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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-K/A

(Amendment No. 1)

 

x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022

 

¨ TRANSITION REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission File No. 000-54653

AUGUSTA GOLD CORP.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

 

Nevada  41-2252162
(State or Other Jurisdiction
Of Incorporation or Organization)
  (I.R.S. Employer Identification
Number)

 

Suite 555 – 999 Canada Place
Vancouver
, BC, Canada
  V6C 3E1
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)  (Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code (604) 687-1717

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: Common Stock, $0.0001 par value per share

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ¨ No x

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ¨ No x

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the issuer was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes x No ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

Large accelerated filer ¨   Accelerated filer ¨
         
Non-accelerated filer x   Smaller reporting company x
         
      Emerging growth company ¨

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ¨

 

If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant’s executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.) Yes ¨ No x

 

The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to the price at which the common stock was last sold as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter was $37,573,924.

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date: 85,929,753 shares of common stock par value $0.0001, were outstanding on December 19, 2023.

 

Auditor Firm ID:

731

Auditor Name:

DAVIDSON & COMPANY LLP

Auditor Location:

Vancouver, Canada

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EXPLANATORY NOTE

 

Augusta Gold Corp. (the “Company”) hereby files this Amendment No. 1 (the “Amended Report”) to its annual report on Form 10-K as originally filed with the SEC on March 16, 2023 (the “Original Report”) to update our mineral property disclosures in the Original Report to align with certain of the technical requirements of subpart 1300 of Regulation S-K (“S-K 1300”). This Amended Report is being filed to (i) amend “Item 2. Properties”, and (ii) file amended versions of “Exhibit 96.1 S-K 1300 Technical Report, Mineral Resource Estimate, Bullfrog Gold Project, Nye County, Nevada” and “Exhibit 96.2 Mineral Resource Estimate for the Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA”, in each case, to update only the following disclosure:

 

·Revisions to include cutoff grades for our mineral resource estimates and related disclosure thereto;

·Revisions to opinions of certain qualified persons to conform to respective requirements of S-K 1300; and

·Revisions to explain with particularity, your reasons for using the selected commodity price, including the material assumptions underlying this selection

 

These updates do not change the conclusions, economic results, or mineral resources estimates.  This Amended Report also contains updated consents of the authors of the revised technical report summary filed as exhibits hereto.

 

In addition, pursuant to Rule 12b-15 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as a result of this Form 10-K/A, the Company is refiling the certifications of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, required pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as exhibits 31.1 and 31.2 to this Form 10-K/A.

 

Outside of changes to the items and exhibit as noted above, the updated consents of the authors of the technical reports, and the certifications of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, this Amended Report does not otherwise amend, supplement, update or revise any portion of the Original Report which remains unchanged since the date of its filing. Furthermore, this Amended Report does not change any previously reported financial results, nor does it reflect events occurring after the date of the Original Report. Information not affected by this Form 10-K/A remains unchanged and reflects the disclosures made at the time the Original Report was filed. Accordingly, this Form 10-K/A should be read in conjunction with the Original Report and the Company’s other filings with the SEC subsequent to the filing of the Original Report.

 

ii

 

 

CAUTIONARY NOTE TO INVESTORS REGARDING ESTIMATES OF MEASURED, INDICATED AND INFERRED RESOURCES AND PROVEN AND PROBABLE MINERAL RESERVES

 

We are subject to the reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) and applicable Canadian securities laws, and as a result we report our mineral reserves and mineral resources according to two different standards. U.S. reporting requirements are governed by subpart 1300 of Regulation S-K under the Exchange Act (“S-K 1300”). Canadian reporting requirements for disclosure of mineral properties are governed by NI 43-101. Both sets of reporting standards have similar goals in terms of conveying an appropriate level of confidence in the disclosures being reported, but the standards embody slightly different approaches and definitions.

 

In our public filings in the U.S. and Canada and in certain other announcements not filed with the SEC, we disclose proven and probable reserves and measured, indicated and inferred resources, each as defined in S-K 1300 and NI 43-101. As currently reported, there are no material differences in our disclosed measured, indicated and inferred resource under each of S-K 1300 and NI 43-101. The estimation of measured resources and indicated resources involve greater uncertainty as to their existence and economic feasibility than the estimation of proven and probable reserves, and therefore investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of measured or indicated resources will ever be converted into S-K 1300-compliant or NI 43-101-compliant reserves. The estimation of inferred resources involves far greater uncertainty as to their existence and economic viability than the estimation of other categories of resources, and therefore it cannot be assumed that all or any part of inferred resources will ever be upgraded to a higher category. Therefore, investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of inferred resources exist, or that they can be mined legally or economically.

 

1

 

 

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

  

This Annual Report on Form 10-K/A and the exhibits attached hereto contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, and “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, collectively “forward-looking statements”. Such forward-looking statements concern our anticipated results and developments in the operations of the Company in future periods, planned exploration activities, the adequacy of the Company’s financial resources and other events or conditions that may occur in the future. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “potential,” “possible” and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions or results “will,” “may,” “could” or “should” (or the negative and grammatical variations of any of these terms) occur or be achieved. These forward looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements concerning:

 

·the Company’s strategies and objectives, both generally and in respect of the Bullfrog Gold Project and Reward Gold Project;

·the recommendations of the Technical Reports for the Bullfrog Gold Project and Reward Gold Project;

·the Company’s decisions regarding the timing and costs of exploration programs with respect to, and the issuance of the necessary permits and authorizations required for, the Company’s exploration programs at the Bullfrog Gold Project and Reward Gold Project;

·the Company’s estimates of the quality and quantity of the mineralized materials at its mineral properties;

·the potential discovery and delineation of mineral deposits/reserves and any expansion thereof beyond the current estimate;

·the Company’s expectation that it will become a gold producer;

·the Company’s estimates of future operating and financial performance;

·the Company’s potential funding requirements and sources of capital, including near-term sources of additional cash and long-term financing through the sale of equity and/or debt financings and through the exercise of stock options and warrants;

·the Company’s expectation that the Company will continue to raise capital;

·the Company’s expectation that the Company will continue to incur losses and will not pay dividends for the foreseeable future;

·the Company’s estimates of its future cash position;

·the Company’s anticipated general business and economic conditions;

·the Company’s ability to meet its financial obligations as they come due, and to be able to raise the necessary funds to continue operations; and

·that the Company will operate at a loss for the foreseeable future.

 

Such forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current views with respect to future events and are subject to certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, among others, risks related to:

 

·our history of losses;

·negative cash flow;

·our limited operating history;

·increased costs affecting our financial condition;

·the Bullfrog Gold Project and Reward Gold Project being in the exploration stage;

·whether the Bullfrog Gold Project and Reward Gold Project are feasible;

·the Bullfrog Gold Project and Reward Gold Project requiring substantial capital investment;

·our inability to obtain required permits;

·our status as a junior mining company;

·difficulties in managing growth;

·our potential loss of key persons;

·risks related to the evolving novel coronavirus (“COVID-19”) pandemic and health crisis and the governmental and regulatory actions taken in response thereto;

·the risks of mineral exploration;

 

2

 

 

·evaluation uncertainty in estimating mineralized material;

·changes in estimates of mineralized material;

·our exploration projects not succeeding;

·price volatility of gold and silver;

·environmental regulations;

·challenges to title to our properties;

·amendments to mining law;

·supply shortages;

·inability to maintain infrastructure to conduct exploration activities;

·new regulation related to climate change;

·relationships with communities in which we operate;

·newly adopted mining disclosure regulations;

·evolving corporate standards;

·Canadian reporting requirements; and

·The price of the shares of common stock being volatile.

 

Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein. This list of factors that may affect any of the Company’s forward-looking statements is not exhaustive. Forward-looking statements are statements about the future and are inherently uncertain, and actual achievements of the Company or other future events or conditions may differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors, including without limitation those discussed in “Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors”, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the SEC on March 16, 2023, as well as other factors described elsewhere in that Annual Report, this report and the Company’s other reports filed with the SEC.

 

The Company’s forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K/A are based on the beliefs, expectations and opinions of management as of the date of this Annual Report. The Company does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management’s beliefs, expectations or opinions should change, except as required by law. For the reasons set forth above, investors should not attribute undue certainty to or place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

 

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GLOSSARY OF SELECTED MINING TERMS

 

Ag Silver
   
Au Gold
   
Breccia Broken sedimentary and volcanic rock fragments cemented by a fine-grained matrix
   
Clastic Rock Fragments, or clasts, of pre-existing minerals
   
Cutoff Grade The grade (i.e., the concentration of metal or mineral in rock) that determines the destination of the material during mining. For purposes of establishing “prospects of economic extraction,” the cut-off grade is the grade that distinguishes material deemed to have no economic value (it will not be mined in underground mining or if mined in surface mining, its destination will be the waste dump) from material deemed to have economic value (its ultimate destination during mining will be a processing facility). Other terms used in similar fashion as cut-off grade include net smelter return, pay limit, and break-even stripping ratio.
   
Deposit A mineralized body which has been physically delineated by sufficient drilling, trenching, and/or underground work, and found to contain a sufficient average grade of metal or metals to warrant further exploration and/or development expenditures. Such a deposit does not qualify as a commercially mineable ore body or as containing reserves or ore, unless final legal, technical and economic factors are resolved
   
Detachment Fault A regionally extensive, gently dipping normal fault that is commonly associated with extension in large blocks of the earth’s crust
   
g/t Grams per metric tonne
   
Metamorphic Rock Rock that has transformed to another rock form after intense heat and pressure
   
Miocene A geologic era that extended from 5 million to 23 million years ago
   
Mineralization The concentration of metals and their chemical compounds within a body of rock
   
Net Smelter Royalty A percentage payable to an owner or lessee from the production or net proceeds received by the operator from a smelter or refinery, less transportation, insurance, smelting and refining costs and penalties as set out in a royalty agreement.
   
Paleozoic A geologic era extending from 230 million to 540 million years ago
   
Photogrammetry The science of making measurements from photographs; the output is typically a map or a drawing
   
Proterozoic A geologic era extending from 540 million years to 2,500 million years ago.
   
Reverse Circulation (RC) A drilling method whereby drill cuttings are returned to the surface through the annulus between inner and outer drill rods, thereby minimizing contamination from wall rock.
   
Rhyolite An igneous, volcanic extrusive rock containing more than 65% silica.
   
Schist A group metamorphic rocks that contain more than 50% platy and elongated minerals such as mica.
   
Siliciclastic Rock Non-carbonate sedimentary rocks that are almost exclusively silicas-bearing, either as quartz or silicate minerals.
   
Tertiary A geologic era from 2.6 million to 65 million years ago.

 

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S-K 1300 Definitions

 

Exploration Stage Issuer An “exploration stage issuer” is an issuer that has no material property with mineral reserves disclosed.
   
Exploration Stage Property An “exploration stage property” is a property that has no mineral reserves disclosed.
   
Development Stage Issuer A “development stage issuer” is an issuer that is engaged in the preparation of mineral reserves for extraction on at least one material property.
   
Development Stage Property A “development stage property” is a property that has mineral reserves disclosed, pursuant to this subpart, but no material extraction.
   
Indicated Mineral Resource An “indicated mineral resource” is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality are estimated on the basis of adequate geological evidence and sampling. The level of geological certainty associated with an indicated mineral resource is sufficient to allow a qualified person to apply modifying factors in sufficient detail to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. Because an indicated mineral resource has a lower level of confidence than the level of confidence of a measured mineral resource, an indicated mineral resource may only be converted to a probable mineral reserve
   
Inferred Mineral Resource An “inferred mineral resource” is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality are estimated on the basis of limited geological evidence and sampling. The level of geological uncertainty associated with an inferred mineral resource is too high to apply relevant technical and economic factors likely to influence the prospects of economic extraction in a manner useful for evaluation of economic viability. Because an inferred mineral resource has the lowest level of geological confidence of all mineral resources, which prevents the application of the modifying factors in a manner useful for evaluation of economic viability, an inferred mineral resource may not be considered when assessing the economic viability of a mining project, and may not be converted to a mineral reserve.
   
Measured Mineral Resource A “measured mineral resource” is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality are estimated on the basis of conclusive geological evidence and sampling. The level of geological certainty associated with a measured mineral resource is sufficient to allow a qualified person to apply modifying factors, as defined in this section, in sufficient detail to support detailed mine planning and final evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. Because a measured mineral resource has a higher level of confidence than the level of confidence of either an indicated mineral resource or an inferred mineral resource, a measured mineral resource may be converted to a proven mineral reserve or to a probable mineral reserve.
   
Mineral Reserve A “mineral reserve” is an estimate of tonnage and grade or quality of indicated and measured mineral resources that, in the opinion of the qualified person, can be the basis of an economically viable project. More specifically, it is the economically mineable part of a measured or indicated mineral resource, which includes diluting materials and allowances for losses that may occur when the material is mined or extracted
   
Mineral Resource A “mineral resource” is a concentration or occurrence of material of economic interest in or on the Earth's crust in such form, grade or quality, and quantity that there are reasonable prospects for economic extraction. A mineral resource is a reasonable estimate of mineralization, taking into account relevant factors such as cut-off grade, likely mining dimensions, location or continuity, that, with the assumed and justifiable technical and economic conditions, is likely to, in whole or in part, become economically extractable. It is not merely an inventory of all mineralization drilled or sampled.

 

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Modifying Factors Modifying factors are the factors that a qualified person must apply to indicated and measured mineral resources and then evaluate in order to establish the economic viability of mineral reserves. A qualified person must apply and evaluate modifying factors to convert measured and indicated mineral resources to proven and probable mineral reserves. These factors include, but are not restricted to: Mining; processing; metallurgical; infrastructure; economic; marketing; legal; environmental compliance; plans, negotiations, or agreements with local individuals or groups; and governmental factors. The number, type and specific characteristics of the modifying factors applied will necessarily be a function of and depend upon the mineral, mine, property, or project.
   
Probable Reserve A “probable mineral reserve” is the economically mineable part of an indicated and, in some cases, a measured mineral resource.
   
Production Stage Issuer A “production stage issuer” is an issuer that is engaged in material extraction of mineral reserves on at least one material property.
   
Production Stage Property A “production stage property” is a property with material extraction of mineral reserves.
   
Proven Reserve A “proven mineral reserve” is the economically mineable part of a measured mineral resource and can only result from conversion of a measured mineral resource.

 

USE OF NAMES

 

In this Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, unless the context otherwise requires, the terms "we", "us", "our", "Augusta Gold", "Augusta Gold Corp." or the "Company" refer to Augusta Gold Corp., a Delaware corporation, and its subsidiaries.

 

CURRENCY

 

References to CDN or C$ refer to Canadian currency and USD or $ to United States currency.

 

METRIC CONVERSION TABLE

 

To Convert Metric Measurement Units   To Imperial Measurement Units   Multiply by
Hectares   Acres   2.4710
Meters   Feet   3.2808
Kilometers   Miles   0.6214
Tonnes   Tons (short)   1.1023
Liters   Gallons   0.2642
Grams   Ounces (troy)   0.0322
Grams per tonne   Ounces (troy) per ton (short)   0.0292

 

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PART I

 

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

 

Technical Report Summaries

 

The technical report for the Bullfrog Gold Project is the technical report summary, prepared pursuant to S-K 1300, entitled “S-K 1300 Technical Report, Mineral Resource Estimate, Bullfrog Gold Project, Nye County, Nevada” with an effective date of December 31, 2021, and an issue date of March 16, 2022 (the “Bullfrog Technical Report”).

 

The Bullfrog Technical Report was prepared by Forte Dynamics, Inc. under the supervision of Russ Downer, P. Eng. and Adam House, MMSA QP, each of whom is a qualified person under S-K 1300 and NI 43-101.

 

The description of the Bullfrog Gold Project contained herein is based upon the Bullfrog Technical Report.

 

The technical report for the Reward Gold Project is the technical report summary, prepared pursuant to S-K 1300, entitled “Mineral Resource Estimate for the Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada” with an effective date of May 31, 2022, and an issue date of June 29, 2022 (the “Reward Technical Report”).

 

The Reward Technical Report was prepared by Michael Dufresne, M.Sc., P. Geol., P.Geo, and Timothy D. Scott, SME, each of whom is a qualified person under S-K 1300 and NI 43-101.

 

The description of the Reward Gold Project contained herein is based upon the Reward Technical Report.

 

Summary of Mineral Properties

 

Augusta Gold currently has interests in four gold exploration properties located in the state of Nevada, including the Bullfrog Gold Project and the Reward Gold Project. Each of the properties are exploration stage properties with measured, indicated and inferred resources but no known mineral reserves and our primary operations are exploring these properties to move them towards a development decision.

 

Ownership Interests

 

· At our Bullfrog Project, we have four option/lease/purchase agreements in place and, with the additional claims it has located, give it control of 734 unpatented lode mining claims and mill site claims, and 87 patented mining claims. The claims do not have an expiration date, as long as the fees and obligations are maintained. For additional details see “Bullfrog Gold Project, Nye County Nevada – Property Holdings” below.

· At our Reward Project, the project encompasses 123 unpatented Bureau of Land Management (BLM) placer and lode mining claims and six patented placer mining claims, totalling approximately 2,333 net acres (944 hectares). Only the patented claims have been legally surveyed. Under United States mining law, claims may be renewed annually for an unlimited number of years upon a small payment per claim (currently $155 per claim due to the BLM and an aggregate $1,502 due to Nye County) and the same claim status-whether lode or placer-may be used for exploration or exploitation of the lodes or placers.

 

Several blocks of unpatented claims are leased by CR Reward from underlying owners, and are referred to as Connolly, Webster, Orser-McFall and Van Meeteren leases.

 

In total our options and leases cover 15,998 net acres in the aggregate, consisting of a mix of 93 patented mining claims, 857 unpatented mining claims either leased with option to purchase, or joint ventured, and private property leases.

 

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Summary Mineral Resources

 

Summary Mineral Resources at End of Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2022

 

   Measured mineral
resources (koz)
   Indicated mineral
resources (koz)
   Measured and indicated
mineral resources (koz)
   Inferred mineral
resources (koz)
 
Gold                    
United States (Nevada)                    
Bullfrog Project   526.7    682.6    1,209.3    257.9 
Reward Project   169.9    256.8    426.7    27.1 
Total Gold   696.6    939.4    1636.0    285.0 
                     
Silver                    
United States (Nevada)                    
Bullfrog Project   1309.1    1557.5    2866.6    515.7 
Total Silver   1309.1    1557.5    2866.6    515.7 

 

Notes:

 

·Bullfrog oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 82% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 20% For Ag.

·Bullfrog sulphide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 50% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 12% for Ag.

·Gold price and Silver price used in the Bullfrog estimated Mineral Resources were based on a review of commodity prices and compared to a three-year trailing average at the time of the estimates with a good correlation.

·Reward oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,700/oz and a recovery of 80% for Au were utilized.

·Gold price used in the Reward estimated Mineral Resources were based on a review of commodity prices at the time of the estimate and assumed a price of US$1,700 per oz of gold based upon a 3 year trailing average.

·Bullfrog oxide Mineral Resources are reported using a breakeven cutoff grade of 0.192 g/tonne and sulphide Mineral Resources are reported using a breakeven cutoff grade of 0.315 g/tonne.

·Reward Mineral Resources are reported using a 0.2 g/tonne incremental cut-off grade.

·Bullfrog mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.25/tonne.

·Reward mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.20/tonne

·Bullfrog processing, general and administration, and refining costs are US$5.00/tonne, US$0.50/tonne, and US$0.05/tonne respectively.

·Reward processing and general and administration are US$6.06/tonne and US$0.83/tonne per tonne processed, respectively

·Bullfrog Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes.

·The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues

 

Bullfrog Gold Project, Nye County, Nevada

 

Summary Disclosure

 

We hold the Bullfrog Project through our wholly-owned subsidiaries Bullfrog Mines, Rocky Mountain Minerals Corp., a Nevada corporation (“RMMC”) and Standard Gold Corp., a Nevada corporation (“SGC”).

 

Property Location and Access

 

The Bullfrog Gold Project is located in the Bullfrog Hills of Nye County, Nevada and in the southern half of the Bullfrog Mining District (Figure 1). Project properties are located in Sections 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 35 and 36 of T11S, R46E and Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 23 of T12S, R46E, Mt. Diablo Meridian.

 

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The Bullfrog Gold Project is accessible via a 2½ hour (120 mile) drive north of Las Vegas, Nevada on US Highway 95. Las Vegas, the largest city in Nevada, is serviced by a major international airport, and has ample equipment, supplies and services to support many of the project’s needs. The project is 4 miles west of the Town of Beatty, Nevada via a paved highway. Beatty has a population of approximately 1,000 and can provide basic housing, services, and supplies. Access around the project is by a series of reasonably good gravel roads that extend to the open pit mines and most of the significant exploration areas.

 

 

 

Figure 1: Location Map

 

Project Stage

 

The Bullfrog Gold Project is an exploration stage property with measured, indicated and inferred mineral resources but no known mineral reserves.

 

Mineral Resources Estimates

 

Mineral resources utilize all new drilling through the end of 2021 in addition to updated geologic models and database improvements by the Company’s staff. Three-dimensional block models for each area (Bullfrog, Montgomery-Shoshone and Bonanza) were created using Vulcan software. Surfaces and solids representing topography, overburden, geologic units, historic stope shapes and gold mineralization were incorporated into the resource models. Resource estimates utilize drill hole, survey, analytical and bulk density information provided by the project personnel. Gold and silver values have been given null values for all material that has been historically mined by both open pit and underground methods. Bulk density has been adjusted for backfill material placed in the historical open pit and underground operations.

 

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Mineral resources are pit constrained using reasonable cost assumptions, however detailed costing and economic evaluations have not been performed. The resources only consider mining mineralization and waste that will take place on lands controlled by the Company. Pit slope parameters are based on the existing pit wall angles and vary by geology, depth and lateral extent. Different metallurgical recoveries were assigned to oxide and sulphide material and used in the calculation of the optimized pit shells.

 

Mineral resources are reported inside optimized pit shells with Minemax software using high-level economic assumptions, geotechnical pit slope parameters and property boundaries. Estimated mineral resources for the Bullfrog Project are being reported for the Bullfrog, Montgomery-Shoshone and Bonanza areas, respectively.

 

The following table presents the combined global gold and silver mineral resources for the three areas, Bullfrog, Montgomery-Shoshone and Bonanza, at the Bullfrog Gold Project.

 

Bullfrog Gold Project - Summary of Gold and Silver Mineral Resources at the End of the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2022 Based on $1,550/oz. Gold and $20/oz. Silver

 

Combined Global Resources - Oxide and Sulphide
Classification 

Tonnes

(Mt)

  

Au grade

(g/t)

  

Ag grade

(g/t)

  

Au Contained

(koz)

  

Ag Contained

(koz)

 
Measured   30.13    0.544    1.35    526.68    1,309.13 
Indicated   40.88    0.519    1.18    682.61    1,557.49 
Measured and Indicated   71.01    0.530    1.26    1,209.29    2,866.62 
Inferred   16.69    0.481    0.96    257.90    515.72 

 

Notes:

 

1. Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 82% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 20% For Ag.

2. Sulphide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 50% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 12% for Ag. No sulphide material was reported for Montgomery-Shoshone or Bonanza.
3. Gold price and Silver price used in the Bullfrog estimated Mineral Resources were based on a review of commodity prices and compared to a three-year trailing average at the time of the estimate with good correlation.
4. Bullfrog oxide Mineral Resources are reported using a breakeven cutoff grade of 0.192 g/tonne and sulphide Mineral Resources are reported using a breakeven cutoff grade of 0.315 g/tonne..

5. Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.25/tonne.

6. Processing, general and administration, and refining costs are US$5.00/tonne, US$0.50/tonne, and US$0.05/tonne respectively.

7. Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

8. Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes.

9. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

 

10

 

 

The following tables present the gold and silver mineral resources for each of the three project areas, Bullfrog, Montgomery-Shoshone and Bonanza.

 

Bullfrog Gold Project - Bullfrog Area, Gold and Silver Mineral Resources at the End of the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2022 Based on $1,550/oz. Gold and $20/oz. Silver

 

Mineral Resources - Bullfrog
Redox  Classification  Tonnes
(Mt)
   Au grade
(g/t)
   Ag grade
(g/t)
   Au Contained
(koz)
   Ag Contained
(koz)
 
   Measured   24.50    0.537    1.28    422.77    1,010.02 
   Indicated   36.32    0.515    1.14    602.02    1,332.18 
Oxide  Measured and Indicated   60.82    0.524    1.20    1,024.79    2,342.20 
   Inferred   14.40    0.460    0.77    213.06    358.49 
                             
   Measured   1.30    0.710    1.28    29.77    53.52 
   Indicated   1.99    0.625    1.32    39.94    84.47 
Sulphide  Measured and Indicated   3.29    0.659    1.30    69.72    137.99 
   Inferred   1.05    0.657    1.14    22.14    38.53 
                             
   Measured   25.80    0.545    1.28    452.55    1,063.54 
   Indicated   38.31    0.521    1.15    641.96    1,416.65 
Total - Oxide and Sulphide  Measured and Indicated   64.12    0.531    1.20    1,094.51    2,480.19 
   Inferred   15.44    0.474    0.80    235.20    397.02 

 

Notes:

 

1. Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 82% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 20% For Ag.

2. Sulphide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 50% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 12% for Ag.
3. Gold price and Silver price used in the Bullfrog estimated Mineral Resources were based on a review of commodity prices and compared to a three-year trailing average at the time of the estimate with good correlation.
4. Bullfrog oxide Mineral Resources are reported using a breakeven cutoff grade of 0.192 g/tonne and sulphide Mineral Resources are reported using a breakeven cutoff grade of 0.315 g/tonne.

5. Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.25/tonne.

6. Processing, general and administration, and refining costs are US$5.00/tonne, US$0.50/tonne, and US$0.05/tonne respectively.

7. Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

8. Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes.

9. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

  

Bullfrog Gold Project - Montgomery-Shoshone Area, Gold and Silver Mineral Resources at the End of the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2022 Based on $1,550/oz. Gold and $20/oz. Silver

 

Mineral Resources - Montgomery-Shoshone
Redox  Classification 

Tonnes

(Mt)

  

Au grade

(g/t)

  

Ag grade

(g/t)

  

Au Contained

(koz)

  

Ag Contained

(koz)

 
   Measured   1.97    0.637    3.35    40.35    212.12 
   Indicated   1.35    0.555    2.85    24.04    123.66 
Oxide  Measured and Indicated   3.32    0.603    3.15    64.38    335.78 
   Inferred   1.05    0.586    3.45    19.76    116.41 

 

Notes:

 

1. Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 82% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 20% For Ag.

2. Sulphide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 50% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 12% for Ag. No sulphide material was reported for Montgomery-Shoshone.
3. Gold price and Silver price used in the Bullfrog estimated Mineral Resources were based on a review of commodity prices and compared to a three-year trailing average at the time of the estimate with good correlation.
4. Bullfrog oxide Mineral Resources are reported using a breakeven cutoff grade of 0.192 g/tonne and sulphide Mineral Resources are reported using a breakeven cutoff grade of 0.315 g/tonne.

5. Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.25/tonne.

6. Processing, general and administration, and refining costs are US$5.00/tonne, US$0.50/tonne, and US$0.05/tonne respectively.

7. Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

8 Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes.

9. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

 

11

 

 

Bullfrog Gold Project - Bonanza Area, Gold and Silver Mineral Resources at the End of the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2022 Based on $1,550/oz. Gold and $20/oz. Silver

 

Mineral Resources - Bonanza
Redox  Classification 

Tonnes

(Mt)

  

Au grade

(g/t)

  

Ag grade

(g/t)

  

Au Contained

(koz)

  

Ag Contained

(koz)

 
   Measured   2.35    0.446    0.44    33.78    33.48 
   Indicated   1.22    0.422    0.44    16.61    17.17 
Oxide  Measured and Indicated   3.58    0.438    0.44    50.40    50.65 
   Inferred   0.19    0.473    0.37    2.94    2.28 

 

Notes:

 

1. Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 82% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 20% For Ag.

2. Sulphide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 50% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 12% for Ag. No sulphide material was reported for Bonanza.
3. Gold price and Silver price used in the Bullfrog estimated Mineral Resources were based on a review of commodity prices and compared to a three-year trailing average at the time of the estimate with good correlation.
4. Bullfrog oxide Mineral Resources are reported using a breakeven cutoff grade of 0.192 g/tonne and sulphide Mineral Resources are reported using a breakeven cutoff grade of 0.315 g/tonne.

5. Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.25/tonne.

6. Processing, general and administration, and refining costs are US$5.00/tonne, US$0.50/tonne, and US$0.05/tonne respectively.

7. Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

8. Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes.

9. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues

 

In each case above, Estimated Mineral Resources have not changed from December 31, 2021 to December 31, 2022 due to the fact that Bullfrog Gold Project is in the exploration stage and no new resources were added to the project through exploration activities in 2022. The material assumptions underlying mineral resources as previously disclosed at December 31, 2021 remain current in all material respects.

 

Property Holdings

 

We have four option/lease/purchase agreements in place and, with the additional claims it has located, give it control of 734 unpatented lode mining claims and mill site claims, and 87 patented mining claims. The claims do not have an expiration date, as long as the fees and obligations are maintained.

 

NPX Assignment of Lands

 

In September 2011, we issued 14.4 million shares of the Company to the shareholders of SGC to acquire 100% of SGC and its assets. SGC is a private Nevada corporation and now wholly owned by the Company. Concurrently, NPX Metals, Inc. (“NPX”) and Bull Frog Holding, Inc. (“BHI”) assigned all title and interests in 79 claims and two patents to SGC. The Company granted a production royalty of 3% NSR on the property to NPX and BHI, plus an aggregate 3% NSR cap on any acquired lands within one mile of the 2011 boundary. Thus, NPX and BHI would not receive any royalty on acquisitions having a 3% or greater NSR.

 

12

 

 

Mojave Gold Option

 

In March 2014, we formed RMMC, a private Nevada corporation, as a wholly owned subsidiary, specifically for holding and acquiring assets. On October 29, 2014, RMMC exercised an option to purchase from Mojave Gold Mining Co. 12 patents west and adjacent to our initial property holdings and that cover the NE half of the M-S pit. Mojave was paid 750,000 shares of our common stock plus $16,000. RMMC agreed to make annual payments totaling $180,000 over nine years to fully exercise the option, and expend as a minimum work commitment for the benefit of the Property $100,000 per year and a total of $500,000 over five years on the properties and surrounding lands within one-half mile of the 12 Mojave patents. Alternatively, RMMC can pay cash to Mojave at 50% of the difference between the minimum required and the actual expenditures. Mojave retained a sliding scale Net Smelter Return royalty ranging from 1% for gold prices below $1,200/ounce and up to 4% for gold prices above $3,200 per ounce.

 

Lunar Landing Lease

 

On July 1, 2017, RMMC entered a lease with Lunar Landing LLC on 24 patents in the Bullfrog District:

 

  · Two patents are adjacent and west of the M-S pit that could allow potential expansion of the pit down dip of the Polaris vein and stock work system.

  · Ten patents have provided the Company with contiguous and connecting lands between the M-S and Bullfrog pits. These patents will also allow further expansions of the Bullfrog pit to the north and east.

  · Four patents are within 0.5 to 1.2 miles west of the Bullfrog pit in the vicinity of the Bonanza Mountain open pit mine.

  · Eight patents are in an exploration target area located about 1.5 miles NW of the Bullfrog pit and where the Company has owned the Aurium patent since 2011.

 

The lease includes the following:

 

  · The Company paid $26,000 on signing and is scheduled to annually pay $16,000 for years 2-5, $21,000 for years 6-10, $25,000 for years 11-15, $30,000 for years 16-20, $40,000 for years 21-25 and $45,000 for years 26-30.

  · Production royalty of 5% net smelter returns with the right to buy-down to 2.5%.

  · The Company is to expend as a work commitment not less than $50,000 per year and $500,000 in total to maintain the lease.

  · The Company has rights to commingle ores and the flexibility to operate the Project as a logical land and mining unit.

 

Brown Claims

 

On January 29, 2018, RMMC purchased two patented claims (the “Brown Claims”), thereby eliminating minor constraints to expand the Bullfrog pit to the north. As partial consideration for the Brown Claims, RMMC granted the sellers of the Brown Claims a 5% net smelter returns royalty on the Brown Claims, of which 2.5% can be purchased by RMMC for aggregate consideration of US$37,500.

 

Barrick Claims

 

On October 26, 2020, the Company completed its acquisition of Bullfrog Mines pursuant to the MIPA with the Barrick Parties.

 

Pursuant to the MIPA, the Company purchased from the Barrick Parties all of the Equity Interests in Bullfrog Mines for aggregate consideration of (i) 54,600,000 units of the Company, each unit consisting of one share of common stock of the Company and one four-year warrant purchase one share of common stock of the Company at an exercise price of C$0.30 (such number of units and exercise price are set out on a pre-Consolidation basis), (ii) a 2% net smelter returns royalty (the “Barrick Royalty”) granted on all minerals produced from all of the patented and unpatented claims (subject to the adjustments set out below), pursuant to a royalty deed, dated October 26, 2020 by and among Bullfrog Mines and the Barrick Parties (the “Royalty Deed”), (iii) the Company granting indemnification to the Barrick Parties pursuant to an indemnity deed, dated October 26, 2020 by and among the Company, the Barrick Parties and Bullfrog Mines, and (iv) certain investor rights, including anti-dilution rights, pursuant to the investor rights agreement, dated October 26, 2020, among the Company, Augusta Investments Inc., and Barrick.

 

Through the Company’s acquisition of the Equity Interests, the Company acquired rights to the 1,500 acres of claims adjoining the Company’s Bullfrog Gold deposit.

 

13

 

 

Pursuant to the Royalty Deed, the Barrick Royalty is reduced to the extent necessary so that royalties burdening any individual parcel or claim included in the Barrick Properties on October 26, 2020, inclusive of the Barrick Royalty, would not exceed 5.5% in the aggregate, provided that the Barrick Royalty in respect of any parcel or claim would not be less than 0.5%, even if the royalties burdening a parcel or claim included in the Barrick Properties would exceed 5.5%.

 

Abitibi Royalties Option

 

On December 9, 2020, Bullfrog Mines entered into a mining option agreement with Abitibi Royalties (USA) Inc. (“Abitibi”) granting Bullfrog Mines the option (the “Abitibi Option”) to acquire forty-three unpatented lode mining claims to the south of the Bullfrog deposit. The Abitibi Option was amended on December 9, 2022, to extend the exercise deadline and to increase the last payment amount required to exercise the option. Bullfrog Mines made an initial payment to Abitibi of C$25,000 and exercised the Abitibi Option in full on January 30, 2023, by:

 

  · Paying to Abitibi C$50,000 in cash before December 9, 2021;

  · Paying to Abitibi C$78,750 in cash before January 30, 2023; and

  · Granting to Abitibi a 2% net smelter royalty on the claims subject to the Abitibi Option on January 30, 2023, of which Bullfrog Mines has the option to purchase 0.5% for C$500,000 on or before December 9, 2030.

 

Other Property Holding Payments

 

All the unpatented lode mining claims are on U.S. public land administered by the Bureau of Land Management (“BLM”) and, therefore, are subject to exploration and development permits as required by the several current regulations. The unpatented lode mining claims require annual payments of $155 per claim to the BLM and $12 per claim to Nye County.

 

Infrastructure

 

Augusta Gold maintains sufficient surface rights to support mining operations, including areas for potential waste disposal, tailings storage, heap leach pads and potential mill sites. The Company recently located additional mining claims and is pursuing the acquisition of other lands in the area. Most claim blocks are contiguous, and the water rights that Barrick held through Bullfrog Mines were indirectly acquired by Augusta Gold as part of its acquisition of Bullfrog Mines.

 

The towns of Beatty, Pahrump and Tonopah in Nye County have populations that support mining operations in the area.

 

Valley Electric Association based in Pahrump, Nevada owns a 138 KV transmission line and a 24.9 KV distribution line that remain on-site and serviced mining at the site previously. The substation connected to the 24.9 KV line remains on-site, but the transformers and switchgear have been removed. Current monthly demand and energy rates are $3.75/kw and $0.12/kw-h, respectively.

 

Pumping from relatively shallow wells completed near the bottom of the Bullfrog pit is required to access deeper mineralization and could produce most of the Project water needs. Water may also be available from Barrick’s production wells located a few miles south of Highway 374, possibly from the Town of Beatty wellfield in Section 2, and to a limited extent from deepening the M-S pit.

 

Geological Setting, Mineralization, and Deposit Type

 

The Bullfrog Gold Project is in the southern Walker Lane trend within brittle upper-plate volcanic host rocks that were severely broken from dominant detachment faulting and associated dip-slip and strike-slip displacements. Epithermal solutions permeated the broken host rocks in the Montgomery-Shoshone (M-S) and Bullfrog deposits precipitating micron-sized and relatively high-grade gold (Au) within major quartz-calcite veins and disseminated gold in associated stock-work veins. The veins contain gangue minerals other than quartz, such as calcite and manganese oxides, the latter of which contributes associated silver (Ag) recoveries and gold.

 

The strike length of the Bullfrog mineralization is about 1,600 m, including the underground portion which accounts for about 600 m of the strike length. True widths mined in the underground, where the ore cutoff was 3.0 g/t Au, typically average 5-10 m and local zones may be as much as 15-20 m wide. The highest grades typically correlate with zones of black manganese-rich material, where much of the early manganiferous calcite has been leached out, rendering the vein a rubble zone of quartz, calcite, and wad. Veins continue up dip and down dip, but the gold grades and thicknesses diminish rapidly above and below these elevations.

 

14

 

 

As in the underground mine, the highest grades in the open pit were associated with veins and vein breccias along the MP fault and its immediate hanging wall. Higher ore grades also occurred in veins along the UP fault, but widths were generally narrow. Zones of quartz stockwork veins and breccia were developed between the MP and UP faults in intensely silicified and adularized wall rocks. The ore zone in the hanging wall of the MP fault, was termed the upper stockwork zone (Jorgensen et al., 1989). Many of the stockwork veins are subparallel in strike to the MP and UP faults, but dip more steeply. A zone of stockwork quartz veins also occurs in the footwall latite lavas (Tr1g) immediately beneath the MP fault, but here the ore zone is usually <10-15 m thick. This was termed the lower stockwork zone (Jorgensen et al., 1989). In this zone individual veins are often subparallel to the MP fault, and vein densities are typically in the range of 5-15%.

 

In most parts of the open pit, mineralized rock is truncated by the erosional surface and gravels. The ore zone thinned up-dip and only a modest amount of ore was probably lost to erosion. Below the open pit, ore grade values persist.

 

In the Bullfrog mineralization, the high-grade zones do not comprise obvious discrete plunging ore shoots. Instead high-grade ore zones are developed along the plane of the MP fault/vein, within 10-20° of the dip of the fault. The overall geometry of these zones is that of elongate lenses in the plane of the fault, with long dimensions that strike roughly north-south at a low angle of plunge. The highest gold grades roughly coincided with the oxidation-reduction boundary in the deposit and the pre-mining water table, and modest localized supergene enrichment of precious metals near this boundary is suggested.

 

The gold deposits of the southern Bullfrog Hills are contained in epithermal quartz-calcite veins and stockworks.

 

Historical Operations

 

In 1904 the Original Bullfrog and Montgomery-Shoshone mines were discovered by local prospectors. Prospecting activity was widespread over the Bullfrog Hills and encompassed a 200 square mile area but centered within a two-mile radius around the town of Rhyolite and included part of the Company’s property. The Montgomery-Shoshone mine reportedly produced about 67,000 ounces of gold averaging 0.47 gold opt prior to its closure in 1911. The District produced about 94,000 ounces of gold prior to 1911. Mines in the District were sporadically worked from 1911 through 1941, but the Company has no production records of such limited activities.

 

The Company’s Providence lode mining claim designated by the Surveyor General as Survey No. 2470 was located in October 1904, surveyed in April 1906, patented in May 1906 and recorded in Nye County Nevada in June 1908. The unpatented Lucky Queen claim is immediately east and adjacent to the Providence patent and is believed to have been located in the same time period but was not patented.

 

With the rise of precious metal prices in the early 1970’s, the Bullfrog District again underwent intense prospecting and exploration activity for gold as well as uranium. Companies exploring the area included Texas Gas Exploration, Inc., Phillips Uranium, Tenneco /Copper Range, U.S. Borax, Western States Minerals, Rayrock, St. Joe American and successors Bond, Lac and Barrick Minerals, Noranda, Angst Mining Company, Placer Dome, Lac-Sunshine Mining Company Joint Venture, Homestake, and others. In addition to these major companies, several junior mining companies and individuals were involved as prospectors, promoters and owners. These scientific investigations yielded a new deposit model for the gold deposits that were mined by others in the Bullfrog District. The identification and understanding of the detachment fault system led to significant changes in exploration program techniques, focus, and success.

 

In 1982 St. Joe American, Inc. initiated drilling in the Montgomery-Shoshone mine area. By 1986, sixty holes had been drilled and a mineral inventory was defined. Subsequent drilling outlined a reported 2.9 million ounces of gold equivalent in the Bullfrog deposit. A series of corporate takeovers transferred ownership from St. Joe, to Bond Gold, to Lac Minerals and eventually to Barrick Minerals. Production started in 1989 and recovered approximately 200,000 ounces of gold annually from a conventional, 9,000 ton/day cyanidation mill mainly fed from open pit operations and later supplemented with underground production. Barrick discontinued production operations in 1999 and completed reclamation in 2003. Thereafter several groups continued exploration on a limited basis on some of the lands currently held by the Company, but no reserves were ever defined by these companies on those portions of the Company’s lands.

 

15

 

 

Exploration and Drilling

 

The Company’s exploration activities to date have focused on the following:

 

  · Exploration drilling, data acquisition and geologic modeling;

  · Acquiring, organizing, digitizing and vetting electronic and paper data bases obtained from Barrick mainly related to drill data, metallurgy and project infrastructure; and

  · Maintaining and expanding the land holdings.

 

The project drilling includes 1,311 holes, for a total of 263,757 meters completed between 1983 and early 2021. The holes were drilled using both core and reverse circulation methods, as detailed in the drilling section of this report.

 

The following table summarizes project drilling by year:

 

Table 1: Project Drilling by Year

 

   Total Drilling   Coring   Reverse Circulation 
Year  Holes   Meters   Holes   Meters   Holes   Meters 
1983   6    975    6    975    0    0 
1984   37    3,560         0    37    3,560 
1985   3    303         0    3    303 
1986   29    3,364         0    29    3,364 
1987   163    29,479    3    732    163    28,747 
1988   321    66,325    32    6,121    321    60,204 
1989   71    12,285         0    71    12,285 
1990   154    37,114    33    3,676    154    33,438 
1991   79    22,954    42    3,627    79    19,327 
1992   23    4,907         0    23    4,907 
1993   9    387         0    9    387 
1994   210    31,362    9    1,412    210    29,951 
1995   99    22,370    3    248    99    22,122 
1996   58    15,254    19    3,329    45    11,924 
2020   26    4,405    1    502    25    3,903 
2021   43    14,820    38    12,749    5    2,071 
2022   6    2,596    6    2,596    0    0 
Total   1,337    272,460    192    35,967    1,273    236,493 

 

A total of 69 drill holes, 30 reverse circulation (RC) and 39 core holes have been drilled by Augusta from 2020-2021. The purpose of the drilling was to further define resources and the ultimate limits of the Bullfrog and Montgomery-Shoshone pits and gather data to support advanced geotechnical and metallurgical studies. The 2020 program also fulfilled a final work commitment for the Company to purchase a 100% interest in lands under lease from Barrick by mid-September 2020. Two holes were drilled at the Paradise Ridge target.

 

Permitting

 

Baseline studies necessary to advance permitting are in progress.

 

The following outlines the general framework for permitting a mine in Nevada and the required permits. Many of the permits discussed herein apply to the construction stage and are not currently being pursued.

 

Exploration activities on Federal mining claims on BLM lands requires a Notice of Intent (NOI) for exploration activities under five acres of disturbance and a Plan of Operations for larger scale exploration activities. A Plan of Operations is also required with the Nevada Department of Environmental Protection (NDEP) to fulfill the State of Nevada permitting obligations on private and public lands, respectively. Reclamation bonds related to environmental liabilities need to be calculated and posted to cover activities on the Project. Additional permits and bonding will be required for developing, constructing, operating, and reclaiming the Project.

 

16

 

 

Additional Baseline Studies will be required to update the historical studies completed by Barrick. This will include geochemistry, hydrologic studies of the in-pit water and water in existing wells, plant, wildlife and threatened and endangered species surveys, meteorological information, and cultural surveys:

 

  · Water Pollution Control Permits (WPCP): The WPCP application must address the open pit, heap leach pad, mining activities and water management systems with respect to potentially degrading of the waters of Nevada. Sufficient engineering, design and modeling data must be included in the WPCP. A Tentative Permit Closure Plan must be submitted to the NDEP-BMRR in conjunction with the WPCP. A Final Permanent Closure Plan will be needed two years prior to Project closure.

  · Air Quality: An application for a Class II Air Quality Permit must be prepared using Bureau of Air Pollution Control (BAPC) forms. The application must include descriptions of the facilities, a detailed emission inventory, plot plans, process flow diagrams and a fugitive dust control plan for construction and operation of the Project. A Mercury Operating Permit and a Title V Operating permit will also be necessary for processing loaded carbon or electro-winning precipitates.

  · Water Right: Additional water rights will need to be acquired from third parties or obtained from the Nevada Division of Water Resources (NDWR) for producing Project water.

  · Industrial Artificial Pond: Water storage ponds, which are part of the water management systems, will require Industrial Artificial Pond permits (IAPP) from the Nevada Department of wildlife. Approval from the Nevada State Engineer’s Office is also required if embankments exceed specified heights.

 

Additional minor permits will be required for the project to advance to production and are listed in Table 8.

 

Table 8: Additional Minor Permits Required

 

Notification/Permit   Agency
Mine Registry   Nevada Division of Minerals
Mine Opening Notification   State Inspector of Mines
Solid Waste Landfill   Nevada Bureau of Waste Management
Hazardous Waste Management Permit   Nevada Bureau of Waste Management
General Storm Water Permit   Nevada Bureau of Water Pollution Control
Hazardous Materials Permit   State Fire Marshall
Fire and Life Safety   State Fire Marshall
Explosives Permit   Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives
Notification of Commencement of Operation   Mine Safety and Health Administration
Radio License   Federal Communications Commission
Public Water Supply Permit   NV Division of Environmental Protection
MSHA Identification Number and MSHA Coordination   U.S. Department of Labor Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)
Septic Tank   NDEP-Bureau of Water Pollution Control
Petroleum Contaminated Soils   NV Division of Environmental Protection

 

2023 Project Exploration Plans

 

Subject to funding, the Company’s focus in 2023 for exploration at the Bullfrog Gold Project is drilling at the Gap Target, an epithermal lithocap at the northern end of the Bullfrog land package, as well as continued support of ongoing permitting and engineering work.

 

17

 

 

Reward Gold Project, Nye County, Nevada

 

Property Location and Access

 

The Reward Gold Project (the “Project” or “Reward Project”) is situated about 11.3 km (7 miles) south-southeast of the town of Beatty, NV about 3.2 km (2 miles) east of US Highway 95 in Nye County (Figure 1). The Project can be accessed from Beatty by paved road on Highway 95 followed by traveling two miles east on a gravel road. Several dirt roads diverge into various canyons of the Bare Mountains. The Project area lies within Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11 and 16 of Township 13 South, Range 47 East and Sections 33, 34, and 35 of Township 12 South, Range 47 East, all referred to the Mount Diablo Baseline and Meridian. The Project can be accessed from Beatty by paved road on Highway 95 followed by traveling two miles east on a gravel road. Several dirt roads diverge into various canyons of the Bare Mountains.

 

Project Stage

 

The Project is an exploration stage property with measured, indicated and inferred mineral resources but no known mineral reserves.

 

Mineral Resource Estimates

 

Mineral Resources were classified using a combination of assessment of geological confidence, data quality and grade continuity. Reasonable prospects of eventual economic extraction were considered by constraining the estimate within a conceptual pit shell that used the assumptions in Table 9.

 

Table 9. Reward Conceptual Open Pit Parameters.

 

Parameter  Unit (Imperial)  Cost (Imperial)   Unit (Metric)  Cost (Metric) 
Gold Price  US$/oz   1,700   US$/g   54.656 
Gold Metallurgical Recovery  %   80   %   80 
Pit Wall Angles  °   48-58   °   48-58 
Mining Cost  US$/st   2.00   US$/tonne   2.20 
Processing Rate  Mst/a   3   Mtonne/a   2.7 
Processing Cost  US$/st  $5.50   US$/tonne  $6.06 
G & A Cost  US$/st   0.75   US$/tonne   0.80 
Cut-off Grade (break even)  oz/st   0.0047   g/tonne   0.158 
Royalty  %   3   %   3 

 

The Mineral Resource Estimate for the Reward Project is presented in Table 10 below.

 

Table 10. Reward Project Mineral Resource Estimate at December 31, 2022 Based on USD$1,700/oz. Au

 

Classification  Tonnage (Mt)   Average Grade (g/t)   Contained Au (koz) 
Good Hope               
Measured   6.19    0.86    169.9 
Indicated   10.76    0.69    240.0 
M&I Total   16.94    0.75    409.9 
Inferred   0.29    0.56    5.3 
Gold Ace               
Indicated   0.83    0.63    16.8 
Inferred   1.03    0.73    21.8 
Reward (Combined Good Hope and Gold Ace)               
Measured   6.19    0.86    169.9 
Indicated   11.58    0.69    256.8 
M&I Total   17.77    0.75    426.7 
Inferred   1.23    0.68    27.1 

 

Notes:

 

1. Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,700/oz and a recovery of 80% for Au were utilized.
2.

Gold price used in the Reward estimated Mineral Resources were based on a review of commodity prices at the time of the estimate and assumed a price of US$1,700 per oz of gold based upon a three year trailing average.

3. Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.20/tonne.

4. Processing and general and administration are US$6.06/tonne and US$0.83/tonne per tonne processed, respectively.
5. Reward Mineral Resources are reported using a 0.2 g/tonne incremental cut-off grade.

6 Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

7. Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes and are partially diluted.

8. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

9. The effective date of the Reward mineral resource estimate is December 31, 2022.

 

18

 

 

Estimated Mineral Resources have not changed from May 22, 2022 (the date estimates were initially reported to the Commission in the Company Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 7, 2022) to December 31, 2022 due to the fact that the Reward Gold Project is in the exploration stage and no new resources were added to the project through exploration activities in the remainder of 2022. The material assumptions underlying mineral resources as previously disclosed at May 31, 2022 remain current in all material respects.

 

Property Holdings

 

The Project area lies within Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11 and 16 of Township 13 South, Range 47 East and Sections 33, 34, and 35 of Township 12 South, Range 47 East, all referred to the Mount Diablo Baseline and Meridian.

 

Canyon Resources Corporation (Canyon Resources) holds a 100% interest in the mineral claims that form the Project. In 2008, Canyon Resources assigned all of the patented and unpatented claims comprising the Project to an entity which was subsequently converted into CR Reward.

 

The Project encompasses 123 unpatented Bureau of Land Management (BLM) placer and lode mining claims and six patented placer mining claims, totalling approximately 2,333 net acres (944 hectares). Only the patented claims have been legally surveyed. Under United States mining law, claims may be renewed annually for an unlimited number of years upon a small payment per claim (currently $155 per claim due to the BLM and an aggregate $1,502 due to Nye County) and the same claim status-whether lode or placer-may be used for exploration or exploitation of the lodes or placers.

 

Several blocks of unpatented claims are leased by CR Reward from underlying owners, and are referred to as Connolly, Webster, Orser-McFall and Van Meeteren leases.

 

Connolly Lease

 

This lease agreement (the Connolly Lease), effective as of September 28th, 2004, covers a two-third interest in each of the Sunshine and Reward unpatented lode claims (collectively, the Connolly Claims). The Connolly Lease is for an initial term of 20 years and continues so long thereafter as the Project remains in commercial production. A 3% NSR royalty is payable on any minerals mined from the Connolly Claims, but is reduced to 2% due to the fact that CR Reward only owns a two-third interest in the Connolly Claims. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Connolly Lease in an amount equal to $10,000 per year. These annual advance minimum royalty payments shall be applied toward, credited against and fully deductible from earned mineral production royalty payments due from the Connolly Claims.

 

Webster Lease

 

This lease agreement (the Webster lease), effective as of November 9, 2004 (as amended on November 9th, 2004 and November 8th, 2006), covers a one-third interest in each of the Sunshine and Reward unpatented lode claims and a half interest in the Good Hope unpatented lode claim (collectively, the Webster Claims). The Webster Lease is for an initial term of 20 years and continues so long thereafter as the Project remains in commercial production. A 3% NSR royalty is payable on any minerals mined from the Webster Claims, but is (i) reduced to 1% on the Sunshine and Reward claims due to the fact that the lessee only owns a one-third interest, and (ii) reduced to 1.5% on the Good Hope claim due to the fact that CR Reward only owns a half interest in this claim. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Webster Lease in an amount equal to $7,500 per year. The annual advance minimum royalty payments paid in any given year may be applied toward, credited against and fully deductible from any earned mineral production royalty payments due on the Webster Claims during the calendar year in which such annual advance minimum royalty payments are due.

 

19

 

 

Orser-McFall Lease

 

This lease agreement (the Orser-McFall Lease), effective as of February 5, 2005 (as amended on August 18th, 2005 and November 14th, 2006), applies to 12 unpatented lode and six unpatented placer mining claims (collectively, the Orser-McFall Claims). The Orser-McFall Lease is for an initial term of 20 years and continues so long thereafter as the Project remains in commercial production. The lessors under the Orser-McFall Lease own 100% of the Orser-McFall Claims, except for the Good Hope claim, in which they own a half interest (the other half being owned by the Daniel D. Webster Living Trust and leased to CR Reward pursuant to the Webster Lease). A 3% NSR royalty is payable on minerals mined from the Orser-McFall Claims, but is reduced to 1.5% on the Good Hope claim due to the fact that the lessee only owns a half interest in that claim. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Orser-McFall Lease in an amount equal to $20,000 per year. These annual advance minimum royalty payments shall be applied toward, credited against and fully deductible from earned mineral production royalty payments due from the Orser-McFall Claims.

 

Van Meeteren et al Lease

 

This lease agreement (the Van Meeteren Lease), effect as of December 1st, 2011 (applies to the Double RS and the Durlers Hope unpatented placer claims (the Van Meeteren Claims). The Van Meeteren Lease is for an initial term of 20 years and continues so long thereafter as the Project remains in commercial production or CR Reward is actively conducting exploration, development, reclamation or remediation operations. A 3% NSR royalty is payable on minerals mined from the Van Meeteren Claims. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Van Meeteren Lease in an amount equal to $15/acre from 2011 through 2020, for a total of $1,800 per year, and $20/acre from and after 2021, for a total of $2,400 per year. These annual advance minimum royal payments are recoupable from earned mineral production royalties. All payments described above have been timely paid by CR Reward and its predecessor and the agreements are all in good standing.

 

The Project area mainly consists of Federal public domain lands administered by the BLM. There are no State or private tracts within the Project area, except the six patented claims owned by CR Reward, all of which carry surface and mineral rights ownership.

 

The Project is not subject to any other back-in rights payments, agreements or encumbrances.

 

CR Reward has the right to use 391,494 m3 (317.39 acre-ft) of water annually under Application No. 61412, Certificate No. 16384 and Permit No. 76390.

 

The Amargosa River basin is an enclosed basin, and the water rights are thus not affected by the Colorado River Compact or other agreements.

 

Infrastructure

 

The Project is located seven miles by road southeast of Beatty, a town of approximately 1,000 people that serves as a transit hub and service centre for travellers between Las Vegas and Reno, and those going to Death Valley. Several motels and restaurants, gas stations, a post office, and several small stores provide basic services.

 

The Project is currently serviced by an existing 14.4/24.9 kV power line owned and operated by Valley Electric. A water well currently provides water for exploration activities.

 

Project employees would likely be recruited from the local area, including the communities of Beatty, Amargosa, and Pahrump, located within Nye County, and the regional urban centre of Las Vegas, located within Clark County. There is available nearby accommodation to the Project site in Beatty and other smaller communities

 

20

 

 

The Project has sufficient land area, with adjacent public-domain lands also potentially available, to allow mine development, including space for the mining operations, waste rock disposal facilities (WRDs), heap leach pads and processing plants.

 

Geological Setting, Mineralization and Deposit Type

 

Mineralization in the Good Hope Deposit and Golden Ace Zone can be classified as examples of a structurally controlled, locally disseminated, sediment hosted, mesothermal quartz vein gold deposit.

 

The Project is hosted within the Bare Mountain Complex which lies within an intricate tectonic setting of the Nevada Basin and Range Province.

 

The Bare Mountain Complex consist of up to 6,096 m (20,000 ft) of Upper Proterozoic to Paleozoic marine sedimentary rocks in the lower plate that have been juxtaposed against Miocene silicic volcanic sequences in the upper plate. The lower plate units were deformed through folding, thrust faulting, low and high angle normal faulting during a Mesozoic compression event, and have been metamorphosed from lower amphibolite to sub-greenschist grade. Two dominant normal fault sets have been mapped in the lower plate, including the moderately east-dipping Bare Mountain and Gold Ace faults, and shallowly southeast-dipping faults that cut or curve into east-dipping faults.

 

The Project is located on the southwestern flank of the Bare Mountain Complex and is underlain by moderately-deformed marine clastic and carbonate rocks of Late Proterozoic and Late Cambrian age that have been metamorphosed to greenschist grade. Tertiary and younger alluvium cover the lower slopes and the adjacent Armagosa Valley to the south and west. The east-dipping Gold Ace fault, locally termed the Good Hope fault zone, separates northeast dipping Late Proterozoic to Early Cambrian units in the footwall block from Middle to Late Cambrian units in the hanging wall block.

 

The gold mineralization in the Good Hope Deposit is spatially associated with, and along, the Good Hope fault zone, and is primarily hosted in altered and veined Wood Canyon Formation, and to a lesser extent, in the Juhl and Sutton Members of the Stirling Formation. Mineralization hosted along the contact between the Sutton and Morris Marble Members of the Stirling Formation is referred to as the Gold Ace Zone. Although there are small historic prospects along the Good Hope fault zone, most of the historic production came from the Gold Ace Zone.

 

Historical Operations

 

Historical exploration of the Project was completed by several other companies from 1976 to 2004, including Galli Exploration Associates (Galli Exploration), Teco Inc. (Teco), St. Joe Minerals Corporation (St Joe), Gexa Gold Corp (Gexa), Cloverleaf Gold Inc. (Cloverleaf), Homestake Mining Company (Homestake), Pathfinder Gold Corporation (Pathfinder), Bond Gold Exploration Inc. (Bond Gold), Barrick, US Nevada Gold Search (USNGS), Rayrock Mines, Inc (Rayrock), Glamis Gold, Ltd. (Glamis Gold), and Marigold Mining Company (Marigold Mining). Historical exploration included airborne geophysics, reverse circulation (RC) and core drilling, initial metallurgical testwork, mineral resource estimates and technical studies.

 

Canyon Resources acquired the Project in 2004, and together with Atna Resources Ltd. (Atna) and CR Reward, have completed data compilation and validation, ground induced polarization/resistivity geophysical surveys, RC and core drilling, mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates, metallurgical testwork, permitting studies, environmental baseline studies, and technical studies. The following permits and authorizations were granted to CR Reward in 2007:

 

· Plan of Operations authorized under N-82840.

· Water Pollution Control Permit (WPCP); WPCP NEV2007101.

· General construction permit; NVR100000 CSW-17415.

· Water rights permitted by Nevada Division of Water Resources (NDWR) under Mining, Milling, & Domestic permit 76390.

· Mining reclamation permit granted by the Bureau of Mining Regulation and Reclamation (BMRR) under mine site permit #0300.

· Nevada Bureau of Air Pollution Control (BAPC) authorized Class II Air Quality permit AP1041-2492.

 

21

 

 

Permitting

 

The current Project area includes public and private lands within Nye County, Nevada. The Project, therefore, falls under the jurisdiction and permitting requirements of Nye County, the State of Nevada (primarily the BMRR) and the BLM.

 

The following permits and authorizations were granted to CR Reward:

 

· Plan of Operations authorized under N-82840.

· Water Pollution Control Permit (WPCP); WPCP NEV2007101.

· Water rights permitted by Nevada Division of Water Resources (NDWR) under Mining, Milling, & Domestic permit 76390 and permit 89658.

· Mining reclamation permit granted by the Bureau of Mining Regulation and Reclamation (BMRR) under mine site permit #0300.

· Nevada Bureau of Air Pollution Control (BAPC) authorized Class II Air Quality permit AP1041-2492.

 

The reader is referred to Evans et al. (2019) for additional information regarding permitting considerations for mining activities at the Project. Regarding exploration activities, during early phases of exploration, when surface disturbance is generally limited, authorization from the BLM is conditionally granted under a notice (40 CFR § 3890.21). There are currently no exploration notices associated with the Project and none are likely to be granted given the Project has a mine plan of operations (MPO) that was granted in 2020.

 

2023 Project Exploration Plans

 

Subject to funding, the Company’s focus in 2023 for exploration at the Reward Project is expanding the resource down-dip, and performing infill drilling where there are gaps in the current resource model.

 

22

 

 

PART IV

 

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS

 

Documents Filed as Part of Report

 

Financial Statements

 

The following Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company were filed with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 16, 2023:

 

  1. Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (Davidson & Company LLP.

  2. Consolidated Balance Sheets – As of December 31, 2022 and 2021.

  3. Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss) – Years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.

  4. Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity – Years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.

  5. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – Years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.

  6. Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

See “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”.

 

Financial Statement Schedules

 

No financial statement schedules are filed as part of this report because such schedules are not applicable or the required information is shown in the Consolidated Financial Statements or notes thereto. See “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”.

 

Exhibits:

 

The exhibits, listed on the following exhibit index are filed or furnished as part of this Amended Report on Form 10-K/A. These exhibits should be read in conjunction with the exhibits in Item 15 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on February 24, 2022.

 

Exhibit

Number

  Description
31.1   Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended
31.2   Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended
96.1   Technical Report Summary for the Bullfrog Gold Project
96.2   Technical Report Summary for the Reward Gold Project

 

23

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Sections 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

Date: December 20, 2023 AUGUSTA GOLD CORP.
   
  By: /s/ Donald R. Taylor
    Name: Donald R. Taylor
   

Title: President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

     
Date: December 20, 2023 AUGUSTA GOLD CORP.
   
  By: /s/ Michael McClelland
    Name: Michael McClelland
   

Title: Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

 

24

Exhibit 31.1

 

CERTIFICATION

 

I, Donald R. Taylor, certify that:

 

1.I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K/A of Augusta Gold Corp.;

 

2.Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

3.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

4.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

 

  a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

  b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

  c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 

  d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

 

5.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

  a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

  b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Dated: December 20, 2023  /s/ Donald R. Taylor
    
   Donald R. Taylor,
   Chief Executive Officer

 

Exhibit 31.2

 

CERTIFICATION

 

I, Michael McClelland, certify that:

 

1.I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K/A of Augusta Gold Corp.;

 

2.Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

3.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

4.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

 

  a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

  b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

  c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 

  d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

 

5.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

  a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

  b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Dated: December 20, 2023  /s/ Michael McClelland
    
   Michael McClelland,
   Chief Financial Officer

 

 

Exhibit 96.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

S-K 1300 Technical Report 

 

Mineral Resource Estimate 

 

Bullfrog Gold Project 

 

Nye County, Nevada

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: December 31, 2021 

 

Amended: December 18, 2023 

 

PREPARED FOR: 

 

Augusta Gold Corp. 

 

Vancouver, BC 

 

BY 

 

QUALIFIED PERSONS:

 

Forte Dynamics, Inc. 

 

120 Commerce Drive, Units 3-4

 

Fort Collins, CO 80524

 

 

 

 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Date and Signature Page

 

This report titled “S-K 1300 Technical Report Mineral Resource Estimate on the Bullfrog Gold Project, Nye County, Nevada” is current as of December 31, 2021 and was prepared and signed by Forte Dynamics, Inc., acting as a Qualified Person Firm.

 

(signed and sealed)

 

Date: December 18, 2023

 

Forte Dynamics, Inc. 

120 Commerce Drive, Units 3-4

 

Fort Collins, CO 80524

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 2 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Table of Contents

 

1. Executive Summary 9
       
  1.1 Location, Property Description and Ownership 9
  1.2 Geology and Mineralization 10
  1.3 Exploration, Drilling, Sampling and QA/QC 11
  1.3.1 Exploration 11
  1.3.2 Drilling 12
  1.3.3 Sampling 13
  1.3.4 QA/QC 14
  1.3.5 Database Improvements 14
  1.4 Mineral Processing and Metallurgical Testing 14
  1.5 Mineral Resource Estimates 17
  1.6 Conclusions 20
  1.6.1 Geology and Mineral Resources 20
  1.6.2 Metallurgical Test Work and Mineral Processing 21
  1.6.3 Infrastructure 22
  1.7 Recommendations 22
       
2. Introduction 23
       
  2.1 Units of Measure 23
  2.2 Abbreviations 24
  2.3 Qualified Persons and Details of Inspection 24
       
3. Property Description 25
       
  3.1 NPX Assignment of Lands 51
  3.2 Mojave Gold Option 51
  3.3 Barrick Bullfrog Inc. Lease and Option 51
  3.4 Lunar Landing Lease 51
  3.5 Brown Claims 52
  3.6 Barrick Claims (2020) 52
  3.7 Abitibi Royalties Option 53
  3.8 Other Property Considerations 53
  3.9 Environmental and Permitting 53
  3.10 Significant Risk Factors 54
       
4. Accessibility, Climate, Local Resources, Infrastructure and Physiography 55
       
  4.1 Accessibility 55
  4.2 Physiography, Climate and Vegetation 55
  4.3 Local Resources and Infrastructure 56
         
5. History 57
       
6. Geological Setting, Mineralisation and Deposit 59
       
  6.1 Regional Geology 59
  6.2 Local and Property Geology 60
  6.2.1 Cenozoic Rocks 62
  6.2.2 Pre-14 Ma Rocks 62
  6.2.3 14 to 11 Ma Rocks 64
  6.2.4 Post 11 Ma to 7.6 Ma Rocks 66

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 3 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

  6.2.5 10.6-10.0 Ma Rainbow Mountain Sequence (Trm, Tr11-16 and other units) 67
  6.3 District Geology 68
  6.4 Mineralization and Veining 69
  6.4.1 Bullfrog Mineralization 69
  6.4.2 Montgomery-Shoshone Mineralization 70
  6.4.3 Bonanza Mineralization 72
  6.5 Deposit 72
       
7. Exploration 74
     
  7.1 Bullfrog 75
  7.1.1 Mystery Hills 75
  7.1.2 Ladd Mountain 75
  7.2 Montgomery-Shoshone Area 75
  7.2.1 Polaris Vein 75
  7.2.2 East Zone 75
  7.2.3 Deep Potential 75
  7.3 Bonanza Mountain 76
  7.4 Gap 76
  7.5 Drilling 77
  7.5.1 2020 - 2021 Drilling 79
  7.5.2 2021 Additional Drilling Included in the End of Year 2021 Resource Model 89
         
8. Sample Preparation, Analyses, and Security 95
       
  8.1 Historic Data (1983 – 1996) 95
  8.2 Augusta Gold Corp. (2020-2021) 95
  8.2.1 Augusta Gold Corp. 2020 95
  8.2.2 Augusta Gold Corp 2021 97
         
9. Data Verification 107
       
  9.1 Check Assay 108
  9.2 Qualified Person’s Opinion 111
       
10. Mineral Processing and Metallurgical Testing 112
       
  10.1 St. Joe 112
  10.1.1 Large Column Leach Test 112
  10.1.2 Bottle Roll Tests on UG Samples 113
  10.1.3 Column Testing by Kappes Cassiday & Associates 113
  10.2 Pilot Testing by Barrick 114
  10.3 Column Leach Tests 115
  10.4 Conclusions for Heap Leaching 116
  10.5 Leach Pad Siting 117
  10.6 Additional Testing 118
  10.7 Qualified Person’s Opinion 119
       
11. Mineral Resource Estimates 120
       
  11.1 Summary 120
  11.2 Database 123
  11.2.1 Vulcan Isis Drillhole Database 124
  11.2.2 Drillhole Exclusion 126
  11.3 Grade Shells 127

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
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 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

  11.4 Statistical Analyses and Capping of Outlier Values 129
  11.5 Compositing 130
  11.6 Variography 130
  11.7 Block Model 133
  11.8 Estimation Methodology 135
  11.9 Resource Estimate Classification 138
  11.10 Density Data 138
  11.11 Pit Slopes 140
  11.12 Reblocking 141
  11.13 Pit Shell Optimization 142
         
12. Mineral Reserve Estimates 145
     
13. Mining Methods 145
     
14. Process and Recovery Methods 145
       
15. Infrastructure 145
       
16. Market Studies 145
       
17. Environmental Studies, Permitting, and Plans, Negotiations, or Agreements with Local Individuals or Groups 145
 
18. Capital and Operating Costs 145
       
19. Economic Analysis 145
       
20. Adjacent Properties 146
       
21. Other Relevant Data and Information 147
       
22. Interpretation and Conclusions 148
       
  22.1 Geology and Mineral Resources 148
  22.2 Metallurgical Test Work and Mineral Processing 149
  22.3 Infrastructure 149
       
23. Recommendations 150
       
  23.1 Exploration 150
  23.2 Baseline Studies 150
  23.3 Additional Studies 150
  23.4 Estimated Costs 150
       
24. References 152
       
25. Reliance on Information Provided by the Registrant 158
       
26. Appendix 1 159
       
  26.1 Statistical Analysis of Drillhole Data for Gold Assays 159
  26.2 Statistical Analysis of Drillhole Data for Silver Assays 166
  26.3 Swath Plots 173

 

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120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
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List Of Tables

 

Table 1-1: Location and Depth of 2020 - 2021 Holes 12
Table 1-2: 1994 Leach Test Results 14
Table 1-3: 1995 Pilot Heap Leach Test Results 15
Table 1-4: 2018 Column Leach Test Results 15
Table 1-5: 2019 Column Leach Test Results 16
Table 1-6: 2020 Bottle Roll Test Results 17
Table 1-7: Bullfrog Mineral Resources 18
Table 1-8: Montgomery-Shoshone Mineral Resources 19
Table 1-9: Bonanza Mineral Resources 19
Table 1-10: Combined Mineral Resources 20
Table 3-1: Lands Under the Control of Augusta Gold Corp. 26
Table 3-2: Additional Minor Permits Required 54
Table 5-1: Bullfrog Project Production 57
Table 7-1: Drilling Totals by Type 78
Table 7-2: Active Years by Operator 79
Table 7-3: Location and Depth of 2020 - 2021 Holes 81
Table 7-4: Drilling Results from the 2020 - 2021 Program 84
Table 7-5: Location and Depth of Additional 2021 Holes 90
Table 7-6: Drilling Results from Additional Drilling in 2021 Program 91
Table 8-1: CRM Expected Values 96
Table 8-2: Summary of Gold in CRM’s 96
Table 8-3: CRM Expected Values 96
Table 8-4: Blank Failure Threshold 97
Table 8-5: Duplicate Sample Results 97
Table 8-6: CRM Expected Values 104
Table 8-7: Summary of Gold in CRMs 105
Table 8-8: Blank Failure Threshold 105
Table 9-1: Check Assay Gold Statistics 110
Table 10-1: Typical Processing Statistics from 1989-1999 112
Table 10-2: Leach Test Results 113
Table 10-3: Heap Leach Pilot Tests – Barrick 114
Table 10-4: Column Leach Test Results (2018) 115
Table 10-5: Column Leach Test Results (2019) 116
Table 10-6: Estimated Heap Leach Recovery 116
Table 10-7: Summary Metallurgical Results – Bottle Roll Tests 118
Table 11-1: Bullfrog Mineral Resources 121
Table 11-2: Montgomery-Shoshone Mineral Resources 122
Table 11-3: Bonanza Mineral Resources 122
Table 11-4: Combined Property Mineral Resources 123
Table 11-5: Drillhole Exclusion for Bullfrog Deposit 126
Table 11-6: Drillhole Exclusion for Montgomery-Shoshone Deposit 127
Table 11-7: DOMAIN Codes and Corresponding Grade Shell Triangulations 129
Table 11-8: Capping Values and Statistics for Gold Assays 130
Table 11-9: Capping Values and Statistics for Silver Assays 130
Table 11-10: Block Model Extents 133

 

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Table 11-11: Block Estimation Parameters 136
Table 11-12: Block Estimation Parameters 138
Table 11-13: Density Assignments for Mineralized Domains 139
Table 11-14: Density Assignments for Unmineralized Domains 139
Table 11-15: Density Assignments for Dump, Fill and Alluvium 139
Table 11-16: LG Pit Optimization Parameters 142
Table 23-1: Land Positions of the Bullfrog Project and Adjacent Properties 151

 

List Of Figures

 

Figure 1-1: Location Map 10
Figure 1-2: District Geology Map 11
Figure 3-1:  Location Map 25
Figure 3-2: Property Map of the Bullfrog Project 50
Figure 4-1: Photo of Bullfrog Hills at Rhyolite 55
Figure 6-1: Regional Setting of the Bullfrog Mine (Eng et al., 1996) 59
Figure 6-2: Bullfrog District – Stratigraphy and Mineralization 61
Figure 6-3: Cross Section of the Bullfrog Project Area 62
Figure 6-4: District Geology Map — Each Section is 1.6 km, or 1 Mile Square 69
Figure 7-1: Exploration and Mining Targets at the Bullfrog Project 74
Figure 7-2: Plan Map of Drill Hole Collars 80
Figure 7-3: Drilling in the Montgomery-Shoshone Area from the 2020 - 2021 Drill Campaign 83
Figure 7-4: Drilling in the Bullfrog Area from the 2020 - 2021 Drill Campaign 83
Figure 8-1: Truck Mounted Core Rig 98
Figure 8-2: Laydown Yard and Sample Storage 98
Figure 8-3: Logging Laptop 99
Figure 8-4: Core Shed and Quick Log Station 100
Figure 8-5: Logging Facility 101
Figure 8-6: Core Saw 102
Figure 8-7: Sampling Tables 102
Figure 8-8: Core Cutting Facility 103
Figure 8-9: Sample Pick Up Area 104
Figure 8-10: Gold Pulp Comparison 106
Figure 9-1: Check Assay Gold Comparison 109
Figure 9-2: Check Assay Gold - Percent Difference 110
Figure 9-3: Silver Check Assay Comparison 111
Figure 10-1: Leach Test Results 114
Figure 10-2: Potential Leach Pad Sites & Approximate Capacities 117
Figure 11-1: Drillhole Collar Locations 125
Figure 11-2: Grade Shell (DOMAIN) Triangulations 128
Figure 11-3: Variogram for Bullfrog Low Grade Domain (11) 131
Figure 11-4: Variogram for Bullfrog High Grade Vein Domain (12) 131
Figure 11-5: Variogram for Montgomery-Shoshone Low Grade Domain (21) 132
Figure 11-6: Variogram for Bonanza Low Grade Domain (31) 132
Figure 11-7: Bullfrog Underground Stope Shapes 134
Figure 11-8: Bullfrog 8620N Cross-Section Showing Gold Blocks and Composites 137
Figure 11-9: Oxide and Sulfide Coding – Bullfrog Section 8600N 138

 

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 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Figure 11-10: Bullfrog Pit Slope Angles and Slope Sector Assignments 140
Figure 11-11: Bonanza Pit Slope Angles and Slope Sector Assignments 141
Figure 11-12: Montgomery-Shoshone Pit Slope Angles and Slope Sector Assignments 141
Figure 11-13: Bullfrog 143
Figure 11-14: Montgomery-Shoshone 143
Figure 11-15: Bonanza 144
Figure 20-1: Land Positions of the Bullfrog Project and Adjacent Properties 146

 

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 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

1.Executive Summary

 

This report has been updated from the Technical Report Summary submitted on July 14, 2023.

