 resulted in 15 drillholes for visual inspection and characterization of surficial materials. Representative rock core and test pit samples were collected for laboratory testwork. The laboratory test work included particle-size analyses, natural moisture contents, Atterberg limits, and Proctor compaction tests. In situ packer and falling head permeability tests and shut-in pressure tests were conducted within the drillholes and groundwater monitoring wells and thermistors were installed. Point load testing was conducted on site by KPL for select rock core samples. The results of the investigations are included in KPL report “Data Compilation Report on 1994 Geotechnical and Hydrogeotechnical Investigations” (Ref. No. 1832/2, February 22, 1995).
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- Geotechnical and hydrogeological investigations conducted in 2010 resulted in nine drillholes throughout the project area. The investigation also included the excavation of test pits for visual inspection and characterization of surficial materials. Representative test pit soil samples were collected for laboratory test work. The laboratory testwork included natural moisture content, particle size distribution, hydrometer analysis, Atterberg limits, specific gravity, standard proctor compaction, triaxial shear, and flexible wall permeability tests. In situ packer and falling head permeability tests were conducted within the drillholes and groundwater monitoring wells were installed. The results of the investigations are included in KPL report “2010 Geotechnical Site Investigation Data Report” (Ref. No. VA101-325/3-4, November 2, 2010).
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25 INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSIONS
The Casino mineral occurrence can be successfully and economically exploited by proven and conventional mining and processing methods under the conditions and assumptions outlined in this report.
25.1 OPPORTUNITIES
Opportunities exist to enhance the project economics including:
- Conversion of some of the inferred resource into measured and indicated.
- Sharing of infrastructure development costs with other parties.
- Optimize the process during the basic and detailed engineering phases.
25.2 RISKS
Extreme cold weather can be a problem, but it is an anticipated problem with established solutions available.
This report and its costing have utilized prevailing rates based on available research on contractors in the Yukon. Although much of the procurement is international in nature, some materials and all labor are anticipated to be supplied from North America. The various rates in the estimates have reflected the cost impact. As such, the project becomes more sensitive to global economics than local economics. Metal pricing becomes the key sensitivity factor for project financial success.
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26 RECOMMENDATIONS
To further enhance the project, M3 recommends that CMC perform the following:
CMC should continue to further define the resource through exploration drilling, particularly in the more sparsely drilled area west of the main zone and deep drilling adjacent to the microbreccia pipe (approximately $2 million required).
CMC should continue with the environmental studies and permitting efforts now underway (approximately $5 million required).
CMC should continue with the engineering effort in support of permitting (approximately $1 million required).
CMC should continue to monitor developments in the Yukon, northern British Columbia, and Alaska to be in a position to share infrastructure development (approximately $200,000 required).
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27 REFERENCES
The following documents were reviewed or referenced in the preparation of this Technical Report:
Archer, A.R. and Main, C.A., 1971, Casino Yukon - a geochemical discovery of an unglaciated Arizona-type porphyry, in Boyle, R.W., ed. Geochemical exploration: Proceedings, 3rd International Geochemical Exploration Symposium, Toronto: Canadian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy Special Volume 11, p. 67-77.
Associated Engineering (BC) Ltd. and Lauga & Associates Consulting Ltd., 2010. Casino Mine Project, Casino Mine Transport Pre-Feasibility Study, Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper Corporation, September 30, 2010.
Associated Engineering (BC) Ltd., 2008. Casino Mine Project, Project Transportation Scoping Study, Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper Corporation, April 2008.
Associated Engineering (BC) Ltd., 2010. Casino Mine Project, Casino Mine Project, Casino Mine Airstrip Site Selection Report; Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper Corporation, June 2010.
Associated Engineering (BC) Ltd., 2010a. Casino Mine Project, Casino Mine Project, Casino Mine Pre-Feasibility Access Study, Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper Corporation, December 2010.
Associated Engineering (BC) Ltd., 2010b. Casino Mine Project, Casino Mine Freegold Road Upgrade Study, Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper Corporation, December 2010.
Associated Engineering (BC) Ltd., 2012. “Casino Mine Feasibility Access Study.” Performed for Western Copper and Gold Corporation. August 2012.
Bower, B., Case, T., DeLong, C., and Rebagliati, C.M., 1995. Casino Project 1994 Exploration and Geotechnical Drilling Program on the Casino Porphyry Copper-Gold-Molybdenum Deposit, Unpublished Company Report, Pacific Sentinel Gold Corp., May 1995.
Bower, B., DeLong, C., Payne, J., and Rebagliati, C.M., 1995a. The Oxide-Gold, Supergene and Hypogene Zones at the Casino Gold-Copper-Molybdenum Deposit West Central Yukon, Special Volume 46, Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum, 1995.
British Columbia Ministry of Forests, 2002. “Forest Practices Code of British Columbia Forest Road Engineering Guidebook, Second Edition.” June 2002.
FLSmidth, 2012. Casino Project Circuit Design Basis – Update on Testwork and Mill Sizing/Selection. Unpublished Company Report prepared for Western Copper and Gold Corporation. FLSmidth Salt Lake City, Inc. June 2012.
