Ptarmigan mine output growing for Treminco

Vancouver-based Treminco Resources (TSE) appears to be making progress in its bid to become a successful small-mine operator in North America. Record monthly gold production was achieved recently at the company’s Ptarmigan gold mine in the Northwest Territories. During April, 2,298 oz. of gold were produced from 6,566 tons of ore with an average millhead grade of 0.38 oz. gold per ton. Recovery averaged 93.3% for the month. The mine is 12 miles from Yellowknife, N.W.T.

Meanwhile, exploration work at the Ptarmigan and nearby Tom mine continues to be a priority for the company. The Tom mine is about one mile from the Ptarmigan and has been operated as a satellite deposit for the past two years. The ore at both deposits is found within nearly vertical quartz veins.

Exploration diamond drilling started this month on both properties with the objective of following up earlier results at the west end of the Ptarmigan vein and the C-vein which lies parallel to and 1,000 ft. south of the Tom mine.

Last year, surface drilling on the C-vein at the 50-ft. horizon yielded results such as 5.3 ft. of 0.38 oz. gold and 3.96 ft. grading 0.33 oz. The current program will test the continuity of the C-vein to depth and along strike. If successful, Treminco will be able to reach the new ore from a decline driven from the Tom mine.

Overall, the Ptarmigan mine is expected to produce in excess of 25,000 oz. of gold this year, according to Treminco. The mine’s output last year totalled 16,433 oz. at an average cash cost of $328 per oz.