 

PP11.1 – Added a paragraph to the report describing the cut off grade selection. Added the oxide and sulfide cutoff grades to the tables.

 

Break-even cutoff grades, which consider mining cost and can identify blocks have a positive net value, including mining costs. Mineral resources are reported at break-even cutoffs of 0.192g/t for oxide-leach and 0.315 g/t for sulfide-leach.

 

PP9.2 - The qualified person has reviewed these data and believes that they are sufficient and appropriate for use in this report to determine the mineral resource estimate.

 

PP10.7 – “The qualified person has reviewed these data and believes that they are sufficient and appropriate for use in this report to determine the mineral resource estimate.”

 

PP11.1 – “The comparable pricing for gold of $1,550 compares well with the three-year trailing average of $1,558/oz Au in June 2021, an accepted method for a mineral resource reporting price. The $20/oz silver price compares to a three-year average of $19.07 and was typical of other similar reports.”

 

This technical report has been prepared for Augusta Gold Corp. (Augusta, Augusta Gold, or the Company) by Forte Dynamics for the Bullfrog Gold Project (Project, project, or Bullfrog Project) in Nye County, Nevada. This is a Technical Report Summary (TRS) summarizing an Initial Assessment of Mineral Resources aligned with Securities and Exchange Commission Regulation S-K subpart 1300 (S-K 1300).

 

This report was prepared for the purpose of producing an updated mineral resource statement for the project that includes new drilling information, and geologic modeling associated with the work that was completed through 2021.

 

New resource models were completed for the three deposits at Bullfrog (Bullfrog, Montgomery-Shoshone, Bonanza) and mineral resource estimates were calculated within optimized pit shells for the Bullfrog area, Montgomery-Shoshone area and the Bonanza area. Previously, resources were reported from earlier models in an August 2021 NI 43-101 technical report.

 

1.1Location, Property Description and Ownership

 

The Company’s wholly owned Bullfrog Gold Project is located in the Bullfrog Hills of Nye County, Nevada and in the southern half of the Bullfrog Mining District (Figure 1-1). Basic amenities are available in the town of Beatty, which is situated 6.5 km east of the Project. Las Vegas is the largest regional city with full services and is a 260 km drive to the site. Project properties are located in Sections 25, 26, 35 and 36 of T11S, R46E and Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 23 of T12S, R46E, Mt. Diablo Meridian. The location of the property is shown in Figure 1-1.

 

The Company has four option/lease/purchase agreements in place and has located 61 claims that give it control of 439 unpatented lode mining claims and mill site claims, and 86 patented. The claims do not have an expiration date, as long as the fees and obligations are maintained.

 

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120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
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 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Figure 1-1: Location Map

 

 

 

1.2Geology and Mineralization

 

The Project is in the southern Walker Lane trend within brittle upper-plate volcanic host rocks that were severely deformed from dominant detachment faulting and associated dip-slip and strike-slip displacements. Epithermal solutions permeated the broken host rocks in the Bullfrog Montgomery-Shoshone (M-S) and Bonanza areas precipitating micron-sized and relatively high-grade gold (Au) within major quartz-calcite veins and disseminated gold in associated stock-works. The veins contain gangue minerals other than quartz, such as calcite and manganese oxides, the latter of which contributes associated silver (Ag) recoveries and gold. The district geology map is shown below in Figure 1-2.

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 10 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Figure 1-2: District Geology Map

 

 

 

1.3Exploration, Drilling, Sampling and QA/QC

 

1.3.1Exploration

 

The Company’s exploration activities to date have focused on the following:

 

Exploration drilling, data acquisition and geologic modeling;

Acquiring, organizing, digitizing and vetting electronic and paper data bases obtained from Barrick mainly related to drill data, metallurgy and project infrastructure; and

Maintaining and expanding the land holdings.

 

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120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
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 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

1.3.2Drilling

 

The project drilling includes 1,311 holes, for a total of 263,757 meters completed between 1983 and early 2021. The holes were drilled using both core and reverse circulation methods, as detailed in the drilling section of this report. Table 1-1 summarizes the project drilling by year.

 

Table 1-1: Location and Depth of 2020 - 2021 Holes

 

Year Total Drilling Coring Reverse Circulation
Holes Meters Holes Meters Holes Meters
1983 6 975 6 975 0 0
1984 37 3,560   0 37 3,560
1985 3 303   0 3 303
1986 29 3,364   0 29 3,364
1987 163 29,479 3 732 163 28,747
1988 321 66,325 32 6,121 321 60,204
1989 71 12,285   0 71 12,285
1990 154 37,114 33 3,676 154 33,438
1991 79 22,954 42 3,627 79 19,327
1992 23 4,907   0 23 4,907
1993 9 387   0 9 387
1994 210 31,362 9 1,412 210 29,951
1995 99 22,370 3 248 99 22,122
1996 58 15,254 19 3,329 45 11,924
2020 26 4,405 1 502 25 3,903
2021 43 14,820 38 12,749 5 2,071
Total 1,331 269,864 186 33,371 1,273 236,493

 

A total of 69 drill holes, 30 reverse circulation (RC) and 39 core holes have been drilled by Augusta from 2020-2021. The purpose of the drilling was to further define resources and the ultimate limits of the Bullfrog and Montgomery-Shoshone pits and gather data to support advanced geotechnical and metallurgical studies. The 2020 program also fulfilled a final work commitment for the Company to purchase a 100% interest in lands under lease from Barrick by mid-September 2020. Two holes were drilled at the Paradise Ridge target. Section 7 of this report details the results of the 2020 - 2021 drilling program.

 

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 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

1.3.3Sampling

 

1.3.3.1Historic (1983-1986)

 

Historic drilling and coring information used in this resource estimate was obtained from several drill programs that began in 1983 with St. Joe Minerals, continued with Bond Gold and Lac Minerals, and ended by Barrick in late 1996. Of 1,262 total holes drilled in the area, 147 holes included core and 1,243 holes were drilled using reverse circulation methods. Most of the cored holes included intervals of core plus RC segments. Percent recovery and RQD measurements were made on all core intervals. An assessment was made of the quality of the orientation data and the core was marked accordingly. The core was then logged, recording lithological, alteration, mineralization, and structural information including the orientation of faults, fault lineation’s, fractures, veins, and bedding. With few exceptions, the entire lengths of the holes were sampled. Sample intervals were 5 feet and occasionally based on the geological logging, separating different lithologies and styles of mineralization and alteration. Samples were marked and tagged in the core box before being photographed, after which the core was sawed in half, with one half sent for assay and one half retained for future reference. Each sample interval was bagged separately and shipped to the lab for analysis.

 

Cuttings from nearly all reverse circulation drill programs were divided into two streams, one was sampled and the other was disposed during the reclamation of each drill site. Using a Jones splitter, the sample stream was further divided into two sample bags, one designated for assaying and the second duplicate designated as a field reject. Samples were collected at five-foot intervals and bagged at the drill site. Each five-foot sample was sealed at the drill site and not opened until it reached the analytical lab. At each 20-foot rod connection, the hole was blown clean to eliminate material that had fallen into the hole during the connection. The designated assay samples for each five-foot interval were collected by the site geologist and moved to a secure sample collection area for shipment to accredited laboratories off site. When duplicate samples were collected, they were retained at the drill site as a reference sample, if needed. If the duplicate samples were not used, they were blended with site materials during site reclamation.

 

1.3.3.2Augusta Gold Corp (2020-2021)

 

Augusta Gold Corporation (Augusta Gold) commenced exploration on the Bullfrog Gold Project in 2020, continuing through the second quarter of 2021. Work performed consisted of oriented diamond core drilling, conventional Reverse Circulation (RC) drilling and reconnaissance mapping and surface sampling for drill target generation. A digital, Access based database (GeoSpark) has been maintained by Augusta Gold, including all assays from drill samples and geochemical analysis from surface rock chip samples, completed on the project.

 

Oriented diamond core drilling (HQ3) was performed using two track-mounted LF-90 drills and one truck mounted LF-90 drill. Core orientation was collected using Reflex ACTIII tooling, overseen by staff geologists and verified by a third-party contractor. All drill core was logged, photographed, split, and sampled on-site.

 

Conventional Reverse Circulation drilling was performed using a single Atlas Copco RD 10+, with a hole diameter of 6.75 inches. All RC samples were logged and sampled on-site. Samples were air dried, sealed in bulk bags on-site. Additionally, surface rock chip samples were collected during field reconnaissance. These samples were collected, described, and geolocated in the field before being in sealed rice bags for transport.

 

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120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
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 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

1.3.4QA/QC

 

The sampling QA/QC program was originally established by St. Joe Minerals. Subsequent owners followed the procedures with any necessary updates to meet quality assurance standards of the time. The standard practices included the supervision of drilling, logging of core, as well as in-stream sample submittal for blanks, certified standards, and duplicate testing to ensure laboratory performance. All assay testing was completed by outside, fully accredited laboratories, such as Skyline, Legend, Iron King, Barringer, American Assay, Chemex, ALS and Paragon Geochemical. Assay certificates are available and have been electronically scanned to complete the project drilling database.

 

1.3.5Database Improvements

 

During the later half of 2021, Augusta Gold Corp. staff conducted an in-depth review and update of legacy data in the Bullfrog drilling database. During the process, previously missing assay information was found on old assay certificates, was verified against drill logs, and added to the database. Additionally, assay grades were checked throughout the legacy data set and consistent conversions from imperial to metric grade units were updated where needed. During the process, it was discovered that some series of older drillholes had improper imperial-metric grade conversions and were subsequently updated, resulting in grade increases for the majority of affected drillholes. Forte Dynamics requested and received assay certificate and logging data for approximately 10% of the relevant legacy drillholes in the economically important portions of gold deposits and has verified the accuracy of the database for those drillholes.

 

1.4Mineral Processing and Metallurgical Testing

 

Metallurgical testing programs that are relevant to the development plans of the Project are summarized below.

 

In 1986 St. Joe American performed two large column tests on composites of M-S samples and recovered 56% of the gold after 59 days of leaching material grading 0.034 opt and crushed to -19 mm (-3/4 inch). The other column recovered 49% of the gold after 59 days of leaching minus 304.8 mm (-12-inch) material grading 0.037 opt. Projected 90-day recoveries were 61% and 54% respectively.

 

Results from leach tests performed in 1994 by Kappes Cassiday of Reno, Nevada on 250 kg of sub-grade material from the Bullfrog mine are shown below:

 

Table 1-2: 1994 Leach Test Results

 

  Bottle Column Column
Size, mesh, & mm (inch) -100 mesh -38 mm (-1.5”) -9.5 mm (-3/8”)
Calc.  Head, opt Au 0.029 0.035 0.029
Rec % 96.6 71.4 75.9
Leach time, days 2.0 41 41
NaCN, kg/t (lb/short ton) 0.5 (0.1) 0.385 (0.77) 5.35 (10.7)
Lime, kg/t (lb/short ton 1.0 (2.0) 0.155 (0.31) 1.75 (0.35)

 

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In 1995 Barrick performed pilot heap leach tests on 765 t (844 short tons) of BF subgrade material and 730 t (805 short tons) from the M-S pit. Both composites were crushed to 12.7 mm (-1/2 inch). Results are shown in Table 1-3 below.

 

Table 1-3: 1995 Pilot Heap Leach Test Results

 

  BF Low-Grade M-S Mineralization
Calc.  Head, opt Au 0.019 0.048
Calc.  Head, opt Ag 0.108 0.380
Projected Au Rec % 67 74
Projected Ag Rec % 9 32
Leach Time, days 41 37
NaCN, kg/t (lb/short ton) 0.10 (0.20) 0.125 (0.25)
Lime, kg/t (lb/short ton) Nil (Nil) Nil (Nil)

 

In 2018 and 2019, standard column leach tests were performed on materials from the Bullfrog property by McClelland Laboratories, located in Reno, NV. The sample tested in 2018 was a composite sample created from a bulk sample representing “Brecciated Vein Ore Type”. Results from the 2018 test work are shown in Table 1-4 below.

 

Table 1-4: 2018 Column Leach Test Results

 

Feed Size Crush Method Test Time Au Recovery, %
9.5mm (3/8”) Conventional Column 60 days 58
9.5mm (3/8”) Conventional Bottle Roll 4 days 59
1.7mm (10 mesh) HPGR Column 60 days 77
1.7mm (10 mesh) HPGR Bottle Roll 4 days 70
150µm Conventional/Grind Bottle Roll 4 days 89

 

The 2018 column leach test results suggest a crush size dependency where HPGR crushing (high pressure grinding rolls) may have the potential to significantly improve recovery. The lime requirement for protective alkalinity was low and cyanide consumption was moderate. The results of the 2019 program are summarized in Table 1-5 below.

 

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Table 1-5: 2019 Column Leach Test Results

 

Sample Feed Size Crush Method Test Time Au Rec., %
Composite E 9.5mm (3/8”) Conventional Column 151 days 75
Composite E 6.3mm (1/4”) HPGR Column 122 days 77
Composite E 1.7mm (10 mesh) HPGR Column 102 days 89
MS-M-1 9.5mm (3/8”) Conventional Column 108 days 66
MS-M-1 6.3mm (1/4”) HPGR Column 108 days 77
MS-M-1 1.7mm (10 mesh) HPGR Column 89 days 85
MH-M-2 9.5mm (3/8”) Conventional Column 109 days 83
MH-M-2 6.3mm (1/4”) HPGR Column 105 days 88
MH-M-2 1.7mm (10 mesh) HPGR Column 86 days 91

 

In 2020, cyanidation bottle rolls tests were conducted on 14 variability composites from the Bullfrog project. Details of this testing can be found in Section 10 of this report. The Bullfrog variability composites generally were amenable to agitated cyanidation treatment at a nominal 1.7 mm feed size. The samples were not crushed with an HPGR. Gold recovery ranged from 38.7% to 86.8% and averaged 68.0%. Recovery was 58.1% or greater for 12 of the 14 composites. Gold recovery was not correlated to gold head grades for these 14 composites. Gold recovery consistently decreased with increasing sulfide sulfur content. Results from the bottle roll test are shown below in Table 1-6.

 

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Table 1-6: 2020 Bottle Roll Test Results

 

Composite Drillhole   REAGENT
REQUIREMENTS
Interval (ft) Au
Rec.
Head Grade Au
g/tonne
kg/tonne mineralized
material
From To % Calculated Assayed NaCN Cons. Lime Added
4594-001 BM-20-1 0 40 67.8 0.59 0.80 0.15 1.1
4594-002 BM-50-1 40 75 67.2 0.58 0.50 0.11 1.2
4594-003 BM-20-4 280 335 44.4 0.27 0.26 0.12 1.7
4594-004 BM-20-4 335 390 38.7 0.31 0.30 0.17 1.5
4594-005 BM-20-6 295 395 66.7 0.27 0.29 0.11 1.4
4594-006 BM-20-6 395 485 58.5 1.06 0.86 0.11 1.6
4594-007 BM-20-11 95 185 72.7 0.22 0.18 <0.07 1.1
4594-008 BM-20-14 0 45 58.1 0.31 0.27 <0.07 1.8
4594-009 BM-20-14 90 135 80.0 0.15 0.13 0.14 1.5
4594-010 BM-20-14 170 235 84.2 0.19 0.21 0.14 1.2
4594-011 BM-20-14 235 260 86.8 0.53 0.57 0.09 1.2
4594-012 BM-20-15 35 130 72.3 0.47 0.46 0.17 1.4
4594-013 BM-20-19 0 115 73.3 0.30 0.27 0.08 1.4
4594-014 BM-20-22 305 385 81.0 0.63 0.67 0.09 1.6

 

1.5Mineral Resource Estimates

 

Mineral resources were updated based on technical information as of December 31, 2021, by Forte Dynamics for the Bullfrog project. The update utilizes all new drilling through the end of 2021 in addition to updated geologic models and database improvements by Augusta Gold Corp. staff. Three-dimensional block models for each area (Bullfrog, Montgomery-Shoshone and Bonanza) were created using Vulcan software. Surfaces and solids representing topography, overburden, geologic units, historic stope shapes and gold mineralization were incorporated into the resource models. Resource estimates utilize drill hole, survey, analytical and bulk density information provided by the project personnel. Gold and silver values have been given null values for all material that has been historically mined by both open pit and underground methods. Bulk density has been adjusted for backfill material placed in the historical open pit and underground operations.

 

Mineral resources are pit constrained using reasonable cost assumptions, however detailed costing and economic evaluations have not been performed. The resources only consider mining mineralization and waste that will take place on lands controlled by Augusta Gold Corp. Pit slope parameters are based on the existing pit wall angles and vary by geology, depth and lateral extent. Different metallurgical recoveries were assigned to oxide and sulphide material and used in the calculation of the optimized pit shells.

 

Mineral resources are reported inside optimized pit shells with Minemax software using high-level economic assumptions, geotechnical pit slope parameters and property boundaries. Estimated mineral resources for the Bullfrog Project are being reported for the Bullfrog, Montgomery-Shoshone and Bonanza areas, respectively.

 

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Table 1-7: Bullfrog Mineral Resources

 

Mineral Resources as of December 31, 2021 - Bullfrog

Redox/

Cutoff

Classification Tonnes
(Mt)
Au grade
(g/t)
Ag grade
(g/t)
Au Contained
(koz)
Ag Contained
(koz)

Oxide/

0.192 g/t

Measured 24.50 0.537 1.28 422.77 1,010.02
Indicated 36.32 0.515 1.14 602.02 1,332.18
Measured and Indicated 60.82 0.524 1.20 1,024.79 2,342.20
Inferred 14.40 0.460 0.77 213.06 358.49
 

Sulfide/

0.315g/t

Measured 1.30 0.710 1.28 29.77 53.52
Indicated 1.99 0.625 1.32 39.94 84.47
Measured and Indicated 3.29 0.659 1.30 69.72 137.99
Inferred 1.05 0.657 1.14 22.14 38.53
             
Total -
Oxide
and
Sulfide
Measured 25.80 0.545 1.28 452.55 1,063.54
Indicated 38.31 0.521 1.15 641.96 1,416.65
Measured and Indicated 64.12 0.531 1.20 1,094.51 2,480.19
Inferred 15.44 0.474 0.80 235.20 397.02

 

Notes:

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 82% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 20% For Ag.

2.Sulphide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 50% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 12% for Ag.

3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.25/tonne.

4.Processing, general and administration, and refining costs are US$5.00/tonne, US$0.50/tonne, and US$0.05/tonne respectively.

5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes.

7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

  

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Table 1-8: Montgomery-Shoshone Mineral Resources

 

Mineral Resources as of December 31, 2021 - Montgomery-Shoshone
Redox/
Cutoff
Classification Tonnes
(Mt)
Au grade
(g/t)
Ag grade
(g/t)
Au Contained
(koz)
Ag Contained
(koz)

Oxide/

0.192 g/t

Measured 1.97 0.637 3.35 40.35 212.12
Indicated 1.35 0.555 2.85 24.04 123.66
Measured and Indicated 3.32 0.603 3.15 64.38 335.78
Inferred 1.05 0.586 3.45 19.76 116.41

 

Notes:

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 82% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 20% For Ag.

2.Sulphide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 50% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 12% for Ag. No sulphide material was reported for Montgomery-Shoshone.

3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.25/tonne.

4.Processing, general and administration, and refining costs are US$5.00/tonne, US$0.50/tonne, and US$0.05/tonne respectively.

5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes.

7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

 

Table 1-9: Bonanza Mineral Resources

 

Mineral Resources as of December 31, 2021 - Bonanza
Redox/
Cutoff
Classification Tonnes
(Mt)
Au grade
(g/t)
Ag grade
(g/t)
Au Contained
(koz)
Ag Contained
(koz)

Oxide/

0.192 g/t

Measured 2.35 0.446 0.44 33.78 33.48
Indicated 1.22 0.422 0.44 16.61 17.17
Measured and Indicated 3.58 0.438 0.44 50.40 50.65
Inferred 0.19 0.473 0.37 2.94 2.28

 

Notes:

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 82% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 20% For Ag.

2.Sulphide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 50% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 12% for Ag. No sulphide material was reported for Bonanza.

3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.25/tonne.

4.Processing, general and administration, and refining costs are US$5.00/tonne, US$0.50/tonne, and US$0.05/tonne respectively.

5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes.

7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

 

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Table 1-10: Combined Mineral Resources

 

  Combined Global Resources as of December 31, 2021 - Oxide and Sulphide
  Classification Tonnes
(Mt)
Au grade
(g/t)
Ag grade
(g/t)
Au Contained
(koz)
Ag Contained
(koz)
  Measured 30.13 0.544 1.35 526.68 1,309.13
  Indicated 40.88 0.519 1.18 682.61 1,557.49
  Measured and Indicated 71.01 0.530 1.26 1,209.29 2,866.62
  Inferred 16.69 0.481 0.96 257.90 515.72

 

Notes:

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 82% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 20% For Ag.

2.Sulphide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 50% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 12% for Ag. No sulphide material was reported for Montgomery-Shoshone or Bonanza.

3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.25/tonne.

4.Processing, general and administration, and refining costs are US$5.00/tonne, US$0.50/tonne, and US$0.05/tonne respectively.

5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes.

7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

 

Combined Mineral Resources presented in this report have increased over those reported in the June 2021 Bullfrog NI 43-101 technical report. Measured and Indicated Resources increased by 18.7 million tonnes, 329,500 gold ounces, and 476,000 silver ounces. Inferred Resources increased by 7.6 million tonnes, 127,900 gold ounces, and 272,200 silver ounces. The changes are primarily due to new drilling, database improvements, and the updated geological controls that have led to greater continuity of higher-grade material in lower portions of the Bullfrog pit resulting in a more robust pit optimization.

 

1.6Conclusions

 

This report is based on all technical and scientific data as of December 31, 2021, the effective date of this report. Mineral resources are considered by the QP to meet the reasonable prospects of eventual economic extraction. Analytical data has been collected and analyzed using industry standard methods at the time they were collected. Geologic data has been interpreted and modeled using historic maps, reports, field mapping, drillhole logging and three-dimensional computer modeling. Resource block models were developed using the geologic and analytical data to best represent the mineralization within each of the areas and accounts for historic mining of the resource by open pit and underground methods. Lerch-Grossman optimized pit shells have been generated for each area using representative costs, metal recoveries and slope angles and resources have been summarized within those pit shells.

 

1.6.1Geology and Mineral Resources

 

The exploration potential within the district is high and recent drilling has shown that mineralized structures and features continue both laterally and vertically along the known mineralized trends in and near all three major areas. Specific areas for additional exploration drilling and interpretation include Ladd Mountain and Mystery Hills near the Bullfrog pit; the Polaris vein and related disseminated mineralization near the Montgomery-Shoshone pit; along strike and beneath Bonanza Mountain near the Bonanza pit; and in the structurally prospective Gap area in the northern portion of the property.

 

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Considerable effort has been placed on verifying historic assays and surveys by checking against historic drill logs and assay certificates. The database has been updated to include additional assay certificate data that was recently discovered. Problems with imperial-metric grade conversions in a porting of the legacy data have been corrected.

Forte Dynamics completed a review of the drilling database for Bullfrog and has verified assay data against lab certificates for approximately 10% of drillholes in the economically important portions of the deposits.

The recent assay data has been collected in a manner appropriate for the deposit type and mineralization style. Assay QA/QC analyses have been taken to ensure that assays are of a quality suitable for the estimation of mineral resources.

The level of understanding of the geology is very good. A district wide geologic model has been constructed using historic maps, geology reports and field mapping. Drillhole logs are used in the interpretation, when possible, but more effort should be placed on utilizing the downhole logging data to help refine the geologic models.

Drillholes excluded from resource estimation have been reviewed and the list has been updated. Some holes now have assay data and have been removed from the exclusion list. A few additional RC drillholes with downhole contamination have been added to the exclusion list. Location and downhole survey issues for a few holes have also been identified.

Historical production data, blastholes, pit maps, underground maps, stope surveys should be extracted from the historical archives and digitized into a format that can aid in the interpretation of the geologic model and resource block model. The historic data can be used to calibrate the resource model and provide a validation check.

The treatment of outlier assays in the database is appropriate and reasonable. The block grade interpretations have been carried out using conventional methods consistent with common industry practice.

Block model grades have been zeroed out in areas of historic underground and open pit mining. Block model grades were also zeroed out within geologic units known to be barren. Backfilled areas within the open pit and underground mines have been accounted for in the volume and tonnage to be mined.

Mining and processing costs based on similar Nevada operations have been applied in the pit optimization. The existing pit walls remain very stable with steep overall slope angles on a majority of the pit walls. The existing wall angles have been measured and applied in the pit optimization.

 

1.6.2Metallurgical Test Work and Mineral Processing

 

Metallurgical testing performed to date indicates reasonable gold recovery at small particle sizes. The column leach tests on HPGR fine crushed materials suggest gold recovery could exceed 85% on 10 mesh material; however, further testing is required to properly characterize the recovery potential for each mineralized zone.

 

The metallurgical test program should be comprehensive, and include the following (at a minimum):

 

Full characterization of composite samples – Au/Ag content, carbon and sulfur speciation, typical Geochem including Hg, solids specific gravity

Crushing work index testing

Abrasion index testing

 

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Column leach testing at various HPGR crush sizes, including comparative bottle roll tests and size fraction recovery analysis

Agglomeration testing

Compacted permeability testing

Any required environmental tests on column test residues measured

 

1.6.3Infrastructure

 

The project is in a jurisdiction that is amenable to mining.

The project site is near the town of Beatty, Nevada which has adequate amenities and services.

The project was open pit and underground mined from 1989-1999 and has remaining infrastructure that includes power lines on site, a paved highway to site and a network of roads across the district.

Availability of adequate power through the local utility, as well as available water and water rights to support operations require further evaluation.

 

1.7Recommendations

 

The current estimation of mineral resources indicate the potential for further work to advance the project to a Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA).

 

Additional exploration drilling and delineation drilling should be carried out to expand the resource base and to further refine the geologic models and resource block models.

 

Metallurgical testing performed to date indicates gold recovery is reasonable at small particle sizes. The column leach tests on HPGR fine crushed materials suggest gold recovery could exceed 85% on 10 mesh material; however, further testing is required to properly characterize the recovery potential for each mineralized zone.

 

Baseline study work across a range of activities can be started to support permitting activities for future study stages.

 

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2.Introduction

 

This report has been prepared for Augusta Gold Corp. for the Bullfrog Gold Project in Nevada with the purpose of updating and reporting mineral resources utilizing the most recent drilling and geologic models. The drillhole and geologic information has been used to generate a three-dimensional block model of the mineralized areas and optimized pit shells have been developed from those block models to report mineral resources.

 

Technical information, including locations, orientations, mapping, and analytical data has been supplied by Augusta Gold Corp. Information pertaining to title, environment, permitting and access has also been supplied by Augusta Gold Corp. Introductory summaries pertaining to infrastructure, location, geology, and mineralization have been primarily sourced from the historical reports from past producers and by Augusta Gold Corp.

 

The project site was inspected by Forte on December 14, 2021.

 

2.1Units of Measure

 

All references to dollars in this report are to U.S. dollars (US$) unless otherwise noted. Distances, areas, volumes, and masses are expressed in the metric system unless indicated otherwise. Historic data is expressed in English units, such as feet and tons.

 

For the purpose of this report, common measurements are given in metric units. All tonnages shown are in Tonnes (t) of 1,000 kilograms, and precious metal grade values are given in grams per tonne (g/t), precious metal quantity values are given in troy ounces (toz). To convert to English units, the following factors should be used:

 

1 short ton = 0.907 tonne (T)

1 troy ounce = 31.1035 grams (g)

1 troy ounce/short ton = 34.286 grams per tonne (g/t)

1 foot = 30.48 centimeters (cm) = 0.3048 meters (m)

1 mile = 1.61 kilometer (km)

1 acre = 0.405 hectare (ha)

 

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2.2Abbreviations

 

The following is a list of the abbreviations used in this report:

  

Abbreviation Unit or Term
2D two-dimensional
3D three-dimensional
Ag silver
Au gold
cm centimeter
cm3 cubic centimeters
g gram
g/t grams per tonne
g/cm3 grams per cubic centimeter
ha hectare
kg kilogram
km kilometer
km2 square kilometers
km/h kilometers per hour
kw-h kilowatt per hour
m meter
M million
Mm millimeter
mm/yr millimeters per year
Mya million years before present
NDEP Nevada Department of Environmental Projection
NI 43-101 Canadian Securities Administrators’ National Instrument 43-101
NSR Net Smelting Return
Pb lead
PEA Preliminary Economic Assessment
ppm parts per million
QA/QC quality assurance/quality control
metric ton
toz Troy ounces
T/d Tonnes per day
US$ United States dollars

 

2.3Qualified Persons and Details of Inspection

 

Forte is acting as a Qualified Person firm consisting of mining experts to prepare the report. Below is a list of details of the QPs inspection of the property.

 

A Forte QP conducted a site visit of the property on December 14, 2021, where he was able to review infrastructure, existing pits, waste dumps, roads, and the observable geologic features of the site. The exploration program had been completed earlier so logging and sample preparation were not directly reviewed, although the sampling and logging procedures were reviewed. The Forte team did receive a thorough geologic review of the site by the project geologist.

 

Information contained in the report is current as of December 31, 2021.

 

The reports and documents listed in Chapter 24 and Chapter 25 of this Report were used to support Report preparation.

 

Augusta Gold has not previously filed a technical report summary on the Project.

 

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3.Property Description

 

The Project is located in the Bullfrog Hills of Nye County, Nevada (Figure 3-1). Bullfrog Mine’s property covers approximately 3,157 hectares of patented and unpatented lode mining claims in Sections 25, 26, 35 and 36 of T11S, R46E and Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 23 of T12S, R46E, Mt. Diablo Meridian. The Project is accessible via a 2¼ hour (260 km) drive north of Las Vegas, Nevada along US Highway 95. Las Vegas is serviced by a major international airport and is the closest major hub for providing equipment, supplies, services, and other support to the Project. The Project lies 4 miles west of the Town of Beatty, Nevada, which has a population of approximately 1,000 and contains most basic services, including motels, gasoline stations, schools, and a variety of stores and services. Access around the Project is provided by a series of reasonably good gravel roads that extend to the existing mines and important exploration areas.

 

Figure 3-1: Location Map

 

 

 

Augusta Gold has four option/lease/purchase agreements in place and has located 61 claims that give it control of 439 unpatented lode mining claims and mill site claims, and 86 patented. These lands are listed in Table 3-1. A property map with the locations shown in detail can be seen in Figure 3-2. The claims do not have an expiration date, as long as the fees and obligations are maintained.

 

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Table 3-1: Lands Under the Control of Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Patented Claims
Standard Gold
Patent Name Mineral Survey No.
Providence 2470
Aurium 2654

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Patented Claims
Mojave Gold Mining
Patent Name Mineral Survey No.
Polaris Fraction 2426
Inaugural Fraction 2426
Three Peaches 2426
Little Fraction 2471A
Indian Johnnie 2471A
Shoshone 2471A
Del Monte Fraction 2501A
Shoshone Two 2471A
Shoshone Three 2471A
Oro Grande 2470
Shoshone Extension 2470
Greenhorn 2470

 

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Augusta Gold Corp. Patented Claims
Brown Claims
Patent Name Mineral Survey No.
Crystal 2418
Oliver 2340

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Patented Claims
Lunar Landing Claims
Patent Name Mineral Survey No.
Elkhorn 2736
Red Bluff 2540
Black Bull 2425
Bell Boy Fraction 2425
South Fraction 2425
Lookout 2461
Molly Gibson #1 3043
Molly Gibson # 2 3043
Molly Gibson #3 3043
Molly Gibson #4 3043
Molly Gibson #5 3043
Rand 2784
Rand #1 2784
Rand #2 2784
Rand #3 2784
Rand Fraction 2784
Early Bird 2491

 

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Augusta Gold Corp. Patented Claims
Lunar Landing Claims
Patent Name Mineral Survey No.
Unexpected 2735
Scorpion 2411
St. Anthony 2734
Eva Bell 2576
Gem Fraction 2377
Quartzsite Fraction 2422
Annex 2715

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BFGC 1 NMC1147851
BFGC 2 NMC1147852
BFGC 3 NMC1147853
BFGC 4 NMC1147854
BFGC 5 NMC1147855
BFGC 6 NMC1147856
BFGC 8 NMC1147857
BFGC 9 NMC1147858
BFGC 10 NMC1147859
BFGC 11 NMC1147860
BFGC 12 NMC1147861
BFGC 13 NMC1147862
BFGC 14 NMC1147863

 

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Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BFGC 15 NMC1147864
BFGC 16 NMC1147865
BFGC 17 NMC1147866
BFGC 18 NMC1147867
BFGC 19 NMC1147868
BFGC 20 NMC1147869
BFGC 21 NMC1147870
BFGC 22 NMC1147871
BFGC 23 NMC1147872
BFGC 24 NMC1147873
BFGC 25 NMC1147874
BFGC 26 NMC1147875
BFGC 27 NMC1147876
BFGC 28 NMC1147877
BFGC 29 NMC1147878
BFGC 30 NMC1147879
BFGC 31 NMC1147880
BFGC 32 NMC1147881
BFGC 33 NMC1147882
BFGC 34 NMC1147883
BFGC 35 NMC1147884
BFGC 36 NMC1147885
BFGC 37 NMC1147886
BFGC 38 NMC1147887

 

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Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BFGC 39 NMC1147888
BFGC 40 NMC1147889
BFGC 41 NMC1147890
BFGC 42 NMC1147891
BFGC 43 NMC1147892
BFGC 44 NMC1147893
BFGC 45 NMC1147894
BFGC 46 NMC1147895
BFGC 47 NMC1147896
BFGC 48 NMC1147897
BFGC 49 NMC1147898
BFGC 50 NMC1147899
BFGC 51 NMC1147900
BFGC 52 NMC1147901
BFGC 53 NMC1147902
BFGC 54 NMC1147903
BFGC 55 NMC1147904
BFGC 56 NMC1147905
BFGC 57 NMC1147906
BFGC 58 NMC1147907
BFGC 59 NMC1147908
BFGC 60 NMC1147909
BFGC 61 NMC1147910
BFGC 62 NMC1147911

 

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Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BFGC 7 NMC1154057
BFGC 63 NMC1154058
BFGC 64 NMC1154059
BFGC 65 NMC1154060
BFGC 66 NMC1154061
BFGC 67 NMC1154062
BFGC 68 NMC1154063
BFGC 69 NMC1154064
BFGC 70 NMC1154065
BFGC 71 NMC1154066
BFGC 72 NMC1154067
BFGC 73 NMC1154068
BFGC 74 NMC1154069
BFGC 75 NMC1154070
BFGC 76 NMC1154071
BFGC 77 NMC1154072
BFGC 78 NMC1154073
BFGC 79 NMC1154074
BFGC 80 NMC1154075
BFGC 81 NMC1154076
BFGC 82 NMC1154077
BFGC 83 NMC1154078
BFGC 84 NMC1154079
BFGC 85 NMC1154080

 

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Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BFGC 86 NMC1154081
BFGC 87 NMC1154082
BFGC 88 NMC1154083
BFGC 89 NMC1177609
BFGC 90 NMC1177610
BFGC 91 NMC1177611
BFGC 92 NMC1177612
BFGC 93 NMC1177613
BFGC 94 NMC1177614
BFGC 95 NMC1177615
BFGC 96 NMC1177616
BFGC 97 NMC1177617
BFGC 98 NMC1177618
BFGC 99 NMC1177619
BFGC 100 NMC1177620
BFGC 101 NMC1177621
BFGC 102 NMC1177622
BFGC 103 NMC1177623
BFGC 104 NMC1177624
BFGC 105 NMC1177625
BFGC 106 NMC1177626
BFGC 107 NMC1177627
BFGC 108 NMC1177628
BFGC 109 NMC1177629

 

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Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BFGC 110 NMC1177630
BFGC 111 NMC1177631
BFGC 112 NMC1185280
BFGC 113 NMC1185281
BFGC 114 NMC1185282
BFGC 115 NMC1185283
BFGC 116 NMC1185284
BFGC 117 NMC1185285
BFGC 118 NMC1185286
BFGC 119 NMC1185287
BFGC 120 NMC1185288
BFGC 121 NMC1185289
BFGC 122 NMC1185290
BFGC 123 NMC1185291
BFGC 124 NMC1185292
BFGC 125 NMC1185293
BFGC 126 NMC1185294
BFGC 127 NMC1185295
BFGC 128 NMC1185296
BFGC 129 NMC1185297
BFGC 130 NMC1185298
BFGC 131 NMC1185299
BFGC 132 NMC1185300
BFGC 133 NMC1185301

 

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Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BFGC 134 NMC1185302
BEATTY CON # 1 NMC109662
LUCKY QUEEN NMC109667
BC # 8 BABINGTON NMC109697
BC # 9 CORNELL NMC109698
BC # 10 FLIN FLON 2 NMC109699
BVD 6 NMC987963
BVD 5 NMC987964
BVD 324 NMC987965
BVD 323 NMC987966
BVD 322 NMC987967
BVD 321 NMC987968
BVD 317 NMC987969
BVD 316 NMC987970
BVD 315 NMC987971
BVD 314 NMC987972
BVD 303 NMC987973
BVD 302 NMC987974
BVD 301 NMC987975
BVD 300 NMC987976
BVD 207 NMC987977
BVD 206 NMC987978
BVD 205 NMC987979
BVD 204 NMC987980

 

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Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BVD 203 NMC987981
BVD 202 NMC987982
BVD 201 NMC987983
BVD 200 NMC987984
BVD 107 NMC987985
BVD 106 NMC987986
BVD 105 NMC987987
BVD 41 NMC987988
BVD 40 NMC987989
BVD 32 NMC987990
BVD 31 NMC987991
BVD 30 NMC987992
BVD 29 NMC987993
BVD 36 NMC987994
BVD 35 NMC987995
BVD 34 NMC987996
BVD 33 NMC987997
BVD 28 NMC987998
BVD 27 NMC987999
BVD 26 NMC988000
BVD 25 NMC988001
BVD 19 NMC988002
BVD 18 NMC988003
BVD 17 NMC988004

 

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Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BVD 16 NMC988005
BVD 24 NMC988006
BVD 23 NMC988007
BVD 22 NMC988008
BVD 21 NMC988009
BVD 20 NMC988010
BVD 15 NMC988011
BVD 14 NMC988012
BVD 13 NMC988013
BVD 12 NMC988014
BVD 11 NMC988015
BVD 39 NMC988016
BVD 38 NMC988017
BVD 37 NMC988018
BVD 10 NMC988019
BVD 9 NMC988020
BVD 8 NMC988021
BVD 7 NMC988022
BVD 4 NMC988023
BVD 3 NMC988024
BVD 2 NMC988025
BVD 1 NMC988026
BVD 401 NMC992989
BVD 402 NMC992990

 

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Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BVD 403 NMC992991
BVD 404 NMC992992
BVD 405 NMC992993
BVD 406 NMC992994
BVD 407 NMC992995
BVD 408 NMC992996
BVD 409 NMC992997
BVD 410 NMC992998
BFG 135 NV105225834
BFG 136 NV105225835
BFG 137 NV105225836
BFG 138 NV105225837

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Abitibi Option
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
AR 1 1209019
AR 2 1209020
AR 3 1209021
AR 4 1209022
AR 5 1209023
AR 6 1209024
AR 7 1209025
AR 8 1209026

 

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Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Abitibi Option
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
AR 9 1209027
AR 10 1209028
AR 11 1209029
AR 12 1209030
AR 13 1209031
AR 14 1209032
AR 15 1209033
AR 16 1209034
AR 17 1209035
AR 18 1209036
AR 19 1209037
AR 20 1209038
AR 21 1209039
AR 22 1209040
AR 23 1209041
AR 24 1209042
AR 25 1209043
AR 26 1209044
AR 27 1209045
AR 28 1209046
AR 29 1209047
AR 30 1209048
AR 31 1209049

 

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Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Abitibi Option
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
AR 32 1209050
AR 33 1209051
AR 34 1209052
AR 35 1209053
AR 36 1209054
AR 37 1209055
AR 38 1209056
AR 39 1209057
AR 40 1209058
AR 41 1209059
AR 42 1209060
AR 43 1209061

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Patented Claims
Barrick Claims
Claim Name Patent Number
EMERALD 44862
RUBY 44862
NORTHSTAR 45830
LOUISVILLE 35256
DENVER FRACTION 45316
TRAMP NO. 2 46191
SIDEWINDER 45387

 

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120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
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 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Patented Claims
Barrick Claims
Claim Name Patent Number
TIGER 45387
TRAMP EXTENSION 46171
TRAMP NO. 1 46171
HOBO 45253
VIRGINIA 529024
DIAMOND HITCH 46187
COMET 46182
LE ROI 46181
UGLY DUCKLING 46180
LE ROI FRACTION 46179
DEL MONTE 46173
POLARIS 46173
DENVER NO. 2 45348
VENTURE 45348
DENVER NO. 3 77975
SUNSET NO. 1 45371
SUNSET NO. 2 45371
CHIEF 45815
PRINCE 45815
S.L. 46223
SPEARHEAD 46223
SUMMIT 46223
AURORA 47481

 

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120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
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 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Patented Claims
Barrick Claims
Claim Name Patent Number
GRAND PRIZE 47481
QUARTETTE 47481
H071 TRACT 37 PATENT  
BULL FROG NO. 2 44644
BULLFROG 44644
BULLFROG FRACTION LODE 45120
DELAWARE NO. 1 46263
ETHEL 46263
JUMBO 46263
NEVADA 88070
ROOSEVELT 88070
TEDDY 88070
TEDDY FRACTION 88070
PACIFIC PLACER 952102
NEVADA PLACER 952102
PARIAN PLACER 952102

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Barrick Claims
Mine Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
Shorty 1 NMC 1058705
Shorty 2 NMC 1058706

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 41 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Barrick Claims
Mine Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
Shorty 3 NMC 1058707
Shorty 4 NMC 1058708
Shorty 5 NMC 1058709
Shorty 6 NMC 1058710
Shorty 7 NMC 1058711
Shorty 8 NMC 1058712
Shorty 10 NMC 1058713
Shorty 11 NMC 1058714
Shorty 12 NMC 1058715
ACE NUMBER 1 NMC 112229
ACE NO. 2* NMC 112230
ACE NO. 3* NMC 112231
RHYOLITE NO. 1 NMC 128702
RHYOLITE NO. 5 NMC 128705
WEST SIDE RHYOLITE NMC 128708
EAST SIDE NMC 128709
YANKEE GIRL # 2 NMC 128710
FROG EXTENSION NMC 128711
FROG NO. 1 NMC 128712
BOLIVAR NO. 1 NMC 128713
CASH BOY NMC 128714
GOLDEN EAGLE # 2* NMC 298788

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 42 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Barrick Claims
Mine Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
GOLDEN EAGLE # 3* NMC 298789
GOLDEN AGE # 1* NMC 298790
GOLDEN AGE # 2* NMC 298791
GOLDEN AGE # 3* NMC 298792
GOLDEN AGE # 4* NMC 298793
GOLDEN AGE # 5* NMC 298794
GOLDEN AGE # 15* NMC 298802
GOLDEN AGE # 16* NMC 298803
BEV # 43 NMC 350754
BEV # 44 NMC 350755
BEV # 45 NMC 350756
BEV # 46 NMC 350757
BEV # 53 NMC 350764
BEV # 54 NMC 350765
BEV # 65 NMC 350776
BEV # 73 NMC 350784
RACHAEL # 3 NMC 400293
RACHAEL # 4 NMC 400294
RACHAEL # 5 NMC 400295
MIKE 9 NMC 415141
MIKE 10 NMC 415142
IRBF # 5 NMC 418634

 

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120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 43 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Barrick Claims
Mine Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
IRBF # 6 NMC 418635
IRBF # 8 NMC 418637
IRISH EYES # 2 NMC 436850
CHERYL MARIE # 3 NMC 436852
GOLDEN SLIVER NMC 436855
TOTO # 1 NMC 436856
TOTO # 2 NMC 436857
TOTO # 3 NMC 436858
TOTO # 4 NMC 436859
TOTO # 5 NMC 436860
TOTO # 6 NMC 436861
TOTO # 7 NMC 436862
OVERSIGHT NMC 436870
ERICA ANN # 1 NMC 436876
DINY F NMC 443898
DOUG’S DESPAIR # 1 NMC 453427
LITTLE BEV # 7 NMC 462038
BEV NO. 17 NMC 507261
BEV NO. 18 NMC 507262
BEV NO. 19 NMC 507263
BEV NO. 20 NMC 507264
BEV NO. 55 NMC 507277

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 44 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Unpatented Claims
Barrick Claims
Mine Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BEV NO. 66 NMC 507287
BEV NO. 67 NMC 507288
LITTLE BEV # 9 NMC 523201
BROTHER 1 NMC 551789
BROTHER 2 NMC 551790
GOLDEN AGE # 6 NMC 583381
GOLDEN AGE # 7* NMC 583382
GOLDEN AGE # 8* NMC 583383
GOLDEN AGE # 9* NMC 583384
GOLDEN AGE # 12* NMC 583385
GOLDEN AGE # 13* NMC 583386
GOLDEN AGE # 14* NMC 583387
GOLDEN AGE # 17* NMC 583388
BEV 47 A NMC 819978
BEV 48 A NMC 819979

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Millsite Claims
Barrick Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BFMS NO. 1 NMC 519933
BFMS NO. 2 NMC 519934
BFMS NO. 3 NMC 519935

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 45 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Millsite Claims
Barrick Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BFMS NO. 4 NMC 519936
BFMS NO. 5 NMC 519937
BFMS NO. 6 NMC 519938
BFMS NO. 7 NMC 519939
BFMS NO. 8 NMC 519940
BFMS NO. 9 NMC 519941
BFMS NO. 10 NMC 519942
BFMS 11 NMC 519943
BFMS NO. 12 NMC 519944
BFMS NO. 13 NMC 519945
BFMS NO. 14 NMC 519946
BFMS NO. 15 NMC 519947
BFMS NO. 16 NMC 519948
BFMS NO. 17 NMC 519949
BFMS NO. 18 NMC 519950
BFMS NO. 19 NMC 519951
BFMS NO. 20 NMC 519952
BFMS NO. 21 NMC 519953
BFMS NO. 22 NMC 519954
BFMS NO. 23 NMC 519955
BFMS NO. 24 NMC 519956
BFMS NO. 25 NMC 519957
BFMS NO. 26 NMC 519958

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 46 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Millsite Claims
Barrick Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BFMS NO. 27 NMC 519959
BFMS NO. 28 NMC 519960
BFMS NO. 29 NMC 519961
BFMS NO. 30 NMC 519962
BFMS NO. 31 NMC 519963
BFMS NO. 32 NMC 519964
BFMS NO. 33 NMC 519965
BFMS NO. 36 NMC 519968
BFMS NO. 37 NMC 519969
BFMS NO. 38 NMC 519970
BFMS 41 NMC 519973
BFMS NO. 42 NMC 519974
BFMS NO. 43 NMC 519975
BFMS NO. 46 NMC 519978
BFMS NO. 48 NMC 519980
BFMS NO. 49 NMC 519981
BFMS NO. 50 NMC 519982
BFMS NO. 51 NMC 519983
BFMS NO. 52 NMC 519984
BFMS NO. 53 NMC 519985
BFMS NO. 56 NMC 519988
BFMS NO. 57 NMC 519989
BFMS NO. 58 NMC 519990

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 47 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Millsite Claims
Barrick Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BFMS NO. 59 NMC 519991
BFMS NO. 60 NMC 519992
BFMS NO. 61 NMC 519993
BFMS NO. 63 NMC 519995
BFMS NO. 64 NMC 519996
BFMS NO. 65 NMC 519997
BFMS NO. 66 NMC 519998
BFMS NO. 67 NMC 519999
BFMS NO. 71 NMC 528590
BFMS 72 NMC 528591
BFMS NO. 73 NMC 528592
BFMS NO. 92 NMC 528611
BFMS NO. 93 NMC 528612
BFMS NO. 94 NMC 528613
BFMS NO. 95 NMC 528614
BFMS NO. 96 NMC 528615
BFMS NO. 97 NMC 528616
BFMS NO. 98 NMC 528617
BFMS NO. 101 NMC 528620
BFMS NO. 104 NMC 528623
BFMS NO. 105 NMC 528624
BFMS NO. 106 NMC 528625
BFMS NO. 107 NMC 528626

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 48 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Millsite Claims
Barrick Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BFMS NO. 110 NMC 528629
BFMS NO. 111 NMC 528630
BFMS NO. 114 NMC 528633
BFMS NO. 115 NMC 528634
BFMS NO. 116 NMC 528635
BFMS NO. 119 NMC 528638
BFMS NO. 205 NMC 528724
BFMS NO. 206 NMC 528725
BFMS NO. 207 NMC 528726
BFMS NO. 208 NMC 528727
BFMS NO. 209 NMC 528728
BFMS NO. 250 NMC 528769
BFMS NO. 251 NMC 528770
BFMS NO. 252 NMC 528771
BFMS NO. 253 NMC 528772
BFMS NO. 254 NMC 528773
BFMS NO. 255 NMC 528774
BFMS NO. 256 NMC 528775
BFMS 257 NMC 528776
BGMW NO. 1 NMC 551064
BGMW NO. 3 NMC 551065
BGMW NO. 11 NMC 551066
BGMW NO. 13 NMC 551067

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 49 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Augusta Gold Corp. Millsite Claims
Barrick Claims
Claim Name BLM Serial Number
BFMS 47 A NMC 817723

 

Figure 3-2: Property Map of the Bullfrog Project

 

 

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 50 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

  

3.1NPX Assignment of Lands

 

In September 2011, the Company issued 14.4 million shares of the Company to the shareholders of Standard Gold Corp. (SGC) to acquire 100% of SGC and its assets. SGC is a private Nevada corporation and now wholly owned by the Company. Concurrently, NPX Metals, Inc. (NPX) and Bull Frog Holding, Inc. (BHI) assigned all title and interests in 79 claims and two patents to SGC. The Company granted a production royalty of 3% NSR on the property to NPX and BHI, plus an aggregate 3% NSR cap on any acquired lands within one mile of the 2011 boundary. Thus, NPX and BHI would not receive any royalty on acquisitions having a 3% or greater NSR.

 

3.2Mojave Gold Option

 

In March 2014, the Company formed Rocky Mountain Minerals Corp. (RMMC), a private Nevada corporation, as a wholly owned subsidiary specifically for holding and acquiring assets. On October 29, 2014, RMMC exercised an option to purchase from Mojave Gold Mining Co. 12 patents west and adjacent to the Company’s initial property and that cover the NE half of the M-S pit. Mojave was paid 750,000 shares of BFGC plus $16,000. RMMC agreed to make annual payments totaling $180,000 over nine years to fully exercise the option and expend as a minimum work commitment for the benefit of the Property $100,000 per year and a total of $500,000 over five years on the Properties and surrounding lands within one-half mile of the 12 Mojave patents. Alternatively, RMMC can pay cash to Mojave at 50% of the difference between the minimum required and the actual expenditures. Mojave retained a sliding scale Net Smelter Return royalty ranging from 1% for gold prices below $1,200/ounce and up to 4% for gold prices above $3,200 per ounce. For reference, Barrick terminated a lease on the 12 Mojave patents in mid-2000 (then known as the Dees group) and all residual access rights in 2010.

 

3.3Barrick Bullfrog Inc. Lease and Option

 

On March 23, 2015, Bullfrog Mines LLC (Bullfrog Mines), the successor by conversion of Barrick Bullfrog Inc., and RMMC, among others, entered into a lease and option to purchase agreement (the Lease and Option Agreement) dated March 23, 2015, for RMMC to acquire six patents, 20 unpatented claims, and eight mill site claims from Bullfrog Mines. The Lease and Option Agreement terminated upon execution of the Membership Interest Purchase Agreement (MIPA).

 

3.4Lunar Landing Lease

 

On July 1, 2017, RMMC entered a lease with Lunar Landing LLC on 24 patents in the Bullfrog District:

 

Two patents are adjacent and west of the M-S pit that could allow potential expansion of the pit down dip of the Polaris vein and stock work system.

 

Ten patents have provided the Company with contiguous and connecting lands between the M-S and Bullfrog pits. These patents will also allow further expansions of the Bullfrog pit to the north and east.

 

Four patents are within 0.5 to 1.2 miles west of the Bullfrog pit in the vicinity of the Bonanza Mountain open pit mine.

 

Eight patents are in an exploration target area located about 1.5 miles NW of the Bullfrog pit and where the Company has owned the Aurium patent since 2011.

  

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120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
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 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

The lease includes the following:

 

The Company paid $26,000 on signing and is scheduled to annually pay $16,000 for years 2-5, $21,000 for years 6-10, $25,000 for years 11-15, $30,000 for years 16-20, $40,000 for years 21-25 and $45,000 for years 26-30.

 

Production royalty of 5% net smelter returns with the right to buy-down to 2.5%.

 

The Company is to expend as a work commitment not less than $50,000 per year and $500,000 in total to maintain the lease.

 

The Company has rights to commingle mineralization and the flexibility to operate the Project as a logical land and mining unit.

 

3.5Brown Claims

 

On January 29, 2018, RMMC purchased the two patented claims, thereby eliminating minor constraints to expand the Bullfrog pit to the north. As partial consideration for the Brown Claims, RMMC granted the sellers of the Brown Claims a 5% net smelter returns royalty on the Brown Claims, of which 2.5% can be purchased by RMMC for aggregate consideration of US$37,500.

 

3.6Barrick Claims (2020)

 

On October 26, 2020, the Company completed its acquisition of Bullfrog Mines pursuant to the MIPA with Homestake Mining Company of California (Homestake) and Lac Minerals (USA) LLC (Lac Minerals and together with Homestake, the Barrick Parties).

 

Pursuant to the MIPA, the Company purchased from the Barrick Parties all of the equity interests (the Equity Interests) in Bullfrog Mines for aggregate consideration of (i) 54,600,000 units of the Company, each unit consisting of one share of common stock of the Company and one four-year warrant purchase one share of common stock of the Company at an exercise price of C$0.30, (ii) a 2% net smelter returns royalty (the Barrick Royalty) granted on all minerals produced from all of the patented and unpatented claims (subject to the adjustments set out below), pursuant to a royalty deed, dated October 26, 2020 by and among Bullfrog Mines and the Barrick Parties (the Royalty Deed), (iii) the Company granting indemnification to the Barrick Parties pursuant to an indemnity deed, dated October 26, 2020 by and among the Company, the Barrick Parties and Bullfrog Mines, and (iv) certain investor rights, including anti-dilution rights, pursuant to the investor rights agreement, dated October 26, 2020, by and among the Company, Augusta Investments Inc., and Barrick.

 

Through the Company’s acquisition of the Equity Interests, the Company acquired rights to the 1,500 acres of claims adjoining the Company’s Bullfrog Gold deposit.

 

Pursuant to the Royalty Deed, the Barrick Royalty is reduced to the extent necessary so that royalties burdening any individual parcel or claim included in the Barrick Properties on October 26, 2020, inclusive of the Barrick Royalty, would not exceed 5.5% in the aggregate, provided that the Barrick Royalty in respect of any parcel or claim would not be less than 0.5%, even if the royalties burdening a parcel or claim included in the Barrick Properties would exceed 5.5%.

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 52 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

3.7Abitibi Royalties Option

 

On December 9, 2020, Bullfrog Mines entered into a mining option agreement with Abitibi Royalties (USA) Inc. (Abitibi) granting Bullfrog Mines the option (the Abitibi Option) to acquire forty-three unpatented lode mining claims to the south of the Bullfrog deposit. Bullfrog Mines made an initial payment to Abitibi of C$25,000 and can exercise the Abitibi Option by:

 

Paying to Abitibi C$50,000 in cash or shares of Company common stock by December 9, 2021;

 

Paying to Abitibi C$75,000 in cash or shares of Company common stock by December 9, 2022; and

 

Granting to Abitibi a 2% net smelter royalty on the claims subject to the Abitibi Option by December 9, 2022, of which Bullfrog Mines would have the option to purchase 0.5% for C$500,000 on or before December 9, 2030.

 

In order to exercise the Abitibi Option, Bullfrog Mines is also required to keep the underlying claims in good standing.

 

3.8Other Property Considerations

 

All the unpatented lode mining claims are on U.S. public land administered by the Bureau of Land Management (“BLM”) and, therefore, are subject to exploration and development permits as required by the several current regulations. The unpatented lode mining claims require annual payments of $155 per claim to the BLM and $12 per claim to Nye County.

 

Total fees paid in 2020 for the lode and mill site claims was $26,739. Nye County property taxes paid in 2020 was approximately $1,781.

 

In summary, the lands controlled by Augusta Gold Corp. are in good standing with no significant liens, encumbrances, or title adversities.

 

3.9Environmental and Permitting

 

The author is not aware of any outstanding environmental, reclamation or permitting issues that would impact future exploration work. Future exploration work will require a Plan of Operations to be filed with the BLM and the Nevada Department of Environmental Protection.

 

The following outlines the general framework for permitting a mine in Nevada and the required permits. Many of the permits discussed herein apply to the construction stage and are not currently being pursued.

 

Exploration activities on Federal mining claims on BLM lands requires a Notice of Intent (NOI) for exploration activities under five acres of disturbance and a Plan of Operations for larger scale exploration activities. A Plan of Operations is also required with the Nevada Department of Environmental Protection (NDEP) to fulfill the State of Nevada permitting obligations on private and public lands, respectively. Reclamation bonds related to environmental liabilities need to be calculated and posted to cover activities on the Project. Additional permits and bonding will be required for developing, constructing, operating, and reclaiming the Project.

 

Additional Baseline Studies will be required to update the historical studies completed by Barrick. This will include geochemistry, hydrologic studies of the in-pit water and water in existing wells, plant, wildlife and threatened and endangered species surveys, meteorological information, and cultural surveys.

 

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120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
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 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

Major permits, not inclusive of the Plan of Operations above, that will be required include:

 

Water Pollution Control Permits (WPCP): The WPCP application must address the open pit, heap leach pad, mining activities and water management systems with respect to potentially degrading of the waters of Nevada. Sufficient engineering, design and modeling data must be included in the WPCP. A Tentative Permit Closure Plan must be submitted to the NDEP-BMRR in conjunction with the WPCP. A Final Permanent Closure Plan will be needed two years prior to Project closure.

 

Air Quality: An application for a Class II Air Quality Permit must be prepared using Bureau of Air Pollution Control (BAPC) forms. The application must include descriptions of the facilities, a detailed emission inventory, plot plans, process flow diagrams and a fugitive dust control plan for construction and operation of the Project. A Mercury Operating Permit and a Title V Operating permit will also be necessary for processing loaded carbon or electro-winning precipitates.

 

Water Right: Additional water rights will need to be acquired from third parties or obtained from the Nevada Division of Water Resources (NDWR) for producing Project water.

 

Industrial Artificial Pond: Water storage ponds, which are part of the water management systems, will require Industrial Artificial Pond permits (IAPP) from the Nevada Department of wildlife. Approval from the Nevada State Engineer’s Office is also required if embankments exceed specified heights.

 

Additional minor permits will be required for the project to advance to production and are listed in Table 3-2.

 

Table 3-2: Additional Minor Permits Required

 

Notification/Permit Agency
Mine Registry Nevada Division of Minerals
Mine Opening Notification State Inspector of Mines
Solid Waste Landfill Nevada Bureau of Waste Management
Hazardous Waste Management Permit Nevada Bureau of Waste Management
General Storm Water Permit Nevada Bureau of Water Pollution Control
Hazardous Materials Permit State Fire Marshall
Fire and Life Safety State Fire Marshall
Explosives Permit Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives
Notification of Commencement of Operation Mine Safety and Health Administration
Radio License Federal Communications Commission
Public Water Supply Permit NV Division of Environmental Protection
MSHA Identification Number and MSHA Coordination U.S. Department of Labor Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)
Septic Tank NDEP-Bureau of Water Pollution Control
Petroleum Contaminated Soils NV Division of Environmental Protection

 

3.10Significant Risk Factors

 

The author is not aware of any outstanding environmental, reclamation or permitting issues that would impact future exploration work.

 

The author is unaware of any other significant risk factors that may affect access, title, or right or ability to perform work on the property.

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 54 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

4.ACCESSIBILITY, CLIMATE, LOCAL RESOURCES, INFRASTRUCTURE AND PHYSIOGRAPHY

 

4.1Accessibility

 

The Bullfrog Project is accessible via a 2½ hour (120 mile) drive north of Las Vegas, Nevada on US Highway 95. Las Vegas, the largest city in Nevada, is serviced by a major international airport, and has ample equipment, supplies and services to support many of the Project’s needs. The Project is 4 miles west of the Town of Beatty, Nevada via a paved highway. Beatty has a population of approximately 1,000 and can provide basic housing, services, and supplies. Access around the Project is by a series of reasonably good gravel roads that extend to the open pit mines and most of the significant exploration areas.

 

4.2Physiography, Climate and Vegetation

 

Figure 4-1: Photo of Bullfrog Hills at Rhyolite

 

 

 

The Bullfrog Project is in Western Nevada’s high desert, which receives about 15 cm of precipitation per year, mostly as modest snowfall in the winter and thunderstorms in the summer. Temperatures typically range from -12°C (10°F) in winter to 43.3°C (110°F) in the summer. Due to the relatively mild climate at the Project, the operating season is year-round.

 

The hills at the Project are covered with sparse low brush including creosote, four-wing saltbush, rabbit brush, and Nevada ephedra. The Project is in the Basin and Range province, but the local topographic relief is only a few hundred feet. Elevations in the main Project areas range from 1,035 m in the valleys to 1,270 m at the peak of Ladd Mountain and 1,320 m at the peak of Montgomery Mountain. Most of the Project is characterized by low hills separated by modest width valleys. Although the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has designated the area as habitat for desert tortoise—a threatened and endangered species—Barrick and others have successfully coped with this designation, and the rough terrain is not conducive for these species. Additional studies may be required to meet requirements regarding the tortoise habitat.

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 55 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

4.3Local Resources and Infrastructure

 

Augusta Gold Corp. maintains sufficient surface rights to support mining operations, including areas for potential waste disposal, tailings storage, heap leach pads and potential mill sites. The Company recently located additional mining claims and is pursuing the acquisition of other lands in the area. Most claim blocks are contiguous, and the water rights that Barrick held through Bullfrog Mines were indirectly acquired by Augusta Gold Corp. as part of its acquisition of Bullfrog Mines.

 

The towns of Beatty, Pahrump and Tonopah in Nye County have populations that support mining operations in the area.

 

Valley Electric Association based in Pahrump, Nevada owns a 138 KV transmission line and a 24.9 KV distribution line that remain on-site and serviced mining at the site previously. The substation connected to the 24.9 KV line remains on-site, but the transformers and switchgear have been removed.

 

Pumping from wells completed near the bottom of the Bullfrog pit is required to access deeper mineralization and could produce most of the Project water needs. Water may also be available from Barrick’s production wells located a few miles south of Highway 374, possibly from the Town of Beatty wellfield, and to a limited extent from deepening the M-S pit.

 

FORTE DYNAMICS, INC
120 Commerce Drive., Units 3 & 4, Fort Collins, CO 80524
P a g e | 56 of 178December 2023
 Augusta Gold Corp.

 

5.HISTORY

 

The original Bullfrog deposit was discovered in 1904 by Frank “Shorty” Harris and Ernest Cross. This deposit is located 3.5 miles WSW of the Montgomery Shoshone (M-S) mine and initially had un-recorded but minor production. In 1904 the M-S deposit was discovered, and an underground mine was developed to the 700-foot level. A 300-tpd cyanidation mill was constructed for processing the mined material. The M-S operation recovered 67,000 gold equivalent ounces from 141,000 tons or 0.48 gold ounce/ton (opt) during the period 1907 to 1911. The mine was shut down in late 1910 due to declining grades and operating issues at depth. The adjacent Polaris mine produced 4,900 ounces of gold from 9,500 tons, or an average recovery of 0.52 gold opt.

 

Through 1911 the District produced 94,000 ounces of gold, but thereafter only minor exploration, development, and production activities occurred until St. Joe American successfully initiated modern exploration programs in 1982. In July 1987, Bond International Gold acquired St. Joe and constructed a nominal 9,000-tpd cyanidation mill in July 1989. In November 1989, Lac Minerals acquired Bond’s interest. In September 1994, Lac was acquired by Barrick. Recorded Project gold production from 1989 to 1999 is summarized in Table 5-1.

 

Table 5-1: Bullfrog Project Production

 

Year Mined Tons

Gold Rec.

OPT

Gold Rec.

Oz

Silver Rec.

Oz

Source

Report

1989 1,025,000 0.060   56,771   35,752 Bond Gold
1990 3,036,000 0.080 220,192 228,647 Bond Gold
1991 2,988,000 0.073 198,863 188,824 Lac Min.
1992 3,173,000 0.111 323,825 313,100 Lac Min.
1993 3,080,000 0.125 354,900 469,899 Lac Min.
1994 3,093,000 0.105 301,000        NR Barrick
1995 3,110,100 0.062 176,307        NR Barrick
1996 3,008,600 0.073 205,300        NR Barrick
1997 3,070,700 0.073 206,571        NR Barrick
1998 3,213,000 0.070 208,123        NR Barrick
1999 From Stockpiles     77,000        NR NV G.S.
Total/Avg. 28,797,400 0.081 2,328,852     2,493,591 est.  
  Mine

Mineralized

Material

Tonnes 

g Gold/T

Mineralization

Gold Oz

Rec.

Years Mined
  BF Pit 18,428,840   2.44 1,346,852       1989 – 1994
  BF UG 2,782,077 8.30 690,000    1992 – 1998
  M-S Pit 3,504,309 2.10 220,000    1994 – 1997
  Bonanza Pit 1,416,715 1.70 72,000  1995 – 1996
    26,131,942    2.98 2,328,852         

 

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Open pit mine production began in 1989 and underground mine production started in 1992 in the Bullfrog deposit. Bullfrog pit operations were terminated in late 1994, with the underground mine scheduled to produce the remaining Bullfrog reserves. The M-S deposit was open pit mined between 1994 and 1997, during which time the Bonanza Mountain deposit was also mined. Underground operations were shut down in late 1998 due to adverse economic conditions and depletion of remaining reserves. During the last years of mill operations, all remaining low- and high-grade stockpiles, grading +0.5 gold g/t, were blended with underground ores. For reference, gold prices averaged less than $290 per ounce during 1998 and 1999 and hit a multi-year low of $252/oz in August 1999.

 

By December 2000 Barrick completed all major reclamation and closure requirements, and subsequently removed all mine and processing equipment and buildings. Per Barrick’s permit requirements, the deep north part of the Bullfrog pit has now been backfilled with alluvium to an elevation of 927 meters to cover the gradually rising water table, which currently is at an elevation of 906 m. There has been no backfilling in the M-S pit since it is above the water table. Since 2000 no significant activities in the south half of the Bullfrog Mining District have been performed, other than reclamation by Barrick.

 

Notably, on October 26, 2020, Augusta acquired Bullfrog Mines LLC (the successor by conversion of Barrick Bullfrog Inc.) from certain wholly owned subsidiaries of Barrick Gold Corporation.

 

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6.Geological Setting, Mineralisation and Deposit

 

The following Geological Setting and Mineralization section was in large measure excerpted with permission from a paper presented at the Geological Society of Nevada Symposium “Geology and Ore Deposits of the American Cordillera”, April 10-13, 1995, titled “Geology and Mineralization of the Bullfrog Mine and Vicinity Nye County, Nevada.”

 

6.1Regional Geology

 

Figure 6-1: Regional Setting of the Bullfrog Mine (Eng et al., 1996)

 

 

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The Bullfrog Project lies in the southwestern portion of the Great Basin along the southern part of the Walker Lane structural belt (Stewart, 1988) and in the southwestern part of the southwestern Nevada Volcanic Field (Noble et al., 1991). The Walker Lane lies along the western margin of the Great Basin and is bounded to the west by the Sierra Nevada province (Figure 6-1). Stewart (1988) divided the north-trending Walker Lane belt into nine blocks characterized by different structural fabric and development. The boundaries between blocks are commonly major strike slip faults or ill-defined transitions of structural fabric. The Bullfrog District lies near the southwestern margin of the Goldfield block. This block shows a general lack of strike slip faults but has locally substantial large-scale Late Tertiary extension faults notably in the Mineral Ridge Weepah Hills area to the north and detachment type faulting in the Bullfrog Hills, and Bare Mountain area to the south.

 

The Goldfield block is bounded on the west by the northwest-striking right-lateral Death Valley-Furnace Creek fault zone, which is one of the largest strike-slip faults in the Walker Lane with approximately 40-100 km of right-lateral displacement (cf. Stewart, 1967; McKee, 1968), and on the north and south by the east-northeast striking, left-lateral Coaldale fault zone and Mine Mountain-Rock Valley fault zones, respectively. The eastern boundary of the Goldfield block is less well defined; it lies buried under alluvium of Cactus Flat and is further obscured by volcanic centers of the southwest Nevada volcanic field.