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G&T Metallurgical Services Ltd., 2008. Assessment of Silver Metallurgical Performance – Casino Project, Yukon Territory, Unpublished Company Report, August 2008.
G&T Metallurgical Services Ltd., 2008a. Metallurgical Assessment of the Casino Deposit, Yukon Territory, Unpublished Company Report, May 2008.
G&T Metallurgical Services Ltd., 2009. Production of Environmental Tailings Samples for the Casino Project, Unpublished Company Report, December 2009.
G&T Metallurgical Services Ltd., 2011. Scoping Level Assessment of Casino Property, Unpublished Company Report, January 2011.
Gary Giroux, Giroux Consultants Ltd. and Scott Casselman, Casselman Geological Services Ltd., 2010. Casino Project 2010 Mineral Resource Update, Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper Corporation, December 2010.
Godwin, C.I., 1975. Geology of the Casino porphyry copper-molybdenum deposit, Dawson Range, Yukon Territory. Unpub. PhD Thesis, University of British Columbia, 1975.
Hart, C.J.R., and Selby, D., 1997. The Pattison Creek Pluton - a Mineralized Casino Intrusion made bigger with gamma rays. In Yukon exploration and Geology 1997. Exploration and Geological Services Division, Yukon, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, pp. 89-96, 1998.
Independent Mining Consultants Inc., 2012. Casino Copper-Gold Project Yukon Territory, Canada, Pre-Feasibility Study Mining, Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper Corporation, December 2, 2012.
Independent Mining Consultants Inc., 2013. Feasibility Study Mining - LNG Truck Haulage, Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper Corporation, January 14, 2013.
Johnston, S.T., 1995. Geological compilation with interpretation from geophysical surveys of the northern Dawson Range, central Yukon (115J/9 & 10; 115I/12) (1:100 000 scale map).
Exploration and Geological Services Division, Yukon, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, Open File 1995-2 (G), 1995.
Johnston, S.T., and Shives, R.B.K., 1995. Results of an airborne multiparameter geophysical survey of the northern Dawson Range, Yukon: Revised geological maps and implications for mineral exploration In Yukon Exploration and Geology, 1994, Exploration and Geological Services Division, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada.
Kappes, Cassiday & Associates, 1995. Acid Leach and Cyanide Leach Bottle Roll Tests, Unpublished Company Report, Pacific Sentinel Gold Corp., March 1995.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 1994. Report on Preliminary Surficial Geotechnical Investigations (Ref. No. 1831/1), Unpublished Company Report. March 1994.
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Knight Piésold Ltd., 1995. Data Compilation Report on 1994 Geotechnical and Hydrogeotechnical Investigations (Ref. No. 1832/2), Unpublished Company Report. February 22, 1995.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2008. Casino Copper-Gold Project – Preliminary Plant Site Foundation Assessment (Ref. No. VA07-01669), Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper Corporation, February 15, 2008.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2010. 2010 Geotechnical Site Investigation Data Report (Ref. No. VA101-325/3-4), Unpublished Company Report. November 2, 2010.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2010a. Hydrometeorology Report (Ref No. VA101-325/3-1), Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper Corporation, June 15, 2010.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2011. Report on Revised Pre-Feasibility Design of the Tailings Management Facility (Ref No. VA101-325/3-5), Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper and Gold Corporation, June 13, 2011.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2012. Report on Laboratory Geotechnical Testing of Tailings Materials (Ref. No. VA101-325/8-1), Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper and Gold Corporation, December 21, 2012.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2012a. Terrain Hazards Assessment for Proposed Access Roads and Air Strip (Ref. No. VA101-325/8-2), Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper and Gold Corporation, April 11, 2012.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2012b. Terrain Hazards Assessment for Proposed Mine Site (Ref. No. VA101-325/8-3), Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper and Gold Corporation, April 13, 2012.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2012c. 2011 Geotechnical Site Investigation Data Report, Plant Site (Ref. No. VA101-325/8-4), Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper and Gold Corporation, December 20, 2012.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2012d. 2011 Geotechnical Site Investigation Data Report, Waste Management Facilities (Ref. No. VA101-325/8-5), Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper and Gold Corporation, December 21, 2012.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2012e. 2011 Geomechanical Site Investigation Data Report, Open Pit (Ref. No. VA101-325/8-6), Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper and Gold Corporation, December 20, 2012.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2012f. Open Pit Geotechnical Design (Ref. No. VA101-325/8-7), Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper and Gold Corporation, October 12, 2012.
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Knight Piésold Ltd., 2012g. Feasibility Design of the Heap Leach Facility (VA101-325/8-9), Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper and Gold Corporation, December 19, 2012.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2012h. Report on Feasibility Design of the Tailings Management Facility (Ref. No. VA101-325/8-10). Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper and Gold Corporation, December 20, 2012.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2012i. Updated Hydrometeorology Report (Ref. No. VA101-325/8-11). Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper and Gold Corporation, July 9, 2012.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2012j. Waste Storage Area and Stockpiles Feasibility Design (Ref. No. VA101-325/8-12). Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper and Gold Corporation, December 19, 2012.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2012k. Report on Revised Tailings Management Facility Seepage Assessment (Ref. No. VA101-325/8-13). Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper and Gold Corporation, December 19, 2012.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2012l. 2012 Geotechnical Site Investigation Data Report (Ref. No. VA101-325/8-14). Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper and Gold Corporation, December 19, 2012.
