Australian Vanadium (ASX:AVL) has completed the first of a two-season subterranean fauna study at its flagship 100% owned Gabanintha Vanadium Project in Western Australia.
The second part of this survey is planned for the end of the southern wet season in September 2017.
The company also recently finalised the first part of a two-season level 2 flora and vegetation field study at Gabanintha.
The results of these studies will provide important baseline data and determine the need for further studies.
Water quality samples and water level data are also being collected.
The ongoing environmental and water studies are helping the company prepare for more detailed environmental impact assessments as the project advances to feasibility.
Environmental base line information and conclusive studies are often the most time-critical steps in achieving project approval. AVL is working to be ahead of schedule on this assessment.
Vincent Algar, managing director, commented: “Gabanintha is a significant global vanadium resource with growth potential.
“The timing of environmental and development work becomes more urgent as the vanadium price enters a new upward phase. We are very excited to be entering this phase of the project.”
Furthermore, new metallurgical test work is underway and updated resource modelling is in progress.
The updated resource modelling will include a cobalt resource estimate and revision of density and oxidation parameters.