 

The Bullfrog Hills are in the western part of the south-western Nevada volcanic field (Figure 6-1) which encompasses a complex of nested and overlapping calderas that developed between about 15 - 11 Ma (see Byers et al., 1989; Sawyer et al., 1994 and references therein). Two additional volcanic centers formed to the northwest at 9.4 Ma and 7.5 Ma (Noble et al., 1984). Many of the Tertiary volcanic rocks in the Bullfrog Hills came from these volcanic centers which collectively erupted >13,500 km3 of magma. Source areas for some of the older volcanic units (>14 Ma) in the Bullfrog Hills are less well known, whereas the younger small-volume tuffs and lavas (11-10 Ma) appear derived mainly from flow domes within the Bullfrog Hills (Noble et al., 1991; Connors, 1995; Weiss et al., 1995).

 

Large-scale extension of the Bullfrog Hills in the mid- to late-Miocene led to moderate to steep eastward tilting of rocks along listric normal faults in the hanging wall of a major low angle fault zone, recently referred to as a “detachment fault” (e.g., Hamilton, 1988, Maldonado 1990a, b). Most of the extensional faulting and tilting in the Bullfrog Hills temporally overlapped with volcanism in the southwestern Nevada volcanic field and with eruption of local tuffs and lavas in the Bullfrog Hills. Precious metal mineralization in the southern Bullfrog Hills occurred during the final episodes of large-scale extension and tilting.

 

6.2Local and Property Geology

 

Rocks in the southern Bullfrog Hills consist of lower- and upper-Proterozoic metamorphic rocks, Paleozoic marine sedimentary rocks, and Cenozoic volcanic and sedimentary rocks; Mesozoic sedimentary rocks are absent. Tertiary volcanic and less abundant sedimentary rocks are exceptionally well exposed and record an episode of major crustal extension and volcanism and are the principal hosts to precious metal deposits. The Proterozoic and Paleozoic rocks are only exposed locally, and because they have limited potential for hosting economic precious metal deposits in the area they were not studied in detail and are only discussed briefly here. 

 

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Figure 6-2: Bullfrog District – Stratigraphy and Mineralization

 

 

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Figure 6-3: Cross Section of the Bullfrog Project Area

 

 

 

6.2.1Cenozoic Rocks

 

The Tertiary section in the southern Bullfrog Hills is dominated by volcanic rocks, in particular ash-flow tuffs, and subordinate interbedded volcaniclastic and epiclastic sedimentary rocks. These rocks range in age from >14 Ma to about 7.5 Ma in the southern Bullfrog Hills.

 

6.2.2Pre-14 Ma Rocks

 

Pre-14 Ma rocks are a heterogeneous assemblage of variably welded crystal-poor to crystal-rich ash-flow tuffs, conglomerate and fanglomerate, pumiceous gritstones, tuffaceous sedimentary shales (locally carbonaceous and calcareous), and a capping sequence of porphyritic lava flows and associated ruffs. This group of rocks comprises almost half of the Tertiary section (approximately 2.5 km aggregate thickness) and is the least understood because of abrupt facies changes, several nondescript units, and widespread alteration.

 

6.2.2.1Basal Fanglomerate and Breccia

 

The unit is discontinuously exposed along the southwest foot of Ransome Ridge, where it forms a clast-supported fanglomerate or breccia, including cobble- to boulder-size clasts of Paleozoic limestone, quartzite, phyllitic shale, and lesser Tertiary porphyritic volcanic rocks. A coarse-grained feldspathic-lithic sandstone comprises the matrix. The unit is interpreted to mark a basal Tertiary fanglomerate shed from nearby highlands underlain mostly by Paleozoic rocks.

 

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6.2.2.2Tuffs and Tuffaceous Sedimentary Rocks of Buck Spring

 

These rocks are the oldest clearly volcanic and volcaniclastic rocks in the district and are exposed in the immediate footwall of the Ransome fault. Overlying these lower units is a compound cooling unit consisting of a lower poorly to moderately welded crystal-lithic ash-flow tuff overlain by a thick densely welded crystal-rich ash-flow tuff. Total thickness of this unit is about 175 m.

 

6.2.2.3Tuffs and Tuffaceous Sedimentary Rocks of Sawtooth Mountain

 

This is also a heterogeneous sequence of rocks, subdivided into the lower and upper tuffs of Sawtooth Mountain following terminology of Maldonado and Hausback (1990). Good outcrops of these rocks are exposed on Ransome Ridge (Figure 6-3) and on Sawtooth Mountain 3 km to the north where the combined thickness is approximately 1 km. The rocks also crop out on the east side of Beatty, but drilling suggests that the units probably thin to the east. The lower tuff of Sawtooth Mountain is dominated by variably reworked crystal-lithic ruffs and interbedded lacustrine and volcaniclastic sedimentary rocks that have an aggregate thickness of 370 m to 550 m. The upper tuff of Sawtooth Mountain underlies much of Ransome Ridge and is approximately 500 m thick. It has a 10-15 m thick poorly welded base that grades abruptly into densely welded ash-flow tuff. The unit is characterized by hackly fracture and is widely bleached and weakly silicified.

 

6.2.2.4Thin-Bedded Calcareous to Carbonaceous Shales

 

These variably carbonaceous to calcareous shales and siltstones are also locally exposed in the footwall of the Bullfrog deposit. The contact with the underlying tuffs of Sawtooth Mountain is poorly exposed; it appears to be an angular unconformity.

 

6.2.2.5Latitic Flows and Associated Tuffs and Volcaniclastic Rocks (Tr1g)

 

This sequence of rocks is best exposed in central Box Canyon and in the foot-wall of the mineralized vein zone at the Bullfrog deposit. This unit consists predominantly of porphyritic lava; variably reworked tuff occurs at the base and middle of the unit. The sequence which has an exposed aggregate thickness of about 400 m, is collectively termed Tr1g by exploration staff at the Bullfrog mine following an earlier stratigraphic division of rhyolite unit one of Ransome et al. (1910). The rock has been mapped and described as quartz latite (Maldonado and Hausback, 1990). The sequence of latitic lavas and associated tuffs rests conformably on underlying carbonaceous shales in Box Canyon. Soft sediment deformation in the shales is common in proximity to the contact. At the Bullfrog mine, carbonaceous shales are locally interbedded with flows of latite.

 

6.2.2.6Intrusive Rocks

 

Intrusive rocks of this age group consist of diabase/diorite dikes, silicic porphyry dikes, and porphyritic quartz latite. The diabase/diorite dikes intrude Proterozoic gneiss and schist south and southwest of the Original Bullfrog mine. They consist of fine- to medium-grained, generally equigranular pyroxene-hornblende diabase or diorite. Unlike the rocks they intrude, the diabase dikes are un-foliated and postdate probable Cretaceous age metamorphism (Hoisch et al., in press). The diabase dikes have not been observed to intrude Tertiary volcanic and sedimentary rocks. Silicic porphyry dikes consist of a quartz porphyry and feldspar porphyry. Both rock types contain about 25% phenocrysts of mostly plagioclase and (or) quartz. The dikes are exposed on Ransome Ridge where they intrude the lower tuff of Sawtooth Mountain. The quartz porphyry dikes are typically moderately to strongly propylitized, whereas the feldspar porphyry dikes are relatively fresh suggesting that they may be younger. Porphyritic quartz latite forms dikes that fill faults and small plugs. The rock is only observed intruding porphyritic latite lavas at the top of the pre-14-Ma age group of rocks in central Box Canyon. The rock is lithologically like the intruded latite lavas, but it contains several percent quartz phenocrysts. It may represent the eroded parts of flow domes that fed the latite lavas.

 

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6.2.314 to 11 Ma Rocks

 

This age group consists of rocks ranging from the 14.0-Ma Lithic Ridge Tuff to the 11.45-Ma Ammonia Tanks Tuff. Most of the rocks of this age group are units of rhyolite ash flow tuff erupted from calderas in the southwestern Nevada volcanic field and have a total thickness of approximately 1.5 km in the southern Bullfrog Hills.

 

6.2.3.114.0-Ma Lithic Ridge Tuff (Tr2) and Basalt Flow One (Tbl)

 

The Lithic Ridge Tuff is prominently exposed in the hills north of Ransome Ridge and on Bullfrog Mountain, where the total thickness is about 270 m. Most of the unit consists of poorly to moderately welded, crystal-lithic rhyolite ash-flow ruff, containing as much as 20% lithic clasts of mainly intermediate to mafic volcanic rocks.

 

6.2.3.2Bullfrog Tuff (Tr3)

 

The Bullfrog Tuff is exposed on Bullfrog Mountain, and more locally on the lower southwest flank of Ladd Mountain and in the Bullfrog open pit. The Bullfrog Tuff is the middle unit of the Crater Flat Group, and is the principal unit exposed in the southern Bullfrog Hills; it corresponds to what Ransome et al. (1910) mapped as rhyolite three. Radiometric age (40Ar/39Ar) for the Bullfrog Tuff is 13.25 ± 0.04 Ma (Sawyer et al., 1994).

 

6.2.3.3Tuffs of the Paintbrush Group (Tr4, Tr5)

 

The Topopah Spring (Tr4) and overlying Tiva Canyon (Tr5) Tuffs comprise the Paintbrush Group in the southern Bullfrog Hills. These tuffs have 40Ar/39Ar ages of 12.8 ± 0.03 Ma and 12.7 Ma ± 0.03 Ma, respectively (Sawyer et al., 1994) and broadly correlate with rhyolite units four and five of Ransome et al. (1910). The Topopah Spring Tuff thickens eastward from 25 m on Bullfrog Mountain, to 110 m on the lower western flank of Ladd Mountain. Lithologically, it is a densely welded fine-grained, very crystal-poor ash-flow tuff. The unit contains 1% crystals of feldspar, except in the uppermost 3-5 m where the crystal content increases to 5%. The unit is also shard-rich and fiamme-poor. In many places, the Topopah Spring Tuff is characterized by a vuggy to knobby or pimply appearance due to pronounced spherulitic or lithophysal devitrification.

 

The Tiva Canyon Tuff (Tr5) is exposed over a wide area from Bullfrog Mountain on the west to Ladd Mountain on the east. It is separated from the underlying Topopah Spring Tuff by a thin layer (<1 m) of reworked tuff. Total thickness of the Tiva Canyon Tuff ranges from about 215 m on Bullfrog Mountain to approximately 120 m along the west side of Ladd Mountain. The Tiva Canyon Tuff consists of two mappable subunits. The lower subunit (Tr5a) consists of a 5 m thick poorly welded devitrified zone that grades upward into densely welded tuff containing dark grey wavy lenticles in its lower part. The lower subunit contains 3-5% crystals of sanidine, and ranges in thickness from about 100 m on Ladd Mountain to 150 m at Bullfrog and Bonanza Mountains. The contact between the lower and upper subunits is marked by a thin (<1.0 m) laterally persistent horizon of spherulitic devitrification. The upper subunit (Tr5b), for most of its extent, forms a lithological distinctive caprock distinguished by 10- 15% crystals of feldspar and conspicuous biotite. The upper subunit of Tr5 ranges in thickness from 70-75 m on Bullfrog Mountain to about 15 m on the west side of Ladd Mountain.

 

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6.2.3.4Monolithic (Paintbrush Group) Scarp Breccia (Tr5c)

 

Overlying the upper subunit of the Tiva Canyon Tuff is a newly identified, a restricted avalanche or scarp breccia (Tr5). The unit is locally exposed in the hanging wall of the Rush fault in Box Canyon (Figure 6-3), where it ranges in thickness from 0-30 m and consists of lenses of mostly monolithic clast supported fragments of Topopah Spring and Tiva Canyon Tuffs.

 

6.2.3.5Bedded Tuffs and Local Debris Breccias (Tr6)

 

This distinct unit consists mostly of an interbedded mixture of light-colored, poorly welded crystal-lithic rhyolite ash-flow tuff and tuffaceous sedimentary rocks. Sanidine from an ash-flow tuff layer at the base of the sequence (Huysken et al., 1994) indicating that deposition of these rocks began almost immediately after eruption of the 12.7-Ma Tiva Canyon Tuff. The unit is about 40-50 m thick on Bonanza and Ladd Mountains but thickens rapidly eastward to as much as 200 m in the southwest portion of the Bullfrog open pit. West of Box Canyon, however, Tr6 pinches out and it is absent on Bullfrog Mountain.

 

6.2.3.6Basalt Flow Number Two (Tb2)

 

This basalt flow is exposed on Sutherland Mountain (located between Bonanza Mountain and Box Canyon) where it forms the conspicuous dark layer below the summit. The unit is restricted in area as evidenced by its discontinuous presence just to the east on Bonanza Mountain, and its general absence on Ladd Mountain and in the Bullfrog pit Thickness ranges from 0-18 m.

 

6.2.3.7Tuffs of the Timber Mountain Group (Tr7, 8, 9, 10)

 

This sequence consists of the Rainier Mesa and Ammonia Tanks Tuffs, which have 40Ar/39Ar ages of 11.6 Ma ± 0.03 and 11.45 ± 0.03 Ma, respectively (Sawyer et al., 1994). They are well exposed throughout the southern Bullfrog Hills and have an aggregate thickness of about 600 m. The Rainier Mesa Tuff (Tr7, Tr8) consists of a salmon-pink, poorly to moderately welded base (Tr7) that grades upward into a brown purple, densely welded interior that comprises the bulk of the tuff (Tr8). The main densely welded part of the Rainier Mesa Tuff can be sub-divided, in many places, into three subunits—a lower subunit of moderately welded fiamme-rich quartzose tuff, a middle subunit of densely welded quartzose tuff containing 15-20% crystals, and a capping subunit marked by noticeable increase in biotite (l.0-1.5%). Lithics are sparse throughout. The Rainier Mesa Tuff is about 400 m thick on Ladd Mountain and is a main host for mineralization at the Bullfrog deposit.

 

In most places the Rainier Mesa Tuff is overlain by a massive to vesicular flow of basalt (Tb3). The basalt forms subdued outcrops but is well exposed in the north wall of the Bullfrog open pit, where the unit is 20-25 m thick. At the Montgomery-Shoshone deposit, the basalt flow is generally absent, and a 1-3 m thick basaltic, chlorite-bearing gritstone and reworked tuff horizon is present.

 

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The Ammonia Tanks Tuff consists of a poorly welded base (Tr9) that grades upward into light grayish, moderately to densely welded tuff that comprises most of the tuff (Tr10). In and near the Montgomery-Shoshone deposit, a distinctive light green to dark gray vitrophyre is present near the base and is about 5 m thick. The Ammonia Tanks Tuff has a maximum exposed thickness of about 250 m.

 

6.2.3.8Intrusive Rocks

 

Intrusive rocks of this age group are volumetrically minor in the southern Bullfrog Hills and consist of crystal-poor rhyolite and basalt dikes. The rhyolite occurs as small bodies intruding latite lava (Tr1g) and the Topopah Spring Tuff (Tr4) near Box Canyon. The rhyolite is crystal-poor to aphyric and is typically finely flow laminated. Dikes of basalt are the most widespread intrusive rock.

 

6.2.4Post 11 Ma to 7.6 Ma Rocks

 

This age group includes a basal flow of basalt overlain by epiclastic breccias and conglomerates, a thick sequence of tuffs and lavas, and locally capping gravels and intercalated ash- flow tuff. The thick sections of tuffs and lavas have been referred to as the tuffs and lavas of the Bullfrog Hills (Noble et al., 1991; Connors, 1995; Weiss et al., 1995) and as the rhyolite tuffs and lavas of Rainbow Mountain (Maldonado and Hausback 1990).

 

6.2.4.1Basalt Flow Number Four (Tb4)

 

This basalt forms subdued exposures north and south of highway 374 south of Burton Mountain (Figure 6-2). There, the basalt has an exposed true thickness of about 200 m, but it is thinner elsewhere. A K-Ar age of 10.3 ± 0.4 Ma is reported for this unit (Marvin et al., 1989; Maldonado and Hausback, 1990). A lithological similar basalt flow at the same stratigraphic position in Fluorspar Canyon east of Beatty yielded a K-Ar age of 10.7 ± 0.2 Ma (Monsen et al., 1992). In the southern Bullfrog Hills, angular discordance between the basalt and underlying Ammonia Tanks Tuff (Tr10) is probably minor (<5°).

 

6.2.4.2Epiclastic Rocks and Breccias

 

This unit overlies basalt Tb4 and is best exposed north of highway 374 about 1.5 km west of Beatty. These rocks weather into conspicuous pale green to reddish pink northwest-trending hogbacks. Ransome et al. (1910) designated this sequence as tuff unit one (t1), and Maldonado and Hausback (1990) mapped the unit as sedimentary rocks and tuff. The unit thins to the northwest and is absent along the west base of Rainbow Mountain. Near the Mayflower and Pioneer mines in the northern Bullfrog Hills, this sedimentological diverse section of rocks was mapped as an early phase of a debris flow sequence (Conners et al., in Conners, 1995). In areas west of Beatty, the unit is comprised of thinly bedded tuffaceous shale, siltstone, and local pebbly conglomerate, coarse fanglomerates, and mega-breccia slide blocks. Dips of bedding decrease upward through the unit from 45-50° at the base to about 30-35° at the top. Breccia deposits in the unit are heterolytic to monolithic with clasts ranging from <1 m to several meters across. In some breccia deposits, clasts rest in a muddy matrix suggesting deposition into a shallow lake from nearby over-steepened slopes. Stratigraphically lower breccia deposits contain clasts derived from underlying basalt flow four, whereas higher breccia deposits contain clasts from the Rainier Mesa and Ammonia Tanks Tuffs. A megalithic block (-100 m long) of a portion of the Rainier Mesa Tuff and underlying bedded tuffs (Tr6) occurs near the top of the unit just north of highway 374. The upward change of breccia clasts in the unit suggests progressive uplift and erosion of the source rocks from which the breccia deposits were derived.

 

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6.2.510.6-10.0 Ma Rainbow Mountain Sequence (Trm, Tr11-16 and other units)

 

This sequence is well exposed on Rainbow Mountain and nearby Black Peak. Total thickness of section exposed in these areas is about 760 m. New 40Ar/39Ar ages from this study indicate most of the sequence was deposited between 10.6 and 10.3 Ma. Unlike the ash-flow tuffs of the 14-11 Ma group which came from calderas to the east, these deposits are locally derived from scattered plugs and volcanic domes in the Bullfrog Hills.

 

6.2.5.1Basalt, Gravels of Sober-up Gulch, and Stonewall Flat Tuff

 

These rocks are exposed mainly in the east-central and northern Bullfrog Hills and are essentially flat lying. The gravels of Sober-up Gulch are loosely consolidated alluvial deposits containing well-rounded pebbles and boulders of pre· dominantly locally derived Tertiary volcanic rocks. The Spearhead Member of the Stonewall Flat Tuff is locally interbedded with the gravels of Sober-up Gulch (Noble et al., 1991) and has a 40Ar/39Ar age of 7.61 ± 0.3 Ma (Hausback et al., 1990).

 

6.2.5.2Intrusive Rocks

 

Few intrusive rocks of this age group occur in the southern Bullfrog Hills. However, rhyolitic plugs and domes are common in the central and northern Bullfrog Hills where they appear to mark the sources of the flows and ash-flow tuffs of the Rainbow Mountain sequence (Maldonado and Hausback, 1990; Noble et al., 1991; Weiss et al., 1995). They are sparsely to moderately porphyritic and contain phenocrysts of quartz, plagioclase, sanidine, and accessory biotite.

 

6.2.5.3Timing of Tertiary Deformational Events

 

The oldest Tertiary structural event is recorded by the basal Tertiary fanglomerate and breccia, which consists of mainly Paleozoic clasts, but also includes Tertiary volcanic rocks. Uplift and erosion that produced these localized deposits of fanglomerate and breccia took place prior to 15 Ma as indicated from previously discussed stratigraphic relationships. Continued episodic structural events between about 15 Ma and 14 Ma are indicated by local angular unconformities, and by variable thicknesses and abrupt lateral fades changes of rock units laid down during this time. East of the district on the lower northeast flank of Bare Mountain, Fridrich, 1999 documents a major angular unconformity between a round stone conglomerate and overlying carbonaceous sedimentary rocks of Joshua Hollow (Monsen et al., 1992), indicating that tectonic activity was widespread in the region prior to 14 Ma.

 

A significant episode of faulting occurred at about 12.7 Ma as evidenced by (1) fault scarp breccia and coarse conglomerate that directly overlies the 12.7 Ma Tiva Canyon Tuff and underlies the inferred 12.7 Ma base of Tr6 in the hanging wall of the Rush fault, (2) absence of Tonopah Spring and Tiva Canyon Tuffs in the Bullfrog pit and presence instead of volcaniclastic debris breccia whose clasts consist of those units and of older rocks, and (3) a modest angular unconformity (10-20°) between the Tiva Canyon Tuff and overlying bedded tuffs in the lower and middle parts of Tr6 on the west side of Ladd Mountain. This episode of faulting appears to have been quite widespread as evidenced by a major angular unconformity between the Paintbrush and Timber Mountain Groups in upper Fluorspar Canyon (Monsen et al., 1992) and by the presence of landslide breccias intersected in drill holes along the west side of Crater Flat (the valley east of Bare Mountain) that lie between the Paintbrush and Timber Mountain Groups in the hanging wall of the Bare Mountain fault (Fredrich, 1999). The next episode of faulting in the southern Bullfrog Hills is chronicled by a syntectonic sedimentary unit that lies between a 10.7-Ma basalt flow (Tb4) and the lowest part of the Rainbow Mountain sequence dated at 10.56 Ma. During this time 15-20° of eastward tilting occurred. Most of the Rainbow Mountain sequence is tilted uniformly about 30° east. Although negligible differences in tilting are evident, episodes of faulting are recorded by intercalated lenses of fanglomerate and breccia that punctuate the Rainbow Mountain sequence. Between the latite, dated at 10.33 Ma, and the capping quartz-bearing latite, the tilt decreases 10-15° indicating a renewed phase of tilting between 10.3 and about 10 Ma. The final 15° of tilting occurred between about 10 Ma and the time of deposition of an un-tilted basalt dated at 8.1 Ma in the western Bullfrog Hills (Marvin et al., 1989).

 

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6.3District Geology

 

The District is located in the southern Walker Lane trend within brittle upper plate volcanic host rocks that were severely broken from dominant detachment faulting and associated dip-slip and strike-slip displacements. Epithermal solutions permeating the broken host rocks in the Bullfrog, M-S and Bonanza areas precipitated micron-sized but relatively high-grade gold within major quartz-calcite veins and disseminated gold in associated stock works. The veins contain very little gangue minerals other than quartz, calcite and manganese oxides, the latter of which contributes to low silver recoveries. The Montgomery system occurs on the east side of the M-S pit, strikes northerly and dips 70-85° west. The Polaris fault occurs on the west side of the pit, strikes nearly due north and dips 50-60° west.

 

Detachment-related structures and mineral trends are projected to extend onto the Company’s lands to the north and east of the M-S open pit and deep drill holes intercepted thick zones of lower-grade mineralization that are 300 meters below the existing pit. Prior to oxidation the veins contained less than 2% sulfides, the low content of which is favorable with respect to processing and environmental concerns. Surface geology is shown in Figure 6-4.

 

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Figure 6-4: District Geology Map — Each Section is 1.6 km, or 1 Mile Square

 

 

 

6.4Mineralization and Veining

 

The gold mineralization of the southern Bullfrog Hills is contained in epithermal quartz-calcite veins and stockworks. The main host rocks are middle Miocene volcanic rocks ranging from latite lavas (Tr1g, >14 Ma) to rhyolitic Ammonia Tanks Tuff (Tr10, 11.45 Ma).

 

6.4.1Bullfrog Mineralization

 

The strike length of the Bullfrog mineralization is about 1,600 m, including the underground portion which accounts for about 600 m of the strike length. True widths mined in the underground, where the ore cutoff was 3.0 g/t Au, typically average 5-10 m and local zones may be as much as 15-20 m wide. The highest grades typically correlate with zones of black manganese-rich material, where much of the early manganiferous calcite has been leached out, rendering the vein a rubble zone of quartz, calcite, and wad. Veins continue up dip and down dip, but the gold grades and thicknesses diminish rapidly above and below these elevations.

 

As in the underground mine, the highest grades in the open pit were associated with veins and vein breccias along the MP fault and its immediate hanging wall. Higher ore grades also occurred in veins along the UP fault, but widths were generally narrow. Zones of quartz stockwork veins and breccia were developed between the MP and UP faults in intensely silicified and adularized wall rocks. The ore zone in the hanging wall of the MP fault, was termed the upper stockwork zone (Jorgensen et al., 1989). Many of the stockwork veins are subparallel in strike to the MP and UP faults, but dip more steeply. A zone of stockwork quartz veins also occurs in the footwall latite lavas (Tr1g) immediately beneath the MP fault, but here the ore zone is usually <10-15 m thick. This was termed the lower stockwork zone (Jorgensen et al., 1989). In this zone individual veins are often subparallel to the MP fault, and vein densities are typically in the range of 5-15%.

 

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In most parts of the open pit, mineralized rock is truncated by the erosional surface and gravels. The ore zone thinned up-dip and only a modest amount of ore was probably lost to erosion. Below the open pit, ore grade values persist.

 

In the Bullfrog mineralization, the high-grade zones do not comprise obvious discrete plunging ore shoots. Instead, high-grade ore zones are developed along the plane of the MP fault/vein, within 10-20° of the dip of the fault. The overall geometry of these zones is that of elongate lenses in the plane of the fault, with long dimensions that strike roughly north-south at a low angle of plunge. The highest gold grades roughly coincided with the oxidation-reduction boundary in the deposit and the pre-mining water table, and modest localized supergene enrichment of precious metals near this boundary is suggested.

 

6.4.1.1Ore Controls

 

The zoning patterns of ore grades, veins, and altered rock indicate that the MP-UP fault system was the main ore control and fluid pathway for the Bullfrog mineralization. Minor local changes in the strike and (or) dip of these faults created dilatant zones aiding deposition of gold, particularly some of the higher-grade ore. Northeast-trending faults were also an important control, acting as secondary fluid pathways and providing additional ground preparation. This is indicated by changes in ore character and geometry where these faults intersect the MP-UP fault system. As in most epithermal systems, physicochemical conditions limit precious metal ore deposition to a particular vertical interval. In the case of the Bullfrog mineralization, the apparent maximum extent is 250-300 m, between about 1,075 and 775 m in elevation. Supergene and (or) hypogene oxidation may have also aided in local enrichment of ore and is supported by the location of higher gold grades near the redox boundary and the pre-mining water table. The common occurrence of visible gold (electrum) in limonitic pyrite casts is also evidence for the concentration of gold during oxidation. However, unlike porphyry copper deposits, the enrichment and redeposition of precious metals was probably over the scale of millimeters or micrometers (Castor and Sjoberg, 1993).

 

6.4.2Montgomery-Shoshone Mineralization

 

The main host for the Montgomery-Shoshone deposit is the lowermost part of unit Tr10 (Ammonia Tanks Tuff, 11.45 Ma). The uppermost portion of unit Tr8 (Rainier Mesa Tuff, 11.6 Ma) is a less important host, along with Tb3, basalt dikes, and (or) unit Tb4. Basalt flow Tb4 appears to have acted as a barrier to ore fluids (Jorgensen et al., 1989), as virtually no mineralized rock occurs stratigraphically above unit Tr10 in the rhyolite tuffs and lavas of the Rainbow Mountain sequence, even though these rocks are all pre-mineral in age. The best marker bed is Tb3, which at Montgomery-Shoshone consists mainly of a 1-3 m thick irregular zone of basaltic, chlorite-bearing volcanic gritstone and re-worked tuff; a thin irregular basalt flow is less common at this horizon. The base of Tr10 is often a useful marker and consists of a light greenish or dark gray zone of more densely welded and vitrophyric tuff; the vitrophyric portion is usually less than 5-6 m thick.

 

Altered rocks are similar to those at the Bullfrog deposit, although rocks are more strongly clay altered and oxidized at Montgomery-Shoshone. Unlike at Bullfrog, carbon-pyrite is absent at depth. In the hanging wall of the deposit, rocks of the Rainbow Mountain sequence are argillized and bleached and contain 1-2% fine-grained disseminated pyrite. Wall rocks adjacent to veins and stockwork zones are typically flooded with silica-adularia, especially in Tr8 (Rainier Mesa Tuff) in the footwall of the deposit. Such silicified and adularized rock is absent, however, in the Rainbow Mountain sequence. Basalts of Tb4 in the hanging wall of the deposit are mostly unaltered, except along their margins near faults where they are argillized and clay altered.

 

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There are two key structures for controlling mineralization at M-S: the Montgomery and Polaris faults. At the northern end of the deposit, these faults are about 100-150m apart. The Montgomery fault occurs on the east and strikes northerly and dips 10-85 degrees west. In the southern part of the deposit the fault strikes about N30-40 degrees east. The Montgomery is actually composed of a series of several subparallel faults developed over a width of about 25-35 meters, which collectively has about 70-80 meters of normal displacement. The Polaris fault strikes almost due north for most of its extent (about 500 m), and dips about 50-60 degrees west, and has slightly less displacement than the Montgomery.

 

The Contact fault is a major structure that bounds the mineralization on the north side of the deposit. The fault is composed of a series of splays developed over a width of 100-200 meters, which has an average strike of N60 degrees E and dips of 60 degrees NW. Net stratigraphic offset across the Contact fault zone is on the order of 400-600 meters. In the upper portion of the deposit (above 1200m), the Contact fault is postmineral in age, as both the Polaris and Montgomery zones are clearly terminated, and fault gouge and breccia contain clasts of crushed vein. In the lower portion of the deposit the, Ransome (1910) described and mapped the “contact vein” which is developed along the fault as well as narrow veins in the footwall. Based on these observations, the Contact fault is interpreted to be pre-mineral in age but was later reactivated.

 

6.4.2.1Mineralization

 

Mineralized zones at Montgomery-Shoshone consists mainly of stockwork quartz-calcite veins forming 5-35% of the rock, with less abundant narrow irregular quartz-calcite-Mn oxide veins generally <1-3 m wide. Many of the textures that typify the high-grade veins at the Bullfrog deposit—such as strong banding and chaotic vein breccia—are absent, and it appears that the main-stage event was not as well developed. The widest zones of mineralization developed are along the Montgomery zone north of about 9,900N, and may locally be as much as 60-80 m wide. However, individual mineralized zones with >0.5 - 1 g/t Au in many portions of the deposit are commonly only 10-30 m wide, and the continuity of mineralization down dip and along strike is relatively poor.

 

Ransome (1910) noted that most of the higher-grade veins were localized within about 45 m of the basalt (Tb4) at the Contact fault, and that the veins decreased in grade and thickness below the 300 level (1,170 m). The veins were explored in these workings to about 1,050 m in elevation (700 level). The structures and veins continue below the 1,125 m elevation level, but as at the Bullfrog deposit, the grade and thickness of the mineralized zones uniformly diminish, with much of the rock containing only 0.1-0.5 g/t Au. However, deep exploration drilling encountered thick intervals of mineralized rock about 200-250 m in elevation below the current pit; the controls for this mineralized zone are unclear and further evaluation continues.

 

The veins generally increase in calcite content along strike to the south, as well as down dip, and this corresponds to a general decrease in the grade of mineralized rock; a similar change was noted by Ransome (1910). The Polaris vein zone exposed in the south pit high wall, consists of friable and leached, gray-brown quartz pseudomorphs after calcite, with minor Mn oxides. These types of veins characterize much of the southern half of the deposit and are uniformly of low grade or below pit cutoff (0.50 g/t Au).

 

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6.4.3Bonanza Mineralization

 

Primary host rocks for mineralization at Bonanza Mountain are unites Tr5b (upper most Tiva Canyon Tuff), Tr6 and Tr7 (lower most Rainier Mesa Tuff). The majority (>60%) of the mineralization is between the contact of Tr5b and Tr6, which suggests some stratigraphic control, with fluid migration outward from the main mineralized faults along this permeable horizon. The wall rocks in the vicinity of the deposit are silica flooded and adularized, especially Tr6 and Tr5a.

 

The rocks at Bonanza Mountain are cut by a complex series of normal faults, all with relative minor displacements. The two primary structures are the Hobo and Scepter faults, which together define a narrow, northerly-trending graben structure 700-100 meters wide. The Hobo fault defines the east side of the graben, is better mineralized and dips 55 degrees west. Displacement on the Hobo is as much as 90-100 meters. The Scepter bounds the west side of the graben and has as much as 50-100 meters of displacement. The Scepter dips mainly east at about 75-85 degrees.

 

6.4.3.1Mineralization

 

Mineralization at Bonanza Mountain consists of irregular quartz-calcite-Mn veins and stockworks emplaced along faults. The veins are usually less than 5-10 meters wid. By volume, the bulk of the mineralization (<75%) is contained in stockwork with an average vein density between 5-20 percent. The quartz is typically fine-grained and may be locally interlayered with medium-grained calcite. Overall, the veins are similar to those of the Bullfrog mineralization, although cockscomb and drusy quartz, replacement of bladed calcite by quartz and banded quartz are less common.

 

Fine-grained gold as much as 0.1-0.2 mm has been observed in some of the highest-grade historic drill cuttings and was associated with limonite after pyrite. Very local high-grade values (15-30 g/t) were found in a few historic drill holes but are difficult to correlate. The higher grades at Bonanza extend for a strike length of 300 meters. Two to three discrete sub-parallel mineralized zones are associated with the Hobo and Scepter structures, these individual zones are as much as 15-20 meters wide in true thickness. Veins and continuity of mineralization grades are very erratic – hence the area was historically drilled on 25-meter centers.

 

The Bonanza Mountain and Bullfrog areas are geochemically similar. Bonanza Mountain has a very low Ag:Au ratio averaging around 1:1. Epithermal Au pathfinder elements are also very low, although similar to Bullfrog and Montgomery-Shoshone, preliminary data suggest that As and Mo may be weekly anomalous in the silica-adularia flooded wall rocks adjacent to the veins. The age of mineralization at Bonanza Mountain is probably about 10 Ma on adularia-gold mineralization from the Rush fault, about 1 km northwest of Bonanza Mountain.

 

6.5Deposit

 

The gold deposits of the southern Bullfrog Hills are contained in epithermal quartz-calcite veins and stockworks. The main host rocks are middle Miocene volcanic rocks ranging from latite lavas (Tr1g, >14 Ma) to rhyolitic Ammonia Tanks Tuff (Tr10, 11.45 Ma). The veins contain little gangue other than quartz, calcite, and manganese oxides; adularia is present in trace to minor amounts, but it is usually microscopic. Fluorite and barite were noted during the development of the Bullfrog deposit (Jorgensen et al., 1989), but these minerals were only rarely observed during mining. The veins are commonly banded and crustiform, and although now mostly oxidized, originally contained minor amounts (<1-2%) of sulfide minerals, principally pyrite. The deposits fit the “adularia-sericite” type classification of Heald et al. (1987), although adularia and sericite (or illite) are only minor or trace constituents in the veins.

 

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The deposits would also fit the “low-sulfidation” or “low-sulfur” classification (Sillitoe, 1993; Bonham, 1988) due to the impoverishment of sulfides and sulfates. The veins and stockworks fill open spaces and are often sheeted. They are hosted and controlled by northerly striking normal faults with modest to large displacements (50-1000 m), and moderate to steep dips (35-85°). Northeast-striking faults are also locally important but are generally less mineralized. Within and adjacent to the veins and stockworks, the volcanic wall rocks are pervasively replaced by very-fine-grained hydrothermal quartz and adularia, and, where unoxidized, may contain 1-3% disseminated pyrite. In proximity to the deposits, clay minerals are not especially pronounced, except in poorly welded portions of the ash-flow tuffs, and in post- mineral fault gouge or oxidized zones.

 

Latite lavas (Tr1g) in the footwall of the orebody are altered to a propylitic alteration assemblage, characterized in hand specimen by thin fracture fillings or coatings of chlorite, calcite, and quartz, with disseminated or fracture filling pyrite. Petrographic and lithogeochemical data indicate that these rocks become strongly hydrothermally altered as the orebody is approached, with additions of potassium, silica, and rubidium; secondary albite also replaces plagioclase phenocrysts (Lac unpublished data; Weiss et al., 1995). Carbon-pyrite is also present in the footwall lavas; the carbon usually occurs as sooty coatings on fractures, but also locally occurs as glassy carbon in cavities. Laboratory studies show that the carbon is an organic, amorphous phase between bitumen and graphite (Allison, 1993), and it was probably remobilized by hydrothermal solutions from underlying carbonaceous Tertiary sedimentary or Paleozoic rocks.

 

Stratigraphic offset across the MP and UP fault zone decreases from about 1,000 m at the north end of the pit where the two faults converge, to about 600-800 m at the south end of the pit. As the Southern Bullfrog Hills fault is approached, offset decreases to about 500 m or less; farther south, the faults flatten and merge into or are cut off by the Southern Bullfrog Hills fault. Deep drilling on the southwest flank of Ladd Mountain indicates that the MP-UP faults become listric down dip, flattening to about 25°. Drilling in this area also suggests that the faults merge into or are cut off by the Southern Bullfrog Hills fault. Overall, the MP-UP fault system appears to have a scissored normal displacement, steepening to the north away from the Southern Bullfrog Hills fault, with generally increasing amounts of displacement as far north as the Montgomery South faults.

 

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7.Exploration

 

Despite the long history of drilling and mining at the Bullfrog Project, there is still significant exploration potential. Mineralized zones remain open at the three historically mined areas and there are several unexplored areas within the property that exhibit hydrothermal alteration and structural setting to host high-grade deposits. Figure 7-1 highlights the primary exploration targets on the property.

 

Figure 7-1: Exploration and Mining Targets at the Bullfrog Project

 

 

 

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7.1Bullfrog

 

The Bullfrog area has two primary target areas; Mystery Hills and Ladd Mountain.

 

7.1.1Mystery Hills

 

Mystery Hills is located on the east side of the Bullfrog deposit in the footwall of the Middle Plate Fault (MP) which is the main mineralizing structure. The MP fault appears to be the source of epithermal solutions that mineralized the MHF. The extensions of the MH mineralized fault down-dip and along strike have good potential for adding a large volume of low-grade mineralization to the project. Drilling in the target area has intercepted broad zones of mineralization (>100 meters grading 0.3 g/t) which outcrops on surface and extends at depth several hundred meters. This zone was targeted in 2020 and 2021 drilling conducted by Augusta Gold. The zone remains open along strike and at depth and warrants additional drilling. (See Figure 7-1)

 

7.1.2Ladd Mountain

 

Historic drilling suggests there are multiple mineralized structures east and along strike of the existing open pit. These mineralized structures have the potential to host narrow HG veins with adjacent low-grade zones of stockwork mineralization. Discovery and delineation of mineralized material under Ladd Mountain has the potential to add a significant volume of mineralized material to the current resource and lower the strip ratio.

 

7.2Montgomery-Shoshone Area

 

The M-S area has three discernible target areas that have the potential to add additional resources to the area.

 

7.2.1Polaris Vein

 

The Polaris vein and associated stockwork is one of the two primary hosts of mineralization at M-S. Historically, the northern portion of the vein was extensively drilled and mined but the southern portion remains open along strike and down-dip. Augusta Gold drilling in 2021 targeted the southern extension confirming the mineralization extents to the south. Additional drilling will be required to further delineate the mineralization. Highlights from the 2021 drilling are shown in Table 7-4.

 

7.2.2East Zone

 

East of the M-S pit is an area that is 700 meters by 1,300 meters and only has one shallow historic hole for which no data is available. Only a portion of this area may be prospective, but additional study and exploration drilling is warranted. Lac’s 1994 map shows a hole south of this area that had anomalous mineralization (BB-9 with no data available), but holes edh-18 and -19 appear to have tested this to the south.

 

7.2.3Deep Potential

 

Deep intercepts were encountered in four of ten deep angle holes drilled by Barrick below the M-S pit. The depths and grades of these intercepts are not foreseeably economic, but they demonstrate that additional gold occurs in a potentially large epithermal system with the potential for expansion and possible high-grade discovery. In this regard, there is no deep drilling northwest of holes RDH-733, 717, 734 and 778, and no drilling south of holes RDH-732, 777 and 779.

 

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These deep intercepts could be part of a feeder zone that created the upper M-S mineralization and may range from a limited area, or possibly extend along strike as well as up- and down-dip. A potential mineral inventory cannot be estimated in the deep zone based on the limited amount of drilling completed to date. Three of the deep holes also had significant shallow intercepts in the Polaris vein/stock-works (52 meters of 1.35 g/t, 12 m of 1.14 g/t and 4.6 m of 6.03 g/t).

 

Holes RDH-779 and RDH-777 were barren below 900 meters elevation, thereby limiting the down-dip extension of mineralization in RDH-732, but there are not enough holes to fully assess this deep zone.

 

7.3Bonanza Mountain

 

The Bonanza Mountain pit area is located 2 km west of the Bullfrog deposit. Historically the area likely produced about 10,000 ounces in the early 1900’s from several underground mines. Barrick’s open pit mining began in late 1995 with a resource of 1.3 million tonnes averaging 1.8 g/t, based on a 0.5 g/t cutoff grade and a strip ratio of 4:1. Most of the mineralization occurs in the Hobo, Lester and Sceptre veins, which had limited widths of adjacent mineralization. Notwithstanding, the Bonanza Mountain area has several veins that have not been thoroughly drilled to the north and south. An estimate of mineralization around the Bonanza pit was not prepared for this report. The Company recently leased three patents and staked two claims to cover an exploration target in the west Bonanza Mountain area; further study is required before a drill program can be proposed.

 

7.4Gap

 

The Gap area is located approximately 2.5 km northeast of the M-S pit. This area has been vastly under explored and has a prospective structural setting with a strong alteration signature. There are multiple areas of interest at the Gap.

 

The main splays of the Donovan fault skirt around the Gap on the western side. Proceeding east from the Donovan fault, which forms the western boundary of the Gap area, the rocks are cut by several steep north-south trending faults with minor offset. Silicification is locally strong along these faults, and small stockworks of translucent banded quartz +/- pyrite are rarely present. These faults are commonly strongly oxidized, with significant hematite, and locally moderate manganese oxide present. A large damage zone, with pervasive clay alteration and “pods” of strongly silicified rock is present within the tuff sequence. This damage zone has a roughly linear trend to the northwest.

 

A second target area is roughly centered on the Contact fault to the north-east and comprises a wide fault zone. This target area is a north-south trending strip of land roughly paralleling the Contact fault. The Contact fault is a major district scale structure. It is strongly brecciated in places, and pervasively silicified along its eastern side. In general, there are three structural trends identified in this area: major north-south trending steeply dipping normal faults which host some small quartz veins, minor east-west trending normal faults which host some small quartz veins, and moderately sized northwest-southeast trending moderately dipping normal faults that appear to bridge the Donovan and Contact faults. Faults are weakly to moderately stained with hematite and pyrolusite and can host discontinuous flow-banded quartz veins with colloform texture.

 

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Overall, the Gap target demonstrates strong oxidization, clay alteration, hydrothermally breccia and pervasive silicification, with some ashy beds within the tuffs being entirely altered to chalcedony. Flow banded rhyolites exhibit strong chalcedonic silica alteration. Local patches of tuffs appear to have been particularly susceptible to silicification due to porosity and have locally been altered to residual vuggy silica.

 

7.5Drilling

 

Between 1983 and 1996, 1,262 reverse circulation (RC) and core holes totaling 253,255 meters were drilled in the Bullfrog, Montgomery-Shoshone, and Bonanza areas by Barrick and three predecessor companies who conducted sampling and assaying using customary industry standards. Between 2020 and early 2021, Augusta drilled 30 RC holes and 39 core holes for a total of 19,225 meters, average core recovery for Augusta drilling in 2020 – 2021 was 89%. These drill statistics are summarized in Table 7-1 and operators are listed in Table 7-2. Tom John, Geological Consultant to Augusta Gold, and Barrick Bullfrog’s former Exploration Manager from 1995 through 1997, has presented information on the quality control of the data collected under his supervision as well as the data obtained from the exploration departments of St. Joe, Bond International Gold, and Lac Minerals.

 

Augusta Goldinitially obtained a partial electronic/digital drill hole database, but eventually scanned Barrick’s complete paper drill-hole database stored in Elko, Nevada. These scanned files included assay certificates, geologic logs, surface and down-hole survey data and notes, and maps prepared by site geologists. The data missing from the partial electronic/digital files was used to create a complete digital data on 1,262 holes in the Bullfrog area.

 

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Table 7-1: Drilling Totals by Type

 

Year Total Drilling Coring Reverse Circulation
Holes Meters Holes Meters Holes Meters
1983 6 975 6 975 0 0
1984 37 3,560   0 37 3,560
1985 3 303   0 3 303
1986 29 3,364   0 29 3,364
1987 163 29,479 3 732 163 28,747
1988 321 66,325 32 6,121 321 60,204
1989 71 12,285   0 71 12,285
1990 154 37,114 33 3,676 154 33,438
1991 79 22,954 42 3,627 79 19,327
1992 23 4,907   0 23 4,907
1993 9 387   0 9 387
1994 210 31,362 9 1,412 210 29,951
1995 99 22,370 3 248 99 22,122
1996 58 15,254 19 3,329 45 11,924
2020 26 4,405 1 502 25 3,903
2021 43 14,820 38 12,749 5 2,071
Total 1,331 269,864 186 33,371 1,273 236,493

 

* NOTE: Many core holes were pre-collared using RC drilling and a few included deeper RC intervals.

 

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Table 7-2: Active Years by Operator

 

Operator Years Active
St. Joe American August 1983 - July 1987
Bond International Gold July 1987 - November 1989
Lac Minerals November 1989 - September 1994
Barrick Bullfrog Inc. September 1994 - 1999

 

7.5.12020 - 2021 Drilling

 

Twenty-seven RC holes and twenty-two core holes were drilled by Augusta Gold in 2020 – early 2021 and were available for inclusion in the June resource model update. An additional three RC holes and seventeen core holes were drilled later in 2021 and were available for the end-of-year model update presented in this technical report. The purpose of this drilling program was to further define resources and ultimate limits of the Bullfrog and Montgomery-Shoshone pits. Two holes were drilled at the Paradise Ridge Target. Table 7-3 lists the location, azimuth, dip, and total depth of each of the 2020 – 2021 holes and Figure 7-2 through Figure 7-4 show the location of the holes drilled by Augusta Gold.

 

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Figure 7-2: Plan Map of Drill Hole Collars

 

 

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Table 7-3: Location and Depth of 2020 - 2021 Holes

 

Hole ID Easting Northing Elevation Azimuth Dip Total
Depth
BM-20-1 10,040 9,995 1,117 135 -70 68.58
BM-20-2 9,979 9,967 1,120 100 -57 89.92
BM-20-3 9,823 9,868 1,139 130 -53 120.4
BH-20-4 9,450 8,910 1,143 90 -60 190.49
BH-20-5 9,431 8,875 1,144 90 -60 220.98
BH-20-6 9,409 8,839 1,138 90 -60 227.08
BH-20-7 9,419 8,790 1,128 90 -60 71.63
BH-20-7A 9,416 8,787 1,128 90 -65 71.63
BH-20-8 9,560 8,864 1,128 90 -57 141.73
BH-20-9 9,491 8,764 1,119 90 -80 193.55
BH-20-10 9,449 8,723 1,116 90 -60 199.64
BH-20-11 9,530 8,764 1,127 90 -60 199.64
BH-20-12 9,575 8,737 1,127 120 -60 138.68
BH-20-13 9,580 8,613 1,110 285 -70 169.16
BH-20-14 9,584 8,615 1,111 50 -54 120.4
BH-20-15 9,552 8,703 1,117 0 -90 163.07
BH-20-16 9,609 8,797 1,123 90 -60 120.4
BH-20-17 9,656 8,768 1,122 90 -60 114.3
BH-20-18 9,611 8,548 1,109 0 -90 105.16
BH-20-19 9,682 8,494 1,104 90 -60 105.16
BM-20-20 9,805 10,048 1,223 135 -58 211.84
BM-20-21 9,952 10,103 1,226 155 -60 217.93
BM-20-22 10,026 10,122 1,226 155 -57 187.45
BP-20-23 11,560 8,102 1,110 65 -60 187.45
BP-20-24 11,560 8,099 1,110 135 -60 266.7
BFG20-MS01 9,858 10,072 1,223 114 -55 502.01
BFG21-MS02 9,858 10,072 1,223 114 -70 626.06

 

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Hole ID Easting Northing Elevation Azimuth Dip Total
Depth
BFG21-MS03 9,783 9,851 1,143 115 -80 245.67
BFG21-MS04 9,954 9,632 1,270 115 -57 498.96
BFG21-MS05 10,139 10,142 1,226 114 -60 648.61
BFG21-MS06 9,954 9,632 1,270 115 -45 449.88
BFG21-MS07 10,139 10,142 1,226 114 -85 558.09
BFG21-MS08 9,936 9,581 1,273 115 -65 432.21
BFG21-MS09 9,792 9,644 1,247 115 -45 392.28
BFG21-MS10 10,054 10,132 1,228 114 -85 572.11
BFG21-MS11 9,792 9,644 1,247 115 -65 161.24
BFG21-MS12 9,670 9,707 1,201 115 -45 295.05
BFG21-MS13 9,714 9,927 1,205 114 -45 350.22
BFG21-MS14 9,669 9,708 1,201 115 -65 230.43
BFG21-MS15 9,738 9,558 1,266 115 -45 258.47
BFG21-MS16 9,714 9,927 1,205 114 -65 299.92
BFG21-MH17 9,670 8,496 1,104 90 -45 204.83
BFG21-MS18 10,016 9,983 1,117 90 -45 373.38
BFG21-MS19 9,816 10,017 1,214 114 -70 365.15
BFG21-MS20 9,725 9,609 1,259 115 -45 288.95
BFG21-MH21 9,608 8,555 1,110 90 -65 346.86
BFG21-MS22 9,959 9,943 1,123 114 -45 373.38
BFG21-MS23 9,948 10,099 1,219 155 -70 360.58
BFG21-MS24 9,751 9,729 1,218 115 -45 380.39

 

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Figure 7-3: Drilling in the Montgomery-Shoshone Area from the 2020 - 2021 Drill Campaign

 

 

Figure 7-4: Drilling in the Bullfrog Area from the 2020 - 2021 Drill Campaign

 

 

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Table 7-4: Drilling Results from the 2020 - 2021 Program

 

Hole ID Interval in meters Au Ag Zone
From To Length g/t g/t
BM-20-1 0 41 41 0.42 2.26 MS Vein Zone
includes 0 23 23 0.55 1.95 MS Vein Zone
 
BM-20-2 0 26 26 0.33 1.04 MS Vein Zone
includes 0 20 20 0.37 1.15 MS Vein Zone
 
BM-20-3 49 59 11 0.26 0.33 MS Vein Zone
 
BH-20-4 76 81 5 0.35 1.54 Mystery Hills
BH-20-4 85 119 34 0.27 0.6 Mystery Hills
BH-20-4 157 184 27 0.32 0.93 Mystery Hills
 
BH-20-5 101 108 8 0.26 1.22 Mystery Hills
BH-20-5 117 168 50 0.24 0.49 Mystery Hills
BH-20-5 175 209 34 0.58 0.82 Mystery Hills
 
BH-20-6 90 200 110 0.41 0.61 Mystery Hills
includes 120 146 26 0.91 0.91 Mystery Hills
 
BH-20-7 46 53 8 3.23 3.36 Mystery Hills
 
BH-20-8 35 40 5 1.13 0.21 Mystery Hills
BH-20-8 47 53 6 0.38 0.25 Mystery Hills
 
BH-20-9 23 29 6 0.53 0.91 Mystery Hills
BH-20-9 37 43 6 0.31 0.45 Mystery Hills

 

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BH-20-9 46 53 8 0.31 0.33 Mystery Hills
BH-20-9 104 195 91 0.33 0.32 Mystery Hills
 
BH-20-10 41 55 14 2.42 2.19 Mystery Hills
includes 41 47 6 4.89 4.14 Mystery Hills
BH-20-10 104 110 6 0.58 0.26 Mystery Hills
 
BH-20-11 27 40 12 0.3 0.2 Mystery Hills
BH-20-11 49 56 8 0.31 0.08 Mystery Hills
BH-20-11 67 91 24 0.35 0.18 Mystery Hills
BH-20-11 128 139 11 0.2 0.34 Mystery Hills
 
BH-20-12 32 52 20 0.35 0.33 Mystery Hills
BH-20-12 79 91 12 0.45 0.18 Mystery Hills
 
BH-20-13 0 21 21 0.24 0.28 Mystery Hills
BH-20-13 38 50 12 0.44 0.34 Mystery Hills
BH-20-13 94 140 46 0.3 0.2 Mystery Hills
 
BH-20-14 0 12 12 0.22 0.3 Mystery Hills
BH-20-14 23 29 6 0.3 0.21 Mystery Hills
BH-20-14 49 55 6 0.28 0.2 Mystery Hills
BH-20-14 67 79 12 0.44 0.47 Mystery Hills
BH-20-14 84 93 9 0.4 0.16 Mystery Hills
BH-20-14 116 122 6 0.24 0.46 Mystery Hills
 
BH-20-15 11 40 29 0.29 0.26 Mystery Hills
BH-20-15 96 111 15 0.26 0.19 Mystery Hills
BH-20-15 120 165 44 0.31 0.39 Mystery Hills

 

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BH-20-18 5 11 6 0.23 0.21 Mystery Hills
BH-20-18 40 69 29 0.22 0.16 Mystery Hills
BH-20-18 75 96 21 0.24 0 Mystery Hills
 
BH-20-19 0 35 35 0.44 0.3 Mystery Hills
includes 2 17 15 0.64 0.31 Mystery Hills
BH-20-19 43 59 17 0.27 0.25 Mystery Hills
BH-20-19 70 78 8 0.21 0.09 Mystery Hills
 
BM-20-20 171 184 12 0.3 0.76 MS Vein Zone
 
BFG20-MS01 114.77 154.35 39.58 0.34 2.82 MS Vein Zone
BFG20-MS01 246.21 259.37 13.16 1.30 2.79 MS Vein Zone
BFG20-MS01 275.23 284.77 9.54 0.89 5.60 MS Vein Zone
 
BFG21-MS02 125.56 166.62 41.06 0.35 1.39 MS Vein Zone
BFG21-MS02 229.73 254.04 24.31 0.31 0.23 MS Vein Zone
BFG21-MS02 298.31 310.53 12.22 0.22 0.55 MS Vein Zone
 
BFG21-MS03 105.19 115.39 10.20 0.49 0.37 Polaris Vein
 
BFG21-MS04 121.15 122.67 1.52 0.60 0.50 Other
 
BFG21-MS05 99.95 102.99 3.04 0.39 0.35 MS Vein Zone
 
BFG21-MS06 NSV Other
 
BFG21-MS07 149.96 151.49 1.53 0.29 1.50 MS Vein Zone

 

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BFG21-MS07 175.87 177.32 1.45 0.35 0.10 MS Vein Zone
 
BFG21-MS08 NSV Other
 
BFG21-MS09 81.82 109.12 27.30 0.42 5.03 Polaris Vein
including 93.88 98.50 4.62 1.10 13.22 Polaris Vein
BFG21-MS09 133.50 141.07 7.57 0.19 0.94 Polaris Vein
BFG21-MS09 163.98 168.16 4.18 0.27 0.10 Polaris Vein
BFG21-MS09 179.70 185.32 5.62 0.39 0.27 Polaris Vein
 
BFG21-MS10 203.00 229.21 26.21 0.52 3.29 MS Vein Zone
including 216.52 219.50 2.98 1.38 5.34 MS Vein Zone
and including 224.00 229.21 5.21 0.90 8.66 MS Vein Zone
 
BFG21-MS11 79.75 84.31 4.56 0.23 0.33 Polaris Vein
BFG21-MS11 99.30 160.00 60.70 0.35 2.12 Polaris Vein
 
BFG21-MS12 170.08 184.52 14.44 0.26 0.44 Polaris Vein
 
BFG21-MS13 105.45 116.33 10.88 0.39 0.55 MS Vein Zone
including 105.94 108.20 2.26 0.91 0.75 MS Vein Zone
BFG21-MS13 179.22 211.75 32.53 0.88 1.58 Polaris Vein
including 183.79 192.40 8.61 2.32 4.61 Polaris Vein
 
BFG21-MS14 179.30 189.89 10.59 0.17 0.11 Polaris Vein
 
BFG21-MS15 135.33 138.38 3.05 0.32 5.38 Polaris Vein
BFG21-MS15 153.62 161.22 7.60 0.52 0.72 Polaris Vein
 

 

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BFG21-MS16 178.00 205.18 27.18 0.26 0.32 MS Vein Zone
 
BFG21-MH17 0.00 36.88 36.88 0.27 0.12 Mystery Hills
BFG21-MH17 47.55 99.61 52.06 0.19 0.25 Mystery Hills
 
BFG21-MS18 0.00 51.82 51.82 0.33 2.02 MS Vein Zone
including 0.00 4.57 4.57 0.73 3.29 MS Vein Zone
 
BFG21-MS19 145.00 157.80 12.80 0.48 1.08 MS Vein Zone
BFG21-MS19 188.06 205.44 17.38 0.33 0.56 MS Vein Zone
BFG21-MS19 211.56 217.68 6.12 0.41 0.15 MS Vein Zone
 
BFG21-MS20 151.18 197.51 46.33 0.42 0.98 Polaris Vein
including 159.71 163.07 3.36 1.58 4.39 Polaris Vein
 
BFG21-MH21 7.46 10.05 2.59 0.20 0.10 Mystery Hills
BFG21-MH21 54.25 62.00 7.75 0.22 0.10 Mystery Hills
BFG21-MH21 73.76 76.81 3.05 0.19 0.10 Mystery Hills
BFG21-MH21 95.11 101.96 6.85 0.35 0.25 Mystery Hills
BFG21-MH21 128.38 131.20 2.82 0.24 0.30 Mystery Hills
 
BFG21-MS22 15.24 16.76 1.52 0.45 0.30 MS Vein Zone
BFG21-MS22 94.49 96.01 1.52 0.23 0.50 MS Vein Zone
 
BFG21-MS23 93.68 163.98 70.30 0.32 4.12 MS Vein Zone
including 94.94 106.07 11.13 0.63 16.04 MS Vein Zone
BFG21-MS23 229.10 238.05 8.95 0.75 2.36 MS Vein Zone
BFG21-MS23 257.27 298.65 41.38 0.36 0.51 MS Vein Zone
including 276.75 286.54 9.79 0.89 0.91 MS Vein Zone

 

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BFG21-MS23 325.87 331.96 6.09 0.27 0.17 MS Vein Zone
 
BFG21-MS24 123.58 157.08 33.50 0.34 1.63 Polaris Vein
including 144.86 147.90 3.04 0.82 2.25 Polaris Vein
BFG21-MS24 166.13 173.73 7.60 0.23 1.24 Polaris Vein
BFG21-MS24 191.00 195.22 4.22 0.27 0.61 Polaris Vein

 

7.5.22021 Additional Drilling Included in the End of Year 2021 Resource Model

 

Twenty new core and RC drillholes were unavailable when the model was completed in June 2021 and have since been drilled and added to this report Drillhole collar coordinates, depths, and orientations are listed below. *RC drillhole.

 

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Table 7-5: Location and Depth of Additional 2021 Holes

 

Hole ID Easting Northing Elevation Azimuth Dip Total
Depth
BFG21-MH25  9,438  8,908  1,142 90 -70 419.1
*BFG21-IS26  11,782  12,882  1,189 90 -45 470.9
BFG21-MS27  9,947  10,101  1,224 155 -60 380.4
BFG21-MH28  9,437  8,908  1,142 90 -85 353.3
BFG21-MS29  9,836  9,695  1,237 117 -50 258.5
BFG21-IS30  10,667  12,927  1,219 45 -45 639.2
BFG21-MH31  9,411  8,786  1,127 90 -45 358.8
*BFG21-IS32  11,391  13,286  1,211 90 -45 449.6
*BFG21-IS33  11,641  14,190  1,304 115 -45 403.9
BFG21-MH34  9,411  8,786  1,127 90 -65 394.7
BFG21-MS35  10,012  9,985  1,116 90 -45 179.2
BFG21-MS36  9,868  9,718  1,231 115 -45 224.9
BFG21-MH37  9,411  8,786  1,127 90 -85 346.6
BFG21-IS38  10,666  12,926  1,219 45 -70 328.6
BFG21-IS39  10,668  12,930  1,219 90 -45 403.9
BFG21-MS40  9,847  9,550  1,267 115 -45 180.8
BFG21-BF41  9,063  8,728  1,135 90 -45 343.1
BFG21-BF42  9,071  8,788  1,135 90 -50 349.5
BFG21-BF45  9,072  8,788  1,135 90 -75 505.4
BFG21-BF44  9,065  8,728  1,135 90 -75 999.0
BFG21-MH25  9,438  8,908  1,142 90 -70 419.1

 

Results from the new drilling available since the June resource model are listed below.

 

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Table 7-6: Drilling Results from Additional Drilling in 2021 Program

 

Hole ID Interval in meters Au Ag Zone
From To Length g/t g/t
BFG21-MH25 80.40 175.20 94.80 0.27 0.44 BF Vein
BFG21-MH25 236.17 242.25 6.08 0.61 2.42 Mystery Hills
 
BFG21-IS26 138.68 146.30 7.62 0.36 0.84 Indian Springs
 
BFG21-MS27 90.19 143.71 53.52 0.97 8.24 MS Vein Zone
includes 139.15 143.71 4.56 7.02 39.70 MS Vein Zone
BFG21-MS27 224.60 235.24 10.64 1.39 1.31 MS Vein Zone
 
BFG21-MH28 92.24 114.00 21.76 1.04 1.00 BF Vein
includes 93.73 96.72 2.99 5.73 5.86 BF Vein
BFG21-MH28 217.62 223.72 6.10 0.34 0.10 Mystery Hills
BFG21-MH28 241.30 249.85 8.55 0.31 0.10 Mystery Hills
 
BFG21-MS29 61.86 80.16 18.30 0.60 5.48 Polaris Vein
includes 70.40 74.98 4.58 1.43 8.02 Polaris Vein
BFG21-MS29 85.95 87.78 1.83 0.72 5.50 Polaris Vein
BFG21-MS29 123.00 124.21 1.21 0.85 3.50 Polaris Vein
 
BFG21-IS30 274.89 276.45 1.56 0.83 0.30 Indian Springs - Main Gap
 
BFG21-MH31 75.44 87.22 11.78 1.62 3.38 BF Vein
BFG21-MH31 125.54 197.55 72.01 0.24 0.13 Mystery Hills
BFG21-MH31 203.04 207.70 4.66 0.26 0.10 Mystery Hills

 

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BFG21-MH31 223.42 233.69 10.27 0.23 0.15 Mystery Hills
BFG21-MH31 256.66 278.09 21.43 0.22 0.10 Mystery Hills
 
BFG21-IS30 NSV         Indian Springs South
BFG21-IS33 NSV         Indian Springs South
 
BFG21-MH34 77.88 221.00 143.12 0.32 0.57 Mystery Hills
 
BFG21-MS35 1.83 54.50 52.67 0.39 1.60 MS Vein Zone
includes 3.30 7.92 4.62 1.13 3.30 MS Vein Zone
 
BFG21-MS36 64.61 80.97 16.36 0.34 3.27 Polaris Vein
BFG21-MS36 112.60 115.09 2.49 0.21 0.15 Polaris Vein
BFG21-MH37
BFG21-MH37 85.04 134.72 49.68 0.57 6.65 BF Vein
includes 92.35 100.42 8.07 2.54 5.25 BF Vein
BFG21-MH37 147.55 178.19 30.64 0.20 0.11 Mystery Hills
BFG21-MH37 205.44 221.74 16.30 0.32 0.17 Mystery Hills
 
BFG21-IS38 NSV         Indian Springs - Main Gap
 
BFG21-IS39 250.50 251.52 1.02 1.74 0.50 Indian Springs - Main Gap
 
BFG21-MS40 NSV         Other
 

 

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BFG21-BF41 177.76 182.60 4.84 0.39 1.44 BF Hanging Wall
BFG21-BF41 296.53 324.78 28.25 0.25 2.99 BF Hanging Wall
BFG21-BF41 329.79 339.55 9.76 0.59 2.80 BF Vein
includes 329.79 332.72 2.93 1.29 2.70 BF Vein
 
BFG21-BF42 129.13 140.40 11.27 0.82 17.38 BF Hanging Wall
BFG21-BF42 163.21 176.17 12.96 0.21 0.23 BF Hanging Wall
BFG21-BF42 232.56 329.78 97.22 0.41 2.45 BF Hanging Wall
BFG21-BF42 335.00 340.77 5.77 13.55 33.17 BF Vein
BFG21-BF42 346.25 349.45 3.20 0.50 5.39 BF Foot Wall
 
BFG21-BF44 213.97 217.21 3.24 0.49 1.26 BF Hanging Wall
BFG21-BF44 274.93 282.30 7.37 0.20 0.78 BF Hanging Wall
BFG21-BF44 290.96 313.42 22.46 0.26 1.32 BF Hanging Wall
BFG21-BF44 325.67 338.94 13.27 0.26 0.79 BF Hanging Wall
BFG21-BF44 344.13 353.40 9.27 0.27 0.70 BF Hanging Wall
BFG21-BF44 357.17 371.25 14.08 0.29 0.94 BF Hanging Wall
BFG21-BF44 371.25 376.28 5.03 2.11 5.07 BF Vein
BFG21-BF44 376.28 390.29 14.01 0.26 0.67 BF Foot Wall
 
BFG21-BF45 137.92 144.00 6.08 0.37 8.72 BF Hanging Wall

 

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BFG21-BF45 160.93 177.82 16.89 0.33 0.36 BF Hanging Wall
BFG21-BF45 303.06 308.90 5.84 0.24 0.56 BF Hanging Wall
BFG21-BF45 325.22 335.98 10.76 0.64 0.96 BF Hanging Wall
BFG21-BF45 340.77 369.57 28.80 0.53 1.96 BF Hanging Wall
includes 350.58 353.66 3.08 1.47 1.70 BF Hanging Wall
BFG21-BF45 375.80 382.57 6.77 1.54 4.55 BF Vein

 

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8.Sample Preparation, Analyses, and Security

 

8.1Historic Data (1983 – 1996)

 

Drilling and coring information used in this resource estimate was obtained from several drill programs that began in 1983 with St. Joe Minerals, continued with Bond Gold and Lac Minerals, and continued with Barrick in late 1996. Of 1,262 total holes drilled in the area, 147 holes included core and 1,243 holes were drilled using reverse circulation methods. Most of the cored holes included intervals of core plus RC segments. Percent recovery and RQD measurements were made on all core intervals. An assessment was made of the quality of the orientation data and the core was marked accordingly. The core was then logged, recording lithological, alteration, mineralization, and structural information including the orientation of faults, fault lineation’s, fractures, veins, and bedding. With few exceptions, the entire lengths of the holes were sampled. Sample intervals were 5 feet and occasionally based on the geological logging, separating different lithologies and styles of mineralization and alteration. Samples were marked and tagged in the core box before being photographed, after which the core was sawed in half, with one half sent for assay and one half retained for future reference. Each sample interval was bagged separately and shipped to the lab for analysis.

 

Cuttings from nearly all reverse circulation drill programs were divided into two streams, one was sampled and the other was disposed during the reclamation of each drill site. Using a Jones splitter, the sample stream was further divided into two sample bags, one designated for assaying and the second duplicate designated as a field reject. Samples were collected at five-foot intervals and bagged at the drill site. Each five-foot sample was sealed at the drill site and not opened until it reached the analytical lab. At each 20-foot rod connection, the hole was blown clean to eliminate material that had fallen into the hole during the connection. The designated assay samples for each five-foot interval were collected by the site geologist and moved to a secure sample collection area for shipment to accredited laboratories off site. When duplicate samples were collected, they were retained at the drill site as a reference sample, if needed. If the duplicate samples were not used, they were blended with site materials during site reclamation.

 

8.2Augusta Gold Corp. (2020-2021)

 

Augusta Gold Corporation (Augusta Gold) commenced exploration on the Bullfrog Gold Project in 2020, continuing through the second quarter of 2021. Work performed consisted of oriented diamond core drilling, conventional Reverse Circulation (RC) drilling and reconnaissance mapping and surface sampling for drill target generation. A digital, Access based database (GeoSpark) has been maintained by Augusta Gold, including all assays from drill samples and geochemical analysis from surface rock chip samples, completed on the project.

 

8.2.1Augusta Gold Corp. 2020

 

The 2020 drilling program drilled 25 reverse circulation holes. To ensure reliable sample results, Augusta has a QA/QC program in place that monitors the chain-of-custody of samples and includes the insertion of blanks and certified reference materials (CRMs). Barren coarse-grained blanks (“blanks”) were inserted at lithology changes. Three CRMs with variations in gold grade were inserted at the end of each batch by random selection. The following QA/QC program was followed for the 2020 drilling. All testing for the 2020 program was done by American Assay Laboratories (AAL), an independent ISO/IEC 17025 certified laboratory in Sparks, Nevada.

 

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8.2.1.1Standards

 

A74383, B74110, and C73909 standards were purchased from Legend, a wholesale distributor for mining products. The standards were made by KLEN International, a Western Australian company that specializes in the manufacture and supply of fire assay fluxes. A total of 8 A74383, 8 B74110, and 8 C73909 were inserted with RC drill samples. Expected values for each CRM are listed in Table 8-1 through Table 8-3.

 

Table 8-1: CRM Expected Values

 

CRM Au (ppm) Ag (ppm)
A 74383 4.93 47.6
B 74110 0.237 No certified value
C 73909 0.778 No certified value

 

Table 8-2: Summary of Gold in CRM's

 

RM N Outliers
Excluded
Failures
Excluded
Au ppm Observed Au ppm Percent
of
Accepted
Accepted Std. Dev. Average Std. Dev.
C 73909 8 - - 0.778 0.023 0.775 0.018 99.6%
B 74110 8 - - 0.237 0.009 0.240 0.005 101.2%
A 74383 7 1 - 4.930 0.080 4.913 0.074 99.7%
Total 23           Weighted
Average
100.2%

 

Table 8-3: CRM Expected Values

 

RM N Outliers
Excluded
Failures
Excluded
Ag ppm Observed Ag ppm Percent
of
Accepted
Accepted Std. Dev. Average Std. Dev.
A 74383 4 1 3 47.600 1.200 45.329 0.878 95.2%
Total 4           Weighted
Average
95.2%

 

8.2.1.2Blanks

 

Barren coarse-grained blanks were submitted with samples to determine if there has been contamination or sample cross-contamination. Three types of blanks were used with sample submission. BM-20-1 and BM-20-2 used material from an outcrop nearby, BP-20-23 and BP-20-24 used garden pumice obtained from Home Depot, and the remainder of the holes used Black Basalt Cinders provided by AAL. Certificate of Analysis’ with Au and Ag thresholds for blank materials used are not available.

 

A total of 108 blanks were inserted with RC chip samples, blank materials are determined to have failed if the values exceed the maximum threshold of the analyte. Maximum threshold values are listed in Table 8-4.

 

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Table 8-4: Blank Failure Threshold

 

Blank Gold (ppm) Silver (ppm)
Blank (ASL) 0.03 2

 

8.2.1.3Duplicates

 

Duplicates were inserted into the sample sequence every 100-ft. RC chip samples were split at the drill rig. The second half of a RC sample is assayed to determine if the reproducibility of assays for different chips, and if there is any sampling bias. A total of 115 duplicates were submitted with sample submissions. Only duplicate pairs above 10 times the lower detection are considered significant and are included in calculations. 65% or 75 pairs are considered significant for gold, and 2.61% or 3 pairs are considered significant for silver. Duplicate sample results (Table 8-5) show that 100% of the duplicates agree within +/-5% for gold and silver.

 

Table 8-5: Duplicate Sample Results

 

    % of Sample Pairs (>10x d.l.) Reporting Within
Analyte # of Pairs above 10x d.l. ±5
Au 75 100%
Ag 3 100%

 

8.2.2Augusta Gold Corp 2021

 

8.2.2.1Sample Preparation and Security

 

Oriented diamond core drilling (HQ3) was performed using two track-mounted LF-90 drills and one truck mounted LF-90 drill. Core orientation was collected using Reflex ACTIII tooling, overseen by staff geologists and verified by a third-party contractor. All drill core was logged, photographed, split and sampled on-site.

 

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Figure 8-1: Truck Mounted Core Rig

 

 

Conventional Reverse Circulation drilling was performed using a single Atlas Copco RD 10+, with a hole diameter of 6.75 inches. All RC samples were logged and sampled on-site. Samples were air dried, sealed in bulk bags on-site. Additionally, surface rock chip samples were collected during field reconnaissance. These samples were collected, described, and geolocated in the field before being sealed in rice bags for transport. All samples were stored in sealed bulk bags and transported weekly to Paragon Geochemical in Reno, Nevada, USA. Paragon is independent of Augusta Gold and is ISO 9001 compliant.