Knight Piésold Ltd., 2013. Plant Site Geotechnical Assessment Report (Ref. No. VA101-325/8-8), Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper and Gold Corporation, January 14, 2013.
M3, 2008. “Casino Project Pre-Feasibility Study, Yukon Territory, Canada.” Prepared by M3 Engineering & Technology Corporation.
M3, 2011. Technical Report, Casino Project Pre-Feasibility Study Update, Yukon Territory Canada, April 29th 2011. Prepared by M3 Engineering & Technology Corporation.
METCON Research, 2008. Casino Project – Agitated and Column Cyanide Leach Study, Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper Corporation, July 2008.
Pacific Sentinel Gold Corp, 1995. “Pacific Sentinel Gold Corp., A Development Plan for Feasibility, Casino Project, Scoping Study and Overview Report, 25,000 TPD Open Pit Mine and Concentrator Complex.”
Payne, J.G., Gonzalez, R. A., Akhurst, K. and Sisson, W.G., 1987. Geology of the Colorado Creek (115-J/10), Selwyn River (115-J/9), and Prospector Mountain (115-I/5) Map areas, Western Dawson Range, west-central Yukon. Exploration and Geological Services Division, Yukon, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, Open File 1987-3, 1987.
Selby D. and Creaser R. A., 2001. Late and Mid Cretaceous mineralization in the Northern Cordillera: Constraints from Re-Os molybdenite dates. Econ. Geol. 96, 1461–1467.
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Selby, D., Creaser, R.A. and Nesbett, B.E., 1999. Major and trace element composition and Sr-Nd-Pb systematics of crystalline rocks from the Dawson Range, Yukon, Canada. Canadian Journal of Earth Sciences, Vol. 36, pg 1463-1481, 1999.
Selby, David and Nesbitt, Bruce E., 1998. Biotite Chemistry of the Casino Porphyry Cu- Mo-Au Occurrence, Dawson Range, Yukon. In: Yukon Exploration and Geology 1997; Exploration and Geological Services Division, Yukon, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, p. 83-88, 1998.
SGS Lakefield Research, 2008. Pre-Feasibility Grinding Circuit Study for Western Copper Corporation – Casino Project based on Small-Scale Tests Data, Unpublished Company Report, Western Copper Corporation, February 2008.
Shouldice, T. and Johnston, H., 2012. Advanced Metallurgical Assessment of the Casino Copper Gold Project, Whitehorse, Yukon, KM 3512. December 20, 2012. Performed by ALS Metallurgy (formally G&T Metallurgical Services) Work Performed on behalf of Western Copper and Gold Corporation.
Starkey & Associates, 2011. SAGDesign Comminution Analysis, S&A Project S96, SAGDesign Comminution Analysis Report Rev 0. Prepared for Western Copper and Gold Corporation and FLSmidth. February 29, 2011.
Tempelman-Kluit, D.J., 1974. Reconaissance geology of Aishihik Lake, Snag and part of Stewart River map-areas, west-central Yukon. Department of Energy Mines and Resources; Geological Survey of Canada Paper 73-41, 97 p.
Tempelman-Kluit, D.J., 1976.
The Yukon crystalline terrane-Enigma in the Canadian cordillera. Geological Society of America Bulletin, v. 87, no. 9 p.1343-1357.
