Nine Mile Metals Ltd. (CSE:NINE, OTCQB:VMSXF, FRA:KQ9) said a completed drill hole at its Wedge project in New Brunswick hit two distinct zones of copper-bearing VMS mineralization over 129.72 metres, reinforcing the northeastern extension of the deposit.
Drill hole DDH WD-26-01 hit base metal sulphides including pyrite and chalcopyrite from 34.6 to 164.32 metres, with the lower zone also carrying visible sphalerite (zinc) and galena (lead).
Coarse-grained chalcopyrite appeared throughout the mineralized sections, and XRF analysis confirmed copper, zinc and lead in the deepest interval between 160.98 and 164.32 metres.
"The Wedge continues to demonstrate its viability, this hole further confirming the north-eastern extension zone of the Wedge is strongly mineralized,” said Nine Mile CEO Patrick Cruickshank.
Gary Lohman, Nine Mile’s vice president exploration and director, told shareholders that drill results “continue to impress,” adding that the VMS mineralization demonstrates “the robust nature of the Wedge.”
The company also announced the addition of Art Hamilton to its technical team. Hamilton is a career Bathurst-area geologist with specialized knowledge of the Bathurst Camp's VMS geology.
"Art is a highly experienced P.Geo., especially in the VMS environment, and we are looking forward to working with him throughout the year," Cruickshank told investors. “We continue to increase our technical capital on our team and will drive to success together as a team.”
Nine Mile said it expects to receive a second drill rig from contractor Orbit Garant in early July, with a third track-mounted rig secured for September onwards. Orbit Garant reportedly had to build more than 20 new rigs over the winter to meet rising industry demand and has assembled an experienced VMS drilling crew for the program.