 

Figure 8-2: Laydown Yard and Sample Storage

 

 

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All surface rock chip samples collected were described in the field and located using hand-held global positioning system (GPS) methods. Sample descriptions were completed either in field notebooks or using a tablet computer. Hard copy notes were digitized for archive, and field notebooks were retained. All sample descriptions were compiled into a master Excel spreadsheet before being imported into the GeoSpark database maintained by Augusta Gold. Samples were bagged and stored in a secure building before being shipped to the lab.

 

Drill core was transported from the rig to the logging facility daily by staff geologists, where washing, logging, photographing, and sampling were completed. Logging data was recorded directly into the GeoSpark database on laptop computers. All core logs and digital core photos were backed up on Microsoft Teams.

 

Figure 8-3: Logging Laptop

 

 

Rock chip samples from RC drilling were transported from the rig to the logging facility daily by staff geologists, where they were air-dried and placed in sealed bulk bags for transport. A geologist was present at the drill rig during all drilling operations, where they oversaw sample collection, built chip trays with representative material, and logged chips on-site. Bulk reject bags were stacked out adjacent to the drill pad and were retained until lab results were received and checked.

 

Surface Rock Chip Sampling: Grab samples were collected from outcrop or rubble crop. These were spot samples taken from well-mineralized or altered rock. Float samples represent transported rock of uncertain origin. All rock samples were located in the field using GPS methods and field descriptions and notes were entered into a master digital database at the end of each field day.

 

Diamond Drill Core Processing: Drill core was transported by pickup truck from the drill site to the logging facility located eight miles north of Beatty, Nevada, proximal to the project area. Upon arrival at the core shack, core was laid out on outdoor quick-logging tables where it was washed, and RQD and recovery measurements were collected. Core was then brought indoors and laid out on tables for detailed geologic logging.

 

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Figure 8-4: Core Shed and Quick Log Station

 

 

First, the quality of orientation marks and lines were checked, and any necessary corrections were made. Core was then marked up using china markers and permanent marking pens to identify important features for logging and recording in photographs. Oriented structural measurements were recorded using the Reflex IQ logger where possible, and manual protractor methods when rock quality precluded the use of the logging device. Sample tags were stapled inside the wax-impregnated cardboard core boxes at geologically determined intervals by the geologist, leaving every fifteenth sample tag available for either a blank or a standard.

 

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Figure 8-5: Logging Facility

 

 

Core was cut using Husqvarna masonry saws, and core techs were instructed to cut core along the orientation line. Split core was then placed back in the core boxes until it was sampled. During sampling, one half of the split core from each sample interval was placed in a cloth bag with the sample number written on it. A corresponding barcode sample tag was placed in each bag, and the bag was tied closed. Sample bags were then stacked in 1-ton super sacks, sealed, and stored in the core yard while waiting for shipment to the lab.

 

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Figure 8-6: Core Saw

 

 

The remnant half core was retained in the core boxes, which were palletized and tarped for storage in the core yard at the logging facility. Significant intercepts and holes of interest were stored in locked shipping containers at the logging facility.

 

Figure 8-7: Sampling Tables

 

 

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Figure 8-8: Core Cutting Facility

 

 

Reverse Circulation Chip-Sample Processing: Samples were collected from a rotary splitter mounted to the cyclone discharge on the drill rig. The rotary splitter was adjusted to provide a sample with a nominal weight of 15 lbs (6.8 kg). A small split was collected in a mesh screen for populating chip trays for geologic logging, and the remaining sample reject was bagged separately and stacked next to the drill pad to be retained until laboratory results had been received and quality checked. Chips collected in the screen were washed and put into chip trays, which were labelled with the corresponding interval footage. The chips were quick-logged at the drill rig by a geologist using a hand lens, and were then transported back to the logging facility at the end of each day for detailed logging under a binocular microscope.

 

RC samples were collected in cloth bags with the sample number and footage interval written on them and a corresponding sample tag inside. As with diamond core samples, every fifteenth sample number was reserved for either a blank or a standard. Samples were transported to the logging facility by pickup truck each day, where they were stacked outside on metal trays for airdrying. Once deemed sufficiently dry, the sample bags were stacked in 1-ton super sacks, sealed, and stored in the core yard while waiting for shipment to the lab.

 

All samples collected during the 2020-2021 exploration program at the Bullfrog Project were stored at the logging facility until being transported directly to Paragon Geochemical in Reno, Nevada. A chain-of-custody form was signed by on-site staff at the time of sample pickup by the laboratory courier service.

 

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Figure 8-9: Sample Pick Up Area

 

 

8.2.2.2Standards

 

The company used three standards; OREAS 250, OREAS-250b, and OREAS 253. These reference materials were purchased from OREAS North America. The reference materials are high quality and were analyzed at more than fifteen laboratories to determine expected values and tolerances. The materials are matrix-matched for the Bullfrog Project mineral style and were prepared from a blend of gold-bearing Wilber Lode oxide ore from the Andy Well Gold Project and barren basaltic saprolite and siltstone (OREAS-250 and OREAS-250b) and basaltic scoria (OREAS-253) sourced from quarries north of Melbourne, Australia.

 

OREAS-250b was ordered as the replacement for OREAS-250, both being nearly identical low grade gold standards. This report contains data from both CRMs. Expected values for the CRMs are based on aqua regia digest inductively coupled plasma analyses for silver and fire assay for gold and are available in Table 8-6. Summary statistics of CRMs performance during the exploration program are summarized in Table 8-7.

 

Table 8-6: CRM Expected Values

 

CRM Gold (ppm) Silver (ppm)
OREAS-250 0.309 0.258
OREAS-250b 0.332 0.073
OREAS-253 1.22 -

 

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Table 8-7: Summary of Gold in CRMs

 

RM N Outliers
Excluded
Failures
Excluded
Au ppm Observed Au ppm Percent
of
Accepted
Accepted Std. Dev. Average Std. Dev.
OREAS-253 110 - 2 1.220 0.045 1.236 0.041 101.3%
OREAS-250b 12 - 1 0.332 0.011 0.322 0.012 96.9%
OREAS-250 94 - 2 0.309 0.013 0.320 0.013 103.7%
Total 216           Weighted Average 102.1%

 

8.2.2.3Blanks

 

Barren coarse-grained blanks were submitted with samples to determine if there has been contamination or sample cross-contamination. Elevated values for blanks may also indicate sources of contamination in the analytical procedure (contaminated reagents or test tubes) or sample solution carry-over during instrumental finish. A total of 220 blanks were inserted with samples and blank materials are determined to have failed if the values exceed the maximum threshold of the analyte. Maximum threshold values are listed in Table 8-8.

 

Table 8-8: Blank Failure Threshold

 

Blank Gold (ppm) Silver (ppm)
Blank 0.03 2

 

8.2.2.4Pulp Duplicates

 

Based on 42 pairs of pulp duplicates above 0.005 ppm gold, 76% duplicates agree within 20% of the original assay. 10 pairs were outside of the limits being 20% above or below the original. The comparison is shown in Figure 8-10.

 

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Figure 8-10: Gold Pulp Comparison

 

 

 

8.2.2.5Summary

 

·Two mislabels were identified and changed in the database. As a result, sampling procedures were updated in Q1 2021 to avoid mislabels.

·Five failures were flagged. Four are a result of two consecutive failures outside two standard deviations. One failure reported outside three standard deviations. These were corrected.

·Silver values were only evaluated for blanks and not standards in this report due to very low values reporting below or close to analytical detection limits.

·Standard OREAS-250 was replaced by OREAS-250b; data from both standards are included in this report.

·Pulp duplicates performed as expected with 76% of pairs reporting within 20%.

·Check assay analysis determined that Paragon reported higher gold values than SGS for 70% of the 80 sample pulps with gold greater than 0.5 g/t Au.

·QC analysis indicates that the CRMs performed well with only 2% of CRMs reporting outside of expectations, the blanks indicate that no instances of contamination occurred.

·In the author’s opinion, the security, sampling and analytical procedures are appropriate and consistent with common industry practice.

 

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9.Data Verification

 

The data for this mineral resource estimate comes from historical exploration and operations. The original laboratory certificates were available for most of the drilling. Data collected by previous operators has in part been verified by the corroborating data in the original laboratory certifications, as well as existing physical and digital records. Blind entry spot checks were run against the database and the laboratory certificates to ensure the quality of the database. No additional exploration drilling has been performed since the closure of the Bullfrog Mine, until the program carried out by Augusta in 2020. QA/QC protocols were followed and reviewed for the 2020 drilling program, including blanks, standards, and duplicates. Lab certificates were available for the 2020 drilling program.

 

A site visit was performed by Patrick Garretson in June 2021 with the purpose of observing and reviewing the site infrastructure, exploration drilling program, core logging and sample preparation facilities. All three existing pits were observed from the highwall or from within the pit. Special attention was given to pit limit boundaries, pit highwall integrity, waste dump placement and pit backfill areas. Infrastructure in terms of roads, claim boundaries and previous site infrastructure were observed and cross-referenced with available property maps and diagrams. The geology of each area was discussed with the project geologists and important geologic features such as faults, veins and lithologic contacts were observed in the exposed pit walls or on surface outcrops.

 

The core storage, sample preparation area and logging facility were visited and site personnel were observed while performing these activities. The facilities have recently been built and the area was very clean and well organized. The core logging facility was well lit and core tables were constructed to allow personnel to log core in an ergonomic position. The core boxes and core within were properly marked for downhole measurements. Geologic data was being logged via laptop computers using a logging program (GeoSpark) with dropdown fields for the selection of geologic features. Sample preparation, bagging and labeling took place in a separate area to avoid cross-contamination. Samples were properly bagged, labeled and prepared for transport to the assay lab. A large whiteboard posted in the logging facility was used to track the progress of a drillhole from the time it was received at the facility to the time it was bagged and ready for transport. A procedure and process for measuring specific gravity via the wax and water immersion process was in place.

 

Core and chip trays from the pre-2020 drilling are no longer available.

 

During the later half of 2021, Augusta Gold Corp. staff conducted an in-depth review and update of legacy data in the Bullfrog drilling database. During the process, previously missing assay information was found on old assay certificates, was verified against drill logs, and added to the database. Additionally, assay grades were checked throughout the legacy data set and consistent conversions from imperial to metric grade units were updated where needed. During the process, it was discovered that some series of older drillholes had improper imperial-metric grade conversions and were subsequently updated, resulting in grade increases for the majority of affected drillholes.

 

In order to verify the updated database, Forte Dynamics requested and received assay certificate and logging data for approximately 10% of the relevant legacy drillholes in the economically important portions of the three gold deposits at Bullfrog. Although there were a few random, single assay discrepancies, most of the drillholes had all their assays match between the new database and assay certificates. Some of the drillholes checked were ones earlier identified with problematic imperial-metric grade conversions and those now match certificate grades and now have correct converted metric grades. Legacy drillholes with newly found assay data were also checked against scans of the assay certificates and they were correct in the new database. Some of the drillholes that were selected for verification had missing runs of assay data and it was verified from the logs and certificates that there were data gaps for those drillholes.

 

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9.1Check Assay

 

The Company submitted 148 core pulps to SGS for multi-element check assays. Samples that are below detection limits are not included in the graphs. The comparison between Paragon and SGS for gold and silver are shown in Figures 9-1 to 9-3.

 

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Figure 9-1: Check Assay Gold Comparison

 

 

Of the 147 pulps, 68 pairs agree within 20% for gold. Figure 9.2 shows the relative percent different (Paragon less SGS divided by the Paragon result) vs. the Paragon result. There are more cases with positive differences showing that Paragon tends to report higher than SGS.

 

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Figure 9-2: Check Assay Gold - Percent Difference

 

 

Table 9-1: Check Assay Gold Statistics

 

Grade N # with Paragon>SGS # with Paragon <SGS Average Bias*
0.1 - 0.5 g/t 30 17 13 6
>0.5 g/t 80 56 24 19

 

There is better agreement between Paragon and SGS results for assays less than 0.5 g/t Au. For these samples, there is a nearly even number of cases with positive and negative differences. For samples with assays greater than 0.5 g/t Au, Paragon reports higher assays for more than twice the cases compared to SGS reporting higher than Paragon.

 

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Figure 9-3: Silver Check Assay Comparison

 

 

There are 19 pulps where silver values are above detection limit in both labs and results are compared in Figure 9.2. The detection limit for silver at SGS is 1 ppm and due to the poor precision of the method, good agreement below 5 ppm is not expected. The silver values greater than 5 ppm show good agreement.

 

In summary, Paragon reported higher gold values than SGS for 70% of the 80 sample pulps with gold greater than 0.5 g/t Au. Given that there were no certified reference materials assayed by SGS, it is not possible to determine which laboratory is more accurate. Paragon performed reasonably well on CRMs and there is no other indication of high bias. The mean of the relative differences is 0.064 with a 0.16 standard deviation. A T-test on the two sets of samples shows that there is no significant difference between the labs.

 

Additional check assays are recommended perhaps at a different lab than SGS, and care should be taken in handling and splitting duplicate samples.

 

9.2Qualified Person’s Opinion

 

The qualified person has reviewed these data and believes that they are sufficient and appropriate for use in this report to determine the mineral resource estimate.

 

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10.Mineral Processing and Metallurgical Testing

 

Most of the metallurgical tests on the Project were conducted on high-grade ores using conventional milling and agitated leaching methods. Typical processing statistics from 1989 into 1999 are shown in Table 10-1.

 

Table 10-1: Typical Processing Statistics from 1989-1999

 

Gold Recovery 91%
Silver Recovery 65%
Leach Time 48 hours
Grind 80% -150 mesh
Rod Consumption 2.3 lbs/ tonne
Ball Consumption 2.1 lbs/ tonne
Cyanide Consumption 0.5 lbs/ tonne
Lime Consumption 1.2 lbs/ tonne

 

Barrick’s mill recoveries were good for gold, but silver recoveries were lower mainly due to its refractory association with manganese. As a result, the 26 million tonnes of tailings stored south of NV Hwy 374 currently have little value.

 

10.1St. Joe

 

10.1.1Large Column Leach Test

 

Reports by St. Joe Minerals provide detailed information on two large column tests on bulk samples of the M-S area. The test facility included a carbon adsorption plant and two concrete columns 24-feet high with inside diameters of 5.5 feet.

 

An area surrounding reverse circulation hole RDH-20 in the M-S area was drilled and blasted to produce 250 tons of bulk sample. The mined sample was split to produce 20 tons of uncrushed or run-of-mine column feed and 22 tons of crushed column feed. The columns were then loaded with efforts to minimize compaction and size sorting of the sample. Solution was applied at a rate of 0.004 gpm/sq. ft. Results after 59 days of leaching are shown below. A 90-day projected recovery was 61% Au on 19 mm (3/4”) crushed ore and 54% on 305 mm (12”) run-of-mine ore. Previous bottle roll tests on drill cuttings in this area averaged 78% gold and 33% silver.

 

Screen analyses of the -19 mm (-3/4”) leached residue shows that the -65 mesh and -10 to + 65 mesh fractions yielded gold recoveries 96% and 86% for respective head assays of 0.074 and 0.057 oz/ton gold. The screen analyses also show that the loss of fines from a sample (which did occur) will not only depress the apparent gold grade but will also cause an even greater depression in the apparent gold recovery.

 

St. Joe came to the following conclusions:

 

·M-S mineral is permeable and readily heap leachable. Cyanide and lime consumptions were reported as “average”, but not quantified.

·Fine fractions yield the highest recovery, and if lost will depress gold recovery.

·Evidence suggests many fines were lost during handling and the recoveries were deemed minimum or conservative.

 

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·There appeared to be little correlation between recovery and grade.

·There were no observable chemical or percolation problems with the sample.

 

10.1.2Bottle Roll Tests on UG Samples

 

Bottle roll tests on 39 underground sample composites obtained from the glory hole and 200 and 300 levels of the M-S mine recovered 78% of the gold from material averaging 0.16 opt and crushed to -8 mesh. Recoveries ranged from 52% to 98% with no obvious correlation between grade and recovery. St. Joe concluded that bottle roll test (presumably for 24 hours) on material crushed to -8 mesh provides good representation as to what may be achieved in a column test sized at 19 mm (3/4-inch).

 

10.1.3Column Testing by Kappes Cassiday & Associates

 

Results from leach tests performed in 1994 by Kappes Cassiday & Associates (KCA) from a 250-kg composite of low-grade material from the Bullfrog mine are shown below:

 

Table 10-2: Leach Test Results

 

  Bottle Column Column
Size, mesh, & mm (inch) -100 mesh -38 mm (-1.5”) -9.5 mm (-3/8”)
Calc.  Head, opt Au 0.029 0.035 0.029
Rec % 96.6 71.4 75.9
Leach time, days 2.0 41 41
NaCN, kg/t (lb/short ton) 0.5 (0.1) 0.385 (0.77) 5.35 (10.7)
Lime, kg/t ( lb/short ton) 1.0 (2.0) 0.155 (0.31) 1.75 (0.35)

 

Two 45 kg samples were crushed and loaded into 6-inch diameter columns to heights of five feet. Leach solution was applied at a rate ranging from 0.004 to 0.006 gpm/sq ft and initially contained 1.0 g NaCN/l and 0.5 g/l lime. Input solutions were 0.4 to 0.6 g/l NaCN while maintaining a pH of 9.5 to 10.5. The initial solution was clear and bright yellow, and the final solution was clear and colorless. Column tailings retained 6% to 7.5% moisture after drain down, and each were screened and assayed for size fractions. The leach recovery curves are shown below in Figure 10-1.

 

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Figure 10-1: Leach Test Results

 

 

The recovery in the coarse crush (-38.1 mm [-1.5”]) was a 2-stage crush size and was 4.5% less than the fine crush (-9.5mm [-3/8”]), which would require 3-stage crushing. The 41-day leach periods are also short and ultimate heap leach recoveries may be greater.

 

10.2Pilot Testing by Barrick

 

In 1995, Barrick performed pilot heap leach tests on 844 tons of low-grade material from the Bullfrog pit and 805 tons of typical material from the M-S pit. Both materials were crushed to -1/2 inch and leached at an application rate of 0.006 gpm/sq ft. Lift heights were 12 feet. Results are listed below:

 

Table 10-3: Heap Leach Pilot Tests – Barrick

 

 

BF

Low-Grade

M-S

Mineralization

Calc.  Head, opt Au 0.019 0.048
Calc.  Head, opt Ag 0.108 0.380
Projected Au Rec % 67 74
Projected Ag Rec % 9 32
Leach Time, days 41 37
NaCN, kg/t (lb/short ton) 0.10 (0.20) 0.125 (0.25)
Lime, kg/t ( lb/short ton) Nil (Nil) Nil (Nil)

 

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Low-grade material was stockpiled during pit operations and ranged from a cutoff of 0.5 g/t gold and Barrick’s operating mill cutoff of 0.85 g/t. These stockpiles were later blended with underground ore and milled during 1998 and early 1999. All pit material below 0.5 g/t was dumped as waste rock. Based on the source and grade of this material, it is representative of the mineralization remaining in the Bullfrog deposit. The M-S sample represented ore that was in large measure mined by Barrick after this pilot test, but the information on reagent consumption is applicable to remaining mineralization and the recovery has reference value.

 

Acceptable solution grades at the end of the tests and leaching beyond 41 days at lower solution application rates could result in higher ultimate recoveries. Lime and cyanide consumptions were low. The test heap also did not reach maximum recovery due to poor solution distribution in the first couple of feet, which could be recovered from multiple lifts in a production scenario and improved solution distribution.

 

10.3Column Leach Tests

 

In 2018 and 2019, standard column leach tests were performed on materials from the Bullfrog property by McClelland Laboratories, located in Reno, NV. The sample tested in 2018 was a composite sample created from a bulk sample representing “Brecciated Vein Ore Type”. The exact location (or locations) of the sample is not known, and it is unclear whether these samples can be considered representative of the entire deposit. The results of the 2018 program are summarized in Table 10-4 below.

 

Table 10-4: Column Leach Test Results (2018)

 

Feed Size Crush Method Test Time Au Recovery, %
9.5mm (3/8”) Conventional Column 60 days 58
9.5mm (3/8”) Conventional Bottle Roll 4 days 59
1.7mm (10 mesh) HPGR Column 60 days 77
1.7mm (10 mesh) HPGR Bottle Roll 4 days 70
150µm Conventional/Grind Bottle Roll 4 days 89

 

The 2018 column leach test results suggest a crush size dependency where HPGR crushing (high pressure grinding rolls) may have the potential to significantly improve recovery. The lime requirement for protective alkalinity was low and cyanide consumption was moderate. The samples tested in 2019 were prepared from three (3) bulk samples. The exact location (or locations) of these samples is not known, and it is unclear whether these samples can be considered representative of the entire deposit. The results of the 2019 program are summarized in Table 10-5 below.

 

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Table 10-5: Column Leach Test Results (2019)

 

Sample Feed Size Crush Method Test Time Au Rec., %
Composite E 9.5mm (3/8”) Conventional Column 151 days 75
Composite E 6.3mm (1/4”) HPGR Column 122 days 77
Composite E 1.7mm (10 mesh) HPGR Column 102 days 89
MS-M-1 9.5mm (3/8”) Conventional Column 108 days 66
MS-M-1 6.3mm (1/4”) HPGR Column 108 days 77
MS-M-1 1.7mm (10 mesh) HPGR Column 89 days 85
MH-M-2 9.5mm (3/8”) Conventional Column 109 days 83
MH-M-2 6.3mm (1/4”) HPGR Column 105 days 88
MH-M-2 1.7mm (10 mesh) HPGR Column 86 days 91

 

The 2019 column leach test results further highlight the size dependency on recovery and suggest that HPGR crushing may have the potential to significantly improve gold recovery. The cement required for agglomeration of the samples was adequate for maintaining protective alkalinity. The cyanide consumption was low. Based on these test programs, Bullfrog mineralization types appear amenable to heap leach recovery methods. Further testing is required to properly assess the benefit of HPGR crushing and better define the optimal particle size for heap leaching.

 

10.4Conclusions for Heap Leaching

 

Based on the test work completed to-date that is applicable to the remaining mineralization in the BF and M-S pits, preliminary ultimate heap leach recoveries are projected as follows:

 

Table 10-6: Estimated Heap Leach Recovery

 

Leach Size

80% - 9.5 mm

(3/8 inch)

ROM

Low Grade

Estimated Recovery 70% 50%

 

* Silver Recovery is estimated at 1.07 x gold recovered ounces, which is the typical recovery attained by Barrick.

 

All mineralization known to-date would be heap leached and the pregnant solutions would be processed through a carbon ADR plant to be constructed on site.

 

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The Bullfrog and M-S deposits originally contained less than 2% sulfide minerals that were thoroughly oxidized below existing and proposed mining depths, including the current water table and virtually all deep drill holes. The historic water table was much lower in the geologic past, and the detachment and associated faults allowed epithermal solutions to oxidize the host and adjacent wall rocks to great depths. There is a small volume of mineralization in the footwall stock-works or east side of the central Bullfrog area near section 8148 north that contains carbon-pyrite alteration with attendant reductions in leach recoveries. This area needs to be researched further as to extent and recovery. Additional leach tests are needed to optimize performance versus crush size, as well as better understand silver recovery, agglomeration, permeability, and potential impacts from sulfides or organic carbon.

 

10.5Leach Pad Siting

 

There are seven areas that potentially could serve as leach pad sites within reasonable trucking or conveying distances from the Bullfrog and M-S pits as described below in Figure 10-2.

 

Figure 10-2: Potential Leach Pad Sites & Approximate Capacities

 

              Comments
  Criteria: Stacked Density:  1.8 t/m3     Swell factor of 35% for in place density of 2.45
    Heap Height :  30 m     As crushed material percolates well with minimum fines and
    Min.Pad Slope:  3%     clay, heights likely could be higher subject to confirmation
    Max. Pad Slope:  Site & Design Dependent testing.
Priority          
           
1 South Rainbow Mtn.     360,000   m2 Has the shortests conveying/trucking distances and lowest
  West of M-S pit and N of Rhyolite   10,800,000   m3 operating costs, but expansion is limited. M-S waste dump is
  Area: 600 x 600 Typ. Slope  5% 19,440,000   tonnes on NE side of area.
               
2 South Paradise Mtn.     270,000   m2 Second shortest convey/truck distance. Could be used after
  1200 m east BF pit & 1600 m SE MS pit 8,100,000   m3 No. 1 is filled.
  Area: 450 x 600 Typ. Slope  7% 14,580,000   tonnes  
               
3 South Burton Mtn.     975,000   m2  
  2300 m NE BF pit & 2000 m E MS pit   29,250,000   m3  
  Area: 1300 x 750 Typ. Slope  5% 52,650,000   tonnes  
               
4 NE Barrick Tail Pond   3,600,000   m2 Requires a conveyor or truck bridge over Hwy 374. This area
  S of Hwy 374     108,000,000   m3 could be substantially expanded, but this not foreseeably
  Area:1800 x 2000 Typ. Slope  4% 194,400,000   tonnes needed.
               
5 Barrick Tail Pond     1,000,000   m2 Requires a conveyor or truck bridge over Hwy 374 and
  S. of Hwy 374. Contains 26 mm tonnes 30,000,000   m3 geotech studies on tailings. Lining this pad would be easy
  Area:1000 x 1000 Typ. Slope  1% 54,000,000   tonnes easy, but obtaining a 3+% slope requires earthworks.
               
6 West Plantsite     4,410,000   m2 Requires a conveyor/truck bridge to cross the road
  West of road to Rhyolite and a cemetary 132,300,000   m3 to Rhyolite. Cannot be easily expanded but this
  Area: 2100 x 2100 Typ. Slope  4% 238,140,000   tonnes is not foreseeably needed.
               
7 Indian Springs     2,560,000   m2 Long haul from Buffrog and M-S pits. M-S pit impairs
  3300 m NE BF pit & 2300 m NE MS pit 76,800,000   m3 direct route
  Area:1600 x 1600 Typ. Slope  4% 138,240,000   tonnes  

 

In all cases, additional drilling is required to adequately explore or condemn these areas, and considerable technical and economic studies are needed to select any site.

 

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10.6Additional Testing

 

In 2020 a new test program was completed, and this information is summarized below.

 

Cyanidation bottle rolls tests were conducted on 14 variability composites from the Bullfrog project. The samples are considered representative of the various types and styles of mineralization. The composites were generated from coarse assay rejects from a reverse circulation drilling program. Composite gold grades ranged from 0.14 to 0.91 Au g/tonne, with an average grade of 0.42 Au g/tonne. A nominal crush size of 1.7 mm was used for the test work. The samples were not crushed using an HPGR. Summary bottle roll testing results are showed in Table 10-7.

 

Table 10-7: Summary Metallurgical Results – Bottle Roll Tests

 

Composite Drillhole   REAGENT
REQUIREMENTS
Interval (ft) Au
Rec.
Head Grade Au
g/tonne
kg/tonne mineralized
material
From To % Calculated Assayed NaCN Cons. Lime
Added
4594-001 BM-20-1 0 40 67.8 0.59 0.80 0.15 1.1
4594-002 BM-50-1 40 75 67.2 0.58 0.50 0.11 1.2
4594-003 BM-20-4 280 335 44.4 0.27 0.26 0.12 1.7
4594-004 BM-20-4 335 390 38.7 0.31 0.30 0.17 1.5
4594-005 BM-20-6 295 395 66.7 0.27 0.29 0.11 1.4
4594-006 BM-20-6 395 485 58.5 1.06 0.86 0.11 1.6
4594-007 BM-20-11 95 185 72.7 0.22 0.18 <0.07 1.1
4594-008 BM-20-14 0 45 58.1 0.31 0.27 <0.07 1.8
4594-009 BM-20-14 90 135 80.0 0.15 0.13 0.14 1.5
4594-010 BM-20-14 170 235 84.2 0.19 0.21 0.14 1.2
4594-011 BM-20-14 235 260 86.8 0.53 0.57 0.09 1.2
4594-012 BM-20-15 35 130 72.3 0.47 0.46 0.17 1.4
4594-013 BM-20-19 0 115 73.3 0.30 0.27 0.08 1.4
4594-014 BM-20-22 305 385 81.0 0.63 0.67 0.09 1.6

 

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The Bullfrog variability composites generally were amenable to agitated cyanidation treatment at a nominal 1.7 mm feed size. Gold recovery ranged from 38.7% to 86.8% and averaged 68.0%. Recovery was 58.1% or greater for 12 of the 14 composites. Gold recovery rates were moderate, and generally, gold extraction was substantially complete in 24 hours of leaching. Gold recovery was not correlated to gold head grades for these 14 composites. Gold recovery consistently decreased with increasing sulfide sulfur content.

 

Silver extractions were 1.4 Ag g/tonne or less for all composites. Silver composite extraction ranged from 14.3% to 66.7%.

 

Bottle roll test cyanide consumption was consistently low and was 0.17 kg NaCN/tonne mineralized material or less for all 14 composites. Lime requirements for pH control were also low and were 1.8 kg/tonne mineralized material or less.

 

There are no additional relevant processing factors that the author of this report is aware of that could materially affect the mineral resource estimate presented in this technical report.

 

10.7Qualified Person’s Opinion

 

The qualified person has reviewed these data and believes that they are sufficient and appropriate for use in this report to determine the mineral resource estimate.

 

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11.Mineral Resource Estimates

 

11.1Summary

 

Mineral resources were updated based on technical information as of December 31, 2021, by Forte Dynamics.for the Bullfrog project. The update utilizes all new drilling through the end of 2021 in addition to updated geologic models and database improvements by Augusta Gold Corp. staff. The mineral resources were estimated utilizing conventional 3D computer block modeling based on most current drillhole database, grade shells, vein shapes, geologic constraints, current topography, as-built underground solids and as-built open pit surfaces. The grade shells and the vein shapes were constructed using Leapfrog software and follow the dominant structural and mineralized trends within each geologic setting. Geologic constraints were applied to the block model to prevent grade estimation into barren rock types. The underground as-built solids were expanded by 1m in all directions and mined out in the block model. Open pit as-built surfaces accounted for post-mining backfill that has been placed as part of the site reclamation practices. The resource block models were estimated in Vulcan software using ordinary kriging and multiple estimation passes with expanding search distances and varying composite selection criteria.

 

Lerch-Grossman pit optimizations were done in Minemax software. Assumptions for gold price, silver price, metallurgical recovery, pit slopes, mining costs, processing costs and G&A costs were selected based on data that was available and comparing to other comparable operations. The optimized pits were limited to the property boundaries. The comparable pricing for gold of $1,550 compares well with the three-year trailing average of $1,558/ozAu in June 2021, an accepted method for a mineral resource reporting price. The $20/oz silver price compares to a three-year average of $19.07 and was typical of other similar reports.

 

The open pit Mineral Resources for each area (Bullfrog, Montgomery-Shoshone and Bonanza) were calculated inside the pit shell and only blocks with a positive net value (revenue minus costs) were reported as mineral resource. The Mineral Resources are presented in the following tables.

 

Incremental cutoff grades are automatically calculated by the Minemax software, and silver adds some additional value. The incremental cutoff considers process, G&A, and refining costs, but not mining with assumption it is simply deciding whether already mined material will have greater in an ore destination or as waste. The incremental gold cutoff grades are 0.137 g/tonne for oxide-leach and 0.224 g/tonne for sulfide leach.

 

Break-even cutoff grades, which consider mining cost and can identify blocks have a positive net value, including mining costs. Mineral resources are reported at break-even cutoffs of 0.192g/t for oxide-leach and 0.315 g/t for sulfide-leach.

 

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Table 11-1: Bullfrog Mineral Resources

 

Mineral Resources as of December 31, 2021 - Bullfrog
Redox/
Cutoff
Classification Tonnes
(Mt)
Au grade
(g/t)
Ag grade
(g/t)
Au Contained
(koz)
Ag Contained
(koz)

Oxide/

0.192 g/t

Measured 24.50 0.537 1.28 422.77 1,010.02
Indicated 36.32 0.515 1.14 602.02 1,332.18
Measured and Indicated 60.82 0.524 1.20 1,024.79 2,342.20
Inferred 14.40 0.460 0.77 213.06 358.49
 

Sulfide/

0.315g/t

Measured 1.30 0.710 1.28 29.77 53.52
Indicated 1.99 0.625 1.32 39.94 84.47
Measured and Indicated 3.29 0.659 1.30 69.72 137.99
Inferred 1.05 0.657 1.14 22.14 38.53
             
Total - Oxide and Sulfide Measured 25.80 0.545 1.28 452.55 1,063.54
Indicated 38.31 0.521 1.15 641.96 1,416.65
Measured and Indicated 64.12 0.531 1.20 1,094.51 2,480.19
Inferred 15.44 0.474 0.80 235.20 397.02

 

Notes:

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 82% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 20% For Ag.
2.Sulphide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 50% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 12% for Ag.
3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.25/tonne.
4.Processing, general and administration, and refining costs are US$5.00/tonne, US$0.50/tonne, and US$0.05/tonne respectively.
5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.
6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes.
7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

 

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Table 11-2: Montgomery-Shoshone Mineral Resources

 

Mineral Resources as of December 31, 2021 - Montgomery-Shoshone
Redox/
Cutoff
Classification Tonnes
(Mt)
Au grade
(g/t)
Ag grade
(g/t)
Au Contained
(koz)
Ag Contained
(koz)

Oxide/

0.192 g/t

Measured 1.97 0.637 3.35 40.35 212.12
Indicated 1.35 0.555 2.85 24.04 123.66
Measured and Indicated 3.32 0.603 3.15 64.38 335.78
Inferred 1.05 0.586 3.45 19.76 116.41

 

Notes:

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 82% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 20% For Ag.
2.Sulphide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 50% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 12% for Ag. No sulphide material was reported for Montgomery-Shoshone.
3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.25/tonne.
4.Processing, general and administration, and refining costs are US$5.00/tonne, US$0.50/tonne, and US$0.05/tonne respectively.
5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.
6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes.
7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

 

Table 11-3: Bonanza Mineral Resources

 

Mineral Resources as of December 31, 2021 - Bonanza
Redox/
Cutoff
/
Classification Tonnes
(Mt)
Au grade
(g/t)
Ag grade
(g/t)
Au Contained
(koz)
Ag Contained
(koz)

Oxide

0.192 g/t

Measured 2.35 0.446 0.44 33.78 33.48
Indicated 1.22 0.422 0.44 16.61 17.17
Measured and Indicated 3.58 0.438 0.44 50.40 50.65
Inferred 0.19 0.473 0.37 2.94 2.28

 

Notes:

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 82% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 20% For Ag.
2.Sulphide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 50% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 12% for Ag. No sulphide material was reported for Bonanza.
3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.25/tonne.
4.Processing, general and administration, and refining costs are US$5.00/tonne, US$0.50/tonne, and US$0.05/tonne respectively.
5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.
6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes.
7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

 

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Table 11-4: Combined Property Mineral Resources

 

  Combined Global Resources as of December 31, 2021 - Oxide and Sulphide
  Classification Tonnes
(Mt)
Au grade
(g/t)
Ag grade
(g/t)
Au Contained
(koz)
Ag Contained
(koz)
  Measured 30.13 0.544 1.35 526.68 1,309.13
  Indicated 40.88 0.519 1.18 682.61 1,557.49
  Measured and Indicated 71.01 0.530 1.26 1,209.29 2,866.62
  Inferred 16.69 0.481 0.96 257.90 515.72

 

Notes:

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 82% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 20% For Ag.
2.Sulphide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,550/oz and a recovery of 50% for Au and silver price of US$20/oz and a recovery of 12% for Ag. No sulphide material was reported for Montgomery-Shoshone or Bonanza.
3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.25/tonne.
4.Processing, general and administration, and refining costs are US$5.00/tonne, US$0.50/tonne, and US$0.05/tonne respectively.
5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.
6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes.
7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

 

11.2Database

 

The drillhole database was provided as an Excel spreadsheet with multiple data tabs for collar, downhole survey, assay, and lithologic information (AGC Master Export_20220204.xls). Additionally, the spreadsheet tabs included notes and other meta-data to help discern data quality. The primary collar, survey, and assay tabs were exported to individual spreadsheets for the data types (AGC_Master_collar_20220204_LS1.xls, AGC_Master_survey_20220204_LS1.xls, AGC_Master_assay_20220204_LS1.xls).

 

The three spreadsheets, which include extra meta-data were compared with logging and available certificate data and against each other to determine match-ability between the three basic data types used to import into the Vulcan software. Each of the three include tabs for final sorted data to be exported to csv.

 

A common scenario for many drillholes was to have a second collar name with a “C”, “c”, “A”, or “a” after it to identify that portion of a drillhole as a second drillhole, or a core tail of an RC drillhole (example is RDH-373 and RDH-373C). However, the dh-survey, collar coordinate, or assay data were not always synchronised into a single common drillhole name for both the core and core tail. The data for export in each spreadsheet was synchronized to common HoleID’s and holes with missing assay or collar data were removed. The final database consisted of 1,322 collar records, 6,082 survey records and 173,509 assay interval records. The final number of valid drillholes is less than the previous data set from June 2021 due to duplicate collar with different spellings being removed.

 

A major difference between the most recent database provided by Augusta Gold and the database for June, 2021 was the treatment of missing assay data. In the old data, many missing intervals had 0 or near-0 grades applied. The newest database had no record at all and the resulting drillhole data in Vulcan has missing portions of the drillhole trace. These are treated as no-grade in the estimation process while the 0’s or near-0’s in the old database tended to lower grades in the gold estimation process. It is generally excepted that missing intervals be treated as null or missing intervals instead of 0’s as the lack of sample could be due to poor sample recovery or lost assay data.

 

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11.2.1Vulcan Isis Drillhole Database

 

The three primary drillhole data spreadsheets were saved as csv files and were imported into an Isis drillhole database in Vulcan. The the Isis database was setup with 18 fields including:

 

HOLEID, FROM, TO, FROM_FT, TO_FT, SAMPLETYPE, SAMPLE_KG, REJECT, AU_RES, AG_RES, AUPPM, AGPPM, AUCAP, AGCAP, AREA, DOMAIN, LITH_A, LITH_N

 

These include new fields that are not in the original database to aid in data usage, domaining, and estimation. The feet version of downhole intervals aids in comparing to legacy drill logs, were in feet. The sample_kg field helps with sample recovery where available. The reject field was setup in the Excel assay spreadsheet and was coded there to identify rejected drillholes in Vulcan after import. The AUPPM, AU_RES, and AU_CAP fields (and similar AG fields) are a hierarchy of initial imported gold grade, the gold grade considered for estimation and is of resource quality, and a capped version of that grade. The RES grades usually equal AUPPM, except where the interval is rejected. The rejections include both entire rejected drillhole and portions of drillholes were assay grades are not to be used. The AU_CAP is set with a capping script later on.

 

Figure 11-1 shows the drillhole collars and traces within the respective model boundaries for each of the block models.

 

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Figure 11-1: Drillhole Collar Locations

 

 

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11.2.2Drillhole Exclusion

 

Drillholes excluded from estimation are listed below. At Bullfrog, 25 holes have been excluded from resource estimation due primarily to downhole contamination and a few location and downhole survey issues. Several drillholes were re-instated compared to last year due primarily to newly available data. At Montgomery-Shoshone 21 drillholes now have numerous data gaps with unknown grades in the new database and are inappropriate for local mineral estimation.

 

Table 11-5: Drillhole Exclusion for Bullfrog Deposit

 

HoleID Rejected 2022 Rejected 2021 Notes:
CRDH-5A Yes No Downhole contamination
CRDH-7A Yes No Downhole contamination
DDH-041 Yes No Underground collar in unlikely location
RDH-105 Yes No Downhole contamination and conflicts with two other close drillholes
RDH-148 Yes No Downhole contamination and conflicts with core hole nearby
RDH-195 Yes Yes Downhole contamination
RDH-244 Yes Yes Downhole contamination
RDH-330 Yes No Downhole contamination
RDH-359 Yes Yes Downhole contamination
RDH-375 Yes No No downhole surveys and poor match with nearby drillholes
RDH-832 Yes Yes Downhole contamination
RDH-855 Yes Yes Downhole contamination
RDH-856 Yes Yes Downhole contamination
RDH-857 Yes Yes Downhole contamination
RDH-859 Yes Yes Downhole contamination
RDH-868 Yes Yes Downhole contamination
RDH-882C Yes Yes RC portion is rejected due to downhole contamination, Core tail unrejected
RDH-891 Yes Yes Downhole contamination
RDH-898 Yes Yes Downhole contamination
RDH-912 Yes Yes Downhole contamination
RDH-924 Yes Yes Downhole contamination
RDH-927 Yes Yes Downhole contamination
RDH-966 Yes No Location shift of 100 meters in new data causing conflict with other drillhole data
RDH-817C Yes No Survey data causes unlikely hole kink and moves highgrade intercept outside of highgrade structure
RDH-827 Yes No Survey data causes unlikely hole kink and moves highgrade intercept outside of highgrade structure
DDH-014 No Yes Unrejected - Core hole with good data
DDH-016 No Yes Unrejected - Core hole with good data
DDH-017 No Yes Unrejected - Core hole with good data
EDH-008 No Yes Unrejected - Now has assay data
ES-002 No Yes Unrejected - Now has assay data
RDH-108 No Yes Unrejected - Now has assay data
RDH-185 No Yes Unrejected - Now has assay data
RDH-495 No Yes Unrejected - Has no assay data anyway and doesn't export from database
RDH-921 No Yes Unrejected - Now has assay data

 

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Table 11-6: Drillhole Exclusion for Montgomery-Shoshone Deposit

 

HoleID Rejected 2022 Rejected 2021 Notes:
MS-94-1 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
MS-94-2 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
MS-94-3 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
MS-94-4 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
MSDH-1 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
MSDH-2 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
MSDH-3 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
MSDH-4 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
MSDH-6 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
MSDH-7 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
MSDH-8 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
MSDH-9 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
RDH-027 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
RDH-028 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
RDH-034 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
RDH-036 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
RDH-057 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
RDH-058 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
RDH-568A Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
RDH-581 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals
RDH-577 Yes No Sporadic, discontinuous, short assay intervals

 

11.3Grade Shells

 

Grade shells representing an 0.18 g/t gold value were developed for each area in Leapfrog software and exported to Vulcan. The grade shells were developed using 3 meter composites and modeled using the principal structural or mineralized trend in each of the respective areas. The Bullfrog area also contained a vein solid to represent the high grade vein. The vein solid was constructed using the hanging wall and footwall of the historic underground stope shapes combined with the drillhole logging information. The vein shape approximates a 3.0 g/t gold value. The Leapfrog triangulations were filtered to eliminate extraneous solids that were constructed on limited drillhole data and didn’t represent continuous mineralization based on multiple drillhole intercepts.

 

The drillhole data was flagged using the grade shells that were provided and the integer values for the DOMAIN field are shown in Table 11-7.

 

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Figure 11-2: Grade Shell (DOMAIN) Triangulations

 

 

 

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Table 11-7: DOMAIN Codes and Corresponding Grade Shell Triangulations

 

DOMAIN
Code
Area Triangulation Name Description
10 Bullfrog Modlim_BF.00t Background
11 Bullfrog AU_GPT_INDICATOR_0_18_BULLFROG_trim.00t Low Grade Shell
12 Bullfrog GM_RESDOMS_-_BF_MAIN_PART1.00t Vein Shape
20 Montgomery-Shoshone Modlim_MS.00t Background
21 Montgomery-Shoshone AU_GPT_INDICATOR_0_18_MS_-_INSI_PART1.00t Low Grade Shell
30 Bonanza Modlim_BZ.00t Background
31 Bonanza AU_GPT_INDICATOR_0_18_BONANZA_-_PART1 Low Grade Shell

 

11.4Statistical Analyses and Capping of Outlier Values

 

All raw drillhole intervals available in mid-2021 were analyzed utilizing histograms, cumulative distribution plots and summary statistics to check the overall distribution of assays and provide guidance for grade capping. Gold and Silver assays were capped for each grade domain utilizing a combination of cumulative distribution plots, total metal lost and coefficient of variation (CV). Breaks or inflections in the cumulative distribution plots were used as the first set of criteria for choosing a capping value followed by limiting the total metal lost between 5% and 10% and/or maintaining a CV less than 2.0. Histograms, cumulative distribution plots and summary statistics for gold and silver assays are listed in Appendix 1.

 

Separate database fields were generated for the capped Gold and Silver assays and a script was used to set the capped values in the drillhole database. Tables 11-8 and 11-9 summarize the capping statistics for Gold and Silver assays.

 

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Table 11-8: Capping Values and Statistics for Gold Assays

 

DOMAIN Au Min
(g/t)
Au Max
(g/t)
Au Avg
(g/t)
Au Cap
Value
Percentile
(%)
Total GT
Lost (%)
CV
(capped)
Samples
Capped
10 0.000 23.800 0.074 11.000 99.94 3.36 4.67 4
11 0.000 141.748 0.534 12.500 99.77 5.87 1.87 40
12 0.000 135.000 4.387 60.000 99.65 2.78 1.58 12
20 0.000 7.080 0.040 1.900 99.85 2.84 1.89 6
21 0.000 44.460 0.679 7.000 99.42 5.41 1.32 42
30 0.000 57.910 0.065 2.000 99.78 11.17 1.63 21
31 0.000 52.800 0.675 10.000 99.16 11.30 1.85 32

 

Table 11-9: Capping Values and Statistics for Silver Assays

 

DOMAIN Ag Min
(g/t)
Ag Max
(g/t)
Ag Avg
(g/t)
Ag Cap
Value
Percentile
(%)
Total GT
Lost (%)
CV
(capped)
Samples
Capped
10 0.000 180.000 0.352 13.000 99.83 6.75 1.89 36
11 0.000 179.000 1.325 30.000 99.79 2.96 1.64 41
12 0.000 503.203 7.911 100.000 99.60 5.03 1.43 13
20 0.000 100.000 0.349 10.000 98.90 12.17 1.35 36
21 0.000 867.000 4.655 100.000 99.78 6.15 1.76 18
30 0.000 59.440 0.527 4.300 99.54 2.00 1.32 58
31 0.000 86.000 1.246 25.000 99.55 6.38 1.84 18

 

11.5Compositing

 

The capped assay intervals for gold and silver were composited on 3.0-meter down-hole lengths and broken on DOMAIN boundaries. The 3.0-meter composite length corresponds to the 3.0-meter sub-block size in the resource block model and aligns with the anticipated 9.0-meter bench height to be used in the mining of the mineral resource.

 

11.6Variography

 

Variograms were generated in Vulcan Analyzer for the composited data contained within the low-grade domains for the three areas and also within the high grade vein shape at Bullfrog. This variography study was completed for the June 2021 resource model update.

 

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Figure 11-3: Variogram for Bullfrog Low Grade Domain (11)

 

 

Figure 11-4: Variogram for Bullfrog High Grade Vein Domain (12)

 

 

 

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Figure 11-5: Variogram for Montgomery-Shoshone Low Grade Domain (21)

 

 

 

Figure 11-6: Variogram for Bonanza Low Grade Domain (31)

 

 

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11.7Block Model

 

Three separate block models were generated for the mineralized areas. The origin and extents of the models were based on the extents of the geologic models, drillhole density and potential open pit extents. A 9m x 9m x 9m parent block size was chosen to best match historic mining benches in each of the pit areas and a 3m x 3m x 3m sub-block size was chosen to provide increased resolution along topographic, geologic and grade shell boundaries. Table 11-10 lists the block model coordinates and extents.

 

Table 11-10: Block Model Extents

 

  Bullfrog (BF) Montgomery-
Shoshone (MS)
Bonanza (BZ)
Minimum Easting (m) 8,695 9,150 7,100
Maximum Easting (m) 9,901 10,806 8,000
Minimum Northing (m) 7,280 9,250 7,700
Maximum Northing (m) 9,323 10,753 8,807
Minimum Elevation (m) 701 739 600
Maximum Elevation (m) 1,304 1,468 1,401
Block Size X (Parent, Sub) 9 meters, 3 meters 9 meters, 3 meters 9 meters, 3 meters
Block Size Y (Parent, Sub) 9 meters, 3 meters 9 meters, 3 meters 9 meters, 3 meters
Block Size Z (Parent, Sub) 9 meters, 3 meters 9 meters, 3 meters 9 meters, 3 meters
Number Blocks X 134 184 100
Number Blocks Y 227 167 123
Number Blocks Z 67 81 89
Easting Extents (m) 1,206 1,656 900
Northing Extents (m) 2,043 1,503 1,107
Elevation Extents (m) 603 729 801

 

The topographic surfaces used to construct the block models at Bullfrog include a combination of surfaces created from 10-meter contour intervals and detailed high-resolution DEM surfaces create from flyover data. The high-resolution DEM surfaces were used inside the current pit while the contour surfaces were used for the overall project area. The bottom of the Bullfrog pit, which has recently been backfilled during the reclamation process, has been captured by a deepest mining surface in the project data that was created from toe-crest-ramp as-builts information.

 

Triangulated solids that represent surface waste dump material were generated from aerial photo data, current topographic surfaces and the drillhole collar locations prior to placement of the waste dumps. Sub-blocks were created along all topographic surfaces and a topo percentage field was calculated to quantify the percentage of a given block below the topographic surface.

 

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Solids that represent the historic underground stope shapes in the Bullfrog area were provided. These solids were analyzed in context with the Bullfrog vein shape and were expanded by 1m in all directions to account for differences between the vein shape and underground stope shapes. The expansion of the stopes also provides a buffer to account for potential collapse along the stope boundaries that could result in increased dilution and mineralization loss. Sub-blocks were created along all underground stope boundaries. Figure 11-7 displays an East-West cross-section showing the original stope shape (as-built) with the 1 meter expanded stope shape. The modeled Bullfrog vein shape is displayed as reference.

 

Figure 11-7: Bullfrog Underground Stope Shapes

 

 

 

The same grade shell solids used to flag the DOMAIN field in the drillhole and composite files were used to flag the DOMAIN field in the block models. Sub-blocks were created along all grade shell boundaries.

 

Block model fields were created to capture gold values, silver values, distance to nearest composite, number of composites and number of drillholes used in the block estimation. A lithology field was flagged using the lithologic solids and used to assign rock density. Block tonnes and block ounce fields were calculated based on block volume, topo percent, density and estimated gold and silver grades. These fields were used in the subsequent re-blocking of the model to a regularized 9m x 9m x 9m block model for pit optimization work.

 

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11.8Estimation Methodology

 

Gold and silver grades were ordinary kriged using multiple-pass estimation runs based on estimation domain and expanding search distances. The first three estimation passes were set at a search distance equivalent to the variogram range corresponding to 50%, 80% and 90% of the variogram sill generated from 9 meter gold composites, respectively. A fourth estimation pass was done at longer search ranges to generate mineral inventory. Composite selection criteria were also varied by estimation pass in terms of the minimum/maximum samples required and number of samples per drillhole. Gold and silver grades were estimated using the same estimation parameters. A nearest-neighbor estimate and an inverse-distance estimate were also completed for each of the models and used for block model validation purposes. The variogram models used in the estimation were taken from the variograms presented in Section 11.6. Table 11-11 summarizes the major estimation parameters used in the estimation runs.

 

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Table 11-11: Block Estimation Parameters

 

Area Pass Domain Bearing Dip Plunge Major
Axis
(m)
Semi-
Major
Axis
(m)
Minor
Axis
(m)
Max
Samples/
DH
Samples
Min
Samples
Max
BF 1 11 - LG 170 -45 0 10 10 10 3 9 2
BF 2 11 - LG 170 -45 0 50 50 20 6 18 3
BF 3 11 - LG 170 -45 0 75 75 20 6 18 3
BF 4 11 - LG 170 -45 0 100 100 30 6 18 3
BF 1 12 - Vein 170 -45 0 10 10 10 3 9 2
BF 2 12 - Vein 170 -45 0 50 50 20 6 18 3
BF 3 12 - Vein 170 -45 0 75 75 20 6 18 3
BF 4 12 - Vein 170 -45 0 100 100 30 6 18 3
MS 1 21 - LG 45 45 0 10 10 10 3 9 2
MS 2 21 - LG 45 45 0 30 30 15 6 18 3
MS 3 21- LG 45 45 0 55 55 28 6 18 3
MS 4 21 - LG 45 45 0 100 100 50 6 18 3
MS 1 22 - Polaris 0 60 0 10 10 10 3 9 2
MS 2 22 - Polaris 0 60 0 30 30 15 6 18 3
MS 3 22 - Polaris 0 60 0 55 55 28 6 18 3
MS 4 22 - Polaris 0 60 0 150 150 75 6 18 3
BZ 1 31 - LG 170 -60 0 10 10 10 3 9 2
BZ 2 31 - LG 170 -60 0 40 40 20 6 18 3
BZ 3 31 - LG 170 -60 0 60 60 30 6 18 3
BZ 4 31 - LG 170 -60 0 100 100 30 6 18 3

 

A soft boundary approach was used within the low grade estimation domains to allow the estimation to use drillhole composites from outside of the domain. A 50m x 50m x 25m soft boundary search was used for Bullfrog while a 25m x 25m x 10m soft boundary search was used for Bonanza.

 

Visual validations between drillhole composites and estimated blocks were done on sections and plans. An example cross-section is shown in Figure 11-8.

 

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Figure 11-8: Bullfrog 8620N Cross-Section Showing Gold Blocks and Composites

 

 

 

The kriged estimates were validated using statistical comparisons between the nearest-neighbor estimate and the inverse-distance estimate. Swath plots between the kriged estimate and the nearest neighbor estimate were generated on Easting, Northing and Elevation. The swath plots can be found in Appendix 1.

 

The estimated gold and silver grades were copied to new variables (Au_use, Ag_use) within the block model and post-estimation calculations were performed on those variables. All gold and silver grades were set to zero inside the 1 meter expanded stope shape, dump shapes and pit fill shapes. The unmineralized and barrenTB3 basalt unit was also assigned null values for gold and silver. All blocks above the mined-out topography were set to zero.

 

A triangulation representing oxide mineralization was provided and coded to the block model as oxide. All material in the hanging wall of the MP Fault is also considered to be oxide. All remaining blocks were coded as sulfide.

 

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Figure 11-9: Oxide and Sulfide Coding – Bullfrog Section 8600N

 

 

 

11.9Resource Estimate Classification

 

Resource classification was based on the distance to the nearest composite and the number of holes used in the block estimate. The distances and number of drillholes used were based on geologic continuity as observed by the project geologist. Also, the ranges associated with 50%, 80% and 90% of the variogram sill were used as a guide in selecting the appropriate distances. Table 11-12 shows the parameters used in the assignment of classification.

 

Table 11-12: Block Estimation Parameters

 

  Distance to Nearest
Composite
Number of Drillholes used
in Estimate
Classification Assignment
Measured <= 15 meters >= 3 drillholes CATEG = 1
Indicated <= 50 meters >= 3 drillholes CATEG = 2
Inferred <= 75 meters >= 2 drillholes CATEG = 3

 

All blocks estimated in Pass 4 were not classified.

 

11.10Density Data

 

Specific gravity was assigned to the block model based on approximately 280 density measurements recently taken in mineralized rock and unmineralized rock. Further delineation of the density values in the unmineralized rock were done using the assigned lithology. Tables 11-13 to 11-15 summarize the assignment of density values to the block model.

 

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Table 11-13: Density Assignments for Mineralized Domains

 

Mineralized Rock    
Area Mineralized Domain SG Assignment
BF Low Grade (11) 2.52
BF Vein (12) 2.71
MS Low Grade (21) 2.52
MS Low Grade, Polaris (22) 2.52
BZ Low Grade (31) 2.52

 

Table 11-14: Density Assignments for Unmineralized Domains

 

Unmineralized Rock      
Area Unmineralized DOMAIN Lithology (LITH) SG Assignment (SG)
BF, MS & BZ Unmineralized (10, 20, 30) 1, 2 2.38
BF, MS & BZ Unmineralized (10, 20, 30) 3, 4, 5, 6 2.36
BF, MS & BZ Unmineralized (10, 20, 30) 7 2.25
BF, MS & BZ Unmineralized (10, 20, 30) 8 2.42
BF, MS & BZ Unmineralized (10, 20, 30) 9, 10 2.26
BF, MS & BZ Unmineralized (10, 20, 30) 20, 30 2.60

 

Table 11-15: Density Assignments for Dump, Fill and Alluvium

 

Special Assignments    
Area Description SG Assignment
BF, MS & BZ Waste Dump 2.05
BF, MS & BZ Pit Backfill 2.05
BF, MS & BZ UG Stope Backfill/Pastefill 2.00
BF, MS & BZ Alluvium 2.21

 

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11.11Pit Slopes

 

The pit slopes were reviewed and measured using recent topography, aerial photos and observations of the current pit highwalls. Pit slope angles were estimated by measuring the overall slope angle (toe to crest) of the existing pit walls. Measurements were taken along the pit walls where noticeable pit slope changes occur both laterally and vertically. Triangulations were generated from the pit slope measurements and fault surfaces to represent the slope sectors and assign overall slope angles for use during the pit shell optimization. The following figures show the pit slope measurements, slope sector triangulations and overall slope angle assignment for each slope sector.

 

Figure 11-10: Bullfrog Pit Slope Angles and Slope Sector Assignments

 

 

 

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Figure 11-11: Bonanza Pit Slope Angles and Slope Sector Assignments

 

 

 

Figure 11-12: Montgomery-Shoshone Pit Slope Angles and Slope Sector Assignments

 

 

 

11.12Reblocking

 

The sub-blocked model was re-blocked to a regularized size of 9m x 9m x 9m for use in the Minemax LG optimization software. Tonnes per block were calculated for the sub-blocked model by multiplying the block volume, specific gravity and percentage below topography. Gold and silver ounces were then calculated for each block by multiplying the block tonnage and the gold and silver grades. The block regularization exercise in Vulcan summed the sub-block tonnes and the sub-block ounces during the re-blocking to the 9m x 9m x 9m regularized blocks. Resource classification used the majority code assignment during re-blocking.

 

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11.13Pit Shell Optimization

 

Lerch Grossman pit shell optimizations in Minemax software were performed on the re-blocked models using the parameters in Table 11-16.

 

Table 11-16: LG Pit Optimization Parameters

 

Parameter: Input Unit
   Gold Price 1,550.00 US$/oz
   Silver Price 20.00 US$/oz
     
   Mining Cost Mineralized Material and Waste 2.25 US$/tonne
   Processing Cost 5.00 US$/tonne
   General and Administrative (G&A) 0.50 US$/tonne
   Refining Cost 0.05 US$/tonne
   Selling Cost 10.00 US$/oz
     
   Gold Recovery (Oxide Material) 82.0 %
   Gold Recovery (Sulphide Material) 50.0 %
   Silver Recovery (Oxide Material) 20.0 %
   Silver Recovery (Sulphide Material) 12.0 %

 

Pit optimization in Minemax implies an incremental cutoff grade block by block counting costs and revenues from the estimated block parameters. For reporting, the incremental gold cutoff grades used are 0.137 g/tonne for oxide-leach and 0.224 g/tonne for sulphide leach. Break-even cutoff grades, which consider mining cost and can identify blocks with overall positive net value, are 0.192 for oxide-leach and 0.315 for sulphide-leach.

 

Property boundaries were observed during the pit optimization and no mineralized material or waste mining was allowed to occur outside of the property boundaries. Figures 11-13 to 11-15 represent the results of the pit optimization and the bounding surfaces for which mineral resources have been calculated within.

 

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Figure 11-13: Bullfrog

 

 

 

Figure 11-14: Montgomery-Shoshone

 

 

 

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Figure 11-15: Bonanza

 

 

 

In addition to the surfaces, a csv version of the block model is exported from Minemax with additional pitshell and destination fields. The “pitshell” field with a code of 1 represents all blocks within the optimized pit. Additionally, a “destination” field with a code of 1 represents blocks with positive net values using both gold and silver values and economic parameters. These two fields are imported into the regularized Vulcan resource model and are used directly for tabulating resources.

 

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12.Mineral Reserve Estimates

 

N/A

 

13.Mining Methods

 

N/A

 

14.Process and Recovery Methods

 

N/A

 

15.Infrastructure

 

N/A

 

16.Market Studies

 

N/A

 

17.Environmental Studies, Permitting, and Plans, Negotiations, or Agreements with Local Individuals or Groups

 

N/A

 

18.Capital and Operating Costs

 

N/A

 

19.Economic Analysis

 

N/A

 

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20.Adjacent Properties

 

Corvus Gold Corp (Corvus) controls most of the northern half of the Bullfrog Mining District. Corvus’ North Bullfrog southern land boundary is 2.4 km (1.5 miles) north of the Company’s northern land boundary, or 8 km (5 miles) north of the M-S pit. Corvus also controls the Mother Lode property approximately 3.8 km from Bullfrog’s eastern property boundary to the western boundary of Mother Lode. Corvus released results in two technical reports titled “Technical Report and Preliminary Economic Assessment for Biox Mill and Heap Leach Processing At The Mother Lode Project, Bullfrog Mining District, Nye County, Nevada”, and “Technical Report and Preliminary Economic Assessment for Gravity Milling and Heap Leach Processing at the North Bullfrog Project, Bullfrog Mining District, Nye County Nevada, both with an effective date of October 7, 2020. The QP has been unable to verify the information in the foregoing technical report and the information is not necessarily indicative of the mineralization at the Bullfrog Gold Project.

 

Figure 20-1 below shows the land positions of Augusta, Corvus and other properties in the area.

 

Figure 20-1: Land Positions of the Bullfrog Project and Adjacent Properties

 

 

 

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21.Other Relevant Data and Information

 

Relevant data and information have been included within the respective sections.

 

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22.Interpretation and Conclusions

 

This report is based on all technical and scientific data as of December 31, 2021, the effective date of this report. Mineral resources are considered by the QP to meet the reasonable prospects of eventual economic extraction. Analytical data has been collected and analyzed using industry standard methods at the time they were collected. Geologic data has been interpreted and modeled using historic maps, reports, field mapping, drillhole logging and three-dimensional computer modeling. Resource block models were developed using the geologic and analytical data to best represent the mineralization within each of the areas and accounts for historic mining of the resource by open pit and underground methods. Lerch-Grossman optimized pit shells have been generated for each area using representative costs, metal recoveries and slope angles and resources have been summarized within those pit shells.

 

22.1Geology and Mineral Resources

 

·The exploration potential within the district is high and recent drilling has shown that mineralized structures and features continue both laterally and vertically along the known mineralized trends in and near all three major areas. Specific areas for additional exploration drilling and interpretation include Ladd Mountain and Mystery Hills near the Bullfrog pit; the Polaris vein and related disseminated mineralization near the Montgomery-Shoshone pit; along strike and beneath Bonanza Mountain near the Bonanza pit; and in the structurally prospective Gap area in the northern portion of the property.

·Considerable effort has been placed on verifying historic assays and surveys by checking against historic drill logs and assay certificates. The database has been updated to include additional assay certificate data that was recently discovered. Problems with imperial-metric grade conversions in a porting of the legacy data have been corrected.

·Forte Dynamics completed a review of the drilling database for Bullfrog and has verified assay data against lab certificates for approximately 10% of drillholes in the economically important portions of the deposits.

·The recent assay data has been collected in a manner appropriate for the deposit type and mineralization style. Assay QA/QC analyses have been taken to ensure that assays are of a quality suitable for the estimation of mineral resources.

·The level of understanding of the geology is very good. A district wide geologic model has been constructed using historic maps, geology reports and field mapping. Drillhole logs are used in the interpretation, when possible, but more effort should be placed on utilizing the downhole logging data to help refine the geologic models.

·Drillholes excluded from resource estimation have been reviewed and the list has been updated. Some holes now have assay data and have been removed from the exclusion list. A few additional RC drillholes with downhole contamination have been added to the exclusion list. Location and downhole survey issues for a few holes have also been identified.

·Historical production data, blastholes, pit maps, underground maps, stope surveys should be extracted from the historical archives and digitized into a format that can aid in the interpretation of the geologic model and resource block model. The historic data can be used to calibrate the resource model and provide a validation check.

·The treatment of outlier assays in the database is appropriate and reasonable. The block grade interpretations have been carried out using conventional methods consistent with common industry practice.

 

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·Block model grades have been zeroed out in areas of historic underground and open pit mining. Block model grades were also zeroed out within geologic units known to be barren. Backfilled areas within the open pit and underground mines have been accounted for in the volume and tonnage to be mined.

·Mining and processing costs based on similar Nevada operations have been applied in the pit optimization. The existing pit walls remain very stable with steep overall slope angles on a majority of the pit walls. The existing wall angles have been measured and applied in the pit optimization.

 

22.2Metallurgical Test Work and Mineral Processing

 

Metallurgical testing performed to date indicates reasonable gold recovery at small particle sizes. The column leach tests on HPGR fine crushed materials suggest gold recovery could exceed 85% on 10 mesh material; however, further testing is required to properly characterize the recovery potential for each mineralized zone.

 

The metallurgical test program should be comprehensive, and include the following (at a minimum):

 

·Full characterization of composite samples – Au/Ag content, carbon and sulfur speciation, typical Geochem including Hg, solids specific gravity

·Crushing work index testing

·Abrasion index testing

·Column leach testing at various HPGR crush sizes, including comparative bottle roll tests and size fraction recovery analysis

·Agglomeration testing

·Compacted permeability testing

·Any required environmental tests on column test residues measured

 

22.3Infrastructure

 

·The project is in a jurisdiction that is amenable to mining.

·The project site is near the town of Beatty, Nevada which has adequate amenities and services.

·The project was open pit and underground mined from 1989-1999 and has remaining infrastructure that includes power lines on site, a paved highway to site and a network of roads across the district.

·Availability of adequate power through the local utility, as well as available water and water rights to support operations require further evaluation.

 

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23.Recommendations

 

23.1Exploration

 

Further exploration through drilling, geophysics and mapping should continue throughout the district in order to define the current resource around the known mineralization, but also to test potential greenfield exploration targets. Geologic models representing structure, lithology, alteration and mineralization should continue to be developed utilizing historic data combined with new information. Historic mining information including open pit production data, blasthole data, pit mapping, underground production data, underground mapping and underground sampling should be extracted from the historic data sets and made available in a format that can be used in future geologic and resource modeling.

 

23.2Baseline Studies

 

Baseline study work needs to be completed in the following areas to provide additional information to support permitting activities and social-cultural work prior to pre-feasibility, feasibility and mining operations.

 

·Geochemical characterization of waste rock

·Hydrologic data collection and modeling to develop district-wide hydrology model

·Geotechnical data collection and modeling to determine pit slope parameters

·Plant and wildlife surveys with emphasis on Desert Tortoise and Bat habitats

·Cultural/Archeological surveys

·Meteorological data collection

·Water balance study

 

23.3Additional Studies

 

A Preliminary Economic Assessment should be completed for the project taking into account detailed mine designs, production scheduling, process designs and detailed operating and capital cost estimates. The advancement to Pre-Feasibility stage will require the baseline studies listed in Section 26.2 to be developed and initiated. Further drilling, data acquisition and modeling will be required across all future study stages and a technical framework including QAQC, geologic modeling, resource modeling, mine planning and process planning should be put in place to ensure all data and work meets industry standard guidelines. The database should be thoroughly reviewed.

 

23.4Estimated Costs

 

The cost estimates associated with further exploration drilling, baseline studies and additional studies to advance the project are listed in Table 23-1.

 

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Table 23-1: Land Positions of the Bullfrog Project and Adjacent Properties

 

Task Cost (USD)
Exploration/Delineation Drilling (11,000 meters) $5,000,000
Metallurgical Studies $500,000
Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) $250,000
Permitting $2,000,000
Total $7,750,000

 

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24.References

 

Allison, A., 1993, Geology of the Bullfrog gold deposit, Nye County, Nevada: unpublished abstract for Lac Bullfrog mine.

 

Applegate, J.D.R., Walker, J.D., and Hodges, K.V., 1992, Late Cretaceous extensional unroofing in the Funeral Mountains metamorphic core complex: Geology, v. 20, p. 519-522.

 

Arnold, T.D., 1996, Underground Mining: A Challenge to Established Open Pit Mining, Mining Engineering, p. 25-29.

 

Arnold, T.D., 2011-present. Former Barrick Bullfrog UG Mine Supt., personal communications and meetings, Ashley, R.P., 1990, The Goldfield gold district, Esmeralda and Nye Counties, Nevada: U.S. Geol. Survey Bulletin 1857-H, Hl-H7.

 

Beane, R.E., 1991, Results of geochemical studies in the Bullfrog district: unpub. company report, Lac Minerals, 31 p.

 

Beling, D.C., 2017, Bullfrog Project Report & Corporate Evaluation, internal confidential report, Bullfrog Gold Corp., 137 p.

 

Bonham, H.F., Jr., 1988, Models for volcanic-hosted precious metal deposits: A review, in Schafer, R.W., Cooper, J.J. and Vikre, P.O., eds., Bulk Mineable Precious Metal Deposits of the Western United States: Geological Society of Nevada, p. 259-271.

 

Bonham, H.F., Jr., and Garside, L.J., 1979, Geology of the Tonopah, Lone Mountain, Klondike, and northern Mud Lake quadrangles, Nevada: Nevada Bur. Mines Geol. Bull. 92, 142 p.

 

Bonham, H.F., Jr., and Hess RH., 1995, The Nevada Mineral industry, 1995: Nevada Bur. Mines Geol., Spec. Pub. MI-1995.

 

Buchanan, L.J., 1981; Precious metal deposits associated with volcanic environments in the southwest, in Dickinson, W.R., and Payne, W.D. eds., Relations of tectonics to ore deposits in the southern Cordillera: Arizona Geol. Soc. Digest, v. XIV, p. 237-262.

 

Byers, F.M., Jr., Carr, W.J., and Orkild, P.P., 1989, Volcanic Centers of Southwestern Nevada-Evolution of understanding, 1960-1988: Journal of Geophysical Research, v. 94, p. 5908-5924.

 

Capps, R.C., and Moore, J.A., 1991, Geologic setting of mid-Miocene gold deposits in the Castle Mountains, San Bernardino County, California and Clark County, Nevada, in Raines, G.L., Lisle, R.E., Schafer, R.W., and Wilkinson, W.H., eds., Geology and Ore Deposits of the Great Basin, Symposium Proceedings, Geol. Soc. Nevada, Reno/Sparks, p. 1195-1219.

 

Carr, W.J., Byers, F.M., Jr., and Orkild, P.P., 1986, Stratigraphic and volcano-tectonic relations of the Crater Flat Tuff and some older volcanic units: U.S. Geol. Survey Prof. Paper 1323, 28 p.

 

Carr, M.D., and Monsen, S.A., 1988, A field trip guide to the geology of Bare Mountain, in Weide, D.L., and Faber, M.L, eds. This extended Geological journeys in the southern Basin and Range: Geol. Soc. America, Cordilleran Section, Field Trip Guidebook, p. 50·57.

 

Castor, S.B., and Weiss, S.I., 1992, Contrasting styles of epithermal precious-metal mineralization in the southwestern Nevada volcanic field, USA: Ore Geology Reviews, v. 7, p. 193-223.

 

Castor, S.B., and Sjoberg, J.J., 1993, Uytenbogaardtite, Ag3AuS2, in the Bullfrog mining district, Nevada: Canadian Mineralogist, v. 31, p. 89-98.

 

Connors, K.A., 1995, Studies of silicic volcanic geology and geo-chemistry in the Great Basin of western North America: Part I Geology of the western margin of the Timber Mountain caldera complex and Post-Timber Mountain syntectonic volcanism in the Bullfrog Hills Oasis Valley area, southwestern Nevada volcanic field; Part II Initial gold contents of silicic volcanic rocks: Implication for behavior of gold in magmatic systems and significance in evaluating source materials for gold deposits: unpublished Ph.D. thesis, University of Nevada, Reno, 216 p.

 

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Conrad, J.E., and McKee, E.H., 1995, High precision 40Ar/39Ar ages of rhyolitic host rock at Sleeper deposit, Humboldt County, Nevada: in Geology and Ore Deposits of the American Cordillera, Reno/Sparks, Nevada, Geological Society of Nevada, Abstracts with Programs, p. 20-21 (updated data presented at meeting).

 

Cornwall, H.R., and Kleinhampl, F.J., 1964, Geology of the Bullfrog quadrangle and ore deposits related to the Bullfrog Hills caldera, Nye County, Nevada, and Inyo County, California: U.S. Geol. Survey Prof. Paper 454-J, 25 p.

 

Couch, B.F. and Carpenter, J.A., 1943, Nevada's metal and mineral production (1859-1940): Univ. Nevada Bull., V. 37, 159 p.