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APPENDIX A: FEASIBILITY STUDY CONTRIBUTORS AND PROFESSIONAL
QUALIFICATIONS
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APPENDIX B: LIST OF CLAIMS
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APPENDIX B – CASINO PROPERTY – LIST OF ACTIVE
AND PENDING MINERAL CLAIMS
Table 1.26 -1: Casino Property – List of Active and Pending Mineral Claims
Grant Number | Claim Name | Staking Date | Expiry Date |
4252 | HELICOPTER | 9/4/1943 | 3/25/2024 |
56979 | #1 BOMBER GROUP | 8/7/1947 | 3/25/2024 |
56980 | #3 BOMBER GROUP | 8/7/1947 | 3/25/2024 |
56981 | #5 BOMBER GROUP | 8/7/1947 | 3/25/2024 |
56983 | #1 AIRPORT GROUP | 8/7/1947 | 3/25/2024 |
56984 | #3 AIRPORT GROUP | 8/7/1947 | 3/25/2024 |
56985 | #5 AIRPORT GROUP | 8/7/1947 | 3/25/2024 |
56987 | #2 BOMBER GROUP | 8/7/1947 | 3/25/2024 |
56988 | #6 BOMBER GROUP | 8/7/1947 | 3/25/2024 |
56990 | #2 AIRPORT GROUP | 8/7/1947 | 3/25/2024 |
56991 | #4 AIRPORT GROUP | 8/7/1947 | 3/25/2024 |
56992 | #6 AIRPORT GROUP | 8/7/1947 | 3/25/2024 |
56993 | #8 AIRPORT GROUP | 7/7/1947 | 3/25/2024 |
92201 | CAT 1 | 6/29/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92202 | CAT 2 | 6/29/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92203 | CAT 3 | 6/29/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92204 | CAT 4 | 6/29/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92205 | CAT 5 | 6/29/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92206 | CAT 6 | 6/29/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92207 | CAT 7 | 6/29/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92208 | CAT 8 | 6/29/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92209 | CAT 9 | 6/29/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92210 | CAT 10 | 6/29/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92211 | CAT 11 | 6/29/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92212 | CAT 12 | 6/29/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92213 | CAT 13 | 6/29/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92214 | CAT 14 | 6/29/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92215 | CAT 15 | 6/30/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92216 | CAT 16 | 6/30/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92217 | CAT 17 | 6/30/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92218 | CAT 18 | 6/30/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92219 | CAT 19 | 6/30/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92220 | CAT 20 | 6/30/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92221 | CAT 21 | 6/30/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92222 | CAT 22 | 6/30/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92764 | CAT 23 | 9/10/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92765 | CAT 24 | 9/10/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92766 | CAT 25 | 9/10/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92776 | CAT 35 | 9/11/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92777 | CAT 36 | 9/11/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92778 | CAT 37 | 9/11/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92779 | CAT 38 | 9/11/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92780 | CAT 39 | 9/12/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92781 | CAT 40 | 9/12/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92782 | CAT 41 | 9/12/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
92783 | CAT 42 | 9/12/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95724 | CAT 47 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95725 | CAT 48 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95726 | CAT 49 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95727 | CAT 50 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95728 | CAT 51 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
Grant Number | Claim Name | Staking Date | Expiry Date |
95729 | CAT 52 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95730 | CAT 53 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95731 | CAT 54 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95732 | CAT 55 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95733 | CAT 56 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95734 | CAT 57 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95735 | CAT 58 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95736 | CAT 59 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95737 | CAT 60 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95738 | CAT 61 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95739 | CAT 62 | 12/2/1965 | 3/25/2024 |
95740 | CAT 63 | 12/5/1965 | 3/25/2016 |
95741 | CAT 64 | 12/5/1965 | 3/25/2016 |
95742 | CAT 65 | 12/5/1965 | 3/25/2016 |
95743 | CAT 66 | 12/5/1965 | 3/25/2016 |
95744 | CAT 67 | 12/5/1965 | 3/25/2016 |
95745 | CAT 68 | 12/5/1965 | 3/25/2016 |
95746 | CAT 69 | 12/5/1965 | 3/25/2016 |
95747 | CAT 70 | 12/5/1965 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 10693 | JOE 89 | 9/24/1966 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 10694 | JOE 90 | 9/24/1966 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 10695 | JOE 91 | 9/24/1966 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 10696 | JOE 92 | 9/24/1966 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 10697 | JOE 93 | 9/24/1966 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 10698 | JOE 94 | 9/24/1966 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 10699 | JOE 95 | 9/24/1966 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 10700 | JOE 96 | 9/24/1966 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 10701 | JOE 97 | 9/24/1966 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 10702 | JOE 98 | 9/24/1966 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 10703 | JOE 99 | 9/24/1966 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 10704 | JOE 100 | 9/24/1966 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 10705 | JOE 101 | 9/24/1966 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 10706 | JOE 102 | 9/24/1966 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 10707 | JOE 103 | 9/24/1966 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 10708 | JOE 104 | 9/24/1966 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 35192 | MOUSE 1 | 6/4/1969 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 35193 | MOUSE 2 | 6/4/1969 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 35194 | MOUSE 3 | 6/4/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35195 | MOUSE 4 | 6/4/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35196 | MOUSE 5 | 6/4/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35197 | MOUSE 6 | 6/4/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35198 | MOUSE 7 | 6/4/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35199 | MOUSE 8 | 6/4/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35200 | MOUSE 9 | 6/4/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35201 | MOUSE 10 | 6/4/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35202 | MOUSE 11 | 6/4/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35203 | MOUSE 12 | 6/4/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35204 | MOUSE 13 | 6/4/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35205 | MOUSE 14 | 6/4/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35206 | MOUSE 15 | 6/4/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35207 | MOUSE 16 | 6/4/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35483 | MOUSE 89 | 6/22/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Grant Number | Claim Name | Staking Date | Expiry Date |
Y 35484 | MOUSE 90 | 6/22/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35491 | MOUSE 97 | 6/22/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35492 | MOUSE 98 | 6/22/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35517 | MOUSE 123 | 6/22/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35518 | MOUSE 124 | 6/22/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35519 | MOUSE 125 | 6/22/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35520 | MOUSE 126 | 6/22/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35521 | MOUSE 127 | 6/22/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35522 | MOUSE 128 | 6/22/1969 | 3/25/2016 |
Y 35582 | MOUSE 161 | 6/25/1969 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 35583 | MOUSE 162 | 6/25/1969 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 35584 | MOUSE 163 | 6/25/1969 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 35585 | LOST FR. 1 | 6/25/1969 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 35586 | LOST FR. 2 | 6/25/1969 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 35587 | LOST FR. 3 | 6/25/1969 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 36686 | CAT 22 | 8/12/1969 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 36687 | CAT 47 | 8/12/1969 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 36688 | CAT 48 | 8/12/1969 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 36689 | CAT 57 | 8/12/1969 | 6/5/2024 |
Y 36690 | CAT 62 | 8/12/1969 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 39601 | CAT 3 | 10/23/1969 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 39602 | CAT 4 | 10/23/1969 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 39603 | CAT 23 | 10/23/1969 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 51846 | CAT 1 | 3/29/1970 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 51847 | CAT 2 | 3/29/1970 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 51849 | CAT 26 | 3/30/1970 | 3/25/2024 |
Y 51850 | JOE 91 | 3/29/1970 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 51851 | JOE 92 | 3/29/1970 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 51852 | JOE 93 | 3/29/1970 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 51853 | JOE 94 | 3/29/1970 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 51854 | JOE 95 | 3/29/1970 | 3/5/2024 |
Y 51855 | JOE 96 | 3/29/1970 | 3/5/2024 |
YB36618 | CAS 31 | 11/28/1991 | 3/25/2016 |
YB36619 | CAS 32 | 11/28/1991 | 3/25/2016 |
