Although Aurizon Mines (ARZ-T, AZK-X) produced 20% less gold in the first quarter of 2007 than planned, the company surpassed its gold grade and mill recovery estimates at its Casa Berardi mine in the Abitibi region of northwestern Quebec.
Aurizon produced 32,013 oz. of gold during the first quarter, bringing total mine production to 49,744 oz. since commissioning the mill late last year.
The company milled nearly 105,000 tonnes of ore grading 10.1 grams gold per tonne after predicting an average grade of 9.2 grams per tonne.
The mill recovery rate was nearly 4% better than forecast at 93.8%.
Gold production was lower than planned because of a temporary suspension of operations during the commissioning and ramp-up phase of the mine operations in late January.
Production is currently at 1,600 tonnes per day, but will increase to 2,200 tonnes per day over the next year.
The company plans to produce 165,000 to 175,000 oz. gold this year and says its on target. Cash costs are estimated at US$265 to $285 per oz.
As of May 1, Aurizon will have achieved commercial production status.
The Casa Berardi mine has a six-year mine life and is expected to produce 1 million oz. gold.
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