 

Crowe, D.E., Mitchell, T.L, and Capps, R.C., 1995, Geology and stable isotope geochemistry of the Jumbo gold deposit, California: An example of an unusual magmatic fluid-dominated adularia-sericite gold system: Geology and Ore Deposits of the American Cordillera, Reno/Sparks, Nevada, Geological Society of Nevada, Abstracts with Programs, p. 21-22.

 

DeWitt, E., Thorson, J.P., and Smith, R.C., 1991, Geology and gold deposits of the Oatman District, northwestern Arizona, in Geology and Resources of Gold in the United States, U.S. Geol. Survey Bull., 1857-1, p. 11-128.

 

Drobeck, P.A., Hillemeyer, F.L., Frost, E.G., and Liebler, G.S., 1986, The Picacho mine: a gold mineralized detachment in southeastern California, in Beatty, B., and Wilkinson, P.A.K., eds., Frontiers in Geology and Ore Deposits of Arizona and the Southwest: Arizona Geol. Soc. Digest, v. 16, p. 187-221.

 

Dubendorfer, E.M., and Simpson, D.A, 1994, Kinematics and timing of Tertiary extension in the western Lake Mead region, Nevada: Geol. Soc. America Bull., v. 106, p. 1057-1073.

 

Eng, T., Boden, D.R., Reischman, M.R., and Biggs, J.O., 1996, Geology and Mineralization of the Bullfrog Mine and vicinity, Nye County, Nevada, in Coyner, A.R., Fahey, P.L., eds., Geology and Ore Deposits of the American Cordillera, Symposium proceedings, Reno, Geological Society of Nevada, vol. I, pp. 353-399.

 

Eng, T., 2011 – present. Former Bullfrog Exploration Manager – Lac Minerals. Personal communications and meetings.

 

Fridrich, C.J., Tectonic evolution of the Crater Flat basin, Yucca Mountain region, Nevada, in Wright, L, and Troxel, B., eds., Cenozoic Basins of the Death Valley Region, California and Nevada: Geol. Soc. America Spec. Paper.

 

Goldstrand, P., 1996, Analysis of sedimentary rocks from drill holes in the southern Bullfrog Hills: unpublished consulting report for Barrick Bullfrog Mine, Inc.

 

Greybeck, J.D., and Wallace, A.B., 1991, Gold mineralization at Fluorspar Canyon near Beatty, Nye County, Nevada, in Raines, G.L, Lisle, R.E., Schafer, R.W., and Wilkinson, W.H., eds., Geology and Ore Deposits of the Great Basin, Symposium Proceedings, Geol. Soc. Nevada, Reno, Nevada, p. 935-946.

 

Haas, J.L, 1971, The effect of salinity on the maximum thermal gradient of a hydrothermal system at hydrostatic pressure: Economic Geology v. 66, p. 940-946.

 

Hamilton, W.B., 1988, Detachment faulting in the Death Valley region, California, and Nevada: U.S. Geol. Survey Bull. 1790, p. 51-85.

 

Hausback, B.P., Deino, A.L, Turrin, B.T., McKee, E.H., Frizzell, V.A., Jr., Noble, D.C., and Weiss, S.I., 1990, New 40Ar/39Ar ages for the Spearhead and Civet Cat Canyon Members of the Stonewall Flat Tuff, Nye County, Nevada: Evidence for systematic errors in standard K-Ar age determination on sanidine: Isochron/West, no. 56, p. 3-7.

 

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Heald, P., Foley, J.K. and Hayba, D.0., 1987, Comparative anatomy of volcanic-hosted epithermal deposits: acid-sulfate and adularia-sericite types: Econ. Geol., v. 82, p. 1-26.

 

Hedenquist, J.W., and Henley, R.W., 1985, Hydrothermal eruptions in the Waiotapu geothermal system, New Zealand: Their origin, associated breccias, and relation to precious metal mineralization: Econ. Geol., v. 80, p. 1640-1668.

 

Henry, C.D., Castor, S.B., and Elson, H.B., 1996, Geology and 40Ar/39Ar geochronology of volcanism and mineralization at Round Mountain, Nevada, in Coyner A., ed., Geology and Ore Deposits of the American Cordillera, Reno/Sparks, Nevada, Geological Society of Nevada.

 

Hinrichs, E.N., 1968, Geologic map of the Camp Desert quadrangle, Nye County, Nevada: U.S. Geol. Survey Map GQ-726, scale 1:24,000.

 

Hoisch, T.D., Heizler, M.T., and Zartman, R.E., Timing of detachment faulting in the Bullfrog Hills and Bare Mountain, southwest Nevada: Inferences from 40Ar/39Ar1 K-Ar, U-Pb, and fission-track thermochronology: J. of Geophysics Res.

 

Hoisch, T.D., and Simpson, 1993, Rise and tilt of metamorphic rocks in the lower plate of a detachment fault in the Funeral Mountain, Death Valley, California: J. of Geophysics Res. v. 98, p. 6805-6827.

 

Huysken, K.T., Vogel, T.A., and Layer, P.W., 1994, Incremental growth of a large volume, chemically zoned magma body: a study of tephra sequence beneath the Rainier Mesa ash flow sheet of the Tiber Mountain Tuff: Bulletin Volcanology, v. 56, p. 377-385.

 

John, T.W., 2011-present. Former Barrick Bullfrog Exploration Manager, personal communications and meetings

 

Jorgensen, D.K., Rankin, J.W., and Wilkins, J. Jr., 1989, The geology, alteration and mineralogy of the Bullfrog gold deposit, Nye County, Nevada: AIME Preprint 89-135, 13 p.

 

Jorgensen, D.K., Tillman, T.D. and Benedict, J.F., Montgomery-Shoshone Project summary report, St. Joe American Corp. 1986, 80 p.

 

Kappes, Cassiday & Assoc., Bullfrog Project, Column Leach test Report-Subgrade Sample, 1995

 

Kral, V.E., 1951, Mineral Resources of Nye County, Nevada: Univ. of Nevada, Reno Bull. v. 45, no. 3, 223 p.

 

Kump, Dan, 2001, Backfill – Whatever it takes, Mining Engineering, p. 50-52.

 

Liebler, G.S., 1988, Geology and gold mineralization at the Picachu mine, Imperial County, California, in Schafer, R.W., Cooper, J.J., and Vikre, P.G., eds., Bulk Mineable Precious Metal Deposits of the Western United States, Symposium Proceedings, Geol. Sue. Nevada, Reno/Sparks, Nevada, p. 453-472.

 

Lincoln, F.C., 1923, Mining districts and mineral resources of Nevada: Reno, Nevada Newsletter Publishing Co., 296 p.

 

Mahmoud, S.H., 1993, Geochemistry, mineralogy, and genesis of the Copperstone gold deposit, La Paz, County, Arizona: Unpublished Ph.D. dissertation, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 206 p.

 

Maldonado, F., 1990a, Structural geology of the upper plate of the Bullfrog Hills detachment system: Geol. Soc. America Bull., v. 102, p. 992-1006.

 

Maldonado, F., 1990b, Geologic map of the northwest quarter of the Bullfrog 15-minute quadrangle, Nye County, Nevada: U.S. Geol. Survey Misc. Invest. Map I-1985, scale 1:24,000.

 

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Maldonado, F., and Hausback, B.P., 1990, Geologic map of the northeast quarter of the Bullfrog 15-minute quadrangle, Nye County, Nevada: U.S. Geol. Survey Misc. Invest. Map I-2049, scale 1:24,000.

 

Manske, S.L, Matlack, W.F., Springett, M.W., Strakele, A.E. Jr., Watowich, S.N., Yeomans, B., and E. Yeomans, 1988, Geology of the Mesquite deposit, Imperial County, California: Mining Engineering, v. 40, p. 439-444.

 

Marvin, R.F., and Mehnert, H.H., and Naeser, C.W., 1989, U.S. Geologic Survey radiometric ages compilation "C", part 3: California and Nevada: Isochron/West, no. 52, p. 3-11.

 

McKee, E.H., 1968, Age and rate of movement of the northern part of the Death Valley-Furnace Creek fault zone, California: Geol. Soc. America Bull., v. 29, p. 509-512.

 

McKee, E.H., 1983, Reset K-Ar ages-Evidence for three metamorphic cure complexes, western Nevada: Isochron/West, p. 38, p. 17-20.

 

Minor, S.A., Sawyer, D.A., Wahl, R.R., Frizzell, V.A., Jr., Schilling, S.P., Warren, R.G., Orkild, P.P., Coe, J.A., Hudson, M.R., Fleck, R.J., Lanphere, M.A., Swadley, W.C., and Coe, J.C., 1993, Preliminary geologic map of the Pahute Mesa 30' x 60' quadrangle, Nevada: U.S. Geol. Survey Open-File Rept. 93-299.

 

Monsen, S.A., Carr, M.D., Reheis, M.C., and Orkild, P.P., 1992, Geologic map of Bare Mountain, Nye County, Nevada: U.S. Geol. Survey Misc. Invest. Map I-2201, scale 1:24,000.

 

Morton, J.L, Silberman, M.L, Bonham, H.F., Garside, L.J., and Noble, D.C., 1977, K-Ar ages of volcanic rocks, plutonic rocks, and ore deposits in Nevada and eastern California: lsochron/West, no. 20, p. 19-29.

 

Nash, J.T., Utterback, W.C., and Trudel, W.S., 1995, Geology and geochemistry of Tertiary volcanic host rocks, Sleeper gold-silver deposit, Humboldt County, Nevada: U.S. Geol. Survey Bull. 2090, 63 p.

 

Noble, D.C., Vogel, T.A., Weiss, S.I., Erwin, J.W., McKee, E.H., and Younker, L.W., 1984, Stratigraphic relations and source areas of ash flow sheets of the Black Mountain and Stonewall volcanic centers, Nevada: J. of Geophysics Res., v. 89, p. 8593-8602.

 

Noble, D.C., Weiss, S.I., and McKee, E.H., 1991, Magmatic and hydrothermal activity, caldera geology, and regional extension in the western part of the southwestern Nevada volcanic field, in Raines, G.L, Lisle, R.E., Shafer, R.W., and Wilkinson, W.H. eds., Geology and Ore Deposits of the Great Basin, Symposium Proceedings: Reno, Nevada, Geological Society of Nevada, p. 913-934.

 

Odt, D.A., 1983, Geology and geochemistry of the Sterling gold deposit, Nye County, Nevada: Unpublished M.Sc. thesis, Univ. Nevada, Reno, 100 p.

 

Peterson, M.A., and Ahler, B.A., 1990, Geology of the Bullfrog gold deposit, Nye County, Nevada (Abs): Geological Society of Nevada, November monthly meeting newsletter.

 

Polovina, J.S., 1984, Origin and structural evolution of gold-silver-copper-bearing hydrothermal breccias in the Stedman district, southeastern California, in Wilkins, J. ed., Gold and Silver Deposits of the Basin and Range Province, Western USA: Arizona Geol. Soc. Digest, v. 15, p. 159-166.

 

Proffett, J., 1994, Notes on the geology and exploration potential of the Bullfrog district, southern Nevada: unpub. consulting report. for Lac Minerals, 20 p.

 

Ransome, F.L, Garrey, G.H., and Emmons, W.H., 1910, Geology and ore deposits of the Bullfrog district: U.S. Geol. Survey Bull. 407, 130 p.

 

Ray, H.M., Morrissey, J.C., IV, Montgomery-Shoshone Gold Project Onsite Large Column Test Results, St. Joe Minerals Corp., 1986, 31 p.

 

Reynolds, M.W., 1969, Stratigraphy and structural geology of the Titus and Titanothere Canyons area, Death Valley, California: unpublished Ph.D. dissertation, University of California, Berkeley, California, 310 p.

 

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Richard, S.M., Spencer, J.E., and Haxel, G.B., 1996, Geologic constraints on gold mineralization in the Picacho mine area, southeast California: Soc. of Mining and Exploration Technical Program with Abstracts, p. 131-132.

 

Ristorcelli, S.J., and Ernst, D.R., 1991, Summary report: USNGS exploration 1990-1991, Nye County, Nevada: unpublished company report, U.S. Nevada Gold Search Joint Venture, Carson City, 104 p.

 

Sander, M.V., and Einaudi, M.T., 1990, Epithermal deposition of gold during transition from propylitic to potassic alteration at Round Mountain, Nevada: Econ. Geol. v. 85, p. 285-311.

 

Sawyer, D.A., Fleck, R.J., Lanphere, M.A., Warren, R.G., Broxton, D.E., and Hudson, M.R., 1994, Episodic caldera volcanism in the Miocene southwestern Nevada volcanic field: Revised stratigraphic framework, 40Ar/39Ar geochronology, and implications for magmatism and extension: Geol. Soc. America Bull., v. 106, p. 1304-1318.

 

Sherlock, R.L., Tosdal, R.M., Lehrman, N.J., Graney, J.R., Losh, S., Jowett, E.C.1 and Kesler, S.E., 1995, Origin of the McLaughlin mine sheeted vein complex: Metal zoning, fluid inclusion, and isotopic evidence: Econ. Geol. v. 90, n. 8, p. 2156- 2181.

 

Sillitoe, R.H., 1993, Epithermal models: Genetic types, geometrical controls and shallow features, in Kirkham, R.V., Sinclair, W.D., Thorpe, R.L. and Duke, J.M. eds., Mineral Deposit Modeling: Geological Association of Canada, Special Paper 40, p. 403-417.

 

Spencer, J.E., and Welty, J.W., 1986, Possible controls of base-and precious metal mineralization with Tertiary detachment fault in the lower Colorado River trough, Arizona, and California: Geology, v. 14, p. 195-198.

 

Spencer, J.E., Duncan, J.T., and Burton, W.D., 1988, The Copper-stone mine: Arizona's new gold producer: Arizona Bureau of Geology and Mineral Technology, Field notes, v. 18, no. 2, p. 1-3.

 

Stewart, J.H., 1967, Possible large right-lateral displacement along fault and shear zones in Death Valley Las Vegas area, California, and Nevada: Geol. Soc. America Bull., v. 78, p. 131-142.

 

Stewart, J.H., 1988, Tectonics of the Walker Lane belt, western Great Basin: Mesozoic and Cenozoic deformation in a zone of shear, in Ernst, W.G., Metamorphism and Crustal Evolution of the Western United States, Rubey Volume VII: Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, Prentice Hall, p. 683-713.

 

Stock, C., and Bode, F.D., 1935, Occurrence of lower Oligocene mammal-bearing beds near Death Valley, California: Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, v. 21, n. 10, p. 571-579.

 

Tetra Tech, 2017, NI 43-101 Technical Report Mineral Resource Estimate Bullfrog Gold Project Nye County, Nevada.

 

Tingley, J.V., 1984, Trace element associations in mineral deposits, Bare Mountain (Fluorine) mining district, southern Nye County, Nevada: Nevada Bur. Mines Geol. Report 39, 28 p.

 

Weiss, S.I., Noble, D.C., Worthington, J.E., and McKee, E.H., 1993, Neogene tectonism form the southern Nevada volcanic field to the White Mountains, California, Part I. Miocene volcanic stratigraphy, paleo topography, extensional faulting and uplift between northern Death Valley and Pahute Mesa, in Lahren, M.M., Trexler, J.H., Jr., and Spinosa, C., eds., Crustal Evolution of the Great Basin and Sierra Nevada: Cordilleran/Rocky Mountain Sectional Mtg., Geol. Soc. America Guidebook, Dept. of Geol. Sci., University of Nevada, Reno, p. 353-382.

 

Weiss, S.I., Noble, D.C., McKee, E.H., Connors, K.A, and Jackson, M.R., 1995, Multiple episodes of hydrothermal activity and epithermal mineralization in the southwestern Nevada volcanic field and their relations to magmatic activity, volcanism, and regional extension. Appendix B, in Weiss, S.I., Noble, D.C., and Larson, L.T., 1995, Task 3: Evaluation of mineral resource potential, caldera geology and volcano-tectonic frame-work at and near Yucca Mountain; report for October, 1994 September, 1995: Center for Neotectonics’ Studies, University of Nevada, Reno, 44 p. plus appendices.

 

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Weiss, S.I., 1996, Hydrothermal activity, epithermal mineralization, and regional extension in the southwestern Nevada volcanic field: Unpublished PhD. dissertation, Univ. Nevada, Reno, 212 p.

 

White, D.E., 1981, Active geothermal systems and hydrothermal ore deposits: Econ. Geol., 75th Anniversary Volume, p. 393-423.

 

Willis, G.F., and Tosdal, R.M., 1992, Formation of gold veins and breccias during dextral strike-slip faulting in the Mesquite mining district, southeastern California: Econ. Geol., v. 87, p. 2002- 2022.

 

Worthington, J.E., IV, 1992, Neogene structural and volcanic geology of the Gold Mountain-Slate Ridge area, Esmeralda County, Nevada: unpublished M.S. thesis, University of Nevada, Reno, 76 p.

 

Yopps, S., and Manning, K.L. Pilot Heap Leach Tests for Lac Bullfrog “Sub-Grade” Ore Evaluation. 1995, 10 p.

 

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25.Reliance on Information Provided by the Registrant

 

The QPs opinion contained herein are based on information provided by Augusta Gold Corp. and others throughout the course of the update. The QPs have taken responsible measures to confirm information provided by others and take responsibility for the information.

 

To the extent permitted, the QPs disclaim responsibility for the relevant section(s) of the Technical Report.

 

The following disclosure is made in respect to the Expert

 

·Tom Ladner, Vice President, Legal, Augusta Gold Corp., Vancouver, BC, Canada.

 

·Report, opinion, or statement(s) relied upon:

 

oLegal Information on mineral tenure and status, title, royalty obligations and surface access, provided on or about the date hereof and as set out herein.

 

·Extent of reliance: Full reliance following a review by the QP.

 

·Portion of the Technical Report to which disclaimer applies: Section 3.

 

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26.Appendix 1

 

26.1Statistical Analysis of Drillhole Data for Gold Assays

 

 

 

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26.2Statistical Analysis of Drillhole Data for Silver Assays

 

 

 

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26.3Swath Plots

 

 

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Exhibit 96.2

 

MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATE FOR THE

REWARD PROJECT, NYE COUNTY, NEVADA, USA

 

A picture containing outdoor, sky, mountain, nature

Description automatically generated

 

Prepared For: CR Reward LLC & Augusta Gold Corp.
Suite 555 – 999, Canada Place
Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1
Canada
     
Prepared by: APEX Geoscience Ltd.
#100, 11450-160th Street NW
Edmonton AB T5M 3Y7 Canada
     
  Kappes, Cassiday & Associates
7950 Security Circle
Reno, NV USA 89506

 

Michael Dufresne, M.Sc., P. Geol., P.Geo.

Timothy D. Scott, BA.Sc., RM SME

Effective Date: May 31st, 2022

Signing Date: June 29th, 2022

Amended Date: December 18, 2023

 

 

 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Contents

 

1 Summary 1
  1.1 Issuer and Purpose 1
  1.2 Authors, Contributors and Site Inspection 1
  1.3 Project Setting 2
  1.4 Mineral Tenure, Surface Rights, Water Rights, Royalties and Agreements 2
  1.5 Geology and Mineralization 4
  1.6 History 5
  1.7 Drilling and Sampling 5
  1.8 Data Verification 6
  1.9 Metallurgical Testing 7
  1.10 Current Mineral Resource 7
  1.11 Conclusions 10
  1.12 Recommendations 10
2 Introduction 11
  2.1 Issuer and Purpose 11
  2.2 Authors, Contributors and Site Inspection 12
  2.3 Sources of Information 14
  2.4 Units of Measure 14
3 Reliance on Other Experts 15
4 Property Description and Location 15
  4.1 Description and Location 15
  4.2 Property and Title in Nevada 15
    4.2.1 Mineral Title 15
    4.2.2 Surface Rights 16
    4.2.3 Environmental Regulations 18
    4.2.4 Water Rights 18
  4.3 Ownership 18
  4.4 Mineral Properties 19
    4.4.1 Claim Status 19
    4.4.2 Claim Retention Obligations 19
    4.4.3 Encumbrances 25
  4.5 Mineral Lease Agreements 25
    4.5.1 Connolly Lease 25
    4.5.2 Webster Lease 25
    4.5.3 Orser–McFall Lease 26
    4.5.4 Van Meeteren et al Lease 26
  4.6 Encumbrances 26
  4.7 Surface Ownership 26
  4.8 Water Rights 27
  4.9 Permitting Considerations 27
  4.10 Environmental Considerations 27
  4.11 Comments on Property Description and Location 28
5 Accessibility, Climate, Local Resources, Infrastructure and Physiography 28
  5.1 Accessibility 28

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 2022i
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

  5.2 Site Topography, Elevation and Vegetation 28
  5.3 Climate 29
  5.4 Local Resources and Infrastructure 29
6 History 30
  6.1 Exploration History 30
  6.2 Production History 30
7 Geological Setting and Mineralization 33
  7.1 Regional Geology 33
  7.2 Local Geology 34
  7.3 Stratigraphy 37
    7.3.1 Late Proterozoic 38
    7.3.2 Proterozoic-Cambrian 40
    7.3.3 Cambrian 40
  7.4 Structure 41
    7.4.1 Good Hope Fault Zone 41
  7.5 Alteration 44
  7.6 Oxidation (Redox) 44
  7.7 Mineralization 45
    7.7.1 Description of Mineralization: Good Hope Deposit 45
    7.7.2 Description of Mineralization: Gold Ace Mineralized Zone 47
    7.7.3 Description of Mineralization: Exploration Update 49
8 Deposit Types 50
9 Exploration 51
  9.1 Introduction 51
  9.2 CR Reward Exploration (2015-Present) 51
10 Drilling 52
  10.1 Drill Methods, Logging and Surveys 55
    10.1.1 Gexa (1987) 55
    10.1.2 Pathfinder (1991) 55
    10.1.3 Barrick (1995-1996) and Glamis (1998-2000) 55
    10.1.4 Canyon (2006-2007) 56
    10.1.5 Atna (2011-2013) 56
  10.2 CR Reward Core Drilling Program (2017-2018) 56
  10.3 Twin Holes 59
  10.4 Comments on Drilling 60
11 Sample Preparation, Analyses and Security 60
  11.1 Pre-CR Reward Drill Sampling, Analysis and Security 60
    11.1.1 Gexa (1987) 60
    11.1.2 Barrick (1995-1996) 61
    11.1.3 Glamis (1998-2000) 61
    11.1.4 Canyon (2006-2007) 61
    11.1.5 Atna (2011-2013) 62
  11.2 CR Reward Sampling, Analysis and Security (2017-2018) 63
    11.2.1 Diamond Drill Core Sample Preparation and Analysis 64
  11.3 CR Reward QAQC Results (2017-2018) 66
    11.3.1 Blanks 66

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 2022ii
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

    11.3.2 Standard Reference Materials 67
    11.3.3 Duplicates 69
  11.4 Comments on Sample Preparation, Analyses and Security 69
12 Data Verification 70
  12.1 Verification Program 70
    12.1.1 Protocols and Error Tracking of Pre-CR Reward Drill Holes 70
  12.2 Collar Data Verification 71
  12.3 Down-Hole Survey Data Verification 72
  12.4 Assay Verification 72
  12.5 Author and QP Site Visits 73
13 Mineral Processing and Metallurgical Testing 78
  13.1 1998 Rayrock Column Tests – Drill Core 78
  13.2 1998 Rayrock Column Tests – Trench Samples 79
  13.3 2007 McClelland Bottle Roll Tests 79
  13.4 McClelland 2008 Column Test Campaign 80
    13.4.1 2008 Column Test Results 82
    13.4.2 2008 Bottle Roll Test Results at Crush Size and at 200 Mesh 82
    13.4.3 2008 Bottle Roll Size versus Recovery on Composite 5 84
    13.4.4 Drain-Down Data 84
    13.4.5 Conclusions from 2008 McClelland Program 84
  13.5 2018 Kappes Cassidy Associates Test Program 84
    13.5.1 2018 KCA Composite Generation 86
    13.5.2 2018 Physical Characterization 86
    13.5.3 2018 KCA Pulverized Bottle Roll Tests 88
    13.5.4 KCA 2018 Column Leach Tests 97
    13.5.5 2018 KCA Program Conclusions 99
  13.6 Analysis and Discussion 99
    13.6.1 Crush Size and Grade versus Recovery 99
    13.6.2 Leach Cycle 101
    13.6.3 Reagent Consumptions 101
      13.6.3.1 Cyanide 101
      13.6.3.2 Lime 101
    13.6.4 Conclusions and Key Design Parameters 101
14 Mineral Resource Estimates 103
  14.1 Introduction 103
  14.2 Data 105
    14.2.1 Drill Hole Data 105
    14.2.2 APEX Micromine Database Validation 107
  14.3 Geological Model and Domains 108
    14.3.1 Good Hope Deposit 108
      14.3.1.1 Low-Grade Alteration Domain (LG) 109
      14.3.1.2 High Grade Gold Shell (HG) 109
    14.3.2 Gold Ace Zone 110
  14.4 Drill Hole Flagging and Compositing 110
    14.4.1 Sample Width Analysis 110
    14.4.2 Remnant Analysis 111

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 2022iii
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

  14.5 Capping 113
  14.6 Variography and Grade Continuity 116
  14.7 Bulk Density 118
  14.8 Block Model 122
    14.8.1 Block Model Parameters 122
    14.8.2 Volumetric Checks 124
  14.9 Grade Estimation 124
    14.9.1 Estimation Methodology 124
  14.10 Model Validation 128
    14.10.1 Visual Validation 128
    14.10.2 Statistical Validation 130
  14.11 Mineral Resource Classification 136
    14.11.1 2019 CIM and SK 1300 Definitions 136
    14.11.2 Classification Criteria 138
  14.12 Evaluation of Reasonable Prospects for Eventual Economic Extraction 138
  14.13 Mineral Resource Statement 140
  14.14 Discussion of Mineral Resources Modelling, Risks and Uncertainties 144
23 Adjacent Properties 145
  23.1 Bullfrog 145
  23.2 Sterling and Crown 146
24 Other Relevant Data and Information 147
25 Interpretation and Conclusions 147
  25.1 Introduction 147
  25.2 Mineral Tenure, Surface Rights, Water Rights, Royalties/Agreements 147
  25.3 Geology 148
  25.4 Exploration, Drilling and Analytical Data Collection in Support of Mineral Resource Estimation 149
  25.5 Metallurgical Test work 149
  25.6 Mineral Resource Estimate 150
  25.7 Risks and Uncertainties 150
  25.8 Conclusions 151
26 Recommendations 152
27 References 154
28 Date and Signature 160
29 Certificate of Author 161

 

Tables

 

Table 1.1. Reward Conceptual Open Pit Parameters 9
Table 1.2. Reward Project Mineral Resource Estimate at May 31, 2022 9
Table 1.3. Estimated budget for the recommended PFS 10
Table 4.1. Summary of the Reward Project Claims 20
Table 6.1. Project Exploration History 30
Table 7.1. Stratigraphy and Unit Thickness of the Bare Mountains Complex 37
Table 10.1. Reward Drilling Summary 53
Table 10.2. CR Reward Drill Hole Collars (2017-2018) 57

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 2022iv
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Table 10.3. Results of CR Reward Drill Holes (2017-2018) 58
Table 10.4. Results of Reward Twin Holes 60
Table 11.1. Summary Results of Blank Material from the 2017-2018 Drill Program 67
Table 11.2. Summary Results of Standards from the 2017-2018 Drill Program 67
Table 12.1. Drill Hole Coordinate Comparison 74
Table 12.2. Significant Intercepts of Drill Holes Reviewed During Mr. Dufresne’s Inspection of the CR Reward Core Facility 75
Table 13.1. 1998 Rayrock Drill Core Column Tests Results 79
Table 13.2. 1998 Rayrock Surface Trench Column Test Gold Recovery 80
Table 13.3. 1998 10 Mesh Reverse Circulation Drill Holes Bottle Roll Results 80
Table 13.4. 2008 McClelland Sample/Drill Hole Composite Information 81
Table 13.5. 2008 McClelland Summary Column Test Results 83
Table 13.6. 2008 McClelland Bottle Roll Tests – Gold Recovery % 84
Table 13.7. 2008 McClelland Bottle Roll Size versus Gold Recovery – Composite 5 85
Table 13.8. 2008 McClelland Drain-Down Data from Column Tests 85
Table 13.9. 2018 KCA Composite Head Screen Analyses – Gold and Silver 88
Table 13.10. 2018 KCA Composite Head Screen Analyses – Mercury and Copper 88
Table 13.11. 2018 Hazen Bond Impact Work and Abrasion Index 88
Table 13.12. 2018 High-Grade Sample Intervals 89
Table 13.13. 2018 KCA Bottle Roll Test Results 90
Table 13.14. KCA 2018 Preliminary Agglomeration Test Work 92
Table 13.15. KCA 2018 Compacted Permeability Tests 93
Table 13.16. KCA 2018 Column Leach Tests 98
Table 14.1. Summary Statistics of Raw Gold Assays of Sample Intervals Flagged within the Good Hope and Gold Ace Estimation Domains 107
Table 14.2. Remnant Analysis comparing the Gold Statistics of Raw Assays and Uncapped Composite Samples with and without Orphans 112
Table 14.3. Summary Statistics of Gold Grade of Capped Composite Intervals Flagged within the Good Hope and Gold Ace Estimation Domains 116
Table 14.4. Gold Variogram Model Parameters 117
Table 14.5. Bulk Density Measurements, Good Hope Deposit and Gold Ace Zone 119
Table 14.6. Percentage of Blocks Flagged within each Formation for the Good Hope and Gold Ace Zones 121
Table 14.7. Project Block Model Size and Extents 123
Table 14.8. Wireframe versus Block Model Volume Comparison 124
Table 14.9. Estimation Search and Kriging Parameters 125
Table 14.10. Interpolation Search Restrictions 138
Table 14.11. Parameters for Pit Optimization for Mineral Resource Estimate 139
Table 14.12. Measured and Indicated Mineral Resource Statement 140
Table 14.13. Inferred Mineral Resource Statement 141
Table 14.14. Sensitivity Table, Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources, Good Hope 141
Table 14.15. Sensitivity Table, Inferred Mineral Resources, Good Hope 142
Table 14.16. Sensitivity Table, Indicated Mineral Resources, Gold Ace 142
Table 14.17. Sensitivity Table, Inferred Mineral Resources, Gold Ace 143

 

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Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Table 14.18. Sensitivity Table, Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources, Good Hope and Gold Ace 143
Table 14.19. Sensitivity Table, Inferred Mineral Resources, Good Hope and Gold Ace 144
Table 25.1. Reward Project Mineral Resource Estimate at May 31, 2022 152
Table 26.1. Estimated budget for the recommended PFS 153

 

Figures

 

Figure 2.1. Project Location Map 12
Figure 4.1. Project Location Plan 17
Figure 4.2. CR Reward LLC Controller Mineral Claims at Reward Project 23
Figure 4.3. Detail of Reward Claims and Proposed Infrastructure for the Core Area 24
Figure 7.1. Simplified Geology of the Bare Mountain Area 34
Figure 7.2. Simplified Geologic Map of Project Area 35
Figure 7.3. Local Geology Map 36
Figure 7.4. 3D Geological Schematic of the Main Rock Units and Faults 37
Figure 7.5. Lower Portion of the Bare Mountains Complex Stratigraphic Column Observed at the Project 39
Figure 7.6. 3500N Geology Cross-Section 42
Figure 7.7. Photo Highlighting Vein Orientation in Outcrop 43
Figure 7.8. Gold Mineralization at Reward Intersected by Drilling 46
Figure 7.9. Mineralization along Section 5600 N Looking North 47
Figure 7.10. Mineralization along Section 4200 N Looking North 48
Figure 7.11. Mineralization along Section 4800 N, Looking North 48
Figure 7.12. Mineralization along Section 2900 N Looking North 49
Figure 9.1. Plan View of the Project Area Showing the Locations of the IP/Resistivity Survey Lines 52
Figure 10.1. Reward Drill Hole Locations 54
Figure 11.1. CR Reward Sample Flow Chart 65
Figure 11.2. Blank Results from 2017-2018 Drilling Sorted by Date Analyzed 66
Figure 11.3. CDN-GS-P6B Results from 2017-2018 Program Sorted by Date Analyzed 68
Figure 11.4. CDN-GS-2L Results from 2017-2018 Program Sorted by Date Analyzed 68
Figure 11.5. Duplicate Results from the 2017-2018 Program 69
Figure 12.1. Drill hole CRR17-009, Wood Canyon Formation Mineralized Interval of Phyllite and Oxidized Quartzite 75
Figure 12.2. Drill hole CRR18-014, Wood Canyon Formation Mineralized Interval of Brecciated/Re-healed Quartzite and Sheared and Foliated Phyllite 76
Figure 12.3. Drill Hole CRR18-024, Wood Canyon Formation Mineralized Interval of Quartzite 77
Figure 13.1. 1998 10 Mesh Bottle Roll Recovery Curves 81
Figure 13.2. 2008 McClelland Drill Hole Location Map 82
Figure 13.3. 2008 McClelland 10 Gold Recovery Curves – Column Tests 83
Figure 13.4. 2008 McClelland Bottle Roll Tests Recovery Curves – Splits from Column Tests 83

 

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Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Figure 13.5. 2008 McClelland Bottle Roll Size versus Gold Recovery – Composite 5 85
Figure 13.6. 2018 KCA Metallurgical Sample Drill Hole Location Map 87
Figure 13.7. 2018 KCA Bottle Roll Test Results 91
Figure 13.8. KCA 2018 Column Leach Curves – Carbon Assays 97
Figure 13.9. KCA 2018 Column Leach Curves – Tonnes Solution per Tonne Ore 99
Figure 13.10. Size versus Recovery – 2018 KCA and 2008 McClelland Test Data 100
Figure 14.1. Mineral Resource Estimate Mineralized Domain Outlines 104
Figure 14.2. Histogram of the Raw Gold Assay Values of Sample Intervals Flagged within the Good Hope and Gold Ace Estimation Domains 106
Figure 14.3. Cumulative Frequency Plot of Raw Gold Assay Values of Sample Intervals Flagged within the Good Hope Zone Estimation Domains 106
Figure 14.4. Cumulative Frequency Plot of Raw Gold Assay Values of Sample Intervals Flagged within the Gold Ace Estimation Domain 107
Figure 14.5. Orthogonal View of LGand HG Estimation Domains, Good Hope Deposit 109
Figure 14.6. Orthogonal View of the LG Estimation Domain, Gold Ace Zone 110
Figure 14.7. Histogram of Sample Lengths within Estimation Domains for both the Good Hope and Gold Ace Zones 111
Figure 14.8. Remnant Analysis Illustrating the Gold Distribution of Calculated Composite within the Good Hope Deposit 112
Figure 14.9. Orphan Analysis Illustrating the Gold Distribution of Calculated Composite within the Gold Ace Zone 113
Figure 14.10. Probability Plot of the Composited Gold Grade at the Good Hope Zone before Capping 114
Figure 14.11. Cumulative Frequency Plots of the Composited and Capped Gold Grade within the Good Hope Zone Estimation Domains 114
Figure 14.12. Probability Plot of the Composited Gold Grade at the Gold Ace Zone before Capping 115
Figure 14.13. Cumulative Frequency Plot of the Composited and Capped Gold Grade within Gold Ace Zone Estimation Domain 115
Figure 14.14. Calculated and Modelled Semi-Variogram of Gold within the Good Hope Zone. Dip Direction and Dip for each Principle Direction is in each Subplot Title 117
Figure 14.15. Calculated and Modelled Semi-Variogram of Gold within the Gold Ace Zone. Dip Direction and Dip for each Principle Direction is in each Subplot Title 118
Figure 14.16. Bulk Density Box Plots, Good Hope Deposit 119
Figure 14.17. Bulk Density Scatter Plots Showing 3D Solids vs. Gold Grade, Good Hope Deposit 120
Figure 14.18. Bulk Density Box Plots, Gold Ace Zone 121
Figure 14.19. Bulk Density Scatter Plots Showing 3D Solids vs. Gold Grade, Gold Ace Zone 121
Figure 14.20. Cumulative Frequency Plot Illustrating the Distance from each Block Centroid to the nearest Composite Sample within the Good Hope Zone 122
Figure 14.21. Cumulative Frequency Plot Illustrating the Distance from each Block Centroid to the nearest Composite Sample within the Gold Ace Zone 123

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 2022vii
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Figure 14.22. Gold Grade Contact Plot Analysis, Good Hope LG and HG Grade Domain Contacts 126
Figure 14.23. Contact Plot Analysis, Good Hope Grade and Waste Domain Contacts 127
Figure 14.24. Contact Analysis, Gold Ace Grade and Waste Domain Contacts 127
Figure 14.25. Cross-Section 6000N, Showing Block Gold Estimates at the Good Hope Deposit 128
Figure 14.26. Cross-Section 4800N, Showing Block Gold Estimates at the Good Hope Deposit 129
Figure 14.27. Cross-Section 4100N, Showing Block Gold Estimates at the Good Hope Deposit 129
Figure 14.28. Cross-Section 2700N, Showing Block Gold Estimates at the Gold Ace Deposit 130
Figure 14.29. Swath Plots Showing Composite versus Estimated Gold Grade, Good Hope 131
Figure 14.30. Swath Plots Showing Composite versus Estimated, Gold Grade Gold Ace 132
Figure 14.31. Volume Variance Check, Good Hope 133
Figure 14.32. Volume Variance Check, Gold Ace 134
Figure 14.33. Contact Analysis, Good Hope Grade and Waste Domain Boundary 135
Figure 14.34. Contact Analysis, Gold Ace Grade and Waste Domain Boundary 135
Figure 23.1. Adjacent Properties 146

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 2022viii
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

1Summary

 

1.1Issuer and Purpose

 

This Technical Report (the Technical Report) was prepared by APEX Geoscience Ltd. (APEX) and Kappes, Cassiday & Associates (KCA) for CR Reward LLC (CR Reward) and Augusta Gold Corp. (Augusta or the Company). Augusta is a publicly traded company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX:G) in Canada and the OTCQB Venture Market (OTCQB:AUGG) in the United States of America (USA) focused on the exploration, advancement and development of gold properties in Nevada. CR Reward is a private Nevada limited liability company that is a wholly owned subsidiary of Augusta.

 

The Company engaged APEX in May, 2022 to complete an updated Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) for the Reward Project under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) and an Initial Assessment of Mineral Resources in accordance with Item 1300 of Regulation S-K under the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (SK 1300). The focus of this Technical Report is an updated MRE for the Reward Project (Reward or the Project), a gold exploration project situated in Nye County, Nevada (NV), USA. The Project is located 11.3 km (7 miles) to the southeast of the Company’s Bullfrog project within the Walker Lane Trend, a prolifically mineralized belt that is host to numerous gold deposits and current and past producing mines in south-central Nevada.

 

This Technical Report summarizes a NI 43-101 and SK 1300 updated MRE for the Project and provides a technical summary of the relevant location, tenure, historical and geological information, a summary of the recent exploration work conducted by CR Reward and recommendations for future exploration programs. This Technical Report summarizes the technical information available up to the effective date of May 31, 2022. This Technical Report was amended on December 18, 2023 to make certain additions to address technical compliance with SK 1300 in relation to (i) the adequecy of the metallurgical data and (ii) the reasoning for using the selected commodity prices and material assumptions in relation thereto. No updates or amendments were made to the technical information which remains as of the effective date of May 31, 2022

 

This Technical Report has been prepared in accordance with the Canadian Securities Administration’s (CSA’s) NI 43-101 and guidelines for technical reporting Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) “Best Practices and Reporting Guidelines” for disclosing mineral exploration and in accordance with the requirements of SK 1300. The mineral resource has been estimated using the CIM “Estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Best Practice Guidelines”, dated November 29, 2019, and the CIM “Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves”, amended and adopted May 10th, 2014 and in accordance with the requirements of SK 1300.

 

1.2Authors, Contributors and Site Inspection

 

This Technical Report has been prepared by Mr. Michael B. Dufresne, M.Sc., P. Geol., P. Geo., of APEX and Mr. Timothy D. Scott, BA.Sc., RM SME, of KCA. Both authors are independent and not employed by either Augusta or CR Reward and are Qualified Persons (QPs) as defined in NI 43-101 and as defined under SK 1300. Contributors to this Technical Report include Mr. Warren Black, M.Sc., P.Geo. and Mr. Steven Nicholls, BA.Sc., MAIG, all of APEX and who are independent and not employed by either Augusta or CR Reward. Neither APEX or KCA are affiliated with Augusta or CR Reward. Under the direct supervision of Mr. Dufresne, Mr. Black prepared the resource estimation statistical analysis, three-dimensional modelling, block modelling and resource estimations presented in Section 14. Mr. Steven Nicholls, BA.Sc., MAIG, a QP, and APEX’s senior resource geologist performed an internal audit of the MRE presented in Section 14. Mr. Dufresne takes responsibility for the MRE reported herein.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 20221
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Mr. Dufresne has visited the Project on two separate occasions in 2017 and 2019. During the site inspections, Mr. Dufresne reviewed drill core and verified the location of a number of drill collars. As a result of the site inspections, Mr. Dufresne can verify the land position, the geological setting and the mineralization that is the subject of this Technical Report. Mr. Scott visited the Project on September 22, 2018 and on May 16, 2022.

 

1.3Project Setting

 

The Project is situated about 11.3 km (7 miles) south-southeast of the town of Beatty, NV about 3.2 km (2 miles) east of US Highway 95 in Nye County. The Project can be accessed from Beatty by paved road on Highway 95 followed by traveling two miles east on a gravel road. Several dirt roads diverge into various canyons of the Bare Mountains.

 

The Project is situated in the Amargosa Desert in southwestern Nevada on the southwestern flank of the Bare Mountains in the northern Amargosa Valley. The western flank of the Bare Mountains drains into the Amargosa Desert which is drained by the ephemeral Amargosa River. Beatty, on the Amargosa River, lies at 1,006 m (3,300 ft) elevation. Elevations in the Project area range from about 1,160 to 1,310 m (3,800 ft to 4,300 ft). Vegetation is sparse. The climate is typical of middle-elevation desert. Operations are planned to be conducted year-round.

 

The Project is currently serviced by an existing 14.4/24.9 kV power line owned and operated by Valley Electric. A water well provides water for exploration activities. Project employees will be recruited from the local area, including the communities of Beatty, Amargosa, and Pahrump, located within Nye County, and the regional urban centre of Las Vegas, located within Clark County.

 

The Project has sufficient land area, with adjacent public-domain lands also potentially available, to allow mine development, including space for the mining operations, waste rock disposal facilities (WRDs) and heap leach pads as envisaged in prior historical economic studies.

 

1.4Mineral Tenure, Surface Rights, Water Rights, Royalties and Agreements

 

The Project area lies within Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11 and 16 of Township 13 South, Range 47 East and Sections 33, 34, and 35 of Township 12 South, Range 47 East, all referred to the Mount Diablo Baseline and Meridian.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 20222
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Canyon Resources Corporation (Canyon Resources) holds a 100% interest in the mineral claims that form the Project. In 2008, Canyon Resources assigned all of the patented and unpatented claims comprising the Project to an entity which was subsequently converted into CR Reward.

 

The Project encompasses 121 unpatented Bureau of Land Management (BLM) placer and lode mining claims and six patented placer mining claims, totalling approximately 2,333 net acres (944 hectares). Only the patented claims have been legally surveyed. Under United States mining law, claims may be renewed annually for an unlimited number of years upon a small payment per claim (currently $155 per claim due to the BLM and an aggregate $1,502 due to Nye County) and the same claim status—whether lode or placer—may be used for exploration or exploitation of the lodes or placers.

 

Several blocks of unpatented claims are leased by CR Reward from underlying owners, and are referred to as Connolly, Webster, Orser–McFall and Van Meeteren leases. These have the following royalties payable:

 

A 3% Net Smelter Return (NSR) royalty is payable on any minerals mined from the Connolly Claims, but is reduced to 2% as CR Reward only owns a two-third interest in the Connolly Claims. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Connolly Lease in an amount equal to $10,000/year.

 

A 3% NSR royalty is payable on any minerals mined from the Webster Claims but is (i) reduced to 1% on the Sunshine and Reward claims as the lessee only owns a one-third interest, and (ii) reduced to 1.5% on the Good Hope claim as CR Reward only owns a half interest in this claim. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Webster Lease in an amount equal to $7,500/ year.

 

A 3% NSR royalty is payable on minerals mined from the Orser–McFall Claims but is reduced to 1.5% on the Good Hope claim as the lessee only owns a half interest in that claim. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Orser–McFall Lease in an amount equal to $20,000/year.

 

A 3% NSR royalty is payable on minerals mined from the Van Meeteren Claims. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Van Meeteren Lease in an amount equal to $15/acre from 2011 through 2020, for a total of $1,800/year, and $20/acre from and after 2021, for a total of $2,400/year.

 

The Project area mainly consists of Federal public domain lands administered by the BLM. There are no State or private tracts within the Project area, except the six patented claims owned by CR Reward, all of which carry surface and mineral rights ownership.

 

The Project is not subject to any other back-in rights payments, agreements or encumbrances.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 20223
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Water rights have been obtained through a Water Lease agreement with Barrick Gold Corp’s (Barrick) Bullfrog mining operations. Under the Water Lease, CR Reward has the right to use 317.39 acre-ft of water annually under Application No. 61412, Certificate No. 16384 and Permit No. 76390 in exchange for paying Barrick USD$150.00/acre-ft of water per year for water actually pumped.

 

To the extent known to the QPs, there are no other significant factors and risks that may affect access, title, or the right or ability to perform work on the Project that have not been discussed in this Report.

 

1.5Geology and Mineralization

 

Mineralization in the Good Hope Deposit and Golden Ace Zone can be classified as examples of a structurally controlled, locally disseminated, sediment hosted, mesothermal quartz vein gold deposit.

 

The Project is hosted within the Bare Mountain Complex which lies within an intricate tectonic setting of the Nevada Basin and Range Province.

 

The Bare Mountain Complex consist of up to 6,096 m (20,000 ft) of Upper Proterozoic to Paleozoic marine sedimentary rocks in the lower plate that have been juxtaposed against Miocene silicic volcanic sequences in the upper plate. The lower plate units were deformed through folding, thrust faulting, low and high angle normal faulting during a Mesozoic compression event, and have been metamorphosed from lower amphibolite to sub-greenschist grade. Two dominant normal fault sets have been mapped in the lower plate, including the moderately east-dipping Bare Mountain and Gold Ace faults, and shallowly southeast-dipping faults that cut or curve into east-dipping faults.

 

The Project is located on the southwestern flank of the Bare Mountain Complex and is underlain by moderately-deformed marine clastic and carbonate rocks of Late Proterozoic and Late Cambrian age that have been metamorphosed to greenschist grade. Tertiary and younger alluvium cover the lower slopes and the adjacent Armagosa Valley to the south and west. The east-dipping Gold Ace fault, locally termed the Good Hope fault zone, separates northeast dipping Late Proterozoic to Early Cambrian units in the footwall block from Middle to Late Cambrian units in the hanging wall block.

 

The gold mineralization in the Good Hope Deposit is spatially associated with, and along, the Good Hope fault zone, and is primarily hosted in altered and veined Wood Canyon Formation, and to a lesser extent, in the Juhl and Sutton Members of the Stirling Formation. Mineralization hosted along the contact between the Sutton and Morris Marble Members of the Stirling Formation is referred to as the Gold Ace Zone. Although there are small historic prospects along the Good Hope fault zone, most of the historic production came from the Gold Ace Zone.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 20224
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

1.6History

 

Historical exploration of the Project was completed by several other companies from 1976 to 2004, including Galli Exploration Associates (Galli Exploration), Teco Inc. (Teco), St. Joe Minerals Corporation (St Joe), Gexa Gold Corp (Gexa), Cloverleaf Gold Inc. (Cloverleaf), Homestake Mining Company (Homestake), Pathfinder Gold Corporation (Pathfinder), Bond Gold Exploration Inc. (Bond Gold), Barrick, US Nevada Gold Search (USNGS), Rayrock Mines, Inc (Rayrock), Glamis Gold, Ltd. (Glamis Gold), and Marigold Mining Company (Marigold Mining). Historical exploration included airborne geophysics, reverse circulation (RC) and core drilling, initial metallurgical testwork, mineral resource estimates and technical studies.

 

Canyon Resources acquired the Project in 2004, and together with Atna Resources Ltd. (Atna) and CR Reward, have completed data compilation and validation, ground induced polarization/resistivity geophysical surveys, RC and core drilling, mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates, metallurgical testwork, permitting studies, environmental baseline studies, and technical studies. The following permits and authorizations were granted to CR Reward in 2007:

 

Plan of Operations authorized under N-82840.

 

Water Pollution Control Permit (WPCP); WPCP NEV2007101.

 

General construction permit; NVR100000 CSW-17415.

 

Water rights permitted by Nevada Division of Water Resources (NDWR) under Mining, Milling, & Domestic permit 76390.

 

Mining reclamation permit granted by the Bureau of Mining Regulation and Reclamation (BMRR) under mine site permit #0300.

 

Nevada Bureau of Air Pollution Control (BAPC) authorized Class II Air Quality permit AP1041-2492.

 

1.7Drilling and Sampling

 

A total of 376 drill holes, totalling 43,729.7 m (143,470 ft) have been completed at the Project between 1987 and 2018. Of this total, 35 are core holes totalling 4,094.4 m (13,433 ft) and 341 are RC holes totalling 39,635.3 m (130,037 ft).

 

For CR Reward’s 2017–2018 drill program, drill hole locations were established using hand-held global positioning system (GPS) instruments and upon completion of the program, the collar locations were re-surveyed by a licensed surveyor. Down-hole surveys were completed at regular intervals, usually 7.6 m (25 ft), using an EZ-Shot system that records the magnetic heading, dip of the hole and magnetic field in the hole. A total of 398 measurements were collected for the 28 holes drilled in 2017–2018. Core recovery during the core drilling was very good, exceeding 95% on average, with losses mainly in highly shattered zones.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 20225
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

There is limited documentation available detailing the sample preparation, analyses and security of historical drill sampling programs conducted from 1987 to 2000 by Homestake, Gexa, Pathfinder, Cloverleaf, USNGS and Barrick. RC drill holes completed in 2006–2007 were sampled on 1.5 m (5 ft) intervals, and cores on 0.9 m (3 ft) intervals. The 2011–2013 RC holes were also sampled at 1.5 m (5 ft) intervals.

 

Independent assay laboratories were used in the 2006-2007 Canyon Resources, the 2011-2013 Atna and 2017-2018 CR Reward programs, including ALS Chemex Laboratory in Sparks, Nevada (certified to ISO 9001:2000 for selected techniques), Inspectorate America Corporation (Inspectorate) in Sparks, Nevada (certified to ISO 9001:2000 for selected techniques), Florin Analytical Services (FAS) in Reno, Nevada (not certified).

 

The 2006–2007, 2011-2013 and the CR Reward 2017-2018 drilling programs included the submission of standard and blank materials as part of the Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) program. Assay control protocols during these modern periods of drilling included the insertion of certified standards, blanks and duplicates at acceptable insertion rates for all of the data.

 

The sample collection, security, transportation, preparation, insertion of geochemical standards and blanks, and analytical procedures are within industry norms and best practices. The procedures used by CR Reward personnel are considered adequate to ensure that the results disclosed are accurate within scientific limitations and are not misleading. The procedures and assay control protocols employed by CR Reward in the 2017–2018 drill program are considered reasonable and acceptable for use in Mineral Resource estimation.

 

1.8Data Verification

 

Keith Fowlow of CR Reward performed a comprehensive data verification program in 2017 consisting of collar and down-hole survey checks, and evaluation of assay values versus laboratory certificates or geologic logs where certificates were not available. Errors identified were corrected where applicable. For non-analytical drill hole information, CR Reward employed a protocol of continuous data checking to ensure accurate data transcription, including collar and down hole surveys, and geological and geotechnical information. The procedures employed are considered reasonable and are adequate with respect to ensuring data integrity.

 

Mr. Dufresne reviewed all aspects of the Reward drill hole database and available non-analytical procedures for historical and the CR Reward 2017–2018 drilling programs including the verification program by Mr. Fowlow. The drill hole database was validated using Micromine 2018 and was inspected visually in Excel files and on drill section. Mr. Dufresne has reviewed the adequacy of the exploration information and the visual, physical and geological characteristics of the Project and has found no significant issues or inconsistencies that would cause one to question the validity of the data. Mr. Dufresne, the QP, considers the CR Reward drill hole database, including the historical pre-2017 data and the 2017 to 2018 data, well validated and suitable for the preparation of the MRE presented in Section 14 of this Technical Report.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 20226
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

1.9Metallurgical Testing

 

Metallurgical test work on the Project includes historical work completed by Rayrock Mines Inc. during 1998 and McClellend in 2007 and 2008 with confirmatory test work being performed by KCA in 2018. Metallurgical test work completed to date includes 34 bottle roll tests and 21 column tests along together with preliminary agglomeration and compacted permeability testing. Results from these tests show that the mineralization is amenable to cyanide leaching with reasonable reagent consumptions.

 

Metallurgical samples from historical and recent KCA test programs appear to be spatially representative for the Good Hope Deposit. Results from KCA’s 2018 test program confirmed the results from the 2007–2008 McClelland campaign with an average laboratory gold recovery of 81% for the Good Hope Deposit. The program also included bottle roll and duplicate column leach tests on the Gold Ace Zone. Results for Gold Ace show significantly lower column recoveries compared to the Good Hope Deposit.

 

Key design parameters from the metallurgical test work for the Good Hope Deposit include:

 

Crush size P80 of ¼ inch.

 

Estimated field gold recovery of 79% including a 2% field deduction. Based on column tests, it is possible additional ounces may be realized during secondary leaching of ore from leaching upper lifts and during heap rinsing as it appears most columns were still slowly leaching at the termination of the columns.

 

Design leach cycle of 125 days.

 

Average field sodium cyanide consumption of 0.73 lb/st ore.

 

Average field lime consumption of 1.53 lb/st of material based on 100% CaO purity.

 

Cement agglomeration is not required up to heap heights of 262 ft.

 

No deleterious elements are known from the processing perspective.

  

1.9.1Qualified Person’s Opinion

 

The metallurgical test work and analytical methods used followed regular mining industry accepted practice. The samples and composite samples used in the metallurgical evaluation were deemed representative for the deposit as sampled for process development. Appropriate test work in sufficient quantity has been conducted to derive the metallurgical conclusions presented.

 

1.10Current Mineral Resource

 

This Technical Report details an updated mineral resource estimate (MRE) for the Reward Project. The 2022 MRE for Reward was completed by Mr. Warren Black, M.Sc., P.Geo., of APEX under the direct supervision of Mr. Dufresne, M.Sc., P.Geol., P.Geo. and the QP who takes responsibility for the MRE contained herein. Mr. Steven Nicholls, BA.Sc., MAIG, a QP and APEX’s senior resource geologist performed an internal audit of the MRE in Section 14.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 20227
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

CR Reward and Augusta provided APEX with a drill hole database that consisted of analytical, geological, density, and collar survey information, initial estimation domains for the Good Hope Deposit and Gold Ace Zone, and a geological model that contained a stratigraphic and structural 3D interpretation. A block model size of 20 ft (X) by 20 ft (Y) by 20 ft (Z) was used for the gold estimation.

 

The assay data was examined using a combination of histograms, cumulative frequency plots, and summary statistics; this indicated gold samples generally exhibited a single assay population. Samples were composited to 10 ft lengths. Probability plots were used to evaluate grade statistics and determine whether capping was warranted. A capping level of 0.292 oz/st (10.01 grams per tonne [g/t]) Au was applied to samples in the Good Hope Deposit, and a cap level of 0.146 oz/st (5.01 g/t) Au to samples in the Gold Ace Zone. Semi-variograms for gold were modelled using the 10 ft composites flagged within the estimation domains. A bulk density of 2.59 g/cm3 was applied to all blocks in the Good Hope Deposit. As there is evidence for the need for a higher bulk density value for blocks flagged within the Morris Member in the Good Ace Zone, they were assigned a value of 2.70 g/cm3. However, as there is an insufficient number of bulk density measurements of the Sutton Member within the Gold Ace estimation domain, all other blocks at the Gold Ace Zone were assigned a bulk density of 2.59 g/cm3.

 

Ordinary kriging (OK) was used to estimate gold grades for those blocks that contained more than 1.56% mineralized material by volume. A block discretization of 2 (X) by 2 (Y) by 2 (Z) was applied to all blocks during estimation. A two-pass method was used. The first pass required a minimum of two drill holes, a maximum of 15 composites and no more than three composites from any one drill hole. Soft boundaries were used between the high and low-grade domains in the Good Hope Deposit, and mineralization and waste in the Good Hope Deposit and the Gold Ace Zone.

 

Estimation validation included visual inspection in plan view and in cross-section, examination of swath plots, review of mineralization/waste contact profiles and volume-variance effects. The estimate was found to be reasonable.

 

Mineral Resources were classified using a combination of assessment of geological confidence, data quality and grade continuity. Resource classification was determined using a three-pass strategy, where Measured was classified in the first run, Indicated in the second, and Inferred in the third run. A small portion of blocks at the northern (>6500 N) and southern (<2750 N) extents of the Good Hope Deposit were manually adjusted to Inferred as there is insufficient drilling density in the QP’s opinion to justify higher confidence classifications.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 20228
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Reasonable prospects of eventual economic extraction were considered by constraining the estimate within a conceptual pit shell that used the assumptions in Table 1.1.

 

Table 1.1. Reward Conceptual Open Pit Parameters.

 

Parameter Unit (Imperial) Cost (Imperial) Unit (Metric) Cost (Metric)
Gold Price US$/oz 1,700 US$/g 54.656
Gold Metallurgical Recovery % 80 % 80
Pit Wall Angles ° 48-58 ° 48-58
Mining Cost US$/st 2.00 US$/tonne 2.20
Processing Rate Mst/a 3 Mtonne/a 2.7
Processing Cost US$/st $5.50 US$/tonne $6.06
G & A Cost US$/st 0.75 US$/tonne 0.80
Cut-off Grade (break even) oz/st 0.0047 g/tonne 0.158
Royalty % 3 % 3

 

The MRE for the Reward Project is presented in Table 1.2 below.

 

Table 1.2. Reward Project Mineral Resource Estimate at May 31, 2022 Based on USD$1,700/oz. Au and a lower cutoff grade of 0.2 g/t Au.

 

Classification Tonnage (Mt) Average Grade (g/t) Contained Au (koz)
Good Hope

Measured

Indicated

M&I Total

6.19

10.76

16.94

0.86

0.69

0.75

169.9

240.0

409.9

Inferred 0.29 0.56 5.3
Gold Ace

Indicated

Inferred

0.83

1.03

0.63

0.73

16.8

21.8

Reward (Combined Good Hope and Gold Ace)

Measured

Indicated

M&I Total

6.19

11.58

17.77

0.86

0.69

0.75

169.9

256.8

426.7

Inferred 1.23 0.68 27.1

 

Notes:

 

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,700/oz and a recovery of 80% for Au were utilized.
2.

Gold price used in the mineral resource estimate was based on a review of the 3 year trailing average.

3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.20/tonne.

4.Processing and general and administration are US$6.06/tonne and US$0.83/tonne per tonne processed, respectively.
5.

The mineral resources are reported utilizing a 0.2 g/t Au incremental lower cut-off grade.

6.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

7.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes and are partially diluted.

8.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

9.The effective date of the Reward mineral resource estimate is May 31, 2022.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 20229
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

1.11Conclusions

 

Based upon a review of available information, historical and recent exploration data, the authors site visits and the current MRE for the Good Hope Deposit and Gold Ace Zone of the Reward Project, the authors view the Project as a property of merit prospective for the additional discovery, and future development, of potentially economic structurally-controlled, locally-disseminated, sediment-hosted, mesothermal quartz vein gold mineralization. This contention is supported by the following:

 

The favourable geological setting of the Reward Project and its position within the Walker Land Trend, a prolifically mineralized belt that is host to numerous gold deposits and current and past producing mines in south-central Nevada.

 

Historical exploration and recent work by CR Reward has delineated a large zone of gold mineralization at Good Hope and Gold Ace and led to the calculation of the current MRE.

 

Recent metallurgical testwork indicates projected gold recoveries of 81% for the Good Hope Deposit.

 

1.12Recommendations

 

Based on the outcomes of this report and prior work conducted by CR Reward, it is recommended that CR Reward and Augusta proceed to a Preliminary Feasibility Study (PFS) for the Reward Project in order to examine opportunities to develop the Project. The PFS will be an update to a historical internal Feasibility Study (FS) prepared in 2019 on behalf of CR Reward and Waterton. The recommended PFS will incorporate current pricing for major equipment, contract mining costs, construction costs, major consumables, and labor costs.

 

The budget for completing a PFS for the Project is USD$1,100,000, including contingency, as summarized in Table 1.3 below.

 

Table 1.3. Estimated budget for the recommended PFS.

 

Item Cost USD$
Primary Engineer, includes Process and Infrastructure 420,000
Mineral Resource Estimate 20,000
Mining and Mineral Reserve 40,000
Geotechnical and Earthworks 110,000
Power and Other Consulting 400,000
Contingency 110,000
Total 1,100,000

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202210
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

2Introduction

 

2.1Issuer and Purpose

 

This Technical Report (the Technical Report) was prepared by APEX Geoscience Ltd. (APEX) and Kappes, Cassiday & Associates (KCA) for CR Reward LLC (CR Reward) and Augusta Gold Corp. (Augusta or the Company). Augusta is a publicly traded company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX:G) in Canada and the OTCQB Venture Market (OTCQB:AUGG) in the United States of America (USA) focused on the exploration, advancement and development of gold properties in Nevada. CR Reward is a private Nevada limited liability company that is a wholly owned subsidiary of Augusta.

 

On June 13, 2022, Augusta acquired the Reward Project (Reward or the Project), from Waterton Nevada Splitter LLC (Waterton) by the purchase of CR Reward.

 

The Reward Project is considered to be an intermediate stage exploration project within a favourable geological setting, situated within the Walker Lane Trend, a prolifically mineralized belt this is host to numerous gold deposits and current and past producing mines in south-central Nevada. The Project is situated approximately 11.3 km (7 miles) south-southeast of the town of Beatty, NV, approximately 3.2 km (2 miles) east of US Highway 95 in Nye County (Figure 2.1). The Project encompasses 121 unpatented Bureau of Land Management (BLM) placer and lode mining claims and six patented placer mining claims, totalling approximately 2,333 net acres (944 hectares).

 

This Technical Report summarizes a National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) and Item 1300 of Regulation S-K of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (SK 1300) mineral resource estimation for the Reward Project and provides a technical summary of the relevant location, tenure, historical and geological information, a summary of the recent exploration work and recommendations for future exploration programs. This Technical Report summarizes the technical information available up to the effective date of May 31st, 2022.

 

This Technical Report has been prepared in accordance with the Canadian Securities Administration’s (CSA) NI 43-101 and guidelines for technical reporting Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) “Best Practices and Reporting Guidelines” for disclosing mineral exploration and in accordance with the requirements of SK 1300. The mineral resource has been estimated using the CIM “Estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Best Practice Guidelines” dated November 29, 2019, and the CIM “Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves” amended and adopted May 10th, 2014 and in accordance with the requirements of SK 1300.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202211
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Figure 2.1. Project Location Map (Lycopodium, 2019).

 

Note: Figure prepared by Lycopodium, 2019.

 

2.2Authors, Contributors and Site Inspection

 

This Technical Report has been prepared by Mr. Michael B. Dufresne, M.Sc., P. Geol., P. Geo., of APEX and Mr. Timothy D. Scott, RM SME, of KCA. Both authors are independent and not employed by either Augusta or CR Reward and are Qualified Persons (QPs) as defined in NI 43-101 and SK 1300. The CIM and NI 43-101 defines a QP as “an individual who is a geoscientist with at least five years of experience in mineral exploration, mine development or operation or mineral project assessment, or any combination of these; has experience relevant to the subject matter of the mineral project and the technical report; and is a member or licensee in good standing of a professional association.” SK 1300 defines a QP as “an individual who is (1) a mineral industry professional with at least five years of relevant experience in the type of mineralization and type of deposit under consideration and in the specific type of activity that person is undertaking on behalf of the registrant; and (2) an eligible member or licensee in good standing of a recognized professional organization at the time the technical report is prepared.”

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202212
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Mr. Dufresne, M.Sc., P.Geol., P.Geo. takes responsibility for the preparation and publication of Sections 1.1 to 1.8, 1.10 to 12, 14 to 25.4, 25.6 and 25.8 to 27 and is co-responsible for section 25.7 of this Technical Report. Mr. Dufresne is a Professional Geologist with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA; membership number 48439), a Professional Geoscientist with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia (EGBC; membership number 37074) and has worked as a mineral exploration geologist for more than 35 years since his graduation from university. Mr. Dufresne has been involved in all aspects of mineral exploration and mineral resource estimations for precious and base metal mineral projects and deposits in Canada and internationally, including structurally-controlled, locally-disseminated, sediment-hosted, quartz vein gold mineralization in Nevada.

 

Mr. Timothy Scott, BA.Sc. Geological Engineering, takes responsibility for Sections 1.9, 13, 25.5 and is co-responsible for section 25.7 of this Technical Report. Mr. Scott visited the Project on September 22nd, 2018 and on May 16th, 2022. He inspected the access and associated infrastructure. Mr. Scott has worked for 35 years in all aspects of mineral processing and gold extraction; heap leaching; and design and construction of mineral processing and metals extraction facilities. He has held management positions at major mining companies as well as led the design, construction, and commissioning teams for the construction of five operating mines.

 

Contributors to this Technical Report include Mr. Warren Black, M.Sc., P.Geo. and Mr. Steven Nicholls, BA.Sc., MAIG, of APEX. Under the direct supervision of Mr. Dufresne, Mr. Black prepared the resource estimation statistical analysis, three-dimensional modelling, block modelling and resource estimations presented in Section 14. Mr. Black has a research background in the use of multivariate simulation for probabilistic mineral prospectivity modelling and has experience with exploration for precious and base metal deposits of various deposit types in North America. Mr. Steven Nicholls, BA.Sc., MAIG, QP, conducted a thorough audit of the Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) and Section 14. Mr. Nicholls is a QP, as defined in NI 43-101 and SK 1300, and has worked as a geologist for more than 20 years since his graduation from university. Mr. Nicholls is APEX’s senior resource geologist and has extensive experience with exploration/resource estimation for, and the evaluation of, gold deposits of various types, including sediment-hosted mineralization.

 

Mr. Dufresne has visited the Project for data verification purposes on two separate occasions in 2017 and 2019. On August 2, 2017, Mr. Dufresne visited the Property and reviewed drill core at CR Reward’s office in Reno, NV. On August 12, 2019, Mr. Dufresne visited the Property and verified the location of a number of drill collars. On August 15, 2019, Mr. Dufresne performed an inspection of the Lovelock, NV, core facility and reviewed Reward Project drill core from the 2017-2018 drill program. No material field based exploration work has occurred at the Reward Project since the 2017-2018 drill program. Therefore, Mr. Dufresne considers the most recent site visit as current. As a result of the site visits, Mr. Dufresne can verify the land position, the geological setting and the mineralization that is the subject of this Technical Report.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202213
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

2.3Sources of Information

 

This Technical Report is largely based on sections derived from the 2019 Feasibility Study titled, “Reward Project Feasibility Study Report, Nevada, USA”, prepared for CR Reward by Lycopodium Minerals Canada Ltd. (Lycopodium; Lycopodium, 2019) and the 2019 Feasibility Study Technical Report titled, “Reward Project Feasibility Study, NI 43-101 Technical Report Nevada, USA,” prepared by Lycopodium and co-authored by Mr. Dufresne and Mr. Scott (Evans et al., 2019).

 

Additional sources of information are listed in Section 27, References. The sources of information and data used in this Technical Report are based on the compilation of proprietary and publicly available geological and geochemical data. The authors have deemed these reports, data, and information as valid contributions to the best of their knowledge.

 

Based on the site visits and review of the available literature and data, the authors take responsibility for the information herein.

 

2.4Units of Measure

 

With respect to units of measure, unless otherwise stated, this Technical Report uses:

 

Abbreviated shorthand consistent with the International System of Units (International Bureau of Weights and Measures, 2006).

 

‘Bulk’ weight is presented in both United States short tons (“tons”; 2,000 lbs or 907.2 kg) and metric tonnes (“tonnes”; 1,000 kg or 2,204.6 lbs.).

 

Assay and analytical results for precious metals are quoted in parts per million (“ppm”), parts per billion (“ppb”), ounces per short ton (“opt” or ozt/st), where “ounces” refers to “troy ounces” and “ton” means “short ton”. Where ppm (also commonly referred to as grams per metric tonne [g/t]) have been converted to opt (or ozt/st), a conversion factor of 0.029166 (or 34.2857) was used.

 

Geographic coordinates are projected in the Universal Transverse Mercator (“UTM”) system relative to Zone 11 of the North American Datum (“NAD”) 1983. and,

 

Currency in United States dollars (USD$), unless otherwise specified (e.g., Canadian, CAD$.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202214
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

3Reliance on Other Experts

 

The authors are not qualified to provide an opinion or comment on issues related to legal agreements, royalties, permitting and environmental matters. Accordingly, the authors of this Technical Report disclaim portions of the Technical Report particularly in Section 4, Property Description and Location.

 

The authors relied entirely on background information and details regarding CR Reward’s legal ownership (in Section 4.1) as provided in title reports prepared by CR Rewards legal counsel dated April 9-12, 2022 (Jensen, 2022a,b,c,d). Permitting as well as the legal and survey validation of the claims is not in the authors’ expertise and the QPs have relied on the Company’s representatives with respect to such information.

 

The authors have confirmed the claims are active and in good standing as of the Effective Date of this Report using the BLM’s MLRS register. The authors have no reason to question the validity or status of the mineral claims.

 

4Property Description and Location

 

4.1Description and Location

 

The Project is located in Nye County, Nevada, about seven miles south–southeast of the town of Beatty as shown in Figure 4.1. The Project area lies within Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11 and 16 of Township 13 South, Range 47 East, and Sections 33, 34, and 35 of Township 12 South, Range 47 East, all referred to the Mount Diablo Baseline and Meridian (CAM, 2012).

 

The Project is situated at an approximate latitude and longitude corresponding to 36° 50 minutes and 116° 42 minutes, respectively (CAM, 2012). The centre of the proposed open pit is located at 1,729,330 E, 13,375,050 N (UTM coordinates, NAD27, Zone 11, US feet).

 

The Project area falls within the USGS Carrara Canyon 1:24,000 scale topographic quadrangle map.

 

4.2Property and Title in Nevada

 

4.2.1Mineral Title

 

Information in this section is sourced from Papke and Davis (2019).

 

Federal (30 USC and 43 CFR) and Nevada (NRS 517) laws concerning mining claims on Federal land are based on an 1872 Federal law titled “An Act to Promote the Development of Mineral Resources of the United States.” Mining claim procedures still are based on this law, but the original scope of the law has been reduced by several legislative changes.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202215
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

The Mineral Leasing Act of 1920 (30 USC Chapter 3A) provided for leasing of some non-metallic materials; and the Multiple Mineral Development Act of 1954 (30 USC Chapter 12) allowed simultaneous use of public land for mining under the mining laws and for lease operation under the mineral leasing laws. Additionally, the Multiple Surface Use Act of 1955 (30 USC 611-615) made “common variety” materials non-locatable; the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 (30 USC Chapter 23) provided for leasing of geothermal resources; and the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (the BLM Organic Act, 43 USC Chapter 35) granted the Secretary of the Interior broad authority to manage public lands. Most details regarding procedures for locating claims on Federal lands have been left to individual states, providing that state laws do not conflict with Federal laws (30 USC 28; 43 CFR 3831.1).

 

Mineral deposits are located either by lode or placer claims (43 CFR 3840). The locator must decide whether a lode or placer claim should be used for a given material; the decision is not always easy but is critical. A lode claim is void if used to acquire a placer deposit, and a placer claim is void if used for a lode deposit. The 1872 Federal law requires a lode claim for “veins or lodes of quartz or other rock in place” (30 USC 26; 43 CFR 3841.1), and a placer claim for all “forms of deposit, excepting veins of quartz or other rock in place” (30 USC 35). The maximum size of a lode claim is 457 m (1,500 ft) in length and 183 m (600 ft) in width, whereas an individual or company can locate a placer claim as much as 8 hectares (20 acres) in area.

 

Claims may be patented or unpatented. A patented claim is a lode or placer claim or mill site for which a patent has been issued by the Federal Government, whereas an unpatented claim means a lode or placer claim, tunnel right or mill site located under the Federal (30 USC) act, for which a patent has not been issued.

 

4.2.2Surface Rights

 

Information in this section is sourced from Papke and Davis (2019).

