Gold production at the Golden Bear mine near Dease Lake, B.C., will be reduced by about 50% for the next 5-6 weeks while operator North American Metals (VSE) corrects the failure of a key component in the plant’s roaster. The company said the problem was discovered during a routine inspection after a 3-week period of relatively trouble-free operation.
The 360-tonne-per-day Golden Bear project is owned 50% by North American Metals, which in turn is controlled by Homestake Mining (NYSE). Chevron Minerals holds the remaining interest, although its parent company recently announced plans to sell the mine interest as part of an internal reorganization process.
In view of the problems with the roaster, North American is processing lower-grade oxide ores while evaluation of possible solutions and subsequent repairs takes place. A team of engineers and manufacturing representatives are on site to assist in the evaluation and repair process.
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