YB36620 | CAS 33 | 11/28/1991 | 3/25/2016 |
YB36621 | CAS 34 | 11/28/1991 | 3/25/2016 |
YB36622 | CAS 35 | 11/28/1991 | 3/25/2016 |
YB36623 | CAS 36 | 11/28/1991 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37242 | E 23 | 9/1/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37243 | E 24 | 9/1/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37244 | E 25 | 9/1/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37246 | E 27 | 9/1/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37247 | E 28 | 9/1/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37248 | E 29 | 9/1/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37249 | E 30 | 9/1/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37250 | E 31 | 9/1/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37251 | E 32 | 9/1/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37278 | F 27 | 8/30/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37279 | F 28 | 8/30/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37280 | F 29 | 8/30/1992 | 3/25/2024 |
YB37282 | F 31 | 8/30/1992 | 3/25/2024 |
YB37284 | F 33 | 8/30/1992 | 3/25/2024 |
Grant Number | Claim Name | Staking Date | Expiry Date |
YB37640 | I 1 | 9/9/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37641 | I 2 | 9/9/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37642 | I 3 | 9/9/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37643 | I 4 | 9/9/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37658 | I 19 | 9/9/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YB37659 | I 20 | 9/9/1992 | 3/25/2016 |
YC64893 | VIK 1 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64894 | VIK 2 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64895 | VIK 3 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64896 | VIK 4 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64897 | VIK 5 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64898 | VIK 6 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64899 | VIK 7 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64900 | VIK 8 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64901 | VIK 9 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64902 | VIK 10 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64903 | VIK 11 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64904 | VIK 12 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64905 | VIK 13 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64906 | VIK 14 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64907 | VIK 15 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64908 | VIK 16 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64909 | VIK 17 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64910 | VIK 18 | 5/28/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64911 | VIK 19 | 5/28/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64912 | VIK 20 | 5/28/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64913 | VIK 21 | 5/28/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64914 | VIK 22 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64915 | VIK 23 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64916 | VIK 24 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64917 | VIK 25 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64918 | VIK 26 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64919 | VIK 27 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64920 | VIK 28 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64921 | VIK 29 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64922 | VIK 30 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64923 | VIK 31 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64924 | VIK 32 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64925 | VIK 33 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64926 | VIK 34 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64927 | VIK 35 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64928 | VIK 36 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64929 | VIK 37 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64930 | VIK 38 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64931 | VIK 39 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64932 | VIK 40 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64933 | VIK 41 | 5/31/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64934 | VIK 42 | 5/31/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64935 | VIK 43 | 6/5/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64936 | VIK 44 | 6/5/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64937 | VIK 45 | 6/5/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64938 | VIK 46 | 6/5/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
Grant Number | Claim Name | Staking Date | Expiry Date |
YC64939 | VIK 47 | 6/5/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64940 | VIK 48 | 6/5/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64941 | VIK 49 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64942 | VIK 50 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64943 | VIK 51 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64944 | VIK 52 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64945 | VIK 53 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64946 | VIK 54 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64947 | VIK 55 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64948 | VIK 56 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64949 | VIK 57 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64950 | VIK 58 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64951 | VIK 59 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64952 | VIK 60 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64953 | VIK 61 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64954 | VIK 62 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64955 | VIK 63 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64956 | VIK 64 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64957 | VIK 65 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64958 | VIK 66 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64959 | VIK 67 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64960 | VIK 68 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64961 | VIK 69 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64962 | VIK 70 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64963 | VIK 71 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64964 | VIK 72 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64965 | VIK 73 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64966 | VIK 74 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64967 | VIK 75 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64968 | VIK 76 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64969 | VIK 77 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64970 | VIK 78 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64971 | VIK 79 | 5/24/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64972 | VIK 80 | 5/27/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64973 | VIK 81 | 5/25/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64974 | VIK 82 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64975 | VIK 83 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64976 | VIK 84 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64977 | VIK 85 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64978 | VIK 86 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64979 | VIK 87 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64980 | VIK 88 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64981 | VIK 89 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64982 | VIK 90 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64983 | VIK 91 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64984 | VIK 92 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64985 | VIK 93 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64986 | VIK 94 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64987 | VIK 95 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64988 | VIK 96 | 5/28/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64989 | VIK 97 | 5/28/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64990 | VIK 98 | 5/28/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
Grant Number | Claim Name | Staking Date | Expiry Date |
YC64991 | VIK 99 | 5/28/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64992 | VIK 100 | 5/28/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64993 | VIK 101 | 5/28/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64994 | VIK 102 | 5/28/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64995 | VIK 103 | 5/28/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64996 | VIK 104 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64997 | VIK 105 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64998 | VIK 106 | �� 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC64999 | VIK 107 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65000 | VIK 108 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65001 | VIK 109 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65002 | VIK 110 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65003 | VIK 111 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65004 | VIK 112 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65005 | VIK 113 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65006 | VIK 114 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65007 | VIK 115 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65008 | VIK 116 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65009 | VIK 117 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65010 | VIK 118 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65011 | VIK 119 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65012 | VIK 120 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65013 | VIK 121 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65014 | VIK 122 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65015 | VIK 123 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65016 | VIK 124 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65017 | VIK 125 | 5/26/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65018 | VIK 126 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65019 | VIK 127 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65020 | VIK 128 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65021 | VIK 129 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65022 | VIK 130 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65023 | VIK 131 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65024 | VIK 132 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65025 | VIK 133 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65026 | VIK 134 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65027 | VIK 135 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65028 | VIK 136 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65029 | VIK 137 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65030 | VIK 138 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65031 | VIK 139 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65032 | VIK 140 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65033 | VIK 141 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65034 | VIK 142 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65035 | VIK 143 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65036 | VIK 144 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65037 | VIK 145 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65038 | VIK 146 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65039 | VIK 147 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65040 | VIK 148 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65041 | VIK 149 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65042 | VIK 150 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
Grant Number | Claim Name | Staking Date | Expiry Date |
YC65043 | VIK 151 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65044 | VIK 152 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65045 | VIK 153 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65046 | VIK 154 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65047 | VIK 155 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65048 | VIK 156 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65049 | VIK 157 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65050 | VIK 158 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65051 | VIK 159 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65052 | VIK 160 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65053 | VIK 161 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65054 | VIK 162 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65055 | VIK 163 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65056 | VIK 164 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65057 | VIK 165 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65058 | VIK 166 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65059 | VIK 167 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65060 | VIK 168 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65061 | VIK 169 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65062 | VIK 170 | 5/30/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65063 | VIK 171 | 5/30/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65064 | VIK 172 | 5/30/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65065 | VIK 173 | 5/30/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65066 | VIK 174 | 5/30/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65067 | VIK 175 | 5/30/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65068 | VIK 176 | 5/30/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65069 | VIK 177 | 5/30/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65070 | VIK 178 | 5/30/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65071 | VIK 179 | 5/30/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65072 | VIK 180 | 5/30/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65073 | VIK 181 | 5/30/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65074 | VIK 182 | 5/30/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65075 | VIK 183 | 5/30/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65076 | VIK 184 | 5/28/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65077 | VIK 185 | 5/28/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65078 | VIK 186 | 5/28/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65079 | VIK 187 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC65080 | VIK 188 | 5/29/2007 | 3/5/2024 |
YC81316 | BRIT 1 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81317 | BRIT 2 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81318 | BRIT 3 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81319 | BRIT 4 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81320 | BRIT 5 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81321 | BRIT 6 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81322 | BRIT 7 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81323 | BRIT 8 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81324 | BRIT 9 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81325 | BRIT 10 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81326 | BRIT 11 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81327 | BRIT 12 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81328 | BRIT 13 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81329 | BRIT 14 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
Grant Number | Claim Name | Staking Date | Expiry Date |
YC81330 | BRIT 15 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81331 | BRIT 16 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81332 | BRIT 17 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81333 | BRIT 18 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81334 | BRIT 19 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81335 | BRIT 20 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81336 | BRIT 21 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81337 | BRIT 22 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81338 | BRIT 23 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81339 | BRIT 24 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81340 | BRIT 25 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81341 | BRIT 26 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81342 | BRIT 27 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81343 | BRIT 28 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81344 | BRIT 29 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81345 | BRIT 30 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81346 | BRIT 31 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81347 | BRIT 32 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81348 | BRIT 33 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81349 | BRIT 34 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81350 | BRIT 35 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81351 | BRIT 36 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81352 | BRIT 37 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81353 | BRIT 38 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81354 | BRIT 39 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81355 | BRIT 40 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81356 | BRIT 41 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81357 | BRIT 42 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81358 | BRIT 43 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81359 | BRIT 44 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81360 | BRIT 45 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81361 | BRIT 46 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81362 | BRIT 47 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81363 | BRIT 48 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81364 | BRIT 49 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81365 | BRIT 50 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81366 | BRIT 51 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81367 | BRIT 52 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81368 | BRIT 53 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81369 | BRIT 54 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81370 | BRIT 55 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81371 | BRIT 56 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81372 | BRIT 57 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81373 | BRIT 58 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81374 | BRIT 59 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81375 | BRIT 60 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81376 | BRIT 61 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81377 | BRIT 62 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81378 | BRIT 63 | 6/10/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81379 | CC 1 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81380 | CC 2 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81381 | CC 3 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
Grant Number | Claim Name | Staking Date | Expiry Date |