 

About 85% of the land in Nevada is controlled by the Federal Government; most of this land is administered by the BLM, the US Forest Service (USFS), the US Department of Energy (DOE), or the US Department of Defence (DOD). Much of the land controlled by the BLM and the USFS is open to prospecting and claim location.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202216
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Figure 4.1. Project Location Plan.

 

 

Note: Figure prepared by Lycopodium, 2019.

 

Bureau of Land Management regulations regarding surface disturbance and reclamation require that a notice be submitted to the appropriate BLM Field Office for exploration activities in which five acres or fewer are proposed for disturbance (43 CFR 3809.1-1 through 3809.1-4). A Federal Plan of Operations is needed for all mining and processing activities, plus all activities exceeding five acres of proposed disturbance. A Plan of Operations is also needed for any bulk sampling in which 1,000 or more tons of presumed mineralized material are proposed for removal (43 CFR 3802.1 through 3802.6, 3809.1-4, 3809.1-5). The BLM also requires the posting of bonds for reclamation for any surface disturbance caused by more than casual use (43 CFR 3809.500 through 3809.560). The USFS has regulations regarding land disturbance in forest lands (36 CFR Subpart A). Both agencies also have regulations pertaining to land disturbance in proposed wilderness areas.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202217
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

4.2.3Environmental Regulations

 

Information in this section is sourced from Papke and Davis (2019).

 

All surface management activities, including reclamation, must comply with all pertinent Federal laws and regulations, and all applicable State environmental laws and regulations. The fundamental requirement, implemented in 43 CFR 3809, is that all hard-rock mining under a Plan of Operations or Notice on the public lands must prevent unnecessary or undue degradation. The Plan of Operations and any modifications to the approved Plan of Operations must meet the requirement to prevent unnecessary or undue degradation.

 

Authorization to allow the release of effluents into the environment must be in compliance with the Clean Water Act, Safe Drinking Water Act, Endangered Species Act, and other applicable Federal and State environmental laws, consistent with BLM’s multiple-use responsibilities under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act and fully reviewed in the appropriate National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) document.

 

4.2.4Water Rights

 

Information in this section is sourced from the State of Nevada Water Resources and the US Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation websites.

 

Allocation of water rights in Nevada uses two principles, prior appropriation, and beneficial use. Prior appropriation (also known as the "first in time, first in right") allows for the orderly use of the state's water resources by granting priority to senior water rights. This concept ensures that senior users are protected, even as new uses for water are allocated. Under the Revised Nevada Statutes (Chapters 533 and 534), all water can be appropriated for beneficial use. Irrigation, mining, recreation, commercial/industrial and municipal uses are examples of beneficial uses.

 

Water supplied by the Colorado River is managed and operated under numerous compacts, federal laws, court decisions and decrees, contracts, and regulatory guidelines collectively known as the "Law of the River." This collection of documents apportions the water and regulates the use and management of the Colorado River among the seven basin states (Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, California, Nevada and Arizona) and Mexico.  The primary document is the 1922 Colorado River Compact.

 

4.3Ownership

 

Canyon Resources Corporation (Canyon Resources), CR Reward’s predecessor, concluded lease agreements to four unpatented lode claims blocks from private owners in 2004 and 2005.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202218
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

In 2006, Canyon Resources completed the acquisition of six patented placer claims from Barrick Gold Corporation (Barrick). Canyon Resources also staked 99 new unpatented lode claims during 2005 and 2006.

 

In 2008, Canyon Resources assigned all of the patented and unpatented claims comprising the Project to CR Reward, which was subsequently converted into a Nevada limited liability company. CR Reward holds a 100% interest in the mineral claims that form the Project, including 99 unpatented lode mineral claims and 6 patented placer claims (Table 4.1). The remaining 22 unpatented lode and placer claims are held through a number of lease agreements (Table 4.1).

 

On June 13th, 2022, Augusta acquired the Reward Project (Reward or the Project), from Waterton Nevada Splitter LLC (Waterton) by the purchase of CR Reward. Upon closing of the transaction, Waterton received USD$12.5 million cash and USD$15 million comprised of 7,800,000 Augusta shares, with the remaining payable at the time of Augusta’s next equity financing, in cash or shares, providing the additional amount of shares does not result in Waterton owning more than 9.99% of Augusta’s issued and outstanding shares. In addition, USD$17.5 million cash is to be paid within 90 days of closing of the transaction (Augusta Gold Corp., 2022).

 

4.4Mineral Properties

 

4.4.1Claim Status

 

The Project consists of 121 unpatented Bureau of Land Management (BLM) placer and lode mining claims and six patented placer mining claims (Jensen, 2022a,b,c,d), totalling approximately 2,333 net acres (Table 4.1). Figure 4.2 is an overview plan showing the entire package of claim locations. Figures 4.3 show details of the mineral claims in relation to the main mineralized zones at the Reward Project.

 

BLM and tax payments are up to date as of the effective date of this report.

 

Only patented claims have been legally surveyed.

 

4.4.2Claim Retention Obligations

 

Under U.S. mining law, claims may be renewed annually for an unlimited number of years upon a small payment per claim (currently $165 per claim due to the BLM and an aggregate $1,502 due to Nye County) and the same claim status—whether lode or placer—may be used for exploration or exploitation of the lodes or placers.

 

State, Federal and local regulations involving environmental, mining and business activities must also be followed.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202219
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Table 4.1. Summary of the Reward Project Claims.

 

Claim Name BLM NMC#/
Parcel #
Claim Type

Location/

Section

Number

Area, Acres

(nominal

Number

Unless

patented)

Control (% owned,

or name of lessor)

Year

Staked or

Patented

Taxes or BLM

Rentals Paid

Until

American 000-000-97 Patented placer 1 & 2 40 100% CR Reward LLC 1916 31 Aug 2022
Pentellic 000-000-97 Patented placer 2 20 100% CR Reward LLC 1916 31 Aug 2022
Regius 000-000-97 Patented placer 1 & 2 60 100% CR Reward LLC 1916 31 Aug 2022
Marion 000-000-97 Patented placer 2 40 100% CR Reward LLC 1916 31 Aug 2022
Valencia 000-000-97 Patented placer 2 20 100% CR Reward LLC 1923 31 Aug 2022
Trinity 000-000-97 Patented placer 1 & 2 40 100% CR Reward LLC 1925 31 Aug 2022
Sunshine NMC27580 Unpatented lode 2 20.66 Connolly/Webster leases 1957 31 Aug 2022
Reward NMC27581 Unpatented lode 2 & 3 20.66 Connolly/Webster leases 1957 31 Aug 2022
Hardway NMC853089 Unpatented lode 2 20.66 Orser-McFall lease 2003 31 Aug 2022
Bull Moose #1 NMC855150 Unpatented lode 2 & 3 12.39 Orser-McFall lease 2003 31 Aug 2022
Bull Moose #2 NMC855151 Unpatented lode 2 & 3 12.39 Orser-McFall lease 2003 31 Aug 2022
Bull Moose #3 NMC855152 Unpatented lode 2 11.02 Orser-McFall lease 2003 31 Aug 2022
Bull Moose #4 NMC862531 Unpatented lode 2 11.02 Orser-McFall lease 2004 31 Aug 2022
Bull Moose #5 NMC855153 Unpatented lode 2 4.13 Orser-McFall lease 2003 31 Aug 2022
Bull Moose #6 NMC855154 Unpatented lode 2 13.77 Orser-McFall lease 2003 31 Aug 2022
Reward South #1 NMC868938 Unpatented lode 2 & 3 20.66 Orser-McFall lease 2004 31 Aug 2022
Reward South #2 NMC868939 Unpatented lode 2 & 3 20.66 Orser-McFall lease 2004 31 Aug 2022
McOrser NMC870349 Unpatented lode 2 20.66 Orser-McFall lease 2004 31 Aug 2022
April Gold Ace NMC871261 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 Orser-McFall lease 2004 31 Aug 2022
Bull Moose #9 NMC871255 Unpatented placer 2 11.47 Orser-McFall lease 2004 31 Aug 2022
Bull Moose #10 NMC871256 Unpatented placer 2 11.47 Orser-McFall lease 2004 31 Aug 2022
Bull Moose #11 NMC871257 Unpatented placer 2 11.47 Orser-McFall lease 2004 31 Aug 2022
Bull Moose #12 NMC871258 Unpatented placer 2 & 3 11.47 Orser-McFall lease 2004 31 Aug 2022
Bull Moose #13 NMC871259 Unpatented placer 2, 3 & 10 11.47 Orser-McFall lease 2004 31 Aug 2022
Bull Moose #14 NMC871260 Unpatented placer 2, 3, 34, 35 19.97 Orser-McFall lease 2004 31 Aug 2022
Good Hope NMC853090 Unpatented lode 2 20.66 Orser/McFall/Webster Lease 2003 31 Aug 2022
Double RS NMC125600 Unpatented placer 3 & 10 80 VanMeeteren et al lease 1966 31 Aug 2022
Durlers Hope NMC124956 Unpatented placer 3 40 VanMeeteren et al lease 1966 31 Aug 2022
RP 1 NMC915581 Unpatented lode 33 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 2 NMC915582 Unpatented lode 33 & 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 3 NMC915583 Unpatented lode 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 4 NMC915584 Unpatented lode 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 5 NMC915585 Unpatented lode 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 6 NMC915586 Unpatented lode 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 7 NMC915587 Unpatented lode 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 8 NMC915588 Unpatented lode 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 9 NMC915589 Unpatented lode 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 10 NMC915590 Unpatented lode 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 11 NMC915591 Unpatented lode 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 12 NMC915592 Unpatented lode 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 13 NMC915593 Unpatented lode 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 14 NMC915594 Unpatented lode 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202220
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Claim Name BLM NMC#/
Parcel #
Claim Type

Location/

Section

Number

Area, Acres

(nominal

Number

Unless

patented)

Control (% owned,

or name of lessor)

Year

Staked or

Patented

Taxes or BLM

Rentals Paid

Until

RP 15 NMC915595 Unpatented lode 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 16 NMC915596 Unpatented lode 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 17 NMC915597 Unpatented lode 34 & 35 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 18 NMC915598 Unpatented lode 34 & 35 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 19 NMC915599 Unpatented lode 35 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 20 NMC915600 Unpatented lode 35 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 21 NMC915601 Unpatented lode 3, 4 & 33 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 22 NMC915602 Unpatented lode 3 & 4 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 23 NMC915603 Unpatented lode 3, 33,34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 24 NMC915604 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 25 NMC915605 Unpatented lode 3 & 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 26 NMC915606 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 27 NMC915607 Unpatented lode 3 & 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 28 NMC915608 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 29 NMC915609 Unpatented lode 3 & 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 30 NMC915610 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 31 NMC915611 Unpatented lode 3 & 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 32 NMC915612 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 33 NMC915613 Unpatented lode 3 & 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 34 NMC915614 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 35 NMC915615 Unpatented lode 3 & 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 36 NMC915616 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 37 NMC915617 Unpatented lode 3 & 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 38 NMC915618 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 39 NMC915619 Unpatented lode 2, 3 & 34 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 40 NMC915620 Unpatented lode 2 & 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 41 NMC915621 Unpatented lode 2, 34,35 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 42 NMC915622 Unpatented lode 2 & 35 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 43 NMC915623 Unpatented lode 3 & 4 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 44 NMC915624 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 45 NMC915625 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 46 NMC915626 Unpatented lode 3 & 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 47 NMC915627 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 48 NMC915628 Unpatented lode 3 & 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 49 NMC915629 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 50 NMC915630 Unpatented lode 3 & 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 51 NMC915631 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 52 NMC915632 Unpatented lode 3 & 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 53 NMC915633 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 54 NMC915634 Unpatented lode 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 55 NMC915635 Unpatented lode 2 & 3 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 56 NMC915636 Unpatented lode 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 57 NMC915637 Unpatented lode 3 & 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 58 NMC915638 Unpatented lode 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202221
 

 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Claim Name BLM NMC#/
Parcel #
Claim Type Location/
Section

Number
Area, Acres
(nominal
Number

Unless
patented)  
Control (% owned,
or name of lessor)  
Year
Staked or

Patented
Taxes or BLM
Rentals Paid
Until
RP 59 NMC915639 Unpatented lode 3 & 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 60 NMC915640 Unpatented lode 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 61 NMC915641 Unpatented lode 2, 3, 10, 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 62 NMC915642 Unpatented lode 10 & 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 63 NMC915643 Unpatented lode 2 & 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 64 NMC915644 Unpatented lode 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 65 NMC915645 Unpatented lode 2 & 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 66 NMC915646 Unpatented lode 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 67 NMC915647 Unpatented lode 2 & 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 68 NMC915648 Unpatented lode 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 69 NMC915649 Unpatented lode 2 & 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 70 NMC915650 Unpatented lode 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 71 NMC915651 Unpatented lode 2 & 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 72 NMC915652 Unpatented lode 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 73 NMC915653 Unpatented lode 2 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 74 NMC915654 Unpatented lode 2 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 75 NMC915655 Unpatented lode 2 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 76 NMC915656 Unpatented lode 3 5.17 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 77 NMC915657 Unpatented lode 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 78 NMC915658 Unpatented lode 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 79 NMC915659 Unpatented lode 9 & 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 80 NMC915660 Unpatented lode 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 81 NMC915661 Unpatented lode 9 & 16 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 82 NMC915662 Unpatented lode 9 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 83 NMC915663 Unpatented lode 2 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 84 NMC915664 Unpatented lode 2 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2005 31 Aug 2022
RP 85 NMC938644 Unpatented lode 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2006 31 Aug 2022
RP 86 NMC938645 Unpatented lode 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2006 31 Aug 2022
RP 87 NMC938646 Unpatented lode 10 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2006 31 Aug 2022
RP 88 NMC938647 Unpatented lode 10 & 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2006 31 Aug 2022
RP 89 NMC938648 Unpatented lode 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2006 31 Aug 2022
RP 90 NMC938649 Unpatented lode 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2006 31 Aug 2022
RP 91 NMC938650 Unpatented lode 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2006 31 Aug 2022
RP 92 NMC938651 Unpatented lode 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2006 31 Aug 2022
RP 93 NMC938652 Unpatented lode 11 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2006 31 Aug 2022
RP 94 NMC938653 Unpatented lode 35 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2006 31 Aug 2022
RP 95 NMC938654 Unpatented lode 35 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2006 31 Aug 2022
RP 96 NMC938655 Unpatented lode 2 & 35 20.66 100% CR Reward LLC 2006 31 Aug 2022
RP 97 NMC938656 Unpatented lode 2 10.33 100% CR Reward LLC 2006 31 Aug 2022
RP 98 NMC938657 Unpatented lode 2 2.58 100% CR Reward LLC 2006 31 Aug 2022
RP 99 NMC938658 Unpatented lode 2 6.89 100% CR Reward LLC 2006 31 Aug 2022

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202222
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Figure 4.2. CR Reward, LLC Controlled Mineral Claims at Reward Project.

 

 

Note: Figure prepared by Lycopodium, 2019.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202223
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Figure 4.3. Detail of Reward Claims and Mineralized Zones for the Core Area.

 

 

Note: Figure prepared by Lycopodium, 2019.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202224
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

4.4.3Encumbrances

 

No companies or entities are known that have back in or option rights on the mineral claims.

 

The claims listed in Table 4.1 have not been legally surveyed, except that the patented claims were legally surveyed prior to the date of patenting. The unpatented lode claims are readily identifiable and locatable in the field, due to distinctive topographic features and the near absence of vegetation (CAM, 2012).

 

4.5Mineral Lease Agreements

 

Several blocks of unpatented claims (22 in total) are leased by CR Reward from underlying owners (refer to Table 4.1).

 

4.5.1Connolly Lease

 

This lease agreement (the Connolly Lease), effective as of September 28th, 2004, covers a two-third interest in each of the Sunshine and Reward unpatented lode claims (collectively, the Connolly Claims). The Connolly Lease is for an initial term of 20 years and continues so long thereafter as the Project remains in commercial production. A 3% NSR royalty is payable on any minerals mined from the Connolly Claims, but is reduced to 2% due to the fact that CR Reward only owns a two-third interest in the Connolly Claims. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Connolly Lease in an amount equal to $10,000 per year. These annual advance minimum royalty payments shall be applied toward, credited against and fully deductible from earned mineral production royalty payments due from the Connolly Claims.

 

4.5.2Webster Lease

 

This lease agreement (the Webster lease), effective as of November 9, 2004 (as amended on November 9th, 2004 and November 8th, 2006), covers a one-third interest in each of the Sunshine and Reward unpatented lode claims and a half interest in the Good Hope unpatented lode claim (collectively, the Webster Claims). The Webster Lease is for an initial term of 20 years and continues so long thereafter as the Project remains in commercial production. A 3% NSR royalty is payable on any minerals mined from the Webster Claims, but is (i) reduced to 1% on the Sunshine and Reward claims due to the fact that the lessee only owns a one-third interest, and (ii) reduced to 1.5% on the Good Hope claim due to the fact that CR Reward only owns a half interest in this claim. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Webster Lease in an amount equal to $7,500 per year. The annual advance minimum royalty payments paid in any given year may be applied toward, credited against and fully deductible from any earned mineral production royalty payments due on the Webster Claims during the calendar year in which such annual advance minimum royalty payments are due.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202225
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

4.5.3Orser–McFall Lease

 

This lease agreement (the Orser–McFall Lease), effective as of February 5, 2005 (as amended on August 18th, 2005 and November 14th, 2006), applies to 12 unpatented lode and six unpatented placer mining claims (collectively, the Orser–McFall Claims). The Orser–McFall Lease is for an initial term of 20 years and continues so long thereafter as the Project remains in commercial production. The lessors under the Orser–McFall Lease own 100% of the Orser–McFall Claims, except for the Good Hope claim, in which they own a half interest (the other half being owned by the Daniel D. Webster Living Trust and leased to CR Reward pursuant to the Webster Lease). A 3% NSR royalty is payable on minerals mined from the Orser–McFall Claims, but is reduced to 1.5% on the Good Hope claim due to the fact that the lessee only owns a half interest in that claim. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Orser–McFall Lease in an amount equal to $20,000 per year. These annual advance minimum royalty payments shall be applied toward, credited against and fully deductible from earned mineral production royalty payments due from the Orser-McFall Claims.

 

4.5.4Van Meeteren et al Lease

 

This lease agreement (the Van Meeteren Lease), effect as of December 1st, 2011 (applies to the Double RS and the Durlers Hope unpatented placer claims (the Van Meeteren Claims). The Van Meeteren Lease is for an initial term of 20 years and continues so long thereafter as the Project remains in commercial production or CR Reward is actively conducting exploration, development, reclamation or remediation operations. A 3% NSR royalty is payable on minerals mined from the Van Meeteren Claims. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Van Meeteren Lease in an amount equal to $15/acre from 2011 through 2020, for a total of $1,800 per year, and $20/acre from and after 2021, for a total of $2,400 per year. These annual advance minimum royal payments are recoupable from earned mineral production royalties. All payments described above have been timely paid by CR Reward and its predecessor and the agreements are all in good standing.

 

4.6Encumbrances

 

The Project is not subject to any other back-in rights payments, agreements or encumbrances.

 

4.7Surface Ownership

 

The Project area mainly consists of Federal public domain lands administered by the BLM. There are no State or private tracts within the Project area, except the six patented claims owned by CR Reward, all of which carry surface and mineral rights ownership.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202226
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

4.8Water Rights

 

CR Reward has the right to use 391,494 m3 (317.39 acre-ft) of water annually under Application No. 61412, Certificate No. 16384 and Permit No. 76390.

 

The Amargosa River basin is an enclosed basin, and the water rights are thus not affected by the Colorado River Compact or other agreements.

 

4.9Permitting Considerations

 

The current Project area includes public and private lands within Nye County, Nevada. The Project, therefore, falls under the jurisdiction and permitting requirements of Nye County, the State of Nevada (primarily the BMRR) and the BLM.

 

The following permits and authorizations were granted to CR Reward:

 

·Plan of Operations authorized under N-82840.

 

·Water Pollution Control Permit (WPCP); WPCP NEV2007101.

 

·Water rights permitted by Nevada Division of Water Resources (NDWR) under Mining, Milling, & Domestic permit 76390 and permit 89658.

 

·Mining reclamation permit granted by the Bureau of Mining Regulation and Reclamation (BMRR) under mine site permit #0300.

 

·Nevada Bureau of Air Pollution Control (BAPC) authorized Class II Air Quality permit AP1041-2492.

 

The reader is referred to Evans et al. (2019) for additional information regarding permitting considerations for mining activities at the Project. Regarding exploration activities, during early phases of exploration, when surface disturbance is generally limited, authorization from the BLM is conditionally granted under a notice (40 CFR § 3890.21). There are currently no exploration notices associated with the Project and none are likely to be granted given the Project has a mine plan of operations (MPO) that was granted in 2020.

 

4.10Environmental Considerations

 

Environmental, social and cultural studies were conducted by CR Reward as part of its permitting efforts.

 

Much of this information was provided to the BLM as part of the Reward Project Updated Plan of Operations and Reclamation Plan (BLM Case File Serial Number N-82840) and the accompanying Environmental Assessment (EA; DOI-BLM-NV-S030-2020-0006-EA).

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202227
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Additional information, especially with respect to hydrogeology and geochemistry, was developed and submitted to the BMRR as part of the Nevada Water Pollution Control Permit (WPCP) application. Both the EA and WPCP application include discussion of the potential impacts associated with project development, none of which were found to be significant.

 

Studies completed have included desktop reviews, and Project-specific data collection on the following: land status, soil surveys, air quality, cultural resources, Native American religious concerns, water resources, vegetation, wildlife and special-status species.

 

Additional information regarding environmental considerations at the Project is available in Evans et al. (2019).

 

4.11Comments on Property Description and Location

 

CR Reward advised the QP that the company is not aware of any existing environmental liabilities connected with the Project, except those relating to CR Reward’s exploration and development activities, for which bonds have been posted.

 

There are currently no known environmental issues that could materially impact CR Reward’s ability to extract the Mineral Resources or that would impact the Mineral Resource estimates.

 

To the extent known, there are no other significant factors and risks that may affect access, title, or the right or ability to perform work on the Project that have not been discussed in this Report.

 

5Accessibility, Climate, Local Resources, Infrastructure and Physiography

 

5.1Accessibility

 

The Project lies 7 miles southeast of Beatty, Nevada, about two miles east of US Highway 95 in Nye County. The Project can be accessed from Beatty by paved road on Highway 95 followed by traveling two miles east on a gravel road. Several dirt roads diverge into various canyons of the Bare Mountains.

 

5.2Site Topography, Elevation and Vegetation

 

The Project is situated in the Amargosa Desert in southwestern Nevada on the southwestern flank of the Bare Mountains in the northern Amargosa Valley. It is located on the western flank of the rugged north–south-trending Bare Mountains. The western flank drains into the Amargosa Desert, which is drained by the ephemeral Amargosa River.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202228
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Beatty, on the Amargosa River, lies at 1,006 m (3,300 ft) elevation. Elevations in the Project area range from about 1,158 m (3,800 ft) to 1,311 m (4,300 ft).

 

Vegetation is sparse, consisting mainly of creosote bush, (Larrea sp.), Mormon tea, (Ephedra sp.), and low shrubs, with occasional small barrel cacti (Ferocactus sp.). A few mesquite trees (Prosopis sp.) occur within the overall Project boundary.

 

5.3Climate

 

The climate is typical of middle-elevation desert.

 

The area is highly arid, with average annual precipitation of 10.4 cm (4.1 inches). During May to October, occasional thunderstorms may generate flash flooding in the region. Trace snow falls in the winter months.

 

Temperatures range from winter absolute lows of -12.2°C (10°F) to summer absolute highs of 43.3°C (110°F).

 

Operations are planned to be conducted year-round.

 

5.4Local Resources and Infrastructure

 

The Project is located seven miles by road southeast of Beatty, a town of approximately 1,000 people that serves as a transit hub and service centre for travellers between Las Vegas and Reno, and those going to Death Valley. Several motels and restaurants, gas stations, a post office, and several small stores provide basic services.

 

The Project is currently serviced by an existing 14.4/24.9 kV power line owned and operated by Valley Electric. A water well currently provides water for exploration activities.

 

Project employees would likely be recruited from the local area, including the communities of Beatty, Amargosa, and Pahrump, located within Nye County, and the regional urban centre of Las Vegas, located within Clark County. There is available nearby accommodation to the Project site in Beatty and other smaller communities

 

The Project has sufficient land area, with adjacent public-domain lands also potentially available, to allow mine development, including space for the mining operations, waste rock disposal facilities (WRDs), heap leach pads and processing plants.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202229
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

6History

 

6.1Exploration History

 

Table 6.1 summarizes the Project history. A preliminary assessment was completed in 2005 (exact date is unknown), a prefeasibility study on January 26, 2006, and a feasibility study on May 25, 2007. Subsequent to the 2007 feasibility study completion, CR Reward obtained the majority of the required permits to support construction and operations. An updated feasibility study (the 2019 feasibility study; Lycopodium, 2019) and a 2019 feasibility study technical report (Evans et al., 2019) were commissioned by CR Reward and are partly the basis for this Technical Report. The authors are referring to these studies as historical; to be considered current, the studies completed in 2019 would need to incorporate current pricing for major equipment, contract mining costs, construction costs, major consumables and labor costs.

 

6.2Production History

 

The most extensive showing within the Project is the 150 ft long Good Hope adit located near north end of the Hardway claim. A description of the Arista mine, credited with shipping 1.25 st of ore grading over 1 oz/st Au just before World War II (Kral, 1951), appears to match the Good Hope adit where a small glory hole and underlying raise were worked.

 

There are no formal production records from the Project area, and there has been no modern production.

 

Table 6.1. Project Exploration History.

 

Period Owner Operator Work Performed
1913     Gold discovered at Gold Ace property.
       
pre-1942     Arista Mine (a.k.a. Good Hope?)  Shipped 1.25 st of ore grading over 1 oz/st Au just before World War II.
       
1942–1957     District idle
       
1957–1962     Reward, Sunshine, Good Hope claims staked in 1957; Hardway claim staked 1962.
       
c. 1970s Webster, Burt   Acquired Reward claims
       
1976 Webster, Burt Galli Exploration Associates (Galli)

Galli acquired an option on the Webster-Burt land.

 

Minor road construction and improvements.

       
1980 Teco Inc. (Teco)   Teco acquired the Gold Ace property.
       
mid-1980s Webster, Burt Optioned to St. Joe Minerals Corp. (St Joe) Carried out an extensive sampling program on the Gold Ace property in tandem with their exploration program in the Bullfrog mining district.
       
1985 Gexa Gold Corp. (Gexa) Gexa Gexa, successor company to Galli Exploration Associates, staked 10 claims next to Webster, Burt claim holdings.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202230
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Period Owner Operator Work Performed
1987 Teco Homestake Mining Company (Homestake) Homestake leased the Teco land and drilled two vertical reverse circulation (RC) holes near the northwest and southwest edges of the Webster-Burt ground as part of a 4 RC hole, 1,210 ft rotary drill program (HMC 1 to 4), which probed pediment gravels for a large-tonnage conceptual target. No anomalous results were encountered in the from the four wide-spaced drill holes.
       
1987–1989

Teco (1987–1991)

Webster, Burt
(1991–1992)

Gexa Drilling by Gexa included 16 RC holes for a total of 3,037 ft were completed along the north-south trending Good Hope vein/fault system, much of which is within the limits of the current Good Hope resource area.  
       
1988–1990

Teco (1987–1991)

Webster, Burt
(1991–1992)

Pathfinder Gold Corp. (Pathfinder)

Pathfinder optioned the Teco ground, portions of which overlay the southerly gravel-covered projection of the Reward fault, south of the Webster leased ground.

 

Pathfinder drill-tested these fault projections and added several holes along drill fences between south Good Hope and south Gold Ace. A total of 33 RC and one partial core hole were drilled totaling 13,798 ft (excludes 43 ft due to an abandoned hole).

       
1990 Pathfinder Cloverleaf Gold Inc. (Cloverleaf)

Pathfinder joint-ventured their interest in the TECO lease to Cloverleaf in 1990.

 

Cloverleaf completed 49 shallow RC holes for 9,075 ft. All but five Cloverleaf holes were targeted on historic mine workings at Gold Ace.

 

Cloverleaf surrendered their interest to Pathfinder in 1990.

       
1990 Pathfinder Bond Gold Exploration Inc. (Bond Gold)

Airborne geophysics data collected over Gold Ace.

 

Bond Gold acquired by Lac Minerals Ltd. (Lac Minerals).

 

Property returned to Pathfinder.

       
1991 Teco Pathfinder

In 1991, the availability of an option on the Reward property from Gexa influenced Pathfinder's decision to re-evaluate Gold Ace in conjunction with a program at Good Hope. Pathfinder proceeded to acquire the Reward property, stepped off south of the 1987-1989 Gexa drill pattern, and drilled into the present Reward gold resource south of the saddle, on the Hardway, Reward, Bullmoose #3A and #4 claims.

 

Completed 17 holes (GA 91-1 to 91-17) for a total of 8,300 ft. Following the 1991 drill program, Pathfinder surrendered all leases and withdrew from the district.

       
1992 Teco US Nevada Gold Search (USNGS)

In 1992 a joint venture consisting of Siskon Corp., N.A. Degerstrom Inc. and US Precious Metals (successor to GEXA), assumed GEXA's position at Reward.

 

USNGS drilled 7 RC holes (R-16 to R-22) for 2,119 ft, all of which intersected mineralization along the Good Hope fault.

 

USNGS conducted no further work on the property.

       
1995

Teco

Webster, Burt

USNGS USNGS sold the GEXA lode claims and assigned the Webster lease to Barrick.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202231
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Period Owner Operator Work Performed
1995-1996 Barrick Barrick

Negotiated a mining lease with Teco on the Gold Ace ground.

 

Staked 94 lode claims along extensions of the Reward and Gold Ace zones.

 

Completed a total of 88 RC holes and 3 core holes for 39,028 ft of drilling across the property.

       
1998 Barrick Rayrock Mines Inc. (Rayrock) Rayrock acquired Barrick’s land package and began permitting of the Reward Mining property.
       
1999 Rayrock Glamis Gold Ltd. (Glamis Gold) Glamis Gold acquired Rayrock.
       
1998–2000 Glamis Gold Glamis Gold (Marigold Mining Company) Between 1998 and 2000, 79 RC holes (RE-001 to RE-79, including RE-026A) totalling 30,535 ft were completed by Marigold Mining, an affiliate of Rayrock and Glamis Gold.
       
2000 Glamis Gold Glamis Initiated the permitting process for eventual production but falling gold prices led to project suspension.
       
2004–2006 Canyon Resources Corp. (Canyon) Canyon

Acquired the core of the current Project in 2004 through three mineral leases with private owners for patented and unpatented mining claims.

 

Acquired six patented placer claims from Barrick in 2006.

 

Staked new unpatented lode and mill site claims between 2005 and 2007.

 

Completed a Pre-Feasibility study in January 2006.

 

Completed 21 RC drill holes for a total of 6,150 ft in 2006.

       
2007 Canyon Canyon

Four core holes for 1,430 ft were completed.

 

Mineral resource and mineral reserve estimate were updated.

 

Plan of Operations authorized under N-82840.

 

Obtained Water Pollution Control Permit (WPCP); WPCP NEV2007101.

 

Obtained general construction permit; NVR100000 CSW-17415.

 

Water rights permitted by Nevada Division of Water Resources (NDWR) under Mining, Milling, & Domestic permit 76390.

 

Mining reclamation permit granted by the Bureau of Mining Regulation and Reclamation (BMRR) under mine site permit #0300.

 

Nevada Bureau of Air Pollution Control (BAPC) authorized Class II Air Quality permit AP1041-2492

       
2008–2010 Canyon Atna Resources Ltd. (Atna)

Completed a Feasibility study in February 2008.

 

Assigned all properties to CR Reward Corporation after Canyon was acquired by Atna in March 2008.

 

Mineral resource and mineral reserve updates were completed in 2009 and 2010.

 

Completed Environmental Assessment (EA) in 2009; prepared “Reward Project Updated Plan of Operations and Reclamation Plan” (BLM Case File Serial Number N-82840).

 

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Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Period Owner Operator Work Performed
2011-2012 Atna Atna

Completed 15 RC drill holes for a total of 15,880 ft.

 

Completed an updated study on the Reward project that included an economic analysis. Report was published in June 2012.

       
2013 Atna Atna

14 RC drill holes for 9,003 ft of drilling were completed.

 

Mineral resource and mineral reserve updates were completed.

       
2016 CR Reward CR Reward Two geophysical induced polarization (IP)/resistivity lines; acquired on both lines using a dipole-dipole array with a dipole length of 100 m for a total of 3.9 line-km of data coverage.
       
2017 CR Reward CR Reward

Property-wide data compilation and validation program.

 

14 core holes for 4,989 ft were completed.

       
2018 CR Reward CR Reward

14 core holes for 6,307 ft were completed.

 

Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve updates.

       
2019 CR Reward CR Reward Completed updated Feasibility study.

 

7Geological Setting and Mineralization

 

The Project is hosted within the Bare Mountain Complex, which lies within the Nevada Basin and Range Province. Information in this section is summarized from Rasmussen and Keith (2015), Hoisch (1997), CAM (2006, 2012), Cornwall and Kleinhampl (1961, 1964), Eliopulos (1996), Golder (2007), Sawyer et al. (1994), Monsen et al. (1992) and Noble et al. (1991).

 

7.1Regional Geology

 

The Bare Mountains consist of up to 6,096 m (20,000 ft) of Late Proterozoic to Paleozoic marine sedimentary rocks in the lower plate that have been juxtaposed against Miocene silicic volcanic sequences in the upper plate to the north (Figure 7.1 and Figure 7.2). The lower plate units have been deformed through folding, thrust faulting, low- and high-angle normal faulting during Mesozoic compression (Monsen et al., 1992) and have been metamorphosed from lower amphibolite to sub-greenschist grade (Hoisch, 1997). Two dominant normal fault sets have been mapped in the lower plate. These include moderately east-dipping (Bare Mountain Fault and Gold Ace fault) and shallowly southeast-dipping faults that cut or curve into east-dipping faults. A metamorphic grade discordance across the Gold Ace fault suggests displacement of >1,981 m (6,500 ft) (Hoisch, 1997).

 

To the north, the shallowly north-dipping Fluorspar Canyon Fault separates the lower plate from the Miocene volcanic sequences that were deposited between 14.0 and 11.5 Ma (Sawyer et al., 1994).

 

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7.2Local Geology

 

The Project is located on the southwestern flank of the Bare Mountain Complex and is underlain by moderately deformed marine clastic and carbonate rocks of Late Proterozoic and Late Cambrian age that have been metamorphosed to greenschist grade (refer to Figure 7.2). Tertiary and younger alluvium cover the lower slopes and the adjacent Armagosa Valley to the south and west. The east dipping Gold Ace fault, that is locally termed the Good Hope fault zone, separates northeast-dipping Late Proterozoic to Early Cambrian units in the footwall block from Middle to Late Cambrian units in the hanging wall block (Figure 7.3 and Figure 7.4).

 

The gold mineralization in the Good Hope Deposit is spatially associated with and along the Good Hope fault zone. Mineralization associated with the Morris Marble lower contact in the footwall block is referred to as the Gold Ace mineralized zone. Although there are small historic prospects along the Good Hope fault zone, most of the historic production came from the Gold Ace Zone.

 

Figure 7.1. Simplified Geology of the Bare Mountain Area.

 

 

Note: B, Bullfrog detachment fault; F, Fluorspar Canyon fault; T, Tates Wash fault. From Hoisch, 1997.

 

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Figure 7.2. Simplified Geologic Map of Project Area.

 

 

Note: Gold Ace area modified after Monsen et al., 1992.

 

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Figure 7.3. Local Geology Map.

 

 

Note: Figure prepared by Lycopodium, 2019

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202236
 

 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Figure 7.4. 3D Geological Schematic of the Main Rock Units and Faults.

 

 Note: Modified from Carisey, 1989.

 

7.3Stratigraphy

 

The sedimentary sequence of the lower portion of the Bare Mountain Complex consists of 2,911 m (9,555 ft) of moderately deformed, clastic and carbonate rocks of Late Proterozoic and Middle Cambrian age (Table 7.1, Figure 7.5). Approximately 762 m (2,500 ft) of section is exposed in the Project area. Beds dip to the northeast at moderate to high angles.

 

The following stratigraphic descriptions at the Project are largely based on:
Geologic map of Bare Mountain, Nye County, Nevada (Monsen et al., 1992).
Stratigraphic descriptions from the 1989 Project Summary Report (Carisey, 1989).
Drill hole data.
Observations from the 2017–2018 drill program (Saunders, 2018).

 

Table 7.1. Stratigraphy and Unit Thickness of the Bare Mountains Complex.

 

Age Formation Member Map Code

Thickness

ft

Cambrian Bonanza King Papoose Lake -Cbp 1,900
Carrara Upper part -Ccu 500
Middle part -Ccm 325
Lower part -Ccl 375
Zabriskie Quartzite   -Cz 1,125
Proterozoic-Cambrian Wood Canyon Upper upper zwuu 840
Upper lower zwul 1,185
Middle Zwm 625
Lower Zwl 1,050
Late Proterozoic Stirling Juhl Zsj 310
Sutton Zss 500
Morris Marble Zsm 325
Beatty Schist Zbs 470

 

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7.3.1Late Proterozoic

 

Stirling Formation

 

Beatty Schist Member (Zbs)

 

The Beatty Schist Member consists of greenish, moderately foliated phyllites with minor interbedded thin shale and quartzite beds. The transition zone with the overlying Morris Marble characterized by a few feet of alternating schists, limestone, and dolomite beds. Limestone lenses occur in grey siliciclastic rocks, which occasionally display schistose textures. The unit is about 152 m (500 ft) thick.

 

Morris Marble Member (Zsm)

 

The Morris Marble Member consists of massive, white to light tan-grey, weathered limestone and dolomite with dissolution textures and occasional grainy quartzite lenses. This member conformably overlies the Beatty Schist Member, and may be correlated to the lower “D” member of the Stirling Formation (Monsen et al., 1992). The Morris Marble Members hosts the gold mineralization at the Gold Ace deposit. The unit is approximately 76 m (250 ft) thick.

 

Sutton Member (Zss)

 

The Sutton Member consists of medium to thick, light brownish-grey, interbedded, fine-grained quartzite, micaceous quartzite, pale-green phyllite, and yellowish-brown dolomite. Laminations and cross-laminations are common. The Sutton Member may be correlated to the upper “D” member of the Stirling Formation (Monsen et al., 1992). The Sutton Member conformably overlies the Morris Marble Member. The Sutton Member hosts gold mineralization at the Gold Ace deposit near the lower contact with the Morris Marble Member and adjacent to vertical faults. The unit is about 152 m (500 ft) thick.

 

Juhl Member (Zsj)

 

The Juhl Member consists of white to pale yellowish-brown, medium to thickly bedded, fine-grained orthoquartzite. The orthoquartzite is silicified, brittle and highly fractured adjacent to and within the footwall of the Good Hope fault. The basal contact is gradational with the underlying Sutton Member. The Juhl Member conformably overlies the Sutton Member. Minor gold mineralization is found in the Juhl Member along the Good Hope fault, and occasionally below the Wood Canyon Formation within the Good Hope fault zone. The unit is approximately 76 m (250 ft) thick.

 

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Figure 7.5. Lower Portion of the Bare Mountains Complex Stratigraphic Column Observed at the Project.

 

 Note: Modified after Monsen et al., 1992.

 

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7.3.2Proterozoic-Cambrian

 

Wood Canyon Formation (Zwc)

 

Only 750 ft of the basal section of the Wood Canyon Formation is preserved in the Project area. The Wood Canyon Formation conformably overlies the Juhl Member of the Stirling Formation. The upper member of the Wood Canyon Formation is Cambrian in age and the middle and lower members are Late Proterozoic in age. The thicknesses of the upper, middle and lower members are around 610 m (2,000 ft), 110 m (360 ft), and 305 m (1,000 ft), respectively.

 

The Wood Canyon Formation is the main host for gold mineralization within the Project area. Gold is hosted in quartz veins and silicic alteration, in association with the Good Hope fault and, to a lesser extent, along the Good Fortune fault.

 

Three conspicuous orange to grey dolomite beds with dissolution textures define the basal section. The lower members of the basal section of the Wood Canyon Formation (Zwl) are listed below from oldest to youngest.

 

7.3.3Cambrian

 

Zabriskie Quartzite (Cz)

 

The Zabriskie Quartzite is a massive, thickly bedded, commonly laminated and cross-bedded, cliff-forming orthoquartzite. Trace fossils, primarily Scolithus, are common in the lower beds of the unit (Monsen et al., 1992). The quartzite is conformable with the underlying Wood Canyon Formation. The Zabriskie Quartzite is juxtaposed against the Wood Canyon Formation along the southern portion of the Good Fortune fault. The unit is about 1, 343 m (1,125 ft) thick.

 

Carrara Formation (Cc)

 

The Carrara Formation is a heterogeneous unit of quartzite and phyllite with prominent intervals of limestone and silty limestone. The unit conformably overlies the Zabriskie Quartzite and can be divided into three parts, lower, middle and upper, that have a combined thickness of 366 m (1,200 ft.) The formation is exposed to the east of the Good Hope fault zone.

 

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Bonanza King Formation (Cbp)

 

The Bonanza King Formation consists of cliff-forming, thin to thick, dark grey and white alternating limestone and dolomite beds intercalated with minor, distinct, yellowish-orange silty and sandy intervals.

 

The upper 20 m (65 ft) of the sequence consists of silty and sandy dolomite and limestone. The uppermost portion grades downward into medium- to thickly bedded dolomite and limestone with silty and sandy beds. The basal part typically consists of white dolomite and limestone with yellowish-orange, silty layers. The basal contact is gradational and is defined as where white, silty limestone and dolomite grade into a dark grey limestone.

 

The unit is exposed to the east of the Good Hope fault zone and is juxtaposed against the Wood Canyon Formation along the central to north portion of the Good Fortune fault and the main area of gold mineralization. The average unit thickness is about 640 m (2,100 ft).

 

7.4Structure

 

The oldest deformational features include minor folds within sedimentary units that developed during the Mesozoic compressional event (Monsen et al., 1992). The known major faults are shown on Figure 7.3. A series of north-trending faults cut and offset the folded units including the east-dipping Good Hope fault zone. The Good Hope fault zone has been mapped and logged from the southern property boundary to three miles north of the northern boundary. Several faults with similar trends are also observed in the footwall and hanging wall blocks. Figure 7.6 outlines the structures visible at section 3500 N.

 

7.4.1Good Hope Fault Zone

 

Within the Project area, the east-dipping Good Hope fault zone ranges from 15 m (50 ft) to 192 m (630 ft) in width and has a 1,585 m (5,200 ft) strike extent. The fault zone has an overall northerly trend but between 5100 N to 3000 N rotates to a north-northwest trend. The fault zone juxtaposes Bonanza King Formation in the hanging wall block, Wood Canyon Formation in the central fault zone and Late Proterozoic units in the footwall.

 

The fault zone comprises the Good Fortune fault that is located on the eastern or hanging-wall side (Figure 7.) and has a moderate dip, while the Good Hope fault defines the western (or footwall) extent and has a steep dip. The Good Hope fault controls the majority of the known alteration and gold mineralization.

 

Textures observed within the fault zone include breccias, quartz veins, elevated silicic alteration and localized clay-rich zones. Exposed quartz veins display a dominant northerly trend and secondary sigmodal veins display an east-northeast trend (Figure 7.7). Veins measurements from oriented drill core highlight two dominant vein sets with orientations that include a moderate dip to the southeast (45°→140°) and a steep dip to the northeast (70°→050°; Brown, 2018). The line of intersection for these two vein sets is moderate dip to the southeast (43°→120°).

 

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The Good Hope fault zone is interpreted to have undergone right lateral, strike-slip/dip-slip movement based on regional observations, historical mapping combined with structural field observations and slickensides along fault planes. Previous work has estimated at least 1,676 m (5,500 ft) of vertical displacement (west side up) and 610 m (2,000 ft) of lateral movement (Turner, 1990).

 

Figure 7.6. 3500N Geology Cross-Section.

 

 Note: Figure prepared by Lycopodium, 2019

 

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Figure 7.7. Photo Highlighting Vein Orientation in Outcrop.

 

 Note: From Barcia, 2017.

 

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7.5Alteration

 

Four main alteration assemblages are observed across the Project: silicic, sericite, argillic, and propylitic, and these are spatially associated with the Good Hope fault zone.

 

Silicic alteration along the Good Hope fault laterally extends 15 m (50 ft) to 30 m (100 ft) toward the Good Fortune fault. Alteration within the central fault zone appears to have preferentially developed along moderately dipping bedding planes within the Wood Canyon Formation. Alteration intensity ranges from intense to weak and is typically associated with quartz ± adularia-calcite veins, goethite after pyrite, and local coarse adularia. Quartz veining varies in thicknesses from millimetres to meters.

 

Exposed quartz veins are commonly coated by manganese oxides and hematite. Massive white quartz veins are more abundant than banded veins. Prominent massive veins are exposed in the footwall block at the northern extent of the Good Hope Deposit. Colloform vein textures are observed at Ollie’s Follie target (Barcia, 2017).

 

The sericite assemblage is preferentially developed within mica-bearing units and is locally overprinted by silicic alteration.

 

Argillic alteration is locally restricted along portions of fault planes and characterized by the presence of kaolinite that was identified using quantitative evaluation of materials by scanning electron microscopy (QEMSCAN) analysis.

 

Propylitic alteration consists of calcite, chlorite, and ankerite. Calcite veinlets and stringers are observed throughout most units. Chlorite is preferentially developed in finer-grained units and biotite has been partially to pervasively replaced by chlorite.

 

7.6Oxidation (Redox)

 

The redox zones within the Project area include an upper oxide and a lower transition zone. The upper oxide zone is characterized by hematite, goethite, pyrolusite and minor jarosite. Oxidation is strong within and adjacent to the Good Hope fault and decreases in intensity outward from the fault. The depth of the oxide zone ranges from 30 m (100 ft) to 152 m (500 ft) below surface (between 1,183 m (3,880 ft) to 1,027 m (3,370 ft) elevation ASL). Iron oxides comprise up to 5% of the rock mass.

 

The transition zone is located below the base of the oxide horizon and consists of both goethite and pyrite. In the transition zone, sulphides comprise <1% of the rock mass. The transition zone reaches the maximum depth of drilling on the Project at an elevation of 3,099 ft.

 

Drilling to date has not intersected a primary sulphide zone.

 

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7.7Mineralization

 

Mineralization that supports Mineral Resource estimation is hosted in the Good Hope Deposit and the Gold Ace mineralized zone. Anomalous gold values are associated with quartz veining and/or iron-oxide-bearing, silicic-altered rocks in both areas. Pyrite and iron oxides are the dominant minerals associated with gold mineralization. Visible gold was identified on fractures in sericite-altered rocks, on quartz-adularia-coated fractures, and in hematite-filled cavities, pervasively silicic-altered rocks, goethite pseudomorphs, thin quartz veinlets, and goethite-rich fractures and cavities. Visible gold has been observed along the Gold Ace trend in surface samples and drill core, whilst it was observed only in drill core from Good Hope. Figure 7.8 shows the tenor of the gold anomalism encountered in drilling along the two mineralized trends.

 

7.7.1Description of Mineralization: Good Hope Deposit

 

Gold mineralization at the Good Hope Deposit is primarily hosted in altered and veined Wood Canyon Formation, and to a lesser extent, in the Juhl and Sutton Members of the Stirling Formation. Gold mineralization is associated with:

 

Silicic and/or sericite-altered rocks.
Zones of increased quartz vein density.
Faults, breccias, and/or highly fractured zones with abundant iron oxides.
Units with high concentrations of goethite pseudomorphs after pyrite.
Quartz-adularia veinlets.

 

Mineralization at the Good Hope Deposit varies in width from 15 m (50 ft) to 192 m (630 ft), has a strike length of 1,585 m (5,200 ft) and has been intersected to a vertical depth of 213 m (700 ft) below surface.

 

North of 5100 N, mineralization is spatially associated with the sub-vertical, north-trending Good Hope fault and is up to 149 m (190 ft) wide. Section 5600 N outlines mineralization north of 5100 N (Figure 7.9).

 

In the central portion of the deposit between 5100 N and 3000 N, mineralization is also associated with the Good Hope fault. Mineralization extends to the east with a shallow to moderate dip towards the hanging wall of the Good Fortune fault. Mineralization has been intersected along the Good Fortune fault and appears to be sub-parallel to the dip of the fault. In this central portion, mineralization is up to 192 m (630 ft) thick and coincides with a change in fault zone strike from north to north-northwest. Sections 4200 N (Figure 7.10), and Section 4800 N (Figure 7.11) outline mineralization in the central part of the deposit.

 

South of 3000 N, the gold mineralization continues to be spatially associated with the sub-vertical, north-trending Good Hope fault, and is up to 55 m (180 ft) thick (Figure 7.12). However, limited drilling has occurred south of this section and therefore mineralization controls are less well constrained.

 

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Figure 7.8. Gold Mineralization at Reward Intersected by Drilling.

 

 Note: The Good Hope Deposit is situated between the Good Hope and Good Fortune faults. The Gold Ace Zone is located near 3000 ft N and 65000 ft E. Figure prepared by Lycopodium, 2019.

 

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7.7.2Description of Mineralization: Gold Ace Mineralized Zone

 

Mineralization at Gold Ace is dominantly located along the contact between the Sutton and Morris Marble Members (Figure 7.12). At the mineralized contact, the Morris Marble Member is characterized by silicic alteration and hematite. Evidence for mineralization parallel to the contact between the Sutton and Morris Marble Members is provided by low-angle, east-dipping stopes from historical underground mining. The northwest-trending Gold Ace Zone consists of several discrete structures. The overall continuity of mineralization at Gold Ace is less well developed than at the Good Hope Deposit.

 

Mineralization at the Gold Ace varies in width from 1.5 m (5 ft) to 21 m (70 ft), has a strike length of 640 m (2,100 ft) and has been intersected to a vertical depth of 91 m (300 ft) below surface.

 

Figure 7.9. Mineralization along Section 5600 N Looking North.

 

Note: Mineralization along the Good Hope fault on the west side of the Good Hope fault zone. Figure prepared by Lycopodium, 2019.

 

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Figure 7.10. Mineralization along Section 4200 N Looking North.

 

 

Figure 7.11. Mineralization along Section 4800 N, Looking North.

 

 

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Figure 7.12. Mineralization along Section 2900 N Looking North.

 

 Note - Mineralization is narrow along the Good Hope fault at the Gold Ace zone, mineralization is located along the contact of the Sutton and Morris Marble members to an unnamed fault. Figure prepared by Lycopodium, 2019.

 

7.7.3Description of Mineralization: Exploration Update

 

At the Good Hope Deposit, gold mineralization remains open to the east towards and along the Good Fortune fault and south of 3000 N. The eastern area of the deposit, most notably along the Good Fortune fault, has had limited exploration drilling. To the south of Good Hope, wide-spaced exploration drilling along the 914 m (3,000 ft) extension of the fault zone has returned several intercepts with narrow (<9.1 m (30 ft)) or low-grade (<0.017 opt) gold mineralization. The projected intersection of the Good Hope fault zone and the Gold Ace trend is another area that has had limited exploration drilling.

 

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8Deposit Types

 

The structural setting, alteration mineralogy and mineralization characteristics of the Good Hope Deposit and Gold Ace Zone are consistent with orogenic gold deposits as defined in Moritz (2000), Goldfarb et al., (2005), Groves et al. (1998; 2003), and Johnston et al. (2015).

 

Orogenic gold deposits occur in variably deformed metamorphic terranes formed during Middle Archean to younger Precambrian, and continuously throughout the Phanerozoic. The host geological environments are typically volcano–plutonic or clastic sedimentary terranes, but gold deposits can be hosted by any rock type. There is a consistent spatial and temporal association with granitoids of a variety of compositions. Host rocks are metamorphosed to greenschist facies, but locally can achieve amphibolite or granulite facies conditions.

 

Gold deposition occurs adjacent to first-order, deep-crustal fault zones with interpreted long-lived structural controls. These first-order faults, which can be hundreds of kilometres long and kilometres wide, show complex structural histories. Economic mineralization typically formed as vein fill of second- and third-order shears and faults, particularly at jogs or changes in strike along the crustal fault zones. Mineralization styles vary from stockworks and breccias in shallow, brittle regimes, through laminated crack-seal veins and sigmoidal vein arrays in brittle-ductile crustal regions, to replacement- and disseminated-type orebodies in deeper, ductile environments. The specific style of mineralization at the Good Hope and Gold Ace deposits can be classified as both structurally controlled and locally disseminated.

 

Orogenic gold deposits in Nevada are situated along the Argentoro belt (Luning-Fencemaker Fold-and Thrust Belt of Wyld et al., 2000, 2001; DeCelles, 2004), a 700-km long, north-south trending belt extending from south-eastern California to the Nevada-Oregon border. The belt formed between ~100 Ma and 70 Ma synchronous with low-grade metamorphism and brittle-ductile deformation. District-scale controls consist of high-angle, N-striking strike-slip faults, while deposit-scale controls consist of NW-, EW-, and NE-striking dip-slip fracture arrays.

 

Johnston et at. (2015) outline that Nevada orogenic gold deposits are defined by: 1) widespread low to moderate-grade metamorphism in Mesozoic rocks, 2) low-sulphide bearing, mesothermal “bull-quartz” veins emplaced in shear zones, 3) ubiquitous quartz-sericite-pyrite alteration of wall rocks, 4) dilute CO2-rich ore fluids, 5) coarse gold in veins, 6) elevated concentrations of Ag, Sb, As, and Hg, and 7) abundant placer gold deposits. Except for placer deposits, the Good Hope and Gold Ace deposits match the criteria listed above.

 

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9Exploration

 

9.1Introduction

 

Exploration on and around the Project area has primarily consisted of surface geological mapping, rock-chip sampling, and drilling.

 

Exploration conducted by parties other than CR Reward is discussed in Section 6.

 

9.2CR Reward Exploration (2015-Present)

 

In 2016, seventeen rock chip samples were collected consisting of veins and fault zones from Gold Ace (five samples), Good Hope (nine samples) and Ollie’s Follie (three samples). Samples were submitted to ALS Global for fire assay gold (lab code Au-ICP22 and Au-GRA22) and multi-element geochemistry analyses (lab code ME-MS61). Gold values from Gold Ace ranged from 0.008 to 17.85 ppm, Good Hope ranged from below detection up to 2.10 ppm Au, and Ollie’s Follie ranged from 0.001 up to 4.90 ppm Au. Gold Ace returned elevated Ag (up to 33 ppm), Cu (up to 476 ppm), Hg (up to 5.7 ppm), Pb (up to 1,435 ppm), Sb (up to 185 ppm), and Zn (up to 3,490 ppm), whereas Good Hope and Ollie’s Follie returned weakly anomalous values.

 

Two geophysical IP/resistivity lines were completed by Zonge International, Inc. in August 2016. Data were acquired along two lines:

 

Line 1, oriented 045° northeast.

 

Line 2, oriented 051° northeast.

 

IP/resistivity data were acquired on both lines using a dipole-dipole array with a dipole length of 100 m (328 ft) for a total of 3.9 line-km (3.9 line-mi) of data coverage. Data were acquired in a non-reference, complex resistivity mode. Line locations are shown in Figure 9.1. The IP/survey shows the strongest anomaly along the Gold Ace trend, with a weaker response along the Good Hope trend. Along the Gold Ace trend, line 1 indicates lithology controls mineralization while Line 2 indicates structure controls mineralization (resistivity high). These results correlate well with the modelled location of the Gold Ace fault.

 

In 2017, an extensive, property-wide data compilation and validation program was completed. Subsequent east-west, hand-interpreted, paper cross-sections were created and used to generate a 3D geologic model highlighting major faults and formational contacts. The geologic model was used to support Mineral Resource estimation.

 

In 2018, a 28-hole core drilling program was completed and results included in an updated geological model. Cross-sectional interpretations were completed infill the 2017 cross-sections.

 

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Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Figure 9.1. Plan View of the Project Area Showing the Locations of the IP/Resistivity Survey Lines.

 

 

10Drilling

 

The Project exploration drill hole database as of April 19th, 2018, contains 376 drill holes (totalling 43,687 m (143,330 ft)), seven road cuts (totalling 319 m (1,045 ft)) and three trenches (totalling 82 m (270 ft)). The road cuts and trenches were removed from the database for resource estimation purposes. No records for two drill holes (GA-33 and GA-35) of the 49 holes completed by Cloverleaf were located and therefore missing from the database. All drilling in the database is summarized in Table 10.1

 

Drill hole collar locations for the entire property are shown on Figure 10.1.

 

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Table 10.1. Reward Drilling Summary.

 

Operating Company Year Core Holes Reverse Circulation Total
Number Footage Number Footage Number Footage
Homestake 1987     4 1,210 4 1,210
Gexa 1987     16 3,037 16 3,037
Pathfinder 1988     22 9,273 22 9,273
Pathfinder 1989     11 4,525 11 4,525
Cloverleaf 1990     47 8,625 47 8,625
Pathfinder 1991     17 8,300 17 8,300
USNGS 1992     7 2,119 7 2,119
Barrick 1995 3 773 83 35,295 86 36,068
Barrick 1996     5 2,960 5 2,960
Glamis Gold 1998     42 16,590 42 16,590
Glamis Gold 1999     19 10,295 19 10,295
Glamis Gold 2000     18 3,640 18 3,640
Canyon 2006     21 6,145 21 6,145
Canyon 2007 4 1,364     4 1,364
Atna 2011     15 8,880 15 8,880
Atna 2013     14 9,003 14 9,003
CR Reward 2017 14 4,989     14 4,989
CR Reward 2018 14 6,307     14 6,307
Total   35 13,433 341 129,897 376 143,330

 

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Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Figure 10.1. Reward Drill Hole Locations.

 

 

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10.1Drill Methods, Logging and Surveys

 

Summaries of drill campaigns by Gexa, Barrick, Glamis, Canyon, Atna and CR Reward are provided below. No drilling information exists for Homestake (4 holes), 1988-1989 Pathfinder (33 holes), Cloverleaf (47 holes) and USNGS (7 holes).

 

Reverse circulation drilling across all campaigns was conducted using both dry (from 1987 to 2006) and wet (from 2006 onwards) drilling techniques. All drilling was completed above the water table and no material down-hole contamination was noted in the RC drilling. RC drill holes were compared to neighbouring core holes and other RC holes using an Excel Spreadsheets. A visual assessment of the length and magnitude of gold grades indicated expected similarities for a structurally controlled, epithermal gold deposit. Statistical methods reviewed decay and cyclicity of grades for the RC holes and found no significant indication for contamination.

 

Limited down hole surveys exist for the pre-CR Reward holes. However, most mineralised intercepts from historical drill holes were within the first 500 ft and only minor down hole deviation is expected over these short depths combined with observed minimal deviation (<2°) from the CR Reward program.

 

10.1.1Gexa (1987)

 

Gexa RC drilling was mostly carried out by Pollocks Drilling using an CP-650WS RC rig, hole diameters were 13.3 cm (5 ¼ inches) and logging captured drill recovery, lithology, colour, vein/silica alteration, oxide intensity, sulphide percentage. Drill hole inclinations were vertical or -60° towards the west (270°).

 

10.1.2Pathfinder (1991)

 

Pathfinder RC drilling was carried out by Hawkworth Drilling using a Schramm truck mounted RC rig, hole diameters are unknown and logging captured drill recovery, lithology, vein/silica alteration, oxide intensity, fragment shape and sulphide percentage. Drill hole inclinations were -60° towards the west (270°).

 

10.1.3Barrick (1995-1996) and Glamis (1998-2000)

 

Both Barrick and Glamis RC drilling were carried out by Eklund Drilling using an MPD-1500 RC rig, hole diameters were 13.0 cm (5 ⅛ inches) and logging captured lithology, vein abundance, oxide intensity, sulphide percentage. The three Barrick core holes were drilled with a DMW-65 core rig (operator unknown) and logging captured core recovery, lithology, vein abundance, oxide and sulphide intensity plus percentage. Core recovery for the three HQ (7.75 cm (3.05 inches) diameter) holes ranged from 85% to 96%. Majority of the holes from both companies were drilled towards the west (270°) at inclinations ranging from -40° to -75°. In 1995, Barrick surveyed collar coordinates in the local grid, as well as completed a review of all pre-Barrick holes and updated coordinates where necessary.

 

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10.1.4Canyon (2006-2007)

 

Canyon RC drilling was carried out by Boart-Longyear, hole diameters were 14.0 cm (5½ inches) and logging captured lithology, vein abundance, oxide intensity, sulphide percentage. The four core holes were drilled with a CS1000PL and Hagby 1000 rigs (operator was Hansen Drilling) and logging captured core recovery, lithology, vein abundance, oxide and sulphide intensity plus percentage. Core was photographed and average core recovery for the holes was >95%. Majority of the holes from both companies were drilled vertically or towards the west (270°) at inclinations ranging from -60° to -80°. Down-hole surveys for core holes were collected every 30 m (100 ft) using an Easy Shot tool. Collar coordinates were surveyed by a licensed surveyor from Triangle Surveying.

 

10.1.5Atna (2011-2013)

 

Atna RC drilling was carried out by National Drilling using a Schramm T65WS rig, hole diameters were 14.0 cm (5 ½ inches) and logging captured lithology, vein abundance, oxide intensity, sulphide percentage. Majority of the holes from both companies were drilled vertically or towards the west (270°) at inclinations ranging from -65° to -75°. Collar coordinates were surveyed by a licensed surveyor from Great West Surveying using a differential GPS instrument.

 

10.2CR Reward Core Drilling Program (2017-2018)

 

CR Reward’s drilling in 2017 and 2018 was designed for the main purposes of collecting metallurgical samples (5 holes), obtaining geotechnical data and samples (7 holes), increasing the number of core holes and specific gravity determinations on the project as well as resource delineation (16 holes).

 

The program was conducted under the supervision of CR Reward geologists and by Major Drilling as the drilling contractor. All drilling was conducted using an LF 90D Surface Core rig with HQ diameter core. A total of 27 holes were planned but 28 holes were drilled due to the abandonment of hole CRR17-002 at 148 ft due to ground conditions and was re-drilled as CRR17-002A. Drill hole collar co-ordinates are provided in Table 10.2 and shown on Figure 10.1

 

The CR Reward geologists completed the following activities:

 

Geotechnical data was collected by CR Reward geologists included rock quality designation (RQD), core recovery, rock hardness, and fracture density.

A detailed geological log was completed on the whole core by CR Reward geologists that included lithologic data, mineralization, hydrothermal alteration and structural features with respect to the core axis.

The whole core was digitally photographed and high-resolution digital jpeg images were archived for future reference.

 

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Down-hole surveys were completed at regular intervals, usually 7.6 m (25 ft), using an Ezi-Shot system that records the magnetic heading, dip of the hole and magnetic field in the hole. A total of 398 measurements were collected for the 28 holes drilled.

 

Core recovery during the core drilling was very good, exceeding 95% on average, with losses mainly in highly shattered zones.

 

Table 10.2. CR Reward Drill Hole Collars (2017-2018).

 

Hole ID Easting
(ft)
Northing
(ft)
Elevation
(ft)
Azimuth
(º)
Dip
(º)
Drilled
Length
(ft)
CRR17-001 66538.0 3424.6 3844.4 325 -78 385
CRR17-002 66175.4 4329.6 3990.8 300 -60 148
CRR17-002A 66171.8 4331.5 3990.7 300 -60 274
CRR17-003 65779.0 5131.8 4180.4 310 -57 375
CRR17-004 64907.6 3467.2 3792.1 225 -80 90
CRR17-005 64429.3 3972.0 3920.4 225 -60 175
CRR17-006 64616.7 3804.4 3884.6 225 -60 175
CRR17-007 65755.2 5414.2 4288.0 74 -70 380
CRR17-008 64950.3 3345.5 3770.1 225 -75 125
CRR17-009 66819.8 4022.9 3953.9 275 -75 523
CRR17-010 66169.4 4186.8 3946.3 240 -70 420
CRR17-011 66592.0 4291.3 4008.4 16 -70 663
CRR17-012 66845.4 3847.7 3908.8 289 -75 820
CRR17-013 65699.2 4291.3 4191.9 275 -60 436
CRR18-014 66647.7 3847.7 3831.6 290 -78 730
CRR18-015 66099.0 5104.8 4207.5 55 -75 643
CRR18-016 66733.1 3180.3 3858.3 280 -66 525
CRR18-017 66897.5 4930.6 3984.5 30 -60 400
CRR18-018 64987.6 3338.1 3758.6 225 -48 100
CRR18-019 66790.2 4122.9 3879.8 104 -80 564
CRR18-020 65093.8 3288.3 3736.0 225 -75 150
CRR18-021 65328.5 3464.8 3695.9 270 -75 350
CRR18-022 66814.7 3140.7 3892.6 270 -60 650
CRR18-023 66178.2 4799.5 4165.7 270 -80 575
CRR18-024 66181.1 4619.5 4088.1 284 -57 520
CRR18-025 65270.8 2899.3 3700.3 270 -72 375
CRR18-026 66354.7 4217.5 3961.8 285 -60 350
CRR18-027 65386.9 2725.5 3694.3 270 -70 375

 

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The relationship between intercept thickness and true thickness varies by hole dip and style of mineralization intercepted. Intercepts thicknesses typically represent 60% to 90% of the true mineralized thickness. The northern area of Good Hope (5200 N) has near vertical swath of mineralization approximately 18 m (60 feet) wide and 183 m (600 feet) tall. The central portion of Good Hope (4800 N) is 76 m (250 feet) thick and 131 m (430 feet) wide.

 

Data was compiled in Maxwell Geo Services’ Data Shed database software and exported as text files for import into a Vulcan database for resource estimation purposes. Program results are summarized in Table 10.3.

 

Table 10.3. Results of CR Reward Drill Holes (2017-2018).

 

Hole ID From
(ft)
To
(ft)
Drilled Length
(ft)
Au
(oz/st)
CRR17-001 255 263 8 0.040
CRR17-001 273 288 15 0.111
CRR17-001 338 355 17 0.043
CRR17-002 55.5 72.8 17.3 0.155
CRR17-002 80 106.1 26.1 0.049
CRR17-002 135.5 148 12.5 0.053
CRR17-002A 53 103 50 0.071
CRR17-002A 131 140 9 0.055
CRR17-002A 176 237 61 0.033
CRR17-003 144 185.5 41.5 0.031
CRR17-004 No significant assays
CRR17-005 No significant assays
CRR17-006 No significant assays
CRR17-007 No significant assays
CRR17-008 53 63 10 0.075
CRR17-009 338 440 102 0.050
CRR17-009 455 467 12 0.028
CRR17-010 3 15 12 0.019
CRR17-010 40 60 20 0.071
CRR17-010 69 93 24 0.015
CRR17-011 297 315 18 0.034
CRR17-011 328 376 48 0.046
CRR17-011 537 546 9 0.027
CRR17-012 350 418 68 0.048
CRR17-012 464 474.5 10.5 0.023
CRR17-013 No significant assays
CRR18-014 255 264 9 0.035
CRR18-014 314 358 44 0.034

 

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Hole ID From
(ft)
To
(ft)
Drilled Length
(ft)
Au
(oz/st)
CRR18-014 379 433 54 0.034
CRR18-015 16 45 29 0.044
CRR18-015 84 98 14 0.030
CRR18-015 106 121.5 15.5 0.020
CRR18-016 301 346.5 45.5 0.022
CRR18-016 441 452 11 0.028
CRR18-017 No significant assays
CRR18-018 46.1 59 12.9 0.106
CRR18-019 No significant assays
CRR18-020 No significant assays
CRR18-021 180 210 30 0.099
Includes 185 190 5 0.468
CRR18-022 352 368.5 16.5 0.037
CRR18-022 434 453 19 0.032
CRR18-022 526 537 11 0.038
CRR18-022 547 567 20 0.019
CRR18-023 70 89 19 0.030
CRR18-023 108 131 23 0.023
CRR18-024 67.5 250 182.5 0.042
CRR18-024 312 327 15 0.072
CRR18-024 421 485 64 0.023
CRR18-025 No significant assays
CRR18-026 64 117.6 53.6 0.029
CRR18-026 173.1 184.5 11.4 0.025
CRR18-026 225.2 305.4 80.2 0.044
CRR18-027 100 113 13 0.135
CRR18-027 132 150 18 0.067
CRR18-027 244 264 20 0.052
CRR18-027 274 284 10 0.017

 

10.3Twin Holes

 

Core twin holes of RC holes were drilled by Barrick to collect metallurgical samples. The mineralised interval thickness between the original and twin hole are considered excellent (Table 10.4) and correlation of Au grades are considered good for the style of deposit. The re-drill of core hole CRR17-002 with core hole CRR17-002A also shows an excellent correlation for grade and interval thickness.

 

Assessment of the core and RC twin holes was conducted with Excel spreadsheets where the grade versus depth was plotted for the core hole and the RC twin on the same plot. Differences, based on thickness of the mineralized zone and magnitude of the grade, were displayed allowing for visual detection of variances in the grades. As the distance between sample pairs increased, variances in the grades were give less consideration.

 

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Table 10.4. Results of Reward Twin Holes.

 

Original Hole ID From
(ft)
To
(ft)
Interval
(ft)
Au
(oz/st)
Twin Hole ID From
(ft)
To
(ft)
Interval
(ft)
Au
(oz/st)
R95-127 80.0 195.0 115.0 0.046 R95-206C 80.0 190.0 110.0 0.067
R95-130 55.0 175.0 120.0 0.049 RC95-207C 55.0 175.0 120.0 0.068
R95-130 215.0 260.0 45.0 0.013 RC95-207C 205.0 272.2 67.2 0.007
R95-167 5.0 245.0 240.0 0.049 RC95-208C 9.0 249.2 240.2 0.054
CRR17-002 7.4 148.0 140.6 0.032 CRR17-002A 7.0 144.0 137.0 0.031

 

10.4Comments on Drilling

 

In the opinion of the QP, the quantity and quality of the lithological, alteration, mineralisation, collar and down hole survey data collected across all campaigns are sufficient to support Mineral Resource estimation as follows:

 

RC drilling was completed above the water table and no evidence of down-hole contamination has been identified.

RC and core logging meets industry standards for this type of deposit.

Collar surveys have been performed using industry-standard instrumentation.

Down hole surveys were performed using industry-standard instrumentation and minimal down hole deviations are observed.

Recovery data from core drill programs are acceptable.

 

11Sample Preparation, Analyses and Security

 

11.1Pre-CR Reward Drill Sampling, Analysis and Security

 

All RC drill campaigns sampled cuttings on 1.5 m (5 ft intervals). For the core holes, Barrick sampled half core on 1.5 m (5 ft) intervals, Canyon sampled half core on 3 m (10 ft) intervals and CR Reward sampled half core predominantly on 1.5 m (5 ft) intervals or shorter based on geological breaks.

 

No sampling and analytical information is available for the campaigns completed by Homestake, Pathfinder, Cloverleaf or USNGS.

 

11.1.1Gexa (1987)

 

Gexa submitted Au and Ag samples to an internal lab for analysis that included a cyanide digest with atomic absorption (AA) finish. Fire assay (FA) Au samples were submitted to Bondar-Clegg and Company Ltd for analysis. No information is available for how the samples were prepared, size of the analytical samples or QAQC protocols.

 

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11.1.2Barrick (1995-1996)

 

Barrick samples from 1995 were prepared and analyzed by Chemex Labs, Inc., Nevada. Sample preparation included 4-7 kg (8.8-15 lb) of material was crushed (Chemex code 294), followed by 200-250 g (7.1-8.8 oz) subsample was split and pulverized in a ring mill to approximately 150 mesh (Chemex code 205). Gold analytical methods included 30 g FA digest with atomic absorption finish (AA; Chemex code 99), 1 assay ton (29 g) FA with gravimetric finish for all results >0.3 oz/st Au and most results >0.18 oz/st Au (Chemex code 997). Barrick ran 30 g (1.1 oz) cold cyanide leach with AA finish (Chemex code 830) for select samples from five holes. Silver was analysed using an aqua-regia digest with AA finish (Chemex code 6). Chemex reported internal standard, duplicate and blank results but no information is available for Barrick’s internal QAQC protocols.

 

Barrick samples in 1996 were analyzed by Barringer Laboratories Inc., Colorado. No information is available for how the samples were prepared. Analytical methods included Au reported from a FA digest with AA and Ag reported from an aqua-regia digest with AA finish.

 

11.1.3Glamis (1998-2000)

 

Glamis submitted samples for fire assay Au and aqua-regia Ag analyses to Rocky Mountain Geochemical of Nevada (RMGN), and for cyanide Au analysis to Marigold Mine (MMC). No information is available for how the samples were prepared, size of the analytical samples or QAQC protocols.

 

11.1.4Canyon (2006-2007)

 

Canyon reverse circulation sampling procedure included two samples collected (one for laboratory analysis and the second retained as a duplicate) over every 1.5 m (5 ft) interval using a wet rotary splitter. Samples were collected using two 19 L (five-gallon) plastic buckets. Drill core was saw cut down the long axis of the core, sampling collected at regular 1.5 m (5 ft) intervals in a labelled sample bag. The remaining half of the core was retained for reference. All RC and core samples were stored in a locked steel transport container on site until transportation to the assay laboratory.

 

Sample preparation and analyses for all RC and drill core samples were submitted to the ALS Global (ALS) in Reno Nevada. ALS is an independent, accredited laboratory with ISO 9001:2000 certification. Upon receipt at the laboratory samples were dried, crushed to P70 <2 mm (0.08 inch) and 200 g (7.1 oz) sample was riffle split then pulverized to P85 <75 μm. Gold analysis was completed on a 30 g (1.1 oz) split using a FA digest with an atomic absorption spectroscopy (AA) finish (ALS code Au-AA23). Select intervals for metallurgical purposes from core holes MC-1, MC-3 and MC-5 were also analyzed for Au using ore grade 30 g (1.1 oz) FA with AA finish (ALS code Au-AA25) for an original and duplicate sample, a 30g (1.1 oz) cyanide leach with AA finish for Au, and a 0.4 g (.01 oz) four acid with ICP-AES or AA finish for Ag. Received sample weights were also reported on the certificate of analysis.

 

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Canyon QAQC protocols included one certified standard inserted approximately every tenth sample. Two Rock Labs certified standards during the campaign included SK21 (0.118 oz/st Au) and SG14 (0.029 oz/st Au), and blank material used was silica sand. A total of 37 certified standards were inserted along with 1,224 RC samples and 183 core samples during the 2006 and 2007 drilling campaigns. It is unknown if any blanks or duplicates were inserted as part of the QAQC. Results from the Canyon campaigns included:

 

Majority of the standards returned low relative standard deviations of less than 6% and a low bias range of -2.7% to 0.0%. Five of the 21 SK21 standards were below the minus three standard deviations and therefore potentially represent a low bias for those intervals. All 11 results from standard SG14 were within three standard deviations.

 

11.1.5Atna (2011-2013)

 

Atna’s reverse circulation sampling procedure included one sample collected over every 1.5 m (5 ft) interval using a wet rotary splitter and a field duplicate sample was collected every 20th sample (or 30 m (100 ft) intervals) from a secondary rotary splitter. Samples were collected using pre-numbered cloth sample bags (labelled without reference to the drill hole interval). Standard reference material and blanks were inserted in the sample sequence by Atna prior to laboratory despatch.

 

The sample preparation and analytical analyses for all RC chip samples from the 2011 program were completed at Inspectorate in Sparks, Nevada. Inspectorate is an independent, accredited laboratory with ISO 9001:2000 certification. Samples submitted were dried and crushed to P80 <1.7 mm then split and pulverized to P85 <75 μm. Gold analysis was completed on a 1-assay ton (29 g (1 oz)) split with a FA digest and AA finish. If samples assayed >0.3 oz/st Au. (Inspectorate code Au-1AT-AA). Inspectorate completed a second 1-assay ton analysis with a fire assay digest and gravimetric finish (Inspectorate code Au-1AT-GV).

 

For the 2013 program, Atna submitted samples to American Assay Laboratories (AAL) in Sparks, Nevada. AAL is an independent, accredited laboratory with ISO 17025:2005 accreditation. Samples submitted were dried and crushed to P70 <2mm (0.08 inch) then split and pulverized to P85 <75μm. Gold analysis was completed on a 1-assay ton (29g (1 oz)) split with a fire assay digest and AA finish. If samples assayed >0.3 oz/st Au. (AAL code Au-FA30). Inspectorate completed a second 1-assay ton analysis with a FA digest and gravimetric finish (AAL code Au-GRAV). Received sample weights were also reported on the certificate of analysis.

 

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Atna’s QAQC protocols for both campaigns included a certified standard and blank that were inserted alternatingly every approximate tenth sample. Thirteen Rock Labs standards (OxA71, OxA89, OxC102, OxE86, OxF65, OxF100, OxG99, OxH66, OxJ68, SF45, SI54, SJ53) were used with recommended values ranging from 0.0025 oz/st Au to 0.0769 oz/st Au. Blank material used was red basaltic cinder.

 

Atna submitted a total of 198 standards, 216 blanks and 165 field duplicate samples along with a total of 3,570 RC samples during the 2011 and 2013 drilling campaigns. QAQC results from the Atna campaigns included:

 

Five hundred and seventy-nine (579) QAQC samples were inserted, representing one QA/QC samples for every 7.2 core samples, or 14.0% of the total samples submitted.

A 99% pass rate for the blank material, with only two of the 101 blanks from the 2011 program above the threshold.

Majority of the standards returned low relative standard deviations of less than 5% and a low bias range of -3.7% to 0.3%. A total of 13 of the 198 standards were outside of three standard deviations with the nine of the failures associated with recommended standard values of <0.006 oz/st Au.

Sixty-two of the 165 field duplicate samples yielded mean values >0.003 oz/st and the overall variability was low (<30% coefficient of variation).

 

11.2CR Reward Sampling, Analysis and Security (2017-2018)

 

CR Reward drilling and sampling was carried out under the supervision of CR Reward geologists. The chain custody involved from the field to the sample preparation facility was continually monitored. Drill core was collected from the drill rig by CR Reward personnel and transported to a secure logging facility in Beatty, Nevada for the first half of the drill program. For the second half of the program the drill core was shipped to the ALS laboratory facility in Reno for logging.

 

Subsequent to completion of core logging and photography, the sampling protocol involved:

 

The core and core box were marked for by CR Reward personnel for sample collection and sample tags were stapled to the core box at the beginning of the interval. The dominant sample interval length was 5ft with lengths adjusted based on lithological and alteration changes. The maximum sample length of 4.6 m (15 ft) and minimum of 0.2 m (0.7 ft).

Whole HQ-size core was cut in half (rock sawed) by ALS staff at their Reno facility. Sawed core sample intervals were recorded on daily cut core sheets for review each day.

Samples for geochemical analysis were collected by laboratory personnel and placed into bags. The samples comprised one half of the HQ-size core, with the remaining core for each retained in their original core boxes. Core split by ALS staff were retained in core boxes stored in secured ALS warehouses.

 

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Standard reference material blanks and field duplicates were inserted into the sample sequence at the rate of approximately one in every 10 samples.

 

11.2.1Diamond Drill Core Sample Preparation and Analysis

 

The 2017–2018 drill program totalled 3,443 m (11,296 ft), which included 28 core-holes, 2,330 samples, and 22 unsampled intervals due to poor or no core recovery. A total of 2,760 samples, inclusive of QA/QC samples, were submitted to ALS and Florin Analytical (FLOR) for preparation and analyses. All geochemical analyses were completed by ALS, with the exception of CRR17-004 that was analysed at FLOR. ALS is an independent, accredited laboratory with ISO 9001:2000 certification. Figure 11.1 is a flowsheet summarizing the sample preparation and analysis protocols used for the 2017–2018 drill program.

 

CR Reward personnel arranged shipping to the ALS facility in Reno, Nevada, for sample preparation and geochemical analysis. Samples were logged into a computer-based tracking system, weighed and dried. Samples were removed for bulk density measurements conducted using paraffin wax coated samples and a water displacement method (ALS code OA-GRA09a). Bulk density determinations were carried out at ALS’ Vancouver laboratory and these samples were not re-inserted for assaying. The entire assay sample was crushed so that +70% passes a 2 mm screen, then a 250 g (8.8 oz) split was selected and pulverized to better than P85 <75 µm (ALS code PREP-31Y). Two 30 g (1.1 oz) aliquots were extracted from the pulp and one 30 g (1.1 oz) sample was analysed for gold using a fire assay fusion, digestion and with atomic absorption spectroscopy followed up with an inductively-coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) finish (ALS code Au-AA23). The second 30 g (1.1 oz) sample was analysed using a cyanide leach digest followed by a AA finish (ALS code Au-AA13). Any fire assay samples that returned >0.292 oz/st Au were re-assayed using a second fire assay fusion with a gravimetric finish (ALS code Au-GRAV21). A 0.25 g (0.0089 oz) aliquot was split off for multi-element analysis using four acid digestion (ALS code ME-MS61m) with an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) finish. All assay analyses were completed at the ALS’ Reno laboratory.

 

In the case of FLOR, CR Reward arranged sample shipping to the FLOR laboratory in Reno, Nevada for sample preparation and geochemical analysis. Core submitted to FLOR were intended for metallurgical test work. Upon arrival at the laboratory, the core was laid out and the marked sample intervals were removed for physical testing (comminution test work) and bulk density test work. The remaining intervals (1.5 m (5 ft) intervals or as marked by CR Reward personnel) were bagged, weighed and stage crushed to minus 25 mm (0.98 inch). From each interval a 1,000 g (35.3 oz) portion was riffle split out, weighed and dried to a constant weight at 106°C. The dried material was then crushed to -1.7 mm (0.067 inch) and a 500 g (17.6 oz) portion was split out and ring and puck pulverized to -0.15 mm (0.0059 inch). The 500 g (17.6 oz) portions were used for interval assays. Several sample intervals weighed <5 kg; for these samples only a 500 g (17.6 oz) portion was split out from the 25 mm (0.98 inch) crushed material. The 500 g (17.6 oz) portion was dried and crushed to -1.7 mm (0.067 inch) and then ring and puck pulverized to -0.15 mm (0.0059 inch). A 50 g aliquot was extracted from the pulp and was analyzed for gold using a FA fusion, digestion and with AAS finish (FLOR code 4018). Silver was analyzed using four-acid digestion with an AAS finish (FLOR code 7048). Additionally, select samples were assayed for gold, silver and copper by gold cyanidation with a 24-hour cyanide shake and AAS finish (FLOR code 6007).

 

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Figure 11.1. CR Reward Sample Flow Chart.

 

 

Source: Fowlow (2018a,b)

 

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The sample collection, security, transportation, preparation, insertion of geochemical standards and blanks and analytical procedures are within industry norms and best practices. The procedures used by CR Reward personnel are considered adequate to ensure that the results disclosed are accurate within scientific limitations and are not misleading. The procedures and assay control protocols employed by CR Reward in the 2017 and 2018 drill program are considered reasonable and acceptable for use in Mineral Resource Estimation.

 

11.3CR Reward QAQC Results (2017-2018)

 

Of the 2,760 samples submitted for analysis, 430 were QA/QC samples inserted by CR Reward personnel, representing one QA/QC samples for every 6.4 core samples, or 15.6% of the total samples submitted. The QC samples consisted of a total of 111 CDN standards, 92 blanks, 68 core duplicates, 79 crush duplicates and 80 pulp duplicates. APEX considers this adequate to ensure that each batch of assays included at least CR Reward-inserted blank and standard sample.

 

11.3.1Blanks

 

A total of 92 blank samples were inserted in the sample stream by CR Reward personnel during the 2017–2018 drill program (Table 11.1). Garden marble was sourced from local hardware stores for blank material. A total of 14 of the samples returned values above the detection limit for gold (Figure 11.2); however, only one sample assayed greater than 0.0004 oz/st Au (maximum value of 0.0005 oz/st Au). The results for the blanks are considered acceptable based on a 1% fail rate.

 

Figure 11.2. Blank Results from 2017-2018 Drilling Sorted by Date Analyzed.

 

 

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Table 11.1. Summary Results of Blank Material from the 2017-2018 Drill Program.

 

Blanks ALS Global Total
Count 92 92
Count >0.0004 oz/st 1 1
Percent Fail 1.1% 1.1%

 

11.3.2Standard Reference Materials

 

A total of 111 standard reference materials (SRM) were inserted in the sample stream by CR Reward during the 2017–2018 drill program. Two standard types were sourced from CDN Resource Laboratories Ltd and had recommended values of 0.018 oz/st Au (CDN-GS-P6B) and 0.068 oz/st Au (CDN-GS-2L).

 

The inserted CDN-GS-P6B standard (0.018 oz/st Au) reported 14 out of 57 analyzes outside of two standard deviation, and 7 samples outside of three-standard deviation (Figure 11.3). Most of the CDN-GS-P6B SRM failures are considered marginal failures, that is, just outside the two-standard deviations boundaries and within three-standard deviations. The failures have likely resulted from a poorly homogenized standard and/or perhaps due to minor laboratory preparation or analytical errors. Results outside of three standard deviations was accepted if the standard was within a low-grade (<0.003 oz/st Au) interval. The relative standard deviation of the samples was low at 6.8% and the bias was extremely low at 0.3% (Table 11.2).

 

The results for the CDN-GS-2L standard returned only two of 56 samples outside of the two-standard deviation (Figure 11.4). Both failures were within the three-standard deviation threshold and are considered marginal failures. The relative standard deviation of the samples was low at 4.0% and the bias was low at 2.1% (Table 11.2).

 

In general, the standard reference material results are considered acceptable based on high precision (or low relative standard deviation) and low bias.

 

Table 11.2. Summary Results of Standards from the 2017-2018 Drill Program.

 

SRM

SRM Value

(oz/st Au)

SRM 1 SD

(oz/st Au)

Count RSD% Bias Within 2SD Within 3SD
CDN-GS-P6B 0.018 0.0007 57 6.8% 0.3% 75% 88%
CDN-GS-2L 0.068 0.0035 54 4.0% 2.1% 98% 100%

 

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Figure 11.3. CDN-GS-P6B Results from 2017-2018 Program Sorted by Date Analyzed.

 

 

 

Figure 11.4. CDN-GS-2L Results from 2017-2018 Program Sorted by Date Analyzed.

 

 

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11.3.3Duplicates

 

A total of 68 core field duplicates, 79 crush duplicates and 80 pulp duplicates were inserted in the sample stream by CR Reward personnel during the 2017–2018 drill program and analyzed by ALS (Figure 11.5). The core duplicates were assayed using FA with a 1 AT aliquot with an AA finish and an 1 AT aliquot cyanide leach with an AA finish. Nineteen of the field duplicates (or 28%) yielded values greater than 30% half relative difference versus the mean in samples (or 22%), whereas 12 crush duplicates (or 15%) and 11 pulp duplicates (or 11%) generated values greater than 30% half relative difference versus the mean. A similar reduction in variability from field to crush to pulp and lab duplicates was calculated with the coefficient of variation. Minor differences are observed in the results from the cyanide leach analysis near the lower detection limit, however, this is not uncharacteristic. Overall, the results from all duplicates are considered acceptable based on low variability (<30% coefficient of variation) and progressively lower variability from field to crush to pulp to lab pulp duplicate.

 

Figure 11.5. Duplicate Results from the 2017-2018 Program.

 

 

 

11.4Comments on Sample Preparation, Analyses and Security

 

In the opinion of the QP, the quantity and quality of the sample procedures and analytical results follow acceptable industry standards. The data are acceptable to support Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimation.

 

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12Data Verification

 

The drill hole database was exported and provided to APEX from CR Reward on April 19, 2018 and consisted of 386 collar entries. Upon review by APEX personnel, it was determined that there are 376 drill hole collars and 10 road cut or trench locations/entries. The 10-road cut and trench entries were removed from the database for resource estimation purposes. APEX thoroughly reviewed the drill hole database and the validation conducted by CR Reward in 2015 to 2017.

 

The drill hole database used by APEX personnel for resource estimation, including the recently-completed 2017–2018 drill holes, consists of 143,330 ft in 376 drill holes. The database includes 129,897 ft in 341 pre-CR Reward reverse circulation (RC) holes, 2,137 ft in seven pre-CR Reward core holes and 11,296 ft in 28 core holes completed during late 2017 to early 2018 CR Reward. The pre-CR Reward drill holes were completed between 1987 and 2013, with 276 holes completed between 1987 and 1999, and 72 holes between 2000 and 2013. The 2017–2018 core holes combined with the pre- CR Reward core holes represent about 9.4% of the total drilling. The QP considers the proportion of core holes to RC holes to be acceptable for Mineral Resource estimation.

 

The assay database consists of 26,092 sample intervals, with 23,762 intervals for the historic drill holes and 2,330 intervals for the 2017–2018 core holes. The sample database contains 336 entries of -9 and 80 blank entries, (less than 1.6% of the database). Most of these entries are attributed to non-sampled intervals, especially the greater than 5 ft intervals (70 samples) and collar/overburden top of hole intervals. The remaining dominantly 5 ft intervals without samples are attributed to poor recovery or lost samples.

 

12.1Verification Program

 

The 2017 verification program completed by CR Reward (2017), and reviewed by the QP, included the following:

 

·Verifying collar data versus geologic logs or certificates from surveyors.

·Verifying collar elevations versus recent or available topography.

·Verifying down-hole survey data versus geologic logs and certificates.

·Verifying assay values versus laboratory certificates or geologic logs where certificates were not available.

 

All collar, survey and assay data for the 28 holes drilled by CR Reward in 2017 and 2018 were verified as part of the database management process and are excluded from the following summary.

 

12.1.1Protocols and Error Tracking of Pre-CR Reward Drill Holes

 

The database provided to APEX consisted of 348 drill holes completed by previous operators. CR Reward (2017) reported that 100% of collar and down-hole survey data were selected for verification against available geologic logs or certified surveyor reports, whereas 10% of assays were verified against certified laboratory reports. All verified data and results were provided to APEX and are captured in the Excel spreadsheet 20170215_REW_DH_Verification.xlsx. The QP reviewed the verification data and the available collar, assay, and survey data.

 

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12.2Collar Data Verification

 

The Project has been explored by multiple companies since 1987, including Homestake Mining Company, Galli Exploration Associates (GEXA), TECO, Cloverleaf Gold, Pathfinder Gold, US Nevada Gold Search, Barrick Gold, Glamis Gold, Canyon Resources and Atna Resources. As with multiple companies and many years of drilling, many original geologic logs could not be found, and in some instances, only copies of geologic logs were available.

 

Collar location and total depth data was initially verified against 178 (or 51%) geologic logs by CR Reward (2017). One hundred and seventy holes (or 49%) lacked logs and could not be verified. Eleven typographic errors were observed, investigated and corrected. CR Reward (2017) observed from the geologic logs that at least two local grids were created. At least three local coordinate systems were used by previous operators, e.g. Galli Exploration in 1987, Pathfinder in 1991 and Barrick in 1995. In 2018, CR Reward generated a low distortion local grid. An Excel spreadsheet containing control points for the local coordinate grids and UTM NAD27 Z11 coordinates was generated by CR Reward. Collar locations were plotted on satellite imagery and visually checked against existing pad locations, drill roads and disturbed areas. No major errors were observed. All collar easting and northing locations were considered acceptable following the review.

 

CR Reward (2017) also observed a consistent elevation difference on the R95/96 and RE series drill holes in the drill logs compared to the database values. The elevation values in the logs were consistently 50 ft to 60 ft higher than the elevations in the database. This elevation discrepancy resulted in 125 quarantined collar elevation values. CR Reward (2017) completed further investigations of the quarantined values against a topographic surface with 5 ft contour intervals that was generated from an aerial topographic survey performed by Kenney Aerial on December 20, 2006 for Canyon Resources. The database values correlate well against the 2006 aerial topographic survey and with nine holes returning differences of greater than ±10 ft. The elevation value of these nine holes was corrected to the 2006 survey data. Holes with differences of less than ±10 ft were considered acceptable. It is interpreted that collar elevations in the logs were registered to a historical topographic surface. The database values superseded the log values and represent the most accurate data.

 

CR Reward in 2018 also completed a field check and identified six collars exposed within the main deposit areas. The collar locations were within 5 ft for northing and easting values, and within 2 ft of the elevation values.

 

A total of 20 errors (11 typographic and 9 elevation differences) were identified, investigated and corrected. Upon completion of these changes and the verification review, the collar database was considered acceptable by the QP for use in the resource estimation process.

 

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12.3Down-Hole Survey Data Verification

 

The pre-CR Reward database contains 740 down-hole survey records that were verified using the geologic logs or survey sheets (CR Reward, 2017). Only five of the drill holes (one RC and four core holes) had a contractor perform the down-hole survey and only two of those holes have survey records in the geologic logs. The contractor for the four core holes was either the drillers or WellNav with an unknown gyro tool. The contractor for the RC drill hole is unknown.

 

All azimuths and dips in the database were compared to either the geologic logs or contractor field sheets. No certified surveyor reports were available.

 

A total of 416 down-hole survey records (or 56%) passed verification, 290 down-hole survey records (or 39%) were not verified due to lack of geologic log or contractor information, and 34 (or 5%) were quarantined for further investigation. Records that were quarantined were due to the following:

 

·A total of 23 (or 5%) of 450 records with corresponding logs had typographic errors and were corrected.

·The azimuth on two records (or <1%) could not be determined from the geologic log but the hole (R95-206C) is a twin of hole R95-127. Geology and assay results from both holes correlate well and data was accepted.

·A total of nine surveys (or 2%) from two drill holes (MC-3 and MC-4) were collected by a contractor but field sheets or certificates were not available. Both holes had vertical dips at the collar, are less than 400 ft in depth and therefore the data was accepted.

 

A total of 23 errors, were investigated and corrected. Upon completion of these changes and the verification review, the survey data was considered acceptable by the QP for use in the resource estimation process.

 

12.4Assay Verification

 

The combined historic drill hole database consists of 23,922 intervals in 348 drill holes. A total of 40 historic drill holes were verified by CR Reward (2017) for a total of 2,715 intervals (or 11.3%) of the database. Drill holes were selected using a random number generator in Excel. Mine Development Associates (MDA) were engaged in 2018 to complete independent verification work that included an additional 16 historic holes containing 1,180 intervals (or 4.9%).

 

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Laboratories involved in RC and core assay programs included ALS Chemex, American Assay, Barringer, Inspectorate, Bondar Clegg and Rocky Mountain Laboratories. Certificates were only available for analyses completed at ALS Chemex, American Assay, Barringer and Inspectorate. Two mine laboratories were used when Glamis Gold was the operator in 1998; these were the mine laboratory at the Daisy Mine, near Beatty and the mine laboratory at the Marigold Mine, near Valmy. No assay certificates are available from these laboratories.

 

Results from the CR Reward assay verification include:

 

·From a total of 2,715 assay intervals, 514 (19%) of the intervals could not be verified due to either the lack of an assay certificate, geologic log or the interval was illegible on the log.

·2,201 (81%) assay intervals contained corresponding certificates or geologic logs.

·2,183 assay intervals (or 99%) had no errors and were flagged as pass.

·18 assay intervals (or 1%) were quarantined for further investigation due to data entry errors. Five intervals were corrected and the 13 intervals could not be fully investigated and were considered immaterial differences.

 

Results from the MDA assay verification include:

 

·A total of 1,180 assay intervals were verified against both assay certificates and geologic log. Four of the 1,180 intervals (or <0.5%) contained typographic errors that were subsequently corrected.

·A total of 179 sample depth intervals (depth_from and depth_to) were verified and no errors were identified.

 

A total of 9 (or 0.3%) out of the 3,381 assay intervals verified during the CR Reward and MDA reviews contained errors that were subsequently corrected and 13 intervals (or 0.4%) remained unresolved but had immaterial (low grade) values. Upon completion of these changes and the verification reviews, the assay data was considered acceptable by the QP for use in the resource estimation process based on the low amount of errors.

 

12.5Author and QP Site Visits

 

Mr. Michael Dufresne, M.Sc., P.Geol., P.Geo. and QP of this Technical Report, conducted a site inspection of the Project on two separate occasions in 2017 and 2019. On August 2nd, 2017, Mr. Dufresne visited the Property and reviewed drill core at CR Reward’s office in Reno, NV. On August 12th, 2019, Mr. Dufresne visited the Property and verified the location of a number of drill collars and on August 15th, 2019, Mr. Dufresne performed an inspection of the Lovelock, NV, core facility and reviewed Reward Project drill core from the 2017-2018 drill program.

 

A total of 24 drill holes, including 18 CR Reward holes and 6 historical holes, were located by Mr. Dufresne and handheld GPS coordinates were recorded and compared to the original coordinates. Table 12.1 summarizes the verification survey results.

 

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Table 12.1. Drill Hole Coordinate Comparison. Coordinates are in UTM NAD 1983 Zone 11.

 

 

Appreciating the limited precision of the handheld GPS, the check GPS coordinates were consistent with the original coordinates with an average variance of 1 m and a maximum variance of 6 m. In the opinion of the QP Mr. Dufresne, the differences are not viewed as material.

 

During the inspection of the core facility in Lovelock, NV, Mr. Dufresne reviewed mineralized intervals in CR Reward drill holes CRR17-09, CRR18-014 and CRR-024. Significant intercepts of drill holes CRR17-09, CRR18-014 and CRR-024 are listed in Table 12.2. Photographs taken by Mr. Dufresne of the drill core are presented in Figures 12.1 to 12.3.

 

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Table 12.2. Significant Intercepts of Drill Holes Reviewed During Mr. Dufresne’s Inspection of the CR Reward Core Facility.

 

 

 

Figure 12.1. Drill hole CRR17-009, Wood Canyon Formation Mineralized Interval of Phyllite and Oxidized Quartzite (approximately 389 to 401 ft depth).

 

 

 

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Figure 12.2. Drill hole CRR18-014, Wood Canyon Formation Mineralized Interval of Brecciated/Re-healed Quartzite and Sheared and Foliated Phyllite (approximately 399 to 414 ft depth).

 

 

 

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Figure 12.3. Drill Hole CRR18-024, Wood Canyon Formation Mineralized Interval of Quartzite (approximately 148 to 153 ft depth).

 

 

 

No material field based exploration work has occurred at the Reward Project since the 2017-2018 drill program. Therefore, Mr. Dufresne considers the most recent site visit as current. As a result of the site visits, Mr. Dufresne can verify the land position, the geological setting and the mineralization that is the subject of this Technical Report.

 

In addition, Mr. Timothy Scott, BA.Sc. Geological Engineering and QP of this Technical Report, visited the Project on September 22nd, 2018 and on May 16th, 2022. He inspected the access and associated infrastructure for the Property. He found no evidence of any changes or work since the CR Reward 2017-2018 drill program.

 

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13Mineral Processing and Metallurgical Testing

 

Metallurgical test work includes historical work completed by Rayrock Mines Inc. during 1998 and McClelland Laboratories (McClelland) in 2007 and 2008. Confirmatory test work was performed by KCA in 2018. Metallurgical test work programs include 34 bottle roll tests and 27 column tests together with preliminary agglomeration and compacted permeability testing. Results from these tests show that the Good Hope mineralization is amenable to cyanide leaching with acceptable reagent consumptions.

 

13.11998 Rayrock Column Tests – Drill Core

 

Core used in the 1998 test program came from the three drill hole locations represents material from the north (drill hole R95-206C), centre (R95-207C) and south (R95-208C) of the deposit.

 

Six column tests were leached for 20 days on original broken core. After the initial 20 days of leaching, the columns were allowed to rest for three days. Following the resting period, two of the columns were crushed to 1½ inch and all six columns were flood leached four times over a 60-day period, allowed to drip irrigate for eight days, and then rest for 30 days. During the 30-day rest period, all of the columns were drained and re-crushed to ¾ inch and restarted and allowed to leach for a further 60 days. Including rest periods, the elapsed test time was 181 days. All work was conducted at the in-house Rayrock metallurgical laboratory. The extant documentation is a short inter-office memorandum that does not provide detailed information on the tests. Available results are summarized in Table 13.1. The data suggested that some higher-grade materials may not leach as well as lower-grade material, which indicated that coarse gold was present in some of the high-grade core.

 

The QP notes that given the somewhat erratic program of leach and rest periods, as well as the different crush sizes introduced mid-stream, the results can only be considered as indicative. Observations from the program included (Laney, 1998a):

 

“That the northern most core would show the lowest recovery was expected due to the more siliceous nature of the ore as it heads to the north…the material does not produce many fines and is very competent and hard…the material was slow leaching before crushing and the leach kinetics increased after crushing.”

 

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Table 13.1. 1998 Rayrock Drill Core Column Tests Results.

 

Drill Hole Column No. (Test No.)

Calculated Head Grade

oz/st Au

Recovery

% Au

R95-206-C-North 1 (1333) 0.067 50
R95-206-C-North 2(1334)** 0.110 54
R95-207-C-Central 3(1335) 0.030 83
R95-207-C-Central 4(1336) 0.080 80
R95-208-C-South 5(1337) 0.079 59
R95-208-C-South 6(1338)** 0.069 69

 

Note:Columns initially crushed to minus 1½inch. All columns were later crushed to minus ¾ inch.

 

13.21998 Rayrock Column Tests – Trench Samples

 

A second Rayrock internal memorandum reports results of column tests conducted on surface samples taken from backhoe trenches (Laney, 1998b). Trench locations and the sample compositing methodology were not recorded.

 

Two sample composites and four column tests were conducted, with two subsets of each composite conducted with different cyanide solution strengths (1/3 lb/st and 1 lb/st), and two material sizes (“as-is” and crushed to minus ¾ inch). Average head grades were reported to be 0.030 oz/st Au to 0.033 oz/st Au. The leach cycle had an elapsed time of 56 days which included two rest periods that totalled 21 days. Campaign results are shown in Table 13.2.

 

13.32007 McClelland Bottle Roll Tests

 

During 2007, 96 hr bottle roll tests were conducted on RC drill cuttings (nominally 10 mesh) from nine different drill holes. Efforts were made to spatially select the sample intervals across the deposit with respect to elevation (shallow, deep, etc.) as well as area (east, west, etc.). However, the northern deposit area was not represented in the selected samples.

 

Results of this program are shown in Table 13.3. The respective recovery curves are shown in Figure 13.1.

 

In the samples tested, the average gold recovery was 70.3%, reagent consumptions were quite low, and it did not appear that there were any significant differences in recovery by location or depth, or in terms of grade versus recovery.

 

A composite was generated for physical characterization tests. Results showed that the crusher work index (CWi) is a very low at 3.7 kWh/st. The abrasion index (Ai) of 0.4338 g is moderately high.

 

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13.4McClelland 2008 Column Test Campaign

 

The 2008 program samples were sourced from three drill holes. Four column tests were conducted at a crush size of P80 of ½ inch and one column test (composite 5) was conducted at a crush size of P80 of ¼ inch. In addition, bottle rolls were run on column splits and a separate bottle roll study of size versus recovery was conducted on composite 5. Drain-down data were also measured on the finished column tests.

 

Sample composite data are presented in Table 13.4 and the drill holes selected are shown in Figure 13.2.

 

Table 13.2. 1998 Rayrock Surface Trench Column Test Gold Recovery.

 

Head Grade

#1348

1/3 lb/st CN

“as-is”

%

#1349

1/3 lb/st CN

Crushed to ¾ inch

%

#1350

1 lb/st CN

“as-is”

%

#1351

1 lb/st CN

Crushed to ¾ inch

%

0.033 oz/st Au 45.80 57.83 65.50 79.31
0.030 oz/st Au 49.51 62.52 70.80 85.74

 

Table 13.3. 1998 10 Mesh Reverse Circulation Drill Holes Bottle Roll Results.

 

 

 

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Figure 13.1. 1998 10 Mesh Bottle Roll Recovery Curves.

 

 

 

Note:Figure from Laney, (1998b).

 

Table 13.4. 2008 McClelland Sample/Drill Hole Composite Information.

 

Composite Sample Drill hole

Interval

(ft)

1 MC 1 90-120
2 MC 1 150-210
3 MC 3 20-190
4 MC 5 140-190
5

MC 3

MC 5

MC 5

MC 5

20-190

200-210

220-230

340-360

 

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Figure 13.2. 2008 McClelland Drill Hole Location Map.

 

 

Note: Figure from McClelland (2008).

 

13.4.12008 Column Test Results

 

A summary of five column test results is provided in Table 13.5. The corresponding gold recovery curves are shown in Figure 13.3.

 

13.4.22008 Bottle Roll Test Results at Crush Size and at 200 Mesh

 

Figure 13.4 presents the bottle roll results of sample splits from each of the column test materials.

 

Table 13.6 presents bottle rolls results of column test sample splits ground to P80 of 200 mesh.

 

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Table 13.5. 2008 McClelland Summary Column Test Results.

 

 

Figure 13.3. 2008 McClelland 10 Gold Recovery Curves – Column Tests.

 

 

Note: Figure from McClelland (2008).

 

Figure 13.4. 2008 McClelland Bottle Roll Tests Recovery Curves – Splits from Column Tests.

 

 

Note: Figure from McClelland (2008).

 

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Table 13.6. 2008 McClelland Bottle Roll Tests – Gold Recovery %.

 

Sample

P80 ½ inch

72 hr

P80 200 mesh

24 hr

Comp 1 51.6 87.5
Comp 2 35.9 85.7
Comp 3 45.0 88.9
Comp 4 58.3 91.3

 

13.4.32008 Bottle Roll Size versus Recovery on Composite 5

 

A separate exercise was conducted to establish a size versus gold recovery relation with respect to bottle rolls. This was conducted only on sample composite 5. Results of the different sizes are shown in Table 13.7. Results are plotted in Figure 13.5.

 

13.4.4Drain-Down Data

 

Drain-down data for each of the five column tests are presented in Table 13.8.

 

13.4.5Conclusions from 2008 McClelland Program

 

The average gold recovery for the four ½ inch crush columns is 74.9%. With an applied laboratory to field deduction of 2%, a field recovery of 72.9% could be expected at that crush size.

 

Only one column test was conducted at P80 of ¼ inch crush size, and that test has the highest laboratory recovery of 82.8%.

 

The McClelland program concluded that the NaCN consumption would not exceed 1.6 lb/st and the hydrated lime consumption would not exceed 1.8 lb/st. The laboratory tests used hydrated lime.

 

There does not appear to be any obvious explanation for column test recovery differences with respect to spatial representation, grade, reagents or size distribution of each sample.

 

13.52018 Kappes Cassidy Associates Test Program

 

The 2018 KCA program consisted of eight column leach tests on four composite samples in duplicate. The program also included pulverized bottle roll tests on each sample, agglomeration and permeability test work on each composite sample, and physical characterization test work. The primary purpose of this program was to confirm the results from the 2008 McClelland test work for gold recovery and reagent requirements at a P80 of ¼ inch crush size.

 

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Table 13.7. 2008 McClelland Bottle Roll Size versus Gold Recovery – Composite 5.

 

 

Figure 13.5. 2008 McClelland Bottle Roll Size versus Gold Recovery – Composite 5.

 

 

Note: Figure from McClelland (2008).

 

Table 13.8. 2008 McClelland Drain-Down Data from Column Tests.

 

 

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13.5.12018 KCA Composite Generation

 

Composites were generated from core taken from four drill holes including one drill hole at the Gold Ace Zone. Each drill hole was used to make one composite sample and samples were selected to be spatially and grade representative of the mineralization. Drill hole locations for the metallurgical test work are shown in Figure 13.6.

 

A summary of the head analyses for gold and silver for the composites is shown in Table 13.9. Head analyses for mercury and copper are presented in Table 13.10.

 

The head analyses for the composites show grades within the expected range for the mineralization and negligible amounts of copper and mercury. Multi-element and whole rock analyses were also completed, and do not show any deleterious elements in significant quantities.

 

13.5.22018 Physical Characterization

 

Comminution tests, including abrasion and Bond work index tests, were performed by Hazen Research Inc. (Hazen). Results of these tests are presented in Table 13.11.

 

Bond and abrasion index results show average abrasiveness and hardness.

 

Bulk density tests were completed on selected samples from each composite (approximately 30 ft intervals and through different rock types). Bulk densities ranged from 144 lb/ft3 to 173 lb/ft3 with an average bulk density of 160 lb/ft3.

 

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Figure 13.6. 2018 KCA Metallurgical Sample Drill Hole Location Map.

 

 

Figure prepared by Lycopodium, 2019.

 

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Table 13.9. 2018 KCA Composite Head Screen Analyses – Gold and Silver.

 

KCA
Sample No.
Description Assay 1
(g/mt Au)
Assay 2
(g/mt Au)
Average Assay
(g/mt Au)
80607 A CRR17-001 0.639 0.648 0.644
80608 A CRR17-002A 1.083 1.066 1.075
80609 A CRR17-003 0.682 0.669 0.675
80648 B CRR18-027 1.755 1.783 1.769
80607 A CRR17-001 0.62 0.62 0.62
80608 A CRR17-002A 0.62 0.62 0.62
80609 A CRR17-003 0.62 0.62 0.62
80648 B CRR18-027 1.61 1.61 1.61

 

Table 13.10. 2018 KCA Composite Head Screen Analyses – Mercury and Copper.

 

KCA
Sample No.
Description Total Mercury
(mg/kg)
Total Copper
(mg/kg)

Cyanide

Soluble Copper1
(mg/kg)

Cyanide

Soluble Copper
(%)

80607 A CRR17-001 <0.02 37 3.92 11
80608 A CRR17-002A 0.04 26 3.27 13
80609 A CRR17-003 0.02 21 2.50 12
80648 B CRR18-027 0.19 <2 1.22 <100

 

Table 13.11. 2018 Hazen Bond Impact Work and Abrasion Index.

 

KCA
Sample No.
Description

Abrasion Index

(g)

Bond Impact Work Index
(kWh/mt)
80601 CRR17-001 & CRR17-002A 0.2307 9.5
80602 CRR17-003 0.2825 9.2

 

13.5.32018 KCA Pulverized Bottle Roll Tests

 

Pulverized bottle roll leach tests were conducted on portions from each composite at a crush size P100 of 100 mesh (0.150 mm). Bottle roll tests were conducted on four additional high-grade samples at crush sizes P100 of ⅜ inches and P100 of 100 mesh to evaluate the effect of grade and overall recovery. The high-grade sample intervals are presented in Table 13.12. A summary of the bottle roll test results is shown in Table 13.13 and shown graphically in Figure 13.7.

 

Gold recoveries ranged from 91% to 97% with an average recovery of 94% for pulverized bottle roll tests (P100 of 100 mesh) and 55% to 70% with an average recovery of 60% for coarse bottle roll tests (P100 of ⅜ inch). The bottle roll test results show that higher recoveries can be achieved at finer crush sizes; however, gold grade does not have an appreciable effect on overall recovery.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202288
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Agglomeration and compacted permeability tests were conducted on crushed samples from each composite. For the agglomeration test work, 2 kg portions of each composite were agglomerated with 0, 8, 16 and 20 lb of cement per dry ton of material and placed into a 75 mm diameter column with no compressive load to evaluate the permeability of the material. Compacted permeability tests were conducted on each composite sample with no cement addition with static loads applied to simulate different heap heights. Results for the agglomeration and compacted permeability tests are shown in Table 13.14 and Table 13.15, respectively.

 

The results show that cement agglomeration is not required for heap heights up to 262 ft.

 

Table 13.12. 2018 High-Grade Sample Intervals.

 

Drill Hole Description

Interval

(ft)

 
 
CRR17-001 W083565 283-288  
CRR17-002A V663939 58-63  
CR17-002A V663945 83-86  
CR17-002A V663221 179-183  

 

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Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Table 13.13. 2018 KCA Bottle Roll Test Results.

 

KCA

Sample No.

Description

Target

Crush Size

(mm)

Calculated

Head

(g/mt Au)

Avg. Tails

(g/mt Au)

Au

Extracted

(%)

Leach

Time

(hr)

Consumption

NaCN

(kg/mt)

Additional

Ca(OH)2
(kg/mt)

80607 A CRR17-001 0.150 0.572 0.043 93 96 0.24 1.50
80608 A CRR17-002A 0.150 0.862 0.062 93 96 0.30 1.25
80609 A CRR17-003 0.150 0.655 0.053 92 96 0.19 1.00
80648 B CRR18-027 0.150 0.936 0.027 97 96 0.07 1.75
80614 A W083565 9.5 4.905 2.152 56 240 0.21 1.25
80614 A W083565 0.150 5.712 0.423 93 96 0.15 1.25
80615 A V663939 9.5 8.203 2.441 70 240 0.20 0.75
80615 A V663939 0.150 8.205 0.399 95 96 0.17 1.00
80616 A V663945 9.5 3.836 1.527 60 240 0.24 0.75
80616 A V663945 0.150 4.131 0.221 95 96 0.15 1.00
80617 A V663221 9.5 2.420 1.092 55 240 0.33 0.75
80617 A V663221 0.150 2.131 0.192 91 96 0.17 1.00
80607 A CRR17-001 0.150 0.63 0.41 34 96 0.24 1.50
80608 A CRR17-002A 0.150 0.63 0.41 35 96 0.30 1.25
80609 A CRR17-003 0.150 0.58 0.41 29 96 0.19 1.00
80648 B CRR18-027 0.150 1.54 0.99 36 96 0.07 1.75
80614 A W083565 9.5 2.57 2.09 19 240 0.21 1.25
80614 A W083565 0.150 2.59 1.71 34 96 0.15 1.25
80615 A V663939 9.5 2.66 1.99 25 240 0.20 0.75
80615 A V663939 0.150 2.50 1.30 48 96 0.17 1.00
80616 A V663945 9.5 1.65 1.30 21 240 0.24 0.75
80616 A V663945 0.150 1.56 0.99 36 96 0.15 1.00
80617 A V663221 9.5 1.15 0.99 13 240 0.33 0.75
80617 A V663221 0.150 1.16 0.79 32 96 0.17 1.00

 

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Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Figure 13.7. 2018 KCA Bottle Roll Test Results.

 

 

Note: Figure prepared by KCA, 2018.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202291
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Table 13.14. KCA 2018 Preliminary Agglomeration Test Work.

 

KCA

Sample No.

Description

Cement

(kg/mt)

dry ore

Water

Added

(ml)

Initial

Height

(cm)

Final

Height

(cm)

pH on Day 3

pH

Comment

%

Slump

Apparent

Bulk Density

(mtdry/m3)

Flow Out

(l/h/m2)

Visual Estimate

of % Pellet

breakdown

Pellet

Result

Out Flow Solution

Color and Clarity

Overall Test

Result

80607 A CRR17-001 0 0.0 30.80 30.16 8.1 Low 2% 1.42 26,937 N/A N/A Brown & Cloudy Pass
80607 A CRR17-001 4 191.0 28.89 28.89 11.2 Good 0% 1.52 33,515 <3 Pass Light Brown & Cloudy Pass
80607 A CRR17-001 8 197.0 28.89 28.89 11.7 High 0% 1.52 25,588 <3 Pass Light Brown & Cloudy Pass
80607 A CRR17-001 10 202.0 28.89 28.89 11.8 High 0% 1.52 31,781 <3 Pass Milky & Cloudy Pass
80608 A CRR17-002A 0 0.0 31.75 31.12 8.3 Low 2% 1.38 23,625 N/A N/A Brown & Cloudy Pass
80608 A CRR17-002A 4 159.0 27.94 27.94 11.5 High 0% 1.57 23,883 3 Pass Light Brown & Cloudy Pass
80608 A CRR17-002A 8 163.0 28.89 28.89 11.9 High 0% 1.52 26,627 3 Pass Light Brown & Cloudy Pass
80608 A CRR17-002A 10 160.5 29.21 29.21 12.0 High 0% 1.50 26,376 3 Pass Milky & Cloudy Pass
80609 A CRR17-003 0 0.0 30.48 29.85 8.3 Low 2% 1.44 14,203 N/A N/A Brown & Cloudy Pass
80609 A CRR17-003 4 151.0 31.12 31.12 11.6 High 0% 1.41 25,976 3 Pass Milky & Cloudy Pass
80609 A CRR17-003 8 154.5 30.16 30.16 11.9 High 0% 1.45 25,538 <3 Pass Milky & Cloudy Pass
80609 A CRR17-003 10 161.5 31.43 31.43 12.0 High 0% 1.40 29,229 <3 Pass Colorless & Clear Pass
80648 B CRR17-027 0 0 23.18 23.18 8.9 Low 0% 1.89 19,454 N/A N/A Light Brown & Cloudy Pass
80648 B CRR17-027 4 83.0 25.40 25.08 12.3 High 1% 1.73 28,279 <3 Pass Colorless & Clear Pass
80648 B CRR17-027 8 87.5 25.40 25.40 12.5 High 0% 1.73 27,172 <3 Pass Colorless & Clear Pass
80648 B CRR17-027 10 91.0 25.72 25.72 12.6 High 0% 1.71 32,876 <3 Pass Colorless & Clear Pass

 

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Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Table 13.15. KCA 2018 Compacted Permeability Tests.

 

KCA

Sample

No.

KCA
Test

No.

Sample
Description

Crush

Size

(mm)

Material

Type

Test
Phase

Cement

Added,
(kg/mt)

Effective

Height

(m)

Flow

Rate,
(l/h/m2)

Flow
Result
Pass/Fail

Saturated

Permeability

(cm/sec)

Incremental

Slump

(%)

Cum.
Slump
% Slump
Slump
Result
Pass/Fail
Overall
Pass/Fail
80607 A 80623 A CRR17-001 9.5 Feed Primary 0 20 2,126 Pass 5.9E-02 3 3 Pass Pass
Stage Load 40 1,528 Pass 4.2E-02 3 6 Pass Pass
Stage Load 80 875 Pass 2.4E-02 4 10 Pass Pass
80624 80672 A CRR17-001 9.5 Column Tail Primary 0 20 3,008 Pass 8.4E-02 1 1 Pass Pass
Stage Load 40 776 Pass 2.2E-02 3 4 Pass Pass
Stage Load 60 480 Pass 1.3E-02 3 7 Pass Pass
Stage Load 80 328 Pass 9.1E-03 2 9 Pass Pass
Stage Load 100 208 Pass 5.8E-03 2 11 Fail Fail
Stage Load 120 125 Pass 3.5E-03 1 12 Fail Fail
Stage Load 140 80 Fail 2.2E-03 1 13 Fail Fail
80627 80680 A CRR17-001 9.5 Column Tail Primary 0 20 6,779 Pass 1.9E-01 0 0 Pass Pass
Stage Load 40 4,244 Pass 1.2E-01 2 2 Pass Pass
Stage Load 60 2,447 Pass 6.9E-02 3 5 Pass Pass
Stage Load 80 2,063 Pass 5.7E-02 1 6 Pass Pass
Stage Load 100 1,290 Pass 3.6E-02 2 8 Pass Pass
Stage Load 120 1,136 Pass 3.2E-02 2 10 Pass Pass
Stage Load 140 958 Pass 2.7E-02 1 11 Fail Fail
Stage Load 160 714 Pass 2.0E-02 1 12 Fail Fail
Stage Load 180 535 Pass 1.5E-02 1 13 Fail Fail
Stage Load 200 367 Pass 1.0E-02 0 13 Fail Fail
Stage Load 220 263 Pass 7.3E-02 2 15 Fail Fail
Stage Load 240 186 Pass 5.2E-02 0 15 Fail Fail
80608 A 80623 B CRR17-002 A 9.5 Feed Primary 0 20 2,763 Pass 7.7E-02 2 2 Pass Pass
Stage Load 40 2,128 Pass 5.9E-02 3 5 Pass Pass
Stage Load 80 1,288 Pass 3.6E-02 3 8 Pass Pass
80630 80673 A CRR17-002 A 9.5 Column Tail Primary 0 20 7,515 Pass 2.1E-01 0 0 Pass Pass
Stage Load 40 6,748 Pass 1.9E-01 2 2 Pass Pass
Stage Load 60 6,028 Pass 1.7E-01 3 5 Pass Pass

 

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Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

KCA

Sample

No.

KCA
Test

No.

Sample
Description

Crush

Size

(mm)

Material

Type

Test
Phase

Cement

Added,
(kg/mt)

Effective

Height

(m)

Flow

Rate,
(l/h/m2)

Flow
Result
Pass/Fail

Saturated

Permeability

(cm/sec)

Incremental

Slump

(%)

Cum.
Slump
% Slump
Slump
Result
Pass/Fail
Overall
Pass/Fail
                             
Stage Load 100 4,207 Pass 1.2E-01 1 7 Pass Pass
Stage Load 120 3,325 Pass 9.2E-02 2 9 Pass Pass
Stage Load 140 2,548 Pass 7.1E-02 1 10 Pass Pass
Stage Load 160 1,904 Pass 5.3E-02 1 11 Fail Fail
Stage Load 180 1,389 Pass 3.9E-02 1 12 Fail Fail
Stage Load 200 977 Pass 2.7E-02 2 14 Fail Fail
Stage Load 220 705 Pass 2.0E-02 0 14 Fail Fail
Stage Load 240 503 Pass 1.4E-02 1 15 Fail Fail
80633 80681A CRR17-002 A 9.5 Column Tail Primary   20 6,868 Pass 1.9E-01 1 1 Pass Pass
Stage Load   40 6,291 Pass 1.7E-01 3 4 Pass Pass
Stage Load   60 5,269 Pass 1.5E-01 1 5 Pass Pass
Stage Load   80 4,111 Pass 1.1E-01 2 7 Pass Pass
Stage Load   100 3,158 Pass 8.8E-02 1 8 Pass Pass
Stage Load   120 2,331 Pass 6.5E-02 2 10 Pass Pass
Stage Load   140 1,732 Pass 4.8E-02 1 11 Fail Fail
Stage Load   160 1,299 Pass 3.6E-02 0 11 Fail Fail
Stage Load   180 906 Pass 2.5E-02 2 13 Fail Fail
Stage Load   200 675 Pass 1.9E-02 1 14 Fail Fail
Stage Load   220 509 Pass 1.4E-02 0 14 Fail Fail
Stage Load   240 359 Pass 1.0E-02 1 15 Fail Fail
80636   CRR17-003 9.5 Column Tail Primary 0 20 4,540 Pass 1.3E-01 0 0 Pass Pass
Stage Load 40 2,207 Pass 6.1E-02 3 3 Pass Pass
Stage Load 60 1,996 Pass 5.5E-02 1 4 Pass Pass
Stage Load 80 2,137 Pass 5.9E-02 2 6 Pass Pass
Stage Load 100 1,802 Pass 5.0E-02 1 7 Pass Pass
Stage Load 120 1,519 Pass 4.2E-02 2 9 Pass Pass
Stage Load 140 1,162 Pass 3.2E-02 1 10 Pass Pass
Stage Load 160 938 Pass 2.6E-02 1 11 Fail Fail
Stage Load 180 754 Pass 2.1E-02 1 12 Fail Fail

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202294
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

KCA

Sample

No.

KCA
Test

No.

Sample
Description

Crush

Size

(mm)

Material

Type

Test
Phase

Cement

Added,
(kg/mt)

Effective

Height

(m)

Flow

Rate,
(l/h/m2)

Flow
Result
Pass/Fail

Saturated

Permeability

(cm/sec)

Incremental

Slump

(%)

Cum.
Slump
% Slump
Slump
Result
Pass/Fail
Overall
Pass/Fail
          Stage Load   200 630 Pass 1.8E-02 1 13 Fail Fail
Stage Load 220 476 Pass 1.3E-02 0 13 Fail Fail
Stage Load 240 379 Pass 1.1E-02 1 14 Fail Fail
80674 A 80682 A CRR17-003 9.5 Column Tail Primary 0 20 5,885 Pass 1.6E-01 0 0 Pass Pass
Stage Load 40 3,393 Pass 9.4E-02 2 2 Pass Pass
Stage Load 60 3,132 Pass 8.7E-02 2 4 Pass Pass
Stage Load 80 3,275 Pass 9.1E-02 1 5 Pass Pass
Stage Load 100 3,105 Pass 8.6E-02 1 6 Pass Pass
Stage Load 120 2,614 Pass 7.3E-02 2 8 Pass Pass
Stage Load 140 2,235 Pass 6.2E-02 1 9 Pass Pass
Stage Load 160 1,787 Pass 5.0E-02 1 10 Pass Pass
Stage Load 180 1,550 Pass 4.3E-02 1 11 Fail Fail
Stage Load 200 1,293 Pass 3.6E-02 0 11 Fail Fail
Stage Load 220 1,051 Pass 2.9E-02 1 12 Fail Fail
Stage Load 240 856 Pass 2.4E-02 1 13 Fail Fail
80653 80683 A CRR18-027 9.5 Column Tail Primary 0 20 6,742 Pass 1.9E-01 0 0 Pass Pass
Stage Load 40 6,006 Pass 1.7E-01 2 2 Pass Pass
Stage Load 60 5,042 Pass 1.4E-01 2 4 Pass Pass
Stage Load 80 4,337 Pass 1.2E-01 1 5 Pass Pass
Stage Load 100 3,547 Pass 9.9E-02 2 7 Pass Pass
Stage Load 120 3,056 Pass 8.5E-02 1 8 Pass Pass
Stage Load 140 2,525 Pass 7.0E-02 1 9 Pass Pass
Stage Load 160 2,126 Pass 5.9E-02 1 10 Pass Pass
Stage Load 180 1,730 Pass 4.8E-02 1 11 Fail Fail
Stage Load 200 1,421 Pass 3.9E-02 1 12 Fail Fail
Stage Load 220 1,173 Pass 3.3E-02 0 12 Fail Fail
Stage Load 240 985 Pass 2.7E-02 1 13 Fail Fail
80656 80684 A CRR18-027 9.5 Column Tail Primary 0 20 7,608 Pass 2.1E-01 0 0 Pass Pass
Stage Load 40 7,312 Pass 2.0E-01 2 2 Pass Pass
Stage Load 60 7,030 Pass 2.0E-01 2 4 Pass Pass

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202295
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

KCA

Sample

No.

KCA
Test

No.

Sample
Description

Crush

Size

(mm)

Material

Type

Test
Phase

Cement

Added,
(kg/mt)

Effective

Height

(m)

Flow

Rate,
(l/h/m2)

Flow
Result
Pass/Fail

Saturated

Permeability

(cm/sec)

Incremental

Slump

(%)

Cum.
Slump
% Slump
Slump
Result
Pass/Fail
Overall
Pass/Fail
          Stage Load   80 6,711 Pass 1.9E-01 1 5 Pass Pass
Stage Load 100 6,181 Pass 1.7E-01 1 6 Pass Pass
Stage Load 120 5,847 Pass 1.6E-01 1 7 Pass Pass
Stage Load 140 5,415 Pass 1.5E-01 1 8 Pass Pass
Stage Load 160 4,920 Pass 1.4E-01 2 10 Pass Pass
Stage Load 180 4,446 Pass 1.2E-01 0 10 Pass Pass
Stage Load 200 3,969 Pass 1.1E-01 1 11 Fail Fail
Stage Load 220 3,573 Pass 9.9E-02 1 12 Fail Fail
Stage Load 240 3,221 Pass 8.9E-02 0 12 Fail Fail

 

Note:Primary Pass/Fail Criteria

 

1.In KCA’s compacted agglomeration tests, a slump of over 10% is generally an indication of failure. One item also examined is the consistency of results with regard to slump. If things worked perfectly, a lower slump with higher cement levels could be expected.

2.A typical heap leach solution application rate of 10 to 12 liters per hour per square meter is utilized when examining the agglomeration data. When examining results from this type of agglomeration test a measured flow of ten times (10X) the heap design rate is considered a “pass”. A measured flow less than 10X the heap design flow is not necessarily a failure. If there are enough tests with enough consistency between tests, and all other points indicate a “pass,” and then sometimes a test will pass with less than the 10X flow. However, a test will not likely pass at 1X and probably not at 4X.

3.In examining the pellet breakdown, about 10% is marginally acceptable and anything higher is a failure. In general, a higher range is allowable in pellet breakdown as this is a subjective value based on the visual observation of the pellets after the test by the technicians performing the test. When the samples tested are not agglomerated using cement, this test is not applicable.

4.Solution color and clarity typically is an indicator of agglomerate failure and fines migration. This information is utilized in coordination with both slump as well as pellet breakdown to determine if the test passes.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202296
 

 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

13.5.4KCA 2018 Column Leach Tests

 

Duplicate column leach tests were performed on each composite at a crush size of P100 of 9.5 mm. The columns were leached for 120 days. After 120 days, one column from each duplicate set from the Good Hope Deposit was taken off-line and the other column was allowed to continue leaching for an additional 34 days. Both duplicate Gold Ace Zone columns were leached for 121 days before being taken off-line. Results from the column leach tests are presented in Table 13.16. Column leach recovery curves based on carbon assays are shown in Figure 13.8 and based on tonnes of solution per tonne of ore in Figure 13.9.

 

Results of the column tests for the Good Hope Deposit confirm the results from the 2008 McClelland program. Gold recoveries ranged from 78% to 83% with an average recovery of 81%. Gold recoveries on the composite from the Gold Ace Zone were significantly lower, averaging 60.5%. Reagent consumptions for the Good Hope Deposit were low to moderate averaging 3.06 lb/st for NaCN and 2.18 lbs/t for lime. Gold Ace Zone reagent consumptions averaged 2.18 lb/st for NaCN and 3.52 lb/st for lime.

 

Based on the leach curves, most of the columns were still leaching when the columns were terminated. Additional leaching may be realized during secondary leaching from higher lifts or from heap rinsing.

 

Figure 13.8. KCA 2018 Column Leach Curves – Carbon Assays.

 

 

Note: Figure prepared by KCA, 2018.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202297
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Table 13.16. KCA 2018 Column Leach Tests.

 

Description

Avg.

Head

Assay
(g/mt Au)

Wt. Avg.

Screen Head
(g/mt Au)

Calculated

Head
(g/mt Au)

GAC

Extracted
(g/mt Au)

Weighted

Avg. Tails,
(g/mt Au)

Extracted
% Au

Calculated Tail

p80 Size

(mm)

Days of

Leach

Consumption

NaCN

(kg/mt)

Addition

Ca(OH)2
(kg/mt)

CRR17-001 0.644 0.632 0.656 0.529 0.127 81 6.24 120 1.53 1.29
CRR17-001 0.644 0.632 0.653 0.507 0.146 78 6.69 154 1.98 1.26
CRR17-002A 1.075 1.070 0.992 0.820 0.172 83 6.23 120 1.44 1.00
CRR17-002A 1.075 1.070 1.072 0.835 0.237 78 6.24 154 1.54 1.00
CRR17-003 0.675 0.668 0.677 0.556 0.121 82 6.13 120 1.14 1.01
CRR17-003 0.675 0.668 0.654 0.539 0.115 82 6.60 154 1.53 0.99
CRR18-027 1.769 1.578 1.134 0.685 0.449 60 6.52 121 1.10 1.76
CRR18-027 1.769 1.578 1.113 0.676 0.437 61 6.36 121 1.07 1.76
CRR17-001 0.62 0.51 0.54 0.16 0.38 30 6.24 120 1.53 1.29
CRR17-001 0.62 0.51 0.56 0.19 0.37 34 6.69 154 1.98 1.26
CRR17-002A 0.62 0.55 0.62 0.22 0.40 36 6.23 120 1.44 1.00
CRR17-002A 0.62 0.55 0.62 0.24 0.38 39 6.24 154 1.54 1.00
CRR17-003 0.62 0.53 0.56 0.20 0.36 35 6.13 120 1.14 1.01
CRR17-003 0.62 0.53 0.57 0.21 0.36 37 6.60 154 1.53 0.99
CRR18-027 1.61 1.61 1.66 0.46 1.20 28 6.52 121 1.10 1.76
CRR18-027 1.61 1.61 1.70 0.44 1.26 26 6.36 121 1.07 1.76

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202298
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Figure 13.9. KCA 2018 Column Leach Curves – Tonnes Solution per Tonne Ore.

 

 

Note: Figure prepared by KCA, 2018.

 

13.5.52018 KCA Program Conclusions

 

Results from the KCA 2018 program were consistent with results observed during the 2008 McClelland program with gold recoveries for the main ore body at P80 of ¼ inch (P100 of ⅜ inch) averaging 81% without field deduction. Reagent consumptions were also low to moderate with cyanide consumptions averaging 3.06 lb/st for NaCN and 2.18 lb/st for lime. Results from the program also show no significant variations in recovery or reagent consumptions based on material grade or spatial representation for the Good Hope Deposit. Cement agglomeration is not required for heap heights up to 262 ft.

 

Recoveries for the Gold Ace Zone were significantly lower, averaging 60.5% for gold and reagent consumptions averaging 2.18 lb/st for NaCN and 3.52 lb/st for lime.

 

13.6Analysis and Discussion

 

Metallurgical samples from historical and recent KCA test programs appear to be spatially representative for the Good Hope Deposit.

 

Only limited data are available for the Gold Ace Zone, which includes two column leach tests on duplicate samples and one pulverized bottle roll test.

 

13.6.1Crush Size and Grade versus Recovery

 

A plot of size versus recovery for all column and bottle roll tests completed by McClelland and KCA is presented in Figure 13.10.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 202299
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Figure 13.10. Size versus Recovery – 2018 KCA and 2008 McClelland Test Data.

 

 

Note: Figure prepared by KCA, 2019.

 

Figure 13.10 shows a strong correlation between crush size and recovery with recoveries generally decreasing with coarser crush sizes. Based on the graph of all crush size data, the expected laboratory recovery for gold at a crush size of P80 of ¼ inch would be approximately 79%; however, relying on the consistent results from the 2018 KCA and 2008 McClelland column leach tests, KCA believes the average laboratory recovery of 81% is the best estimate of that crush size. Including a 2% field recovery deduction, KCA recommends a 79% field recovery for gold for the Good Hope Deposit.

 

Only limited data is available for the Gold Ace Zone, including one bottle roll and two duplicate column leach tests. Although the bottle roll results at P100 of 150 µm are consistent with the results of the Good Hope Deposit, column leach tests were significantly lower, averaging 60.5%. It is unclear why the Gold Ace recoveries are at variance with the Good Hope Deposit, given the proximity and similar makeup of the material; however, preliminary mineralogy results suggest the gold in the Gold Ace Zone is finely disseminated while the Good Hope mineralization is coarser, allowing for more adequate liberation at coarser crush sizes. Although not confirmed, KCA suspects there may be some silica encapsulation of the gold in the Gold Ace mineralization. Based on data available, KCA recommends a field recovery of 58.5% for the Gold Ace mineralization, including field deduct.

 

As presented in Figure 13.7, gold grade does not appear to have any appreciable impact on overall gold recoveries.

 

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Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

13.6.2Leach Cycle

 

The leach cycle has been estimated based on column test work at P80 of ¼ inch, including six column tests by KCA in 2018, and one column test from McClelland, completed in 2008. Columns for the Gold Ace Zone are not included in this evaluation.

 

The leach cycle considers tonne of solution per tonne ore as well as the total time required to reach the ultimate recovery in the column leach tests. Based on this data, the estimated leach cycle is 125 days.

 

13.6.3Reagent Consumptions

 

13.6.3.1Cyanide

 

Cyanide consumptions are based on the column test data at P80 of ¼ inch. The average laboratory cyanide consumption is estimated at 2.92 lb/st. KCA typically estimates field consumption of cyanide to be 25% to 33% of the laboratory cyanide consumption observed in column tests. The higher end of the spectrum (33%) is used when silver and/or other metals are present in above average quantities or when the observed laboratory consumption is unusually low. If the observed consumption is “average” and the ore is “clean”, i.e., a gold only ore, 25% is used. In the case of the Good Hope material, the observed laboratory cyanide consumption is quite low, so the field cyanide consumption is estimated at 25% of laboratory consumption.

 

13.6.3.2Lime

 

Lime is required for pH control during leaching. Since hydrated lime was used for the laboratory leach tests, the laboratory lime consumptions are adjusted to accurately predict the consumption of quick lime (CaO at 100% purity) in the field. Lime consumptions are based on the column test data at P80 of ¼ inch with an estimated field consumption of 1.53 lb/st. Lime consumption from the 2008 McClelland column at P80 of ¼ inch is not considered in this calculation as it is significantly lower than the other tests and does not appear to be representative.

 

13.6.4Conclusions and Key Design Parameters

 

Key design parameters from the metallurgical test work for the Good Hope Deposit include:

 

Crush size P80 of ¼ inch.

Estimated gold field recovery of 79% including 2% field deduction. Based on column tests it is possible additional ounces may be realized during secondary leaching from leaching upper lifts and during heap rinsing, as it appears most columns were still slowly leaching at column termination.

Design leach cycle of 125 days.

Average field sodium cyanide consumption of 0.73 lb/st.

Average field lime consumption of 1.53 lb/st based on 100% CaO purity.

 

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Cement agglomeration not required up to heap heights of 262 ft.

 

Key design parameters from the metallurgical test work for the Gold Ace Zone are include:

 

Crush size P80 of ¼ inch.

Estimated gold recovery of 58.5% including 2% field deduction. Based on column tests, it is possible additional ounces may be realized during secondary leaching from leaching upper lifts and during heap rinsing as it appears most columns were still slowly leaching at column termination.

Design leach cycle of 125 days.

Average field sodium cyanide consumption of 0.72 lb/st.

Average field lime consumption of 2.46 lb/st based on 100% CaO purity.

Cement agglomeration not required up to heap heights of 262 ft.

  

13.6.5Qualified Person’s Opinion

 

The metallurgical test work and analytical methods used followed regular mining industry accepted practice. The samples and composite samples used in the metallurgical evaluation were deemed representative for the deposit as sampled for process development. Appropriate test work in sufficient quantity has been conducted to derive the metallurgical conclusions presented.

 

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14Mineral Resource Estimates

 

Several prior NI 43-101 Mineral Resource estimates for the Project are outlined by Barnard et al. (2012). The Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) for this study is based upon historic drilling and drilling conducted by CR Reward during 2017 and 2018 and this estimate supersedes all prior resource estimates.

 

The MRE was undertaken by APEX personnel of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The Mineral Resource estimate was completed by Mr. Warren Black, M.Sc., P.Geo. and Mr. Steven Nicholls, BA.Sc., MAIG under the direct supervision of Mr. Michael Dufresne, M.Sc., P.Geol., P.Geo., all of whom are independent qualified persons employed by APEX. Mr. Dufresne takes responsibility for the for MRE herein.

 

Definitions used in this section are consistent with those adopted by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum ("CIM") Council in “Estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Best Practice Guidelines” dated November 29th, 2019 and “Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves” dated May 10th, 2014, and prescribed by the Canadian Securities Administrators' NI 43-101 and Form 43-101F1, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects and the standards of SK 1300. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

 

14.1Introduction

 

Statistical analysis, three-dimensional (3D) modelling and resource estimation were completed by Mr. Warren Black with assistance from Mr. Steven Nicholls. The workflow implemented for the estimate was completed using the commercially available Micromine (v 18.0) software. The workflow implemented for the evaluation of reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction was completed using the Datamine Studio MaxiPit (v1.3.43.0) optimization software. The Anaconda Python distribution (Continuum Analytics, 2017) and contributions made by Mr. Black to the Python package pygeostat (CCG, 2016) were used for supplemental data analysis.

 

CR Reward provided APEX with a drill hole database that consisted of analytical, geological, density, and collar survey information; initial estimation domains for both the Good Hope Deposit and Gold Ace Zone; and a geological model for the mineralization that contains a stratigraphic and structural 3D interpretation. APEX thoroughly reviewed the provided data from late 2017 to 2018 data to ensure the database was in good shape and considered suitable for resource estimation. However, APEX personnel did not conduct a detailed validation of the data provided. The initial data and project review conducted in the fall of 2017 was, in part, the reason for additional drilling conducted by CR Reward. In the opinion of the QP, the current Reward drill hole database is suitable for use in resource estimation.

 

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APEX personnel conducted resource modelling in local grid coordinate space in feet relative to the North American Datum (NAD) of 1927 (Zone 11). The database comprises 376 drill holes completed in the period 1987 to 2018 of which 264 were used in the Good Hope and Gold Ace resource modelling. APEX and CR Reward personnel constructed estimation domains using a combination of gold grade, silica alteration, and quartz veining (Figure 14.1). The domains were used to subdivide the deposit into volumes of rock and the measured sample intervals within those volumes for geostatistical analysis.

 

The MRE was prepared using a block model size of 20 ft (X) by 20 ft (Y) by 20 ft (Z). APEX personnel estimated the gold grade for each block using ordinary kriging (OK) with locally varying anisotropy to ensure grade continuity in various directions is reproduced in the block model. The block model was diluted by estimating a waste grade for the outer blocks using composites within a transition zone along the outer edge of the mineralized estimation domain that was then proportionately combined with the estimated grade for the portion of the block within the mineralized domain.

 

Figure 14.1. Mineral Resource Estimate Mineralized Domain Outlines.

 

 

Note: Figure prepared by APEX, 2019.

 

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14.2Data

 

14.2.1Drill Hole Data

 

The Reward drill hole database utilized by APEX for resource estimation, including the recently completed 2017-2018 drill holes, consists of 143,465 ft (43,728 m) in 376 holes, including 348 historic drill holes. The database includes 130,032 ft (39,634 m) in 341 historic RC holes, 2,137 ft (651 m) in 7 core holes, and 11,296 ft (3,443 m) in 28 core holes completed during late 2017 to early 2018. The 2017 – 2018 core holes combined with the historic core holes represent 9.3% of the drill hole population by number of holes and footage. The historic drill holes were completed between 1987 and 2013, with 276 holes completed between 1987 and 1999, 72 holes between 2000 and 2013.

 

The drill hole assay database consists of 26,092 sample/interval entries with 336 intervals with a value of -9 and 80 blank assay intervals. The bulk of the blank and -9 intervals are generally top of hole casing intervals that were not sampled, top of hole waste not sampled, or poor recovery intervals. The 2017 – 2018 drill hole database is comprised of 2,356 sample intervals. The holes contain 28 blank assay intervals that are mostly top of hole casing intervals with a few poor recovery intervals.

 

Within the provided DHDB, a total of 264 drill holes intersect the Good Hope or the Gold Ace mineralized domains, including 33 core holes and 231 RC holes. A total of 179 reverse circulation (RC) and 24 diamond drill holes (DDH) intercept the Good Hope estimation domains with 9 core and 52 RC holes intercepting the Gold Ace estimation domain.

 

Within the Good Hope Zone database, 34 samples have a value if -9 or have no value and are within the Good Hope estimation domains, of which, are indicated as “not assayed” or “not sampled.” Therefore, the 34 samples are assigned a value of 0.0025 ppm Au (0.0001 oz/st).

 

Within the Gold Ace Zone database, 14 samples have a value if -9 or have no value and are within the Gold Ace estimation domain, all of which have a “Sample_Au_Assay” value of -99, NA or NS. Within the provided “2018_Reward_Code_Sheet.xlsx” spreadsheet, “-99” indicates “Not samples, Not assayed, no log”; “NA” indicates “not assayed;” and “NS” indicated “not sampled.” Therefore, the 14 samples are assigned a value of 0.0025 ppm Au (0.0001 oz/st).

 

Histograms, cumulative frequency plots and summary statistics for the Reward project un-composited samples that are situated within the interpreted mineralized lodes are presented in Figure 14.2 to Figure 14.4 and tabulated in Table 14.1. The Reward gold samples generally exhibit a single population of assay data. Due to the single population present, linear estimation techniques are suitable for statistical estimation use for the Good Hope and Gold Ace Deposits.

 

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Figure 14.2. Histogram of the Raw Gold Assay Values of Sample Intervals Flagged within the Good Hope and Gold Ace Estimation Domains.

 

 

 

Figure 14.3. Cumulative Frequency Plot of Raw Gold Assay Values of Sample Intervals Flagged within the Good Hope Zone Estimation Domains.

 

 

 

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Figure 14.4. Cumulative Frequency Plot of Raw Gold Assay Values of Sample Intervals Flagged within the Gold Ace Estimation Domain.

 

 

 

Table 14.1. Summary Statistics of Raw Gold Assays (in ppm) of Sample Intervals Flagged within the Good Hope and Gold Ace Estimation Domains.

 

  Global Good Hope Gold Ace
count 7,340 6,747 593
mean 0.798 0.774 1.067
std 1.701 1.262 4.203
var 2.894 1.592 17.666
CV 2.133 1.630 3.939
min 0.002 0.003 0.002
25% 0.137 0.140 0.103
50% 0.375 0.377 0.309
75% 0.891 0.891 0.823
max 83.300 37.890 83.300

 

14.2.2APEX Micromine Database Validation

 

The Micromine software has a set of verification tools to evaluate drill hole data. These tools were run on the data when initially received in 2017, and again when the data for the 2017–2018 drill holes were added. The verification returned 260 warnings, all indicating that there were samples in the assay database that were greater than 10 feet in length. It appeared that portions of, or all of, drill holes 88-01 to 88-09 used 15 ft as a standard sampling length protocol. With the 15 ft samples removed from the 88-01 to 88-09 drill holes, the warnings dropped to a total of 139 samples which had sample lengths ranging from 15 ft to 300 ft. A total of 83 of these intervals start from the collar and represent overburden or disturbed material at the top of the drill hole, or rock that was considered unmineralized at the top of the drill holes. The remaining 55 sample intervals likely represent composite sampling of material that was initially considered to be unmineralized in the older drill holes

 

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Based upon the validation and review of the drill hole database performed by APEX, the drill hole database, Mr. Dufresne considers the drill hole database acceptable for Mineral Resource estimation.

 

14.3Geological Model and Domains

 

CR Reward provided APEX with a structural and formation model that was created to support resource modelling. The area of the Good Hope fault zone has greatest density of available drill data. A total of 171 geologic logs and four geotechnical logs were used to create the models using east–west-oriented, hand-interpreted, paper cross-sections that were translated into a 3D geological model in Micromine including lithology/stratigraphy and faults. APEX did not directly use the lithological model when creating estimation domains. However, it was, in addition to the structural model, used to guide the orientation of structural controls on gold mineralization when modelling the estimation domains.

 

CR Reward also provided preliminary solids for alteration zones at Good Hope and Gold Ace. The solids consisted of low silica and high silica shapes. These solids were initially prepared and reviewed in late 2017. The shapes were modified and reviewed after the results of the 2017 and 2018 drilling campaigns were available.

 

Gold mineralization at the Good Hope Deposit and Gold Ace Zone are both geographically and geologically distinct and require separate treatment. Three estimation domains were used. The estimation domains are 3D wireframes modelled using a sectional approach that considers all available subsurface geological data pertinent to gold mineralization. CR Reward provided APEX with a low-grade (LG) gold mineralization estimation domain for the Good Hope Deposit. APEX created a high-grade (HG) domain for the Good Hope Deposit and generated an estimation domain for the Gold Ace Zone.

 

14.3.1Good Hope Deposit

 

APEX interpreted two primary mineralization orientations in the Good Hope Deposit:

 

Fault-controlled mineralization generally striking north to north-northwest that dips steeply to the east.

Stratigraphic-controlled mineralization generally striking north-northeast that dips moderately to the east.

 

Two estimation domains were created to ensure that the spatially restricted HG zone and the peripheral LG mineralization could not unreasonably influence each other during estimation. The final estimation domains used during the calculation of the resource estimate for the Good Hope Zone are illustrated in Figure 14.5.

 

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Figure 14.5. Orthogonal View of LG (Blue) and HG (Orange) Estimation Domains, Good Hope Deposit.

 

Note: Figure prepared by APEX, 2019.

 

14.3.1.1Low-Grade Alteration Domain (LG)

 

CR Reward created the LG domain for the Good Hope Deposit using the following criteria:

 

Assay greater than or equal to 0.002 oz/st Au with logged quartz veining and/or any intensity of silica alteration.

Assay values greater than or equal to 0.005 oz/st Au.

 

The LG domain was interpreted using east–west sections at 50 ft spacing. APEX edited the interpretations to ensure that the domain did not extend into areas with no drill support or into zones of waste without silica alteration or veining.

 

14.3.1.2High Grade Gold Shell (HG)

 

APEX modelled a HG gold grade shell using an assay value of greater than 0.015 oz/st Au. While constructing the HG domain, the structural and lithological interpretation provided by CR Reward were used as guides in addition to the trend of the Good Hope LG domain. The interpretation was completed using east-west drill sections spaced at approximately 100 ft intervals and is restricted to the extents of the LG domain.

 

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14.3.2Gold Ace Zone

 

APEX observed one primary orientation of mineralization in the Good Ace zone, consisting of stratigraphically controlled mineralization generally striking north-northeast that dips moderately to the east. The Gold Ace Zone was remodelled several times by CR Reward and APEX geologists and, in general, was too thin and discontinuous to model a HG zone within the LG estimation domain. As a result, only a LG domain was used in estimation. The final estimation domain used during the calculation of the resource estimate for the Good Hope Zone are illustrated in Figure 14.6.

 

Figure 14.6. Orthogonal View of the LG (Solid Orange) Estimation Domain, Gold Ace Zone.

 

 

Note: Figure prepared by APEX, 2019.

 

14.4Drill Hole Flagging and Compositing

 

14.4.1Sample Width Analysis

 

Downhole sample width analysis shows that the drill hole samples ranged from 0.5 ft to 25 ft with the dominant sample length being 5 ft. A composite length of 10 ft was selected as it provides adequate resolution for mining purposes and is equal to or larger in length than 99.9 % of the drill hole samples (Figure 14.7). Length-weighted composites were calculated using all raw gold assays with interval centroids within the estimation domains for both the Good Hope Deposit and Gold Ace Zone.

 

The compositing process started from the drill hole collar and ended at the bottom of the hole. However, when the Good Hope HG estimation domain was intersected, composites within the domain began at the first point of intersection between the drill hole and the estimation domain wireframe and stopped upon exiting the wireframe. In this case, the composite before the first intersection of the HG estimation domain was truncated at the upper contact and composites after exiting the HG estimation domain wireframe began at the lower contact. The centroids of the resulting composites were flagged as lying within either the LG or HG estimation domain.

 

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Figure 14.7. Histogram of Sample Lengths within Estimation Domains for both the Good Hope and Gold Ace Zones.

 

 

 

14.4.2Remnant Analysis

 

The distributions of the composites with and without remnant intervals (composites with a length of less than 10 ft) were examined to determine if there is any noticeable bias in gold grade during the compositing process. Composites equal to 10 ft, greater than or equal to 5 ft, and 10 ft composites with all remnants were evaluated. Summary statistics for this analysis are provided in Table 14.2. While the decrease in mean is not favourable, the exclusion of remnants greater than or equal to 5 ft decreases the number of composites by 11.4%. Their removal would significantly increase the error in the estimated Mineral Resource as the amount of available conditioning data would be reduced; therefore, they are included as conditioning data. The 31 samples that are less than 5 ft in length were excluded.

 

Remnant analysis for the Good Hope composites showed a decrease in the mean of approximately 0.001 oz/st Au when remnants are included, compared to composites that are equal to 10 ft as shown in Table 14.2. Figure 14.8 illustrates that there is little difference between the distributions of composited gold grades with the various composite length scenarios.

 

Remnant analysis for the Gold Ace Zone composites reveals an increase in the mean of approximately 0.002 oz/st Au when orphans are included, compared to composites that are equal to 10 ft (refer to Table 14.2). Figure 14.9 illustrates little difference between the distribution of composited gold grade with the various composite length scenarios. A significant drop in mean is observed when compositing raw samples at the Gold Ace Zone as there are numerous large intervals (e.g., 150 ft) in the drill hole database that are not sampled and assigned a value of 0.0001 oz/st Au. During the composite process, these samples are split into multiple composites, leading to a lower but more representative mean value. The exclusion of remnants greater than or equal to 5 ft decreases the number of composites by 9.1%. As their removal would significantly increase error in the estimated Mineral Resource, they are included as conditioning data. The six samples that are less than 5 ft in length were excluded.

 

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Table 14.2. Remnant Analysis comparing the Gold Statistics (in ppm) of Raw Assays and Uncapped Composite Samples with and without Orphans.

 

  Good Hope Gold Ace

Raw

Assays

Comps with

Orphans

Comps

10 ft Only

Comps

≥ 5 ft

Raw

Assays

Comps with

Orphans

Comps

10 ft Only

Comps

≥ 5 ft

count 6,747 3,577 3,164 3,546 593 327 293 321
mean 0.774 0.756 0.789 0.756 1.067 0.956 0.903 0.856
std 1.262 1.061 1.101 1.062 4.203 2.455 1.848 1.776
var 1.592 1.125 1.212 1.128 17.666 6.028 3.416 3.155
CV 1.630 1.403 1.396 1.404 3.939 2.568 2.047 2.075
min 0.003 0.003 0.003 0.003 0.002 0.003 0.003 0.003
25% 0.140 0.171 0.178 0.171 0.103 0.120 0.120 0.120
50% 0.377 0.397 0.411 0.397 0.309 0.334 0.360 0.343
75% 0.891 0.925 0.983 0.926 0.823 0.913 1.011 0.909
max 37.890 19.107 19.107 19.107 83.300 31.346 22.834 22.834

 

Figure 14.8. Remnant Analysis Illustrating the Gold Distribution of Calculated Composite within the Good Hope Deposit.

 

 

 

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Figure 14.9. Orphan Analysis Illustrating the Gold Distribution of Calculated Composite within the Gold Ace Zone.

 

 

 

14.5Capping

 

To ensure gold grade is not over-estimated by including outlier values during estimation, composites were capped to a specified maximum value. Probability plots illustrating all values were used to identify outlier values that appear higher than expected relative to the estimation domain’s gold composite population.

 

The probability plot of composited gold grades within the Good Hope Deposit (Figure 14.10) suggests there are five outlier composites that have gold values greater than 0.292 oz/st Au. Visual inspection of the potential outliers in Micromine revealed that they have no spatial continuity with each other. Therefore, a capping level of 0.292 oz/st Au was applied. The resulting gold grade distribution of the capped composites is illustrated in Figure 14.11 and summary statistics are detailed in Table 14.3.

 

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Figure 14.10. Probability Plot of the Composited Gold Grade at the Good Hope Zone before Capping

 

 

 

Figure 14.11. Cumulative Frequency Plots of the Composited and Capped Gold Grade within the Good Hope Zone Estimation Domains

 

 

 

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The probability plot of composited gold grades within the Gold Ace Zone (Figure 14.12) suggests there are eight outlier composites that have gold values greater than 0.146 oz/st Au. Visual inspection of the potential outliers reveal they have no spatial continuity with each other. Therefore, a capping level of 0.146 oz/st Au was applied to composites used to calculate the Gold Ace Zone resource estimate. The resulting gold grade distribution of the capped composites is illustrated in Figure 14.13 and summary statistics are detailed in Table 14.3.

 

Figure 14.12. Probability Plot of the Composited Gold Grade at the Gold Ace Zone before Capping.

 

 

 

Figure 14.13. Cumulative Frequency Plot of the Composited and Capped Gold Grade within Gold Ace Zone Estimation Domain.

 

 

 

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Table 14.3. Summary Statistics of Gold Grade (in ppm) of Capped Composite Intervals Flagged within the Good Hope and Gold Ace Estimation Domains.

 

  Global Good
Hope
Uncapped
Good
Hope
Capped
Gold Ace
Uncapped
Gold
Ace
Capped
count 3,867 3546 3,546 321 321
mean 0.753 0.756 0.753 0.856 0.756
std 1.015 1.1062 1.014 1.776 1.021
var 1.030 1.212 1.029 3.155 1.042
CV 1.348 1.404 1.348 2.075 1.349
min 0.003 0.003 0.003 0.003 0.003
25% 0.169 0.171 0.171 0.12 0.120
50% 0.394 0.397 0.397 0.343 0.343
75% 0.926 0.926 0.926 0.909 0.909
max 10.000 19.107 10.000 22.834 5.000

 

14.6Variography and Grade Continuity

 

APEX calculated and modelled semi-variograms for gold using the 10 ft composites flagged within the estimation domains. Experimental semi-variograms for each zone were calculated along the major, minor, and vertical principle directions of continuity that are defined by three Euler angles. Euler angles describe the orientation of anisotropy as a series of rotations (using a left-hand rule) that are as follows:

 

1.A rotation about the Z-axis (azimuth) with positive angles being clockwise rotation and negative representing counter-clockwise rotation;

2.A rotation about the X-axis (dip) with positive angles being counter-clockwise rotation and negative representing clockwise rotation; and

3.A rotation about the Y-axis (tilt) with positive angles being clockwise rotation and negative representing counter-clockwise rotation.

 

Parameters of the modelled semi-variograms are documented in Table 14.4 and the calculated experimental semi-variogram and models used for resource estimation are illustrated in Figure 14.14and Figure 14.15 respectively.

 

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Table 14.4. Gold Variogram Model Parameters.

 

Zone C0 Sill Azm Dip Tilt Structure 1   Structure 2
Type C1 Ranges (ft)   Type C2 Ranges (ft)
Major Minor Vertical   Major Minor Vertical
Good Hope 0.370 1.027 176 -16 -34 sph 0.411 80 140 60   exp 0.246 250 140 60
Gold Ace 0.261 0.622 137 -10 -15 sph 0.124 220 120 30   exp 0.236 220 120 30

Note:azm: azimuth, sph: spherical, exp: exponential; C0: nugget effect; C1: covariance contribution of structure 1; C2: covariance contribution of structure 2.

 

Figure 14.14. Calculated and Modelled Semi-Variogram of Gold within the Good Hope Zone. Dip Direction and Dip for each Principle Direction is in each Subplot Title.

 

 

 

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Figure 14.15. Calculated and Modelled Semi-Variogram of Gold within the Gold Ace Zone. Dip Direction and Dip for each Principle Direction is in each Subplot Title.

 

 

 

14.7Bulk Density

 

To determine what bulk densities should be applied to the block model, APEX completed EDA on the available density data. The database contains 464 bulk density measurements, of which 134 are from the Good Hope Deposit, 32 are from the Gold Ace Zone and 298 are from waste rock. The centroids of intervals that were selected for bulk density measurements were flagged using the estimation domain and stratigraphic wireframes are discussed in Section 14.3. All measurements were flagged with the stratigraphic unit they lie in and the estimation domain the sample is from, if it is not classed as waste.

 

At the Good Hope Deposit, little variation in the mean and median values were observed between bulk density measurements flagged within either the HG or LG estimation domains or individually (Table 14.5).

 

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Table 14.5. Bulk Density Measurements (g/cm3), Good Hope Deposit and Gold Ace Zone.

 

  Good Hope Gold Ace Waste
HG+LG HG LG Zwc Zsj LG Zss Zsm Zsb Zsj Zsm Zss Zwc
count 134 76 58 121 13 32 7 24 5 21 13 45 145
mean 2.58 2.58 2.59 2.59 2.55 2.69 2.61 2.71 2.59 2.58 2.65 2.59 2.62
std 0.14 0.16 0.11 0.14 0.05 0.16 0.18 0.16 0.11 0.04 0.12 0.11 0.12
min 1.62 1.62 2.35 1.62 2.46 2.31 2.31 2.32 2.48 2.48 2.29 2.40 2.23
25% 2.53 2.54 2.52 2.54 2.51 2.58 2.53 2.60 2.49 2.56 2.63 2.51 2.56
50% 2.59 2.59 2.59 2.60 2.54 2.70 2.61 2.72 2.59 2.58 2.69 2.57 2.63
75% 2.64 2.64 2.66 2.66 2.59 2.80 2.71 2.82 2.69 2.60 2.72 2.68 2.71
max 2.97 2.97 2.79 2.97 2.66 3.04 2.86 3.04 2.70 2.64 2.76 2.84 2.89
CV 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.02 0.20 0.08 0.37 0.11 0.52 0.12 0.20 0.06 0.02

 

The blocks within the Good Hope Deposit are predominantly classed as Wood Canyon Formation with nearly equal amounts of Juhl Member and Sutton Member of the Stirling Formation (Table 14.6). There is a slight decrease in bulk density when comparing measurements within the Wood Canyon Formation lithologies and the Juhl Member, both inside and outside of the Good Hope estimation domains (Table 14.5; Figure 14.6). It is hard to determine with certainty if there is a relationship between gold grade and bulk density with the current dataset (Figure 14.17).

 

Figure 14.16. Bulk Density Box Plots, Good Hope Deposit.

 

 

 

 

 

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Figure 14.17. Bulk Density Scatter Plots Showing 3D Solids vs. Gold Grade, Good Hope Deposit.

 

 

 

As there are no discrepancies in the median (50th percentile) values of bulk density measurements within the Good Hope estimation domains, a bulk density value of 2.59 g/cm3 was applied to all blocks within the Good Hope mineralized zone.

 

At the Gold Ace Zone, there is a change in bulk density between lithological units (Table 14.5). The blocks within the Gold Ace Zone are predominantly Morris Member with most other blocks being within the Sutton Member (Table 14.6). There is a decrease in bulk density when comparing bulk density measurements within the Morris Member and Sutton Member, both inside and outside of the Gold Ace estimation domain (Table 14.5, Figure 14.18). It is hard to determine with certainty if there is a relationship between gold grade and bulk density with the current dataset (Figure 14.19). As there is evidence for the need for a higher bulk density value for blocks flagged within the Morris Member, these blocks are assigned a value of 2.70 g/cm3. However, as there is an insufficient number of bulk density measurements of the Sutton Member within the Gold Ace estimation domain, all other blocks at the Gold Ace Zone were assigned a bulk density value of 2.59 g/cm3.

 

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Table 14.6. Percentage of Blocks Flagged within each Formation for the Good Hope and Gold Ace Zones.

 

Formation

Good Hope

%

Gold Ace

%

Qal 1 4
Zwc 75 0
Zsj 13 0
Zss 11 16
Zsm 0 79
Zsb 0 1

 

Figure 14.18. Bulk Density Box Plots, Gold Ace Zone.

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 14.19. Bulk Density Scatter Plots Showing 3D Solids vs. Gold Grade, Gold Ace Zone.

 

 

 

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14.8Block Model

 

14.8.1Block Model Parameters

 

The block model used fully encapsulates the estimation domains. When determining block model parameters, data spacing is the primary consideration in addition to ensuring the volume of the 3D estimation domain wireframes are adequately captured, and that potential mining equipment parameters are considered.

 

The data spacing of irregularly spaced drilling can be approximated by calculating the 90th percentile of a high-resolution block model of the distance from each block’s centroid to the nearest sample. Estimation errors are introduced when kriging is used to estimate a grade for blocks with a size larger than 25% of the data spacing. As illustrated in Figure 14.20 and Figure 14.21, the 90th percentile is 98 ft and 83 ft for the Good Hope Deposit and Gold Ace Zone respectively.

 

Figure 14.20. Cumulative Frequency Plot Illustrating the Distance from each Block Centroid to the nearest Composite Sample within the Good Hope Zone.

 

 

 

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Figure 14.21. Cumulative Frequency Plot Illustrating the Distance from each Block Centroid to the nearest Composite Sample within the Gold Ace Zone.

 

 

 

The previous resource estimate completed for the Project (CR Reward, 2017) used a parent block size of 20 by 20 by 20 ft that is less than 25% of the approximated data spacing for both the Good Hope Deposit and Gold Ace Zone. This size is a fairly standard mining unit size selected by many open pits in Nevada and is considered acceptable for use in the current estimate. The final block model is 4,920 ft long in the east-west direction, 5,480 ft long in the north-south direction and 1,900 ft deep (Table 14.7).

 

Table 14.7. Project Block Model Size and Extents.

 

Axis Number of Blocks

Block Size

(ft)

Minimum Extent

(ft)

Maximum Extent

(ft)

X (Easting) 246 20 62,460 67,380
Y (Northing) 274 20 1,690 7,170
Z (Elevation) 95 20 3,040 4,940

 

A block factor that represents the percentage of each blocks volume that lies within each estimation domain is calculated for all three domains. The block factor is used to:

 

Flag which estimation domain each block belongs.

Calculate the percentage of mineralized material and waste for each block.

Calculate the volume of mineralized material of each block when undertaking the Mineral Resource estimate.

 

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14.8.2Volumetric Checks

 

A comparison of wireframe volume versus block model volume was performed to ensure there is no considerable over or understating of tonnages (Table 14.8). The calculated block factor for each block was used to scale its volume when calculating the total volume of the block model.

 

Table 14.8. Wireframe versus Block Model Volume Comparison.

 

Wireframe

Wireframe

Volume

(ft3)

Block Model Volume

with Block Factor

(ft3)

Volume

Difference

(%)

Good Hope 264,316,535 264,345,000 0.01
Gold Ace 20,694,986 20,687,500 -0.04
Total 285,011,521 285,032,500 0.01

 

14.9Grade Estimation

 

14.9.1Estimation Methodology

 

Ordinary kriging was used to estimate gold grade for the Good Hope and Gold Ace block models. Grade estimates are only calculated for blocks that contain more than 1.56% mineralized material by volume. A block discretization of 2 (X) by 2 (Y) by 2 (Z) was applied to all blocks during estimation.

 

A two-pass method was employed that uses two different variogram model, search ellipsoid, and kriging parameter configurations (Table 14.9). A minimum of two drill holes was required for the first pass to ensure there are sufficient data when calculating the mean value used by OK. Volume-variance corrections were enforced by restricting the maximum number of conditioning data to 15 and the maximum number of composites from each drill hole to three. These restrictions were implemented to ensure the estimated models were not over smoothed which would lead to inaccurate estimation of global tonnage and grade. These corrections caused local conditional bias but ensured that the global estimate of grade and tonnage is accurately estimated.

 

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Table 14.9. Estimation Search and Kriging Parameters (LV – locally varying).

 

Pass

Variogram and Search

Orientations (Dip Dir/Dip)

Max Variogram and Search

Range

Min No.

Holes

Max Comps

Per Hole

Min No.

Comps

Max No.

Comps

Major Minor Vertical Major Minor Vertical
Good Hope Zone        
1 LV LV LV 250 140 60 2 3 2 15
2 LV LV LV 500 280 120 1 3 1 15
                     
Gold Ace Zone        
1 137/-10 044/-15 260/-72 220 120 30 2 3 2 15
2 137/-10 044/-15 260/-72 440 240 60 1 3 1 15

 

Estimation of the Good Hope block model was completed with locally varying anisotropy which uses different rotation angles to define the principal directions of the variogram model and search ellipsoid on a per-block basis. Blocks within the estimation domains were assigned rotation angles using a trend surface wireframe. This method allowed structural complexities to be reproduced in the estimated block model. Variogram and search ranges were defined by the variogram model described in Section 0 and Table 14.4.

 

The Gold Ace Zone block model was calculated using a single variogram and search orientation configuration as described in Section 0 and Table 14.4.

 

The Good Hope HG and LG estimation domains were separately estimated. To ensure the nature of the boundary between the two estimation domains was reproduced, the centroids of blocks within a specified window of the HG and LG contact were flagged as transitional. Contact analysis was performed to understand the behaviour of gold grades at the boundary and to determine the window used to flag blocks as transitional. As illustrated in Figure 14.22, gold behaves in a statistically semi-soft manner, where the grade of the composites flagged within the LG or HG estimation domains transitions over a short window from a mean of 0.267 ppm Au (0.0078 oz/st Au) to a mean of 1.32 ppm Au (0.0385 oz/st Au). A window of 1 ft into the LG estimation domain from the contact to 5 ft into the HG estimation domain from the contact was used to flag block centroids as transition. Block centroids flagged within the LG or HG estimation domains are estimated using composites flagged within each respective domain in addition to composites flagged within the transition window. Blocks flagged as transition were estimated using only composites flagged within the transition window.

 

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Figure 14.22. Gold Grade Contact Plot Analysis, Good Hope LG and HG Grade Domain Contacts.

 

 

 

Note:The dashed line represents the mean of composites within each domain. Samples within the LG estimation domain are assigned a negative distance value, and samples within the HG estimation domain are assigned a positive distance value.

 

Blocks that contain more than or equal to 1.56% waste by volume were diluted by estimating a waste gold value that was volume-weight averaged with the estimated gold grade. Similar to the transition methodology used along the HG and LG contact at the Good Hope Zone, the intention was to reproduce the gold grade along the estimation domain/waste domain boundary. The nature of gold mineralization at the mineralized/waste contact was evaluated and used to determine a window to flag composites that were used to condition a waste gold estimate for blocks containing waste material. As illustrated in Figure 14.23, gold behaves in a statistically soft manner, where the grade of the composite centroids flagged within the Good Hope estimation domain transitions from mineralization to waste over a window of approximately 5 ft into waste and 20 ft into mineralized material. As illustrated in Figure 14.24, gold behaves in a statistically hard manner, where the grade of the composite centroids flagged within the Gold Ace estimation domain abruptly transitions from mineralized material to waste at the contact.

 

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Figure 14.23. Contact Plot Analysis, Good Hope Grade and Waste Domain Contacts.

 

 

 

Note:The dashed line represents the mean of composites within each domain. Samples within the LG estimation domain are assigned a negative distance value, and samples within the HG estimation domain are assigned a positive distance value.

 

Figure 14.24. Contact Analysis, Gold Ace Grade and Waste Domain Contacts.

 

 

 

Note:The dashed line represents the mean of composites within each domain. Samples within the LG estimation domain are assigned a negative distance value, and samples within the HG estimation domain are assigned a positive distance value.

 

A sensitivity analysis was performed to determine the parameters used to flag composite centroids within the mineralization/waste transition zone. The analysis evaluated various window parameters to flag composites within the mineralization/waste transition zone that were then used to estimate a waste gold value for each block containing waste. A diluted gold value was calculated and the parameters were evaluated by comparing the block models contact analysis profile with the composites profile. Based on the results of the sensitivity analysis, a window of 20 ft into waste and 5 ft into the Good Hope Deposit and a window of 20 ft into waste and 4 ft into the Gold Ace Zone mineralized domains best reproduces the gold profile observed at the mineralization/waste transition zone. Additional discussion regarding the validation of this approach is found in Section 4.12.2.

 

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14.10Model Validation

 

14.10.1Visual Validation

 

The block models for the Good Hope Deposit and Gold Ace Zone were visually validated in plan view and in cross-section to compare the estimated gold grade versus the conditioning composites (Figure 14.25 to Figure 14.28). APEX concluded that the model compared well with the composites on an overall basis. There was some local over and under estimation observed, but due to the limited number of conditioning data available for the estimation in those areas, this was an expected result.

 

Figure 14.25. Cross-Section 6000N, Showing Block Gold Estimates at the Good Hope Deposit.

 

 

Note: Figure prepared by APEX, 2019. The boundary of the HG estimation domain within the LG estimation domain is illustrated by the red polygons

 

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Figure 14.26. Cross-Section 4800N, Showing Block Gold Estimates at the Good Hope Deposit.

 

 

 

Note:Figure prepared by APEX, 2019. The boundary of the HG estimation domain within the LG estimation domain is illustrated by the red polygons

 

Figure 14.27. Cross-Section 4100N, Showing Block Gold Estimates at the Good Hope Deposit.

 

 

Note:Figure prepared by APEX, 2019. The boundary of the HG estimation domain within the LG estimation domain is illustrated by the red polygons

 

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Figure 14.28. Cross-Section 2700N, Showing Block Gold Estimates at the Gold Ace deposit.

 

 

Note:             Figure prepared by APEX, 2019.

 

14.10.2Statistical Validation

 

Swath plots were used to verify that directional trends were honoured in the estimated block model and to identify potential areas of over or under estimation. They were generated by calculating the average gold grade of composites and estimated block models within directional slices. A window of 100 ft was used in east-west slices, 180 ft in north-south slices and 20 ft in vertical slices.

 

There are minor instances of localized over estimation; however, APEX believes this is a product of a lack of conditioning data in those areas and the smoothing effect of kriging. Overall, trends observed in the composites in all three directions were adequately reproduced in the block model.

 

Swath plots for the Good Hope and Gold Ace Zones are illustrated in Figure 14.29 and Figure 14.30, respectively.

 

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Figure 14.29. Swath Plots Showing Composite versus Estimated Gold Grade, Good Hope.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Figure 14.30. Swath Plots Showing Composite versus Estimated, Gold Grade Gold Ace.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Volume-variance corrections were used to ensure the estimated models were not over-smoothed, which would lead to inaccurate estimation of global tonnage and grade. To verify that the correct level of smoothing was achieved, theoretical histograms that indicated the anticipated variance and distribution of gold grade at the selected block model size were calculated and plotted against estimated final block model for the Good Hope Deposit and Gold Ace Zone. These are shown in Figure 14.31 and Figure 14.32 respectively. Some smoothing is observed; however, in APEX’s opinion, further restrictions to the estimation search strategy would result in an unacceptable increase in estimation error.

 

Figure 14.31. Volume Variance Check, Good Hope.

 

 

 

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Figure 14.32. Volume Variance Check, Gold Ace.

 

 

 

Blocks within the Good Hope and Gold Ace block models that contained more than or equal to 1.56% waste by volume were diluted using the estimated waste gold and ore gold values. Ideally, the nature of gold mineralization at the ore/waste contact observed in the composites is reproduced in the block model. Contact analysis plots checking contact profile reproduction for the Good Hope Deposit and Gold Ace Zone are illustrated in Figure 14.33 and Figure 14.34, respectively. APEX personnel and the QP considers that the mineralization/waste contact profile at the Good Hope Deposit is adequately reproduced with a slight over estimation into waste. The mineralization/waste contact profile at the Gold Ace Zone is abrupt (hard) when evaluating composites; however, this cannot be perfectly reproduced with a block model, as each block can only have a single value. Considering this, the contact profile observed in the Gold Ace block model is considered by APEX personnel and the QP to be an adequate reproduction of the profile observed in the conditioning data.

 

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Figure 14.33. Contact Analysis, Good Hope Grade and Waste Domain Boundary.

 

 

 

Figure 14.34. Contact Analysis, Gold Ace Grade and Waste Domain Boundary.

 

 

 

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14.11Mineral Resource Classification

 

14.11.12019 CIM and SK 1300 Definitions

 

The Reward Project MRE discussed in this report has been classified in accordance with guidelines established by the CIM “Estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Best Practice Guidelines” dated November 29th, 2019 and CIM “Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves” dated May 14th, 2014 and the standards of SK 1300. Due to the substantial similarity in the CIM and SK 1300 standards, application of both standards produced the same MRE classification.

 

CIM Definitions

 

A Measured Mineral Resource is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape, and physical characteristics are estimated with confidence sufficient to allow the application of Modifying Factors to support detailed mine planning and final evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. Geological evidence is derived from detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and testing and is sufficient to confirm geological and grade or quality continuity between points of observation. A Measured Mineral Resource has a higher level of confidence than that applying to either an Indicated Mineral Resource or an Inferred Mineral Resource. It may be converted to a Proven Mineral Reserve or to a Probable Mineral Reserve.

 

An Indicated Mineral Resource is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics are estimated with sufficient confidence to allow the application of Modifying Factors in sufficient detail to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. Geological evidence is derived from adequately detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and testing and is sufficient to assume geological and grade or quality continuity between points of observation. An Indicated Mineral Resource has a lower level of confidence than that applying to a Measured Mineral Resource and may only be converted to a Probable Mineral Reserve.

 

An Inferred Mineral Resource is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity and grade or quality are estimated on the basis of limited geological evidence and sampling. Geological evidence is sufficient to imply but not verify geological and grade or quality continuity. An Inferred Mineral Resource has a lower level of confidence than that applying to an Indicated Mineral Resource and must not be converted to a Mineral Reserve. It is reasonably expected that the majority of Inferred Mineral Resources could be upgraded to Indicated Mineral Resources with continued exploration.

 

SK 1300 Definitions

 

An Indicated Mineral Resource is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality are estimated on the basis of adequate geological evidence and sampling. The level of geological certainty associated with an indicated mineral resource is sufficient to allow a qualified person to apply modifying factors in sufficient detail to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. Because an indicated mineral resource has a lower level of confidence than the level of confidence of a measured mineral resource, an indicated mineral resource may only be converted to a probable mineral reserve.

 

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An Inferred Mineral Resource is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality are estimated on the basis of limited geological evidence and sampling. The level of geological uncertainty associated with an inferred mineral resource is too high to apply relevant technical and economic factors likely to influence the prospects of economic extraction in a manner useful for evaluation of economic viability. Because an inferred mineral resource has the lowest level of geological confidence of all mineral resources, which prevents the application of the modifying factors in a manner useful for evaluation of economic viability, an inferred mineral resource may not be considered when assessing the economic viability of a mining project, and may not be converted to a mineral reserve.

 

A Measured Mineral Resource is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality are estimated on the basis of conclusive geological evidence and sampling. The level of geological certainty associated with a measured mineral resource is sufficient to allow a qualified person to apply modifying factors, as defined in this section, in sufficient detail to support detailed mine planning and final evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. Because a measured mineral resource has a higher level of confidence than the level of confidence of either an indicated mineral resource or an inferred mineral resource, a measured mineral resource may be converted to a proven mineral reserve or to a probable mineral reserve.

 

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14.11.2Classification Criteria

 

The classification of the Measured, Indicated, and Inferred Mineral Resources was based on a combination of geological confidence, data quality, and grade continuity. The most relevant factors used in the classification process were as follows:

 

Density of conditioning data.

Level of confidence in the geological interpretation, which is a result of the extensive re-logging of drill chips. The observed stratigraphic horizons are easily identifiable along strike and across the deposit, which provides confidence in the geological and mineralization continuity.

Continuity of mineralization.

 

Resource classification was determined using a multiple-pass strategy that consisted of a sequence of runs that flagged each block, when a block first met the search restrictions of that run. With each subsequent pass, the search restrictions were decreased, and therefore, represented a decrease in confidence and classification from the previous run. During each run, a search ellipsoid centred and orientated as described in Section 4.8 had its ranges modified (Table 14.10) and the number of composites and drill holes found within the run were used to determine if the restrictions described in Table 14.10 for that run were met. The runs were executed in sequence from Run 1 to Run 3. Classification was then determined by relating the run number that each block is flagged to: Measured (Run 1), Indicated (Run 2) and Inferred (Run 3).

 

Table 14.10. Interpolation Search Restrictions.

 

Zone Run No. Classification

Min No.
Holes

Min No.
Comp

Search Ellipsoid
Range Multiplier

Major
Range

Minor
Range

Vertical
Range

Good Hope Run 1 Measured 3 12 2/3 165 95 40
Run 2 Indicated 2 2 1 250 140 60
Run 3 Inferred 1 1 2 500 280 120
Gold Ace Run 2 Indicated 3 12 1 220 120 30
Run 3 Inferred 1 1 2 440 240 60

 

APEX personnel visually validated the results and believe them to be reasonable given the drilling density. However, a small portion of blocks at the northern (greater than 6500 N) and southern (less than 2750 N) extents of the Good Hope Deposit were manually adjusted to Inferred as there is insufficient drilling density to justify higher confidence classifications.

 

14.12Evaluation of Reasonable Prospects for Eventual Economic Extraction

 

Reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction assume open pit mining methods and heap leach processing. The unconstrained resource block model was subjected to several pit optimization scenarios to look at the prospects for eventual economic extraction. The criteria in Table 14.11 and the Datamine Studio MaxiPit optimization software were used in creating the conceptual open pit shell.

 

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Table 14.11. Parameters for Pit Optimization for Mineral Resource Estimate.

 

Parameter Unit (Imperial) Cost (Imperial) Unit (Metric) Cost (Metric)
Gold Price US$/oz 1,700 US$/g 54.656
Gold Metallurgical Recovery % 80 % 80
Pit Wall Angles ° 48-58 ° 48-58
Mining Cost US$/st 2.00 US$/tonne 2.20
Processing Rate Mst/a 3 Mtonne/a 2.7
Processing Cost US$/st $5.50 US$/tonne $6.06
G & A Cost US$/st 0.75 US$/tonne 0.80
Cut-off Grade (break even) oz/st 0.0047 g/tonne 0.158
Royalty % 3 % 3

Parameter Unit (Imperial) Cost (Imperial) Unit (Metric) Cost (Metric)
Gold Price US$/oz 1,700 US$/g 54.656
Gold Metallurgical Recovery % 80 % 80
Pit Wall Angles ° 48-58 ° 48-58
Mining Cost US$/st 2.00 US$/tonne 2.20
Processing Rate Mst/a 3 Mtonne/a 2.7
Processing Cost US$/st $5.50 US$/tonne $6.06
G & A Cost US$/st 0.75 US$/tonne 0.80
Cut-off Grade (break even) oz/st 0.0047 g/tonne 0.158
Royalty % 3 % 3

 

The criteria used in the pit optimizer were considered reasonable for Nevada heap leach deposits. The volume and tonnage for the reported resources within the $1,700/oz optimized pit shell represents approximately 88% of the total volume and tonnage of the unconstrained block model which utilized a lower gold cut-off of 0.2 ppm Au (0.006 oz/st Au) for the Mineral Resource statement.

 

The MRE was estimated within three-dimensional (3D) solids representing the Low Grade and High Grade mineralized estimation domains. Grade was estimated into a percent style block model with a block size of 20 ft (X) by 20 ft (Y) by 20 ft (Z). Block were assigned density samples for a given formation for the ore and waste blocks. Grade estimation of gold was performed using OK. For the purposes of the pit shell optimization, blocks along the estimation domain boundaries that partially contain waste were diluted by estimating a waste value using composites within a transition zone along the outer boundary of the estimation domains. The final diluted gold grade for the diluted model assigned to each block is a volume-weighted average of the estimated gold and waste grade values. The MRE is reported within that pit shell and using the diluted gold grades.

 

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14.13Mineral Resource Statement

 

The Reward Project MRE has an effective date of May 31st, 2022 and is reported in accordance with the CSA’s NI 43-101 rules for disclosure and has been estimated using the CIM “Estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Best Practice Guidelines” dated November 29th, 2019 and CIM “Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves” dated May 10th, 2014 and in accordance with the requirements of SK 1300.

 

The MRE was estimated by Mr. Warren Black, M.Sc., P.Geo. and audited by Mr. Steven Nicholls, BA.Sc., MAIG, both APEX employees. The Qualified Person for the estimate is Mr. Michael Dufresne, M.Sc., P.Geol., P.Geo.

 

The Measured and Indicated resources are reported in Table 14.12 using a base case cut-off of 0.2 ppm Au (0.006 oz/st Au). The Inferred resource base case is reported in Table 14.13 using a base case cut-off of 0.2 ppm Au (0.006 oz/st Au). Sensitivity cases ranging from 0.1 ppm Au (0.003 oz/st Au) to 0.5 ppm Au (0.015 oz/st Au) are included in the Table 14.14 and Table 14.15 for Good Hope and in Table 14.16 and Table 14.17 for Gold Ace. Table 14.18 and Table 14.19 provides the sensitivity case for the combined Good Hope and Gold Ace estimates. In each sensitivity table, the 0.2 ppm Au (0.006 oz/st Au) base case is bolded.

 

Table 14.12. Measured and Indicated Mineral Resource Statement.

 

Classification

Au
Cutoff Grade
(g/tonne)

Tonnage
(metric tonnes)

Average
Au Grade
(g/tonne)

Contained Au
(troy ounces)

Good Hope Zone
Measured 0.2 6,185,000 0.855 169,900
Indicated 0.2 10,757,000 0.694 240,000
M & I Total 0.2 16,942,000 0.753 409,900
Gold Ace Zone
Indicated 0.2 828,000 0.632 16,800
Reward (Combined Good Hope and Gold Ace)
Measured 0.2 6,185,000 0.855 169,900
Indicated 0.2 11,584,000 0.689 256,800
M & I Total 0.2 17,770,000 0.747 426,700

 

Notes:

 

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,700/oz and a recovery of 80% for Au were utilized.
2.

Gold Price used in the mineral resource estimate was based on a review of the 3 year trailing average.

3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.20/tonne.

4.Processing and general and administration are US$6.06/tonne and US$0.83/tonne per tonne processed respectively.

5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes and are partially diluted.

7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

8.The effective date of the Reward mineral resource estimate is May 31st, 2022.

 

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Table 14.13. Inferred Mineral Resource Statement.

 

Classification

Au
Cutoff Grade
(ppm)

Tonnage
(metric tonnes)

Average
Au Grade
(ppm)

Contained Au
(troy ounces)

Good Hope Zone
Inferred 0.2 294,000 0.555 5,300
Gold Ace Zone
Inferred 0.2 931,000 0.729 21,800
Reward (Combined Good Hope and Gold Ace)
Inferred 0.2 1,225,000 0.687 27,100

 

Notes:

 

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,700/oz and a recovery of 80% for Au were utilized.
2.

Gold price used in mineral resource estimate was based on a review of the 3 year trailing average.

3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.20/tonne.

4.Processing and general and administration are US$6.06/tonne and US$0.83/tonne per tonne processed respectively.

5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes and are partially diluted.

7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

8.The effective date of the Reward mineral resource estimate is May 31st, 2022.

 

Table 14.14. Sensitivity Table, Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources, Good Hope (base case is bolded).

 

Classification

Au

Cutoff Grade

(ppm)

Tonnage

(metric tonnes)

Average

Au Grade

(ppm)

Contained Au

(troy ounces)

Measured 0.1 6,672,000 0.804 172,400
0.2 6,185,000 0.855 169,900
0.3 5,269,000 0.960 162,500
0.4 4,446,000 1.073 153,300
0.5 3,866,000 1.167 145,000
Indicated 0.1 12,063,000 0.636 246,600
0.2 10,757,000 0.694 240,000
0.3 8,805,000 0.792 224,300
0.4 6,988,000 0.907 203,900
0.5 5,706,000 1.011 185,400

Measured
and
Indicated

0.1 18,735,000 0.696 419,000
0.2 16,942,000 0.753 409,900
0.3 14,074,000 0.855 386,800
0.4 11,434,000 0.972 357,200
0.5 9,573,000 1.074 330,500

 

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Notes:

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,700/oz and a recovery of 80% for Au were utilized.
2.

Gold price used in mineral resource estimate was based on a review of the 3 year trailing average.

3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.20/tonne.

4.Processing and general and administration are US$6.06/tonne and US$0.83/tonne per tonne processed respectively.

5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes and are partially diluted.

7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

8.The effective date of the Reward mineral resource estimate is May 31st, 2022.

 

Table 14.15. Sensitivity Table, Inferred Mineral Resources, Good Hope (base case is bolded).

 

Classification

Au

Cutoff Grade

(ppm)

Tonnage

(metric tonnes)

Average

Au Grade

(ppm)

Contained Au

(troy ounces)

Inferred 0.1 331,000 0.510 5,400
0.2 294,000 0.555 5,300
0.3 255,000 0.602 4,900
0.4 205,000 0.663 4,400
0.5 141,000 0.755 3,400

 

Notes:

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,700/oz and a recovery of 80% for Au were utilized.
2.

Gold price used in mineral resource estimate was based on a review of the 3 year trailing average.

3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.20/tonne.

4.Processing and general and administration are US$6.06/tonne and US$0.83/tonne per tonne processed respectively.

5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes and are partially diluted.

7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

8.The effective date of the Reward mineral resource estimate is May 31st, 2022.

 

Table 14.16. Sensitivity Table, Indicated Mineral Resources, Gold Ace (base case is bolded).

 

Classification

Au

Cutoff Grade

(ppm)

Tonnage

(metric tonnes)

Average

Au Grade

(ppm)

Contained Au

(troy ounces)

Indicated 0.1 899,000 0.594 17,200
0.2 828,000 0.632 16,800
0.3 716,000 0.690 15,900
0.4 585,000 0.767 14,400
0.5 472,000 0.843 12,800

 

Notes:

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,700/oz and a recovery of 80% for Au were utilized.
2.

Gold price used in mineral resource estimate was based on a review of the 3 year trailing average.

3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.20/tonne.

4.Processing and general and administration are US$6.06/tonne and US$0.83/tonne per tonne processed respectively.

5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes and are partially diluted.

7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

8.The effective date of the Reward mineral resource estimate is May 31st, 2022.

 

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Table 14.17. Sensitivity Table, Inferred Mineral Resources, Gold Ace (base case is bolded).

 

Classification

Au

Cutoff Grade

(ppm)

Tonnage

(metric tonnes)

Average

Au Grade

(ppm)

Contained Au

(troy ounces)

Inferred 0.1 1,031,000 0.673 22,300
0.2 931,000 0.729 21,800
0.3 802,000 0.806 20,800
0.4 671,000 0.896 19,300
0.5 537,000 1.009 17,400

 

Notes:

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,700/oz and a recovery of 80% for Au were utilized.
2.

Gold price used in mineral resource estimate was based on a review of the 3 year trailing average.

3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.20/tonne.

4.Processing and general and administration are US$6.06/tonne and US$0.83/tonne per tonne processed respectively.

5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes and are partially diluted.

7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

8.The effective date of the Reward mineral resource estimate is May 31, 2022.

 

Table 14.18. Sensitivity Table, Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources, Good Hope and Gold Ace (base case is bolded).

 

Classification

Au

Cutoff Grade

(ppm)

Tonnage

(metric tonnes)

Average

Au Grade

(ppm)

Contained Au

(troy ounces)

Measured 0.1 6,672,000 0.804 172,400
0.2 6,185,000 0.855 169,900
0.3 5,269,000 0.960 162,500
0.4 4,446,000 1.073 153,300
0.5 3,866,000 1.167 145,000
Indicated 0.1 12,962,000 0.633 263,700
0.2 11,584,000 0.689 256,800
0.3 9,521,000 0.785 240,200
0.4 7,573,000 0.897 218,300
0.5 6,178,000 0.998 198,200

Measured

and

Indicated

0.1 19,634,000 0.691 436,200
0.2 17,770,000 0.747 426,700
0.3 14,790,000 0.847 402,700
0.4 12,019,000 0.962 371,700
0.5 10,044,000 1.063 343,300

 

Notes:

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,700/oz and a recovery of 80% for Au were utilized.
2.

Gold price used in mineral resource estimate was based on a review of the 3 year trailing average.

3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.20/tonne.

4.Processing and general and administration are US$6.06/tonne and US$0.83/tonne per tonne processed respectively.

5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes and are partially diluted.

7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

8.The effective date of the Reward mineral resource estimate is May 31, 2022.

 

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Table 14.19. Sensitivity Table, Inferred Mineral Resources, Good Hope and Gold Ace (base case is bolded).

 

Classification

Au

Cutoff Grade

(ppm)

Tonnage

(metric tonnes)

Average

Au Grade

(ppm)

Contained Au

(troy ounces)

Inferred 0.1 1,362,000 0.633 27,700
0.2 1,225,000 0.687 27,100
0.3 1,057,000 0.757 25,700
0.4 876,000 0.841 23,700
0.5 678,000 0.956 20,800

 

Notes:

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,700/oz and a recovery of 80% for Au were utilized.
2.

Gold price used in mineral resource estimate was based on a review of the 3 year trailing average.

3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.20/tonne.

4.Processing and general and administration are US$6.06/tonne and US$0.83/tonne per tonne processed respectively.

5.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

6.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes and are partially diluted.

7.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

8.The effective date of the Reward mineral resource estimate is May 31, 2022.

 

14.14 Discussion of Mineral Resources Modelling, Risks and Uncertainties

 

The complete assay database comprises assays from 18 drilling programs from 1987 to 2018, utilizing six different analytical labs and two mine labs. The uniformity of analytical data across these numerous generations of data collection is complex and difficult to interpret in some instances because of the large number of drilling programs and laboratories used, which provides a source of risk. To date, data verification of historical data has been completed to industry standards as described in Section 12, including a number of twin drill holes. To help decrease this risk further, additional drilling in critical volumes of the deposit that contain large amounts of contained metal dominated by historical RC drilling would allow for additional data analysis to help establish the quality and uniformity of the various generations of analytical data.

 

At the Good Hope Deposit, gold mineralization is predominantly associated with logged oxide and, to a lesser extent, with transition material (sulphides comprise <1% of the rock mass). Gold solubility is consistently high (>70%) across the Good Hope Deposit, and total sulphur values are predominantly low, with an average of 0.1 wt%. Logged redox correlates well with total sulphur. However, recoveries from the Gold Ace Zone are lower than Good Hope. Gold solubility using Cyanide Ratio to Fire Assay ratios from lab assays does not appear to correlate with either logged REDOX or total sulphur. Section 13.6.1 describes that silica encapsulation may explain the observed lower gold recoveries; however, metallurgical testing has not determined this definitively. Silica encapsulation provides a source of uncertainty when defining reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction. Metallurgical testing at Gold Ace is limited, and future work should aim to determine the expected heap leach recovery of material from the Gold Ace Zone.

 

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The authors are not aware of any other significant material risks to the MRE other than the risks that are inherent to mineral exploration and development in general. The authors of this report are not aware of any specific environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-economic, marketing, political or other relevant factors that might materially affect the results of this resource estimate and there appear to be no obvious impediments to developing the MRE at the Reward Gold Project.

 

------

 

Sections 15-22 are not included. This Technical Report for the Reward Project provides an initial Mineral Resource Estimate only.

 

------

 

23 Adjacent Properties

 

23.1 Bullfrog

 

The Bullfrog property, owned by Augusta, is located in the Walker Lane district, a prolific gold-producing region. The property is 11.27 km (7 miles) northwest of the Project, and the two properties are connected via paved highway (Figure 23.1). The Bullfrog property consists of approximately 3,157 ha (7,800 acres) of mineral rights (Augusta Gold, 2021). Bullfrog contains three historical operating pits: Montgomery-Shoshone, Bullfrog, and Bonanza Mountain (Augusta Gold, 2021).

 

The Bullfrog property is located in brittle middle Miocene volcanic rocks, ranging from latite lavas to rhyolitic Ammonia Tanks Tuff (Downer and House, 2022). These rocks were severely deformed from detachment faulting and associated dip-slip and strike-slip displacements (Downer and House, 2022). Epithermal solutions permeated the broken host rocks, precipitating micron-sized, relatively high-grade gold within major quartz-calcite veins and disseminated gold in associated stock-works (Downer and House, 2022).

 

Effective December 31, 2021, the measured resource estimate for the Bullfrog property is 16,381,580 g (526,680 oz) gold grading 0.544 g/t (0.016 oz/t) gold, an indicated mineral resource of 21,231,540 g (682,610 oz) gold grading 0.519 g/t (0.015 oz/t) and an inferred mineral resource of 8,021,590 g (257,900 oz) gold grading 0.481 g/t (0.014 oz/t) (Augusta Gold, 2022).

 

The Bullfrog property occurs outside of the Reward Project. The QPs have not visited this property and are unable to verify the information pertaining to the mineralization at Bullfrog. The information presented in this section is not necessarily indicative of the mineralization on the Property that is the subject of this Technical Report. The information provided in this section is simply intended to describe examples of the type and tenor of mineralization that exists in the region and is being explored for at Reward.

 

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Figure 23.1. Adjacent Properties.

 

Map

Description automatically generated

Note: Source is Augusta Gold, 2022.

 

23.2 Sterling and Crown

 

The Sterling and Crown properties are owned by Coeur Mining Inc. and are adjacent to the Property on its northern, eastern, and southern edges (Figure 23.1). The Sterling and Crown properties consist of 5,710 hectares (14,109 acres) of mineral claims, including the Sterling, Daisy, Secret Pass, and SNA gold deposits. The Sterling and Crown properties also include the Sterling open pit and underground heap leach gold mine, which ceased gold production in 2000 (Ennis et al., 2017).

 

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The Sterling deposit occurred at and below the Sterling Thrust contact between the Wood Canyon and Bonanza King formations (Ennis et al., 2017). Gold is hosted by argillaceous arkosic siltstones, arkosic sandstones, quartzites, dolomites, limestones, and breccias, occurring as submicron to micron size particles (Ennis et al., 2017).

 

The Daisy, Secret Pass, and SNA deposits are hosted by Tertiary volcanics and Paleozoic-aged rocks and are found in the Nopah Formation, Crater Flat Tuff deposit, and Antelope Valley Formation, respectively (Ennis et al., 2017). North-striking normal faulting is the principal control for mineralization, regardless of the deposit, and the highest gold grades are commonly associated with fault intersections (Ennis et al., 2017).

 

Effective December 31, 2021, the properties have an inferred mineral resource of 28,428,580 g (914,000 oz) gold grading 0.86 g/t (0.025 oz/t) (Coeur Mining, 2022).

 

The Sterling and Crown properties occur outside of the Reward Project. The QPs have not visited this property and are unable to verify the information pertaining to the mineralization at Sterling and Crown. The information presented in this section is not necessarily indicative of the mineralization on the Property that is the subject of this Technical Report. The information provided in this section is simply intended to describe examples of the type and tenor of mineralization that exists in the region and is being explored for at Reward.

 

24 Other Relevant Data and Information

 

This section is not relevant to this Report.

 

25 Interpretation and Conclusions

 

25.1 Introduction

 

The QPs note the following interpretations and conclusions in their respective areas of expertise, based on the review of data available for this Report.

 

25.2 Mineral Tenure, Surface Rights, Water Rights, Royalties/Agreements

 

Information obtained from CR Reward supports that the mineral tenure held is valid, and the granted exploitation licence is sufficient to support a declaration of Mineral Resources and eventually Mineral Reserves.

 

CR Reward, a wholly owned subsidiary of Augusta, holds a 100% interest in the mineral claims and mineral leases that form the Project.

 

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Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

A 3% NSR royalty is payable on any minerals mined from the Connolly Claims, but is reduced to 2% as CR Reward only owns a two-third interest in the Connolly Claims. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Connolly Lease in an amount equal to $10,000/year.

 

A 3% NSR royalty is payable on any minerals mined from the Webster Claims, but is (i) reduced to 1% on the Sunshine and Reward claims as the lessee only owns a one-third interest, and (ii) reduced to 1.5% on the Good Hope claim as CR Reward only owns a half interest in this claim. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Webster Lease in an amount equal to $7,500/year.

 

A 3% NSR royalty is payable on minerals mined from the Orser–McFall Claims, but is reduced to 1.5% on the Good Hope claim as the lessee only owns a half interest in that claim. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Orser–McFall Lease in an amount equal to $20,000/year.

 

A 3% NSR royalty is payable on minerals mined from the Van Meeteren Claims. Annual advance minimum royalty payments are payable under the Van Meeteren Lease in an amount equal to $15/acre from 2011 through 2020, for a total of $1,800/year, and $20/acre from and after 2021, for a total of $2,400/year.

 

The Project area mainly consists of Federal public domain lands administered by the BLM. There are no State or private tracts within the Project area, except the six patented claims owned by CR Reward, all of which carry surface and mineral rights ownership.

 

Water rights are granted, and sufficient to support potential mining operations.

 

The Project is not subject to any other back-in rights payments, agreements or encumbrances.

 

To the extent known to the QPs, there are no other significant factors and risks that may affect access, title, or the right or ability to perform work on the Project that have not been discussed in this Report.

 

25.3 Geology

 

Mineralization the Good Hope Deposit and Golden Ace Zone can be classified as examples of a structurally-controlled, locally-disseminated, sediment-hosted, mesothermal quartz vein gold deposit.

 

The geological understanding of the settings, lithologies, and structural and alteration controls on mineralization in the different zones is sufficient to support estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves. The geological knowledge of the area is also considered sufficiently acceptable to reliably inform mine planning.

 

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Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

The mineralization style and setting are well understood and can support declaration of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves.

 

At the Good Hope Deposit, gold mineralization remains open to the east towards the Good Fortune fault and south of 3000 N. The eastern area of the deposit, most notably along the Good Fortune fault, has had limited drilling. Wide-spaced drilling along the southern extension of the fault zone has intersected anomalous gold mineralization. The projected intersection of the Good Hope fault zone and the Gold Ace trend also remains under drilled.

 

25.4 Exploration, Drilling and Analytical Data Collection in Support of Mineral Resource Estimation

 

The exploration programs completed to date are appropriate for the style of the deposits on the Project.

 

Sampling methods are acceptable for Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimation.

 

Sample preparation, analysis and security are generally performed in accordance with exploration best practices and industry standards.

 

The quantity and quality of the lithological, geotechnical, collar and down-hole survey data collected during the exploration and delineation drilling programs are sufficient to support Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimation. The collected sample data adequately reflect deposit dimensions, true widths of mineralization, and the style of the deposits. Sampling is representative of the gold grades in the deposits, reflecting areas of higher and lower grades.

 

The QA/QC programs adequately address issues of precision, accuracy and contamination. Drilling programs typically included blanks, duplicates and standard samples. QA/QC submission rates meet industry-accepted standards.

 

The data verification programs concluded that the data collected from the Project adequately support the geological interpretations and constitute a database of sufficient quality to support the use of the data in Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimation.

 

25.5 Metallurgical Test work

 

Metallurgical test work and associated analytical procedures were appropriate to the mineralization type, appropriate to establish the optimal processing routes, and were performed using samples that are typical of the mineralization styles found within the Good Hope Deposit area. Recovery factors estimated are based on appropriate metallurgical test work.

 

Results from the metallurgical test work show that Good Hope ore is amenable to cyanide leaching with an expected field recovery of 79% at the nominated P80 minus ¼ inch crush size. Reagent consumption is low to moderate with expected cyanide consumption of 0.73 lb/st and a lime consumption of 1.53 lb/st. Cement agglomeration is not required for heap heights under 262 ft.

 

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The Gold Ace deposit is less amenable to cyanide leaching with an estimated field recovery of 58.5% and reagent consumptions of 0.72 lb/st and 2.46 lb/st for cyanide and lime, respectively. At present, the Gold Ace deposit is not included in the Mineral Reserve estimate.

 

There are no deleterious elements known that would affect process activities or metallurgical recoveries.

 

25.6 Mineral Resource Estimate

 

Mineral Resources are reported using the 2019 CIM Definition Standards and the standards of SK 1300 and assume open pit mining methods.

 

Factors that may affect the Mineral Resource estimates include: metal price assumptions; changes to the assumptions used to generate the gold cut-off grade; changes in local interpretations of mineralization geometry and continuity of mineralized zones; changes to geological and mineralization shape and geological and grade continuity assumptions; density and domain assignments; changes to geotechnical, mining and metallurgical recovery assumptions; change to the input and design parameter assumptions that pertain to the conceptual pit constraining the estimates; and assumptions as to the continued ability to access the site, retain mineral and surface rights titles, maintain environment and other regulatory permits, and maintain the social license to operate.

 

There is upside potential for the estimates if mineralization that is currently classified as Inferred or exploration target can be upgraded to higher-confidence Mineral Resource categories.

 

25.7 Risks and Uncertainties

 

The complete assay database comprises assays from 18 drilling programs from 1987 to 2018, utilizing six different analytical labs and two mine labs. The uniformity of analytical data across these numerous generations of data collection is complex and difficult to interpret in some instances because of the large number of drilling programs and laboratories used, which provides a source of risk. To date, data verification of historical data has been completed to industry standards as described in Section 12, including a number of twin drill holes. To help decrease this risk further, additional drilling in critical volumes of the deposit that contain large amounts of contained metal dominated by historical RC drilling would allow for additional data analysis to help establish the quality and uniformity of the various generations of analytical data.

 

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At the Good Hope Deposit, gold mineralization is predominantly associated with logged oxide and, to a lesser extent, with transition material (sulphides comprise <1% of the rock mass). Gold solubility is consistently high (>70%) across the Good Hope zone, and total sulphur values are predominantly low, with an average of 0.1 wt%. Logged redox correlates well with total sulphur. However, recoveries from the Gold Ace Zone are lower than Good Hope. Au solubility using Cyanide Ratio to Fire Assay ratios from lab assays does not appear to correlate with either logged REDOX or total sulphur. Section 13.6.1 describes that silica encapsulation may explain the observed lower gold recoveries; however, metallurgical testing has not determined this definitively. Silica encapsulation provides a source of uncertainty when defining reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction. Metallurgical testing at Gold Ace is limited, and future work should aim to determine the expected heap leach recovery of material from the Gold Ace. In the opinion of the authors, additional drilling and metallurgical work could improve the metallurgical model at the Good Hope Deposit, which may lead to an increase in the amount of high and moderate recovery material.

 

With any intermediate stage exploration project there exists potential risks and uncertainties. The Company will attempt to reduce risk/uncertainty through effective project management, engaging technical experts and developing contingency plans. Potential risks include changes in the price of gold, availability of investment capital, changes in government regulations, community engagement and socio-economic community relations, permitting and legal challenge risks and general environment concerns.

 

The authors are not aware of any other significant material risks to the MRE other than the risks mentioned above. The authors of this report are not aware of any specific environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-economic, marketing, political or other relevant factors that might materially affect the results of this resource estimate and there appear to be no obvious impediments to developing the MRE at the Reward Gold Project. There is no guarantee that further exploration will result in the discovery of additional mineralization at the Reward Project.

 

25.8 Conclusions

 

Based upon a review of available information, historical and recent exploration data, the authors site visits and the current MRE for the Good Hope Deposit and Gold Ace Zone of the Reward Project, the authors view the Project as an intermediate stage exploration property of merit prospective for the additional discovery, and future development, of potentially economic structurally-controlled, locally-disseminated, sediment-hosted, mesothermal quartz vein gold mineralization. This contention is supported by the following:

 

The favourable geological setting of the Reward Project and its position within the Walker Land Trend, a prolifically mineralized belt that is host to numerous gold deposits and current and past producing mines in south-central Nevada.

 

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Historical exploration and recent work by CR Reward has delineated a large zone of gold mineralization at Good Hope and Gold Ace and led to the calculation of the current MRE.

 

Recent metallurgical testwork indicates projected field gold recovery of 79% for the Good Hope Deposit at the nominated P80 minus ¼ inch crush size.

 

A current MRE has been estimated herein and is provided in Table 25.1 below:

 

Table 25.1. Reward Project Mineral Resource Estimate at May 31st, 2022 Based on USD$1,700/oz. Au.

 

Classification Tonnage (Mt) Average Grade (g/t) Contained Au (koz)
Good Hope

Measured

Indicated

M&I Total

6.19

10.76

16.94

0.86

0.69

0.75

169.9

240.0

409.9

Inferred 0.29 0.56 5.3
Gold Ace

Indicated

Inferred

0.83

1.03

0.63

0.73

16.8

21.8

Reward (Combined Good Hope and Gold Ace)

Measured

Indicated

M&I Total

6.19

11.58

17.77

0.86

0.69

0.75

169.9

256.8

426.7

Inferred 1.23 0.68 27.1

 

Notes:

1.Oxide estimated Mineral Resources are reported within a pit shell using the Lerch Grossman algorithm, a gold price of US$1,700/oz and a recovery of 80% for Au were utilized.
2.

Gold price used in mineral resource estimate was based on a review of the 3 year trailing average.

3.Mining costs for mineralized material and waste are US$2.20/tonne.

4.Processing and general and administration are US$6.06/tonne and US$0.83/tonne per tonne processed, respectively.
5.

The mineral resources are reported utilizing a 0.2 g/t Au incremental lower cut-off grade.

6.Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute as shown.

7.Estimated Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry metric tonnes and are partially diluted.

8.The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

9.The effective date of the Reward mineral resource estimate is May 31st, 2022.

 

26 Recommendations

 

Based on the outcomes of this Technical Report and prior work conducted by CR Reward, it is recommended that CR Reward and Augusta proceed to a Preliminary Feasibility Study (PFS) for the Reward Project in order to examine opportunities to develop the Project. The PFS will be an update to a historical internal Feasibility Study (FS) prepared in 2019 on behalf of CR Reward and Waterton. The recommended PFS will incorporate current pricing for major equipment, contract mining costs, construction costs, major consumables, and labor costs.

 

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The budget for completing a PFS is $US1,100,000, including contingency, as summarized in Table 26.1.

 

Table 26.1. Estimated budget for the recommended PFS.

 

Item Cost USD$
Primary Engineer, includes Process and Infrastructure 420,000
Mineral Resource Estimate 20,000
Mining and Mineral Reserve 40,000
Geotechnical and Earthworks 110,000
Power and Other Consulting 400,000
Contingency 110,000
Total 1,100,000

 

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27 References

 

Albert, Terry: Report of Metallurgical Testwork (Kappes, Cassiday and Associates Project 9147C, Report KCA 0180001_REW01_05, 2018).

 

ALS, 2017. Geochemistry schedule of services and fees 2017 USD, ALS Global, p42.

 

Armbrust, George A., et al., Reward Project Pre-feasibility Study (CAM Report No. 057111, 2006), Section 7.0, p78-86.

 

ASTM D4543 - 08 Standard Practices for Preparing Rock Core as Cylindrical Test Specimens and Verifying Conformance to Dimensional and Shape Tolerances.

 

ASTM D5607 - 08 Standard Test Method for Performing Laboratory Direct Shear Strength Tests of Rock Specimens Under Constant Normal Force.

 

ASTM D5731 - 08 Standard Test Method for Determination of the Point Load Strength Index of Rock and Application to Rock Strength Classifications.

 

ASTM D7012 - 14 Standard Test Methods for Compressive Strength and Elastic Moduli of Intact Rock Core Specimens under Varying States of Stress and Temperatures.

 

Augusta Gold Corp. (2021): Augusta Gold commences 2021 exploration program at its Bullfrog gold project; Augusta Gold Corp. News Release dated February 11, 2021, < https://www.augustagold.com/_resources/news/nr_20210211.pdf >

 

Augusta Gold Corp. (2022): Augusta Gold announces Reward mineral resource estimate; Augusta Gold Corp. News Release dated June 7, 2022, < https://www.augustagold.com/news/augusta-gold-announces-reward-mineral-resource-estimate >

 

Barcia, M., 2017. Reward – Structural & Formation Modeling; Elko Mining Group, unpublished internal memorandum dated May 9, 2017, p16

 

Bernard, F., Chlumsky, G., Read, M.J., Reilly, M.P., and Sandefur, R.L., 2012. NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Reward Gold Project, Nye County, Nevada USA. Unpublished Technical Report (NI 43-101 compliant) prepared for Atna Resources Ltd. dated June 29, 2012, p146.

 

Bernard, Fred et al., Reward Project Feasibility Study (CAM Report No. 077111, 2008), Section 6.0, p.95-117.

 

BLM, 2009. Environmental Assessment DOI-BLM-NV-S030-2007-0295-EA: CR Reward Corporation Reward Project. Report prepared by U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for the CR Reward Corporation. June 26, 2009.

 

Brown, C., 2018. Reward Oriented Core Analysis; Unpublished consulting report prepared by Oriented Targeting Solutions on behalf of CR Reward, dates June 2018, p44.

 

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Bryan, R., 2017. NI 43-101 Technical Report Mineral Estimate Bullfrog Gold Project, Nye County, Nevada. Unpublished Technical Report (NI 43-101 compliant) prepared for Bullfrog Gold Corp., dated August 9, 2017, p93.

 

Bryan, R., 2017. NI 43-101 Technical Report Mineral Resource Estimate Bullfrog Gold Project Nye County, Nevada, Document: 910557-REP-R0001-01.

 

Call, R.D. and Savely, J.P., 1990. Open Pit Rock Mechanics. Surface Mining, ed. B.A. Kennedy, 2nd ed., Chapter 6.8. Littleton, Colorado: SME.

 

CAM, 2006. Pre-Feasibility Study - Reward Project: consulting report dated 26 January 2006, prepared for Canyon Resources Corporation by Chlumsky, Armbrust & Meyer, LLC (George A. Armbrust Ph.D., C.P.G; Gregory F. Chlumsky; Kenneth L. Meyer; Michael J. Read; Robert L. Sandefur P.E.).

 

CAM, 2008b. Technical Report, Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada: consulting report dated December 15, 2008, prepared for Atna Resources Ltd. by Chlumsky, Armbrust & Meyer, LLC (Fred Barnard, Ph.D., Gregory F. Chlumsky; Kenneth L. Meyer; Michael J. Read; Robert L. Sandefur P.E.). In pdf format.

 

CAM, 2012. NI 43-101 Technical Report, Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada prepared for Atna Resources Ltd. by Barnard, F., Ph, D., Cpg-, A.C.M., Chlumsky, G., Read, M.J., Member, S.M.E.R., Sandefur, R.L., and Colorado, P.E. 140 pages in pdf format.

 

Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM), 2003: Estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves – Best Practice Guidelines, May 30, 2003: adopted by CIM Council on November 23, 2003.

 

Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM), 2014: CIM Definition Standards – for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, prepared by the CIM Standing Committee on Reserve Definitions: adopted by the CIM Council, May 2014.

 

Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA), 2011: National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, Canadian Securities Administrators.

 

Carisey, 1989. Continuum Analytics, 2017. Anaconda Software Distribution. Retrieved from https://continuum.io

 

Centre for Computational Geostatistics (CCG). 2016. Pygeostat. Edmonton AB: Centre for Computational Geostatistics. Retrieved from http://www.ccgalberta.com

 

Code of Federal Regulations (CFR): Commodity and Securities Exchange Regulation S-K 1300, Title 17 subpart 229.1300, pp. 1300-1305.

 

Continuum Analytics, 2017. Anaconda Software Distribution. Retrieved from https://continuum.io

 

Coeur Mining Inc., 2022: Coeur reports year-end 2021 mineral reserves and resources; Coeur Mining Inc. News Release dated February 16, 2022, < https://www.coeur.com/_resources/news/nr_20220216.pdf >

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 2022155
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Converse, 2007. Canyon Resources Reward Mine Biological Assessment, Nye County, Nevada: Desert Tortoise, Sensitive Species, Bats, Migratory Birds, Noxious Weeds. Report prepared by Converse Consultants (Converse) for CR Briggs Corporation. September 27, 2007.

 

Cornwall, H.R. and Kleinhampl, F.J., 1961, Preliminary Geologic Map and Sections of the Bullfrog Quadrangle, Nevada-California: U.S. Geological Survey, Miscellaneous Field Studies Map MF-177.

 

Cornwall, H.R. and Kleinhampl, F.J, 1964, Geology of Bullfrog Quadrangle and Ore Deposits related to Bullfrog Hills Caldera, Nye County, Nevada and Inyo County, California,1964: U.S. Geological Survey Professional Paper 454-J

 

CR., 2018. Application for Renewal Water Pollution Control Permit NEV2007101. Report prepared by CR Reward Corporation (CR) and submitted to Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP). March 2018.

 

CRC., 2007. Reward Project: Water Pollution Control Permit Application. Prepared by Canyon Resources Corporation (CRC) for a Water Pollution Control Permit. March 2007.

 

CRRC., 2009. Reward Project: Updated Plan of Operations and Reclamation Plan. BLM Case File Serial Number N-82840. Prepared by CR Reward Corporation (CRRC) for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Bureau of Mining Regulation and Reclamation (BMRR). July 2009.

 

CRRC., 2018. Application for Renewal Water Pollution Control Permit NEV2007101: CR Reward Corporation Reward Project. Volume 3: Meteorological Report. Submitted by CR Reward Corporation (CRRC) to Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP). March 2018.

 

County, Nevada: internal memo prepared for Barrick Bullfrog, Inc, dated February 9, 1996, p15Fowlow, Keith, 2017. Reward Database Verification; Elko Mining Group, unpublished internal memorandum dated May 9, 2017, p6

 

Downer, R., and House, A., 2022: NI 43-101 Technical Report and Mineral Resource Estimate on the Bullfrog Gold Project, Nye County, Nevada, Canada; submitted by Augusta Gold Corp., 186 p., < Available at www.sedar.com >

 

Eliopulos, G.J., 1996. Report on Exploration and Drilling during 1995 at the Reward Property, Nye

 

Ennis, S., Loveday, D., Turner, W.A., DeLong, R.F., 2017: Technical Report on the Sterling Property, Nye County, Nevada, USA: A Property Under Option to Purchase by Northern Empire., 165 p., < Available at www.sedar.com >

 

Evans, D., Lincoln, N., Scott, T., Willow, M., Cremeens, J., Dufresne, M. and Dyer, T., 2019: Reward Project feasibility study NI 43-101 technical report Nevada, USA, internal report prepared by Lycopodium Minerals Canada Ltd., dated September 6, 2019, p242.

 

Fowlow, Keith, 2018a. Reward 2018 DataShed database and exports; CR Reward Corp., unpublished internal report dated March 28, 2018, p12.

 

Fowlow, Keith, 2018b. February 2017 Reward database verification with 2018 addendum; Elko Mining Group, unpublished internal memorandum p7.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 2022156
 

 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Geological Survey (US), & Monsen, S. A., 1992. Geologic map of Bare Mountain, Nye County, Nevada. The Survey.

 

Gillstrom, G., 2006. Technical Report on the Sterling Property 144 Zone: Resource Summary and Exploration Proposal, Nevada, U.S.A., p89.

 

Golder, 2007. Golder Associates Inc., Draft Report on Slope Design Recommendations - Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada.

 

Golder Associates Inc., Design Report for Reward Mine Heap Leach Facility. March 2007.

 

Golder Associates Inc., Reward Leach Event Pond, J-629. January 2013.

 

Goldfarb, R.J., Baker, T., Dube, B., Groves, D.I., Hart, C.J R. and Gosselin, P., 2005: Distribution, Characters and Genesis of Gold Deposits in Metamorphic Terranes: Economic Geology 100th Anniversary Volume, Society of Economic Geologists, Littleton, Colorado, USA, pp. 407–450.

 

Groves, D.I., Goldfarb, R.J., Gebre-Mariam, M., Hagemann, S.G., and Robert, F. 1998: Orogenic Gold Deposits: A Proposed Classification in the Context of their Crustal Distribution and Relationship to Other Gold Deposit Types: Ore Geology Review, Special Issue, Vol. 13, pp. 7–27.

 

Groves, D.I., Goldfarb, R.J., Robert, F., and Hart, C.J.R., 2003: Gold Deposits in Metamorphic Belts: Overview of Current Understanding, Outstanding Problems, Future Research, and Exploration Significance: Economic Geology, Vol. 98, pp. 1–29.

 

Greybeck, J.D., and