FDG Mining has used a second diamond core drill rig for the exploration program at the Topacio project. The positive results of the first hole DDH11-01 have accelerated the drilling program for the inferred resource expansion. This drilling will start the primary testing of the potential results of high-grade gold during the surface and trench sampling conducted on vein systems.
The use of a second drill rig enables the company to accelerate the phase I drilling and commence the phase II drill program. The company drilled 1800 m, totaling 13 holes, during the phase I program. FDG has currently drilled three holes. The phase II drilling has included a further drilling 2200 m, totaling 13 holes. Honduras-based R & R Drilling has been engaged for these drilling programs.
The phase I program’s main aim is to raise the inferred resource. The drill program will validate and progress the results obtained from Triton. Drilling by Triton recovered poor core in several holes, specifically in the quartz veins containing argillic alteration and stockwork due to hard drilling conditions.
FDG has designed the phase I drill holes to advance Triton recoveries and to improve the grades of silver and gold. The first hole, DDH11-01, results are positive. The phase I drilling will try to extend the inferred resource using the holes, which intersect the ore-grade intercepts present in the resource, and also by testing the potential regions towards the southwest part.
The Phase II drilling is expected to drill test the positive values of gold recovered from trench sampling program conducted on veins. The ore-grade mineralized gold in the company’s trenches will be analyzed by the three holes. FDG has intersected 7.28 g/t gold over 12.5 m in trench FT 211, 2.84 g/t gold over 13.0 m in trench FT 212. Eight drill holes will examine the positive gold values that are identified in seven new trenches, which intersected the Mico Vein. The Dos Amigos Vein’s southwest part will be tested by two holes.