YC81382 | CC 4 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81383 | CC 5 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81384 | CC 6 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81385 | CC 7 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81386 | CC 8 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81387 | CC 9 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81388 | CC 10 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81389 | CC 11 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81390 | CC 12 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81391 | CC 13 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81392 | CC 14 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81393 | CC 15 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81394 | CC 16 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81395 | CC 17 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81396 | CC 18 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81397 | CC 19 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81398 | CC 20 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81399 | CC 21 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81400 | CC 22 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81401 | CC 23 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81402 | CC 24 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81403 | CC 25 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81404 | CC 26 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81405 | CC 27 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81406 | CC 28 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81407 | CC 29 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81408 | CC 30 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81409 | CC 31 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81410 | CC 32 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81411 | CC 33 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81412 | CC 34 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81413 | CC 35 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81414 | CC 36 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81415 | CC 37 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81416 | CC 38 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81417 | CC 39 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81418 | CC 40 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81419 | CC 41 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81420 | CC 42 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81421 | CC 43 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81422 | CC 44 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81423 | CC 45 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81424 | CC 46 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81425 | CC 47 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81426 | CC 48 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81427 | CC 49 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81428 | CC 50 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81429 | CC 51 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81430 | CC 52 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81431 | CC 53 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81432 | CC 54 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81433 | CC 55 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
Grant Number | Claim Name | Staking Date | Expiry Date |
YC81434 | CC 56 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81435 | CC 57 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81436 | CC 58 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81437 | CC 59 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81438 | CC 60 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81439 | CC 61 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81440 | CC 62 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81441 | CC 63 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81442 | CC 64 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81443 | CC 65 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81444 | CC 66 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81445 | CC 67 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81446 | CC 68 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81447 | CC 69 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81448 | CC 70 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81449 | CC 71 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81450 | CC 72 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81451 | CC 73 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81452 | CC 74 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81453 | CC 75 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81454 | CC 76 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81455 | CC 77 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81456 | CC 78 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81457 | CC 79 | 6/12/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81458 | CC 80 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81459 | CC 81 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81460 | CC 82 | 6/11/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81461 | CC 83 | 6/13/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81462 | CC 84 | 6/13/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81463 | CC 85 | 6/13/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81464 | CC 86 | 6/13/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81465 | CC 87 | 6/13/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81466 | CC 88 | 6/13/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81467 | CC 89 | 6/13/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81468 | CC 90 | 6/13/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81469 | CC 91 | 6/13/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81470 | CC 92 | 6/13/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81471 | CC 93 | 6/13/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YC81472 | CC 94 | 6/13/2008 | 3/5/2022 |
YD17559 | AXS 1 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17560 | AXS 2 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17561 | AXS 3 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17562 | AXS 4 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17563 | AXS 5 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17564 | AXS 6 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17565 | AXS 7 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17566 | AXS 8 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17567 | AXS 9 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17568 | AXS 10 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17569 | AXS 11 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17570 | AXS 12 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17571 | AXS 13 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
Grant Number | Claim Name | Staking Date | Expiry Date |
YD17572 | AXS 14 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17573 | AXS 15 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17574 | AXS 16 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17575 | AXS 17 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17576 | AXS 18 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17577 | AXS 19 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17578 | AXS 20 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17579 | AXS 21 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17580 | AXS 22 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17581 | AXS 23 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17582 | AXS 24 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17583 | AXS 25 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17584 | AXS 26 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17585 | AXS 27 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17586 | AXS 28 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17587 | AXS 29 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17588 | AXS 30 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17589 | AXS 31 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17590 | AXS 32 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17591 | AXS 33 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17592 | AXS 34 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17593 | AXS 35 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17594 | AXS 36 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17595 | AXS 37 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17596 | AXS 38 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17597 | AXS 39 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17598 | AXS 40 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17599 | AXS 41 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17600 | AXS 42 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17601 | AXS 43 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17602 | AXS 44 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17603 | AXS 45 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17604 | AXS 46 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17605 | AXS 47 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17606 | AXS 48 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17607 | AXS 49 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17608 | AXS 50 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17609 | AXS 51 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17610 | AXS 52 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17611 | AXS 53 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17612 | AXS 54 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17613 | AXS 55 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17614 | AXS 56 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17615 | AXS 57 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17616 | AXS 58 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17617 | AXS 59 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17618 | AXS 60 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17619 | AXS 61 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17620 | AXS 62 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17621 | AXS 63 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17622 | AXS 64 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17623 | AXS 65 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
Grant Number | Claim Name | Staking Date | Expiry Date |
YD17624 | AXS 66 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17625 | AXS 67 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17626 | AXS 68 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17627 | AXS 69 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17628 | AXS 70 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17629 | AXS 71 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17630 | AXS 72 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17631 | AXS 73 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17632 | AXS 74 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17633 | AXS 75 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17634 | AXS 76 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17635 | AXS 77 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17636 | AXS 78 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17637 | AXS 79 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17638 | AXS 80 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17639 | AXS 81 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17640 | AXS 82 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17641 | AXS 83 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17642 | AXS 84 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17643 | AXS 85 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17644 | AXS 86 | 10/5/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17645 | AXS 87 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17646 | AXS 88 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17647 | AXS 89 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17648 | AXS 90 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17649 | AXS 91 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17650 | AXS 92 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17651 | AXS 103 | 10/7/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17652 | AXS 102 | 10/7/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17653 | AXS 101 | 10/7/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17654 | AXS 100 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17655 | AXS 99 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17656 | AXS 98 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17657 | AXS 97 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17658 | AXS 96 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17659 | AXS 95 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17660 | AXS 94 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17661 | AXS 93 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17662 | AXS 104 | 10/7/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17663 | AXS 105 | 10/7/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17664 | AXS 106 | 10/7/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17665 | AXS 107 | 10/7/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17666 | AXS 108 | 10/7/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17667 | AXS 109 | 10/7/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17668 | AXS 110 | 10/7/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17669 | AXS 111 | 10/7/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17670 | AXS 112 | 10/7/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17671 | AXS 113 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17672 | AXS 114 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17673 | AXS 115 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17674 | AXS 116 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17675 | AXS 117 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
Grant Number | Claim Name | Staking Date | Expiry Date |
YD17676 | AXS 118 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17677 | AXS 119 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17678 | AXS 120 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17679 | AXS 121 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17680 | AXS 122 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17681 | AXS 123 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17682 | AXS 124 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17683 | AXS 125 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17684 | AXS 126 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17685 | AXS 127 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17686 | AXS 128 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17687 | AXS 129 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17688 | AXS 130 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17689 | AXS 131 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17690 | AXS 132 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17691 | AXS 133 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17692 | AXS 134 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17693 | AXS 135 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD17694 | AXS 136 | 10/6/2009 | 3/25/2015 |
YD60030 | AXS 137 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60031 | AXS 138 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60032 | AXS 139 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60033 | AXS 140 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60034 | AXS 141 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60035 | AXS 142 | 5/11/2010 | ��3/25/2016 |
YD60036 | AXS 143 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60037 | AXS 144 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60038 | AXS 145 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60039 | AXS 146 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60040 | AXS 147 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60041 | AXS 148 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60042 | AXS 149 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60043 | AXS 150 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60044 | AXS 151 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60045 | AXS 152 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60046 | AXS 154 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60047 | AXS 153 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60048 | AXS 155 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60049 | AXS 156 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60050 | AXS 157 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60051 | AXS 158 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60052 | AXS 159 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60053 | AXS 160 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60054 | AXS 161 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60055 | AXS 162 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60056 | AXS 163 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60057 | AXS 164 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60058 | AXS 165 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60059 | AXS 166 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60060 | AXS 167 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60061 | AXS 168 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60062 | AXS 169 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
Grant Number | Claim Name | Staking Date | Expiry Date |
YD60063 | AXS 170 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60064 | AXS 171 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60065 | AXS 172 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60066 | AXS 173 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60067 | AXS 174 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60068 | AXS 175 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60069 | AXS 176 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60070 | AXS 177 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60071 | AXS 178 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60072 | AXS 179 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60073 | AXS 180 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60074 | AXS 181 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60075 | AXS 182 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60076 | AXS 183 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60077 | AXS 184 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60078 | AXS 185 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD60079 | AXS 186 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD61120 | AXS 187 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD61121 | AXS 188 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD61122 | AXS 189 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD61123 | AXS 190 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD61124 | AXS 191 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD61125 | AXS 192 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD61126 | AXS 193 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD61127 | AXS 194 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD61128 | AXS 196 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD61129 | AXS 195 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD61130 | AXS 197 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD61131 | AXS 198 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
YD61132 | AXS 199 | 5/11/2010 | 3/25/2016 |
GrantNumber | ClaimName | StakingDate | ExpiryDate |
YD04375 | FLY 1 | 2/2/2011 | 3/26/2016 |
YD04376 | FLY 2 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04377 | FLY 3 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04378 | FLY 4 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04379 | FLY 5 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04380 | FLY 6 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04381 | FLY 7 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04382 | FLY 8 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04383 | FLY 9 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04384 | FLY 10 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04385 | FLY 11 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04386 | FLY 12 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04387 | FLY 13 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04388 | FLY 14 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04399 | FLY 15 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04400 | FLY 16 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04401 | FLY 17 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |
YD04402 | FLY 18 | 2/2/2011 | 3/25/2016 |