Norsemont Mining reports that it has received the environmental permit to allow for its initial diamond drilling operation at Choquelimpie.
Aymara Pachamama ceremony blessing the property and diamond drill program. (Image Credit: Norsemont Mining).
Before commencing the drill program, Norsemont Mining readied and submitted a “Carta Pertinencia” (consultation as to whether a project or operations have to be submitted to and approved by the authorities of the Environmental Impact Assessment System).
A favorable environmental resolution was received, permitting an assessment of the geological resources, located on already disturbed ground neighboring the significant high-grade open pits. This resolution does not necessitate the filing of an impact study or environmental impact declaration.
In accordance with a long exploration and mining tradition in the southern Andes, Norsemont Mining was pleased to have been able to take part in a Pachamama ceremony with its local Aymara stakeholders.
The solemn ceremonial event was conducted to consecrate the property and operations scheduled by Norsemont Mining for the property and its sustained success for all stakeholders.
This important second environmental ruling confirms our understanding and commitment to environmental policies in Chile for exploration activities on mature projects or those which have experienced extensive historical exploration and mining activities. This ruling provides a clear path forward for the company to proceed with its maiden drill program, as well as other future exploration programs in areas where no new surface disturbance is planned.
John Currie, VP Exploration, Norsemont Mining
Currie continued, “We are also very proud and honored to have hosted an Aymara indigenous Pachamama ceremony at various sites around the project to bless the project and all exploration activities relating to our drill campaign and future endeavours. The support from the local indigenous community is uplifting and we will continue to foster a harmonious relationship with them and all our local stakeholders.”
As one of the Aymara leaders expressed: “A successful exploration program and possible return to future production at Choquelimpie helps everybody in the community.”
All field undertakings are stringently observing COVID-19 safety conventions and continue to make vigorous progress across numerous fronts.
I’m very proud and excited to be embarking on our initial diamond drill program at Choquelimpie. It has taken a lot of hard work by our team on the ground and our incredible board to get here, despite the challenges of Covid. We have executed on systematic work on the project this year at all levels, which I believe will help advance the Choquelimpie project.
Marc Levy, CEO, Norsemont Mining
“We anticipate another major milestone with our maiden NI 43-101 resource report, expected in the coming months. We look forward to the continued support of all our stakeholders,” Marc Levy added.
Mr. Art Freeze, P.Geo, Director of Norsemont Mining as well as a qualified person as stipulated by the National Instrument 43-101, has overseen the preparation of the technical data in this news article.