Chalice Mining Ltd (ASX:CHN, OTCQB:CGMLF) is one step closer to testing its regional Hartog-Dampier targets, which form part of the Julimar Nickel-Copper-Platinum Group Element (PGE) Project in WA, thanks to a new set of exploration approvals.
This paves the way for the company to complete planned low-impact exploration drilling over the polymetallic targets.
Drilling is expected to commence shortly at the high-priority prospects, located to the north of the globally significant Gonneville PGE-nickel-copper-cobalt-gold deposit.
What is Chalice looking for?
Chalice plans to drill 70 sites across the Julimar Complex strike length, which runs for roughly 10 kilometres.
The drill program is designed to provide an initial test of the target’s potential for green metals, including nickel, copper, cobalt, platinum and palladium.
These metals are very rare, and are critical for decarbonising the global economy and addressing climate change through technologies such as renewables, electric vehicles, energy storage systems and green hydrogen.
Chalice maintains it’s in a strong financial position to complete the program, with around $54.5 million in the bank at the end of the March quarter.
Going green
Importantly, Chalice’s drilling will not involve any mechanised vegetation clearing, while strict environmental management measures will be used to minimise impact to the environment.
This means the explorer will use low-impact, small footprint diamond rigs and complete comprehensive flora, fauna and cultural heritage monitoring throughout the drill program.
These small drill rigs will navigate around trees and maximise the use of existing cleared areas in order to keep disturbance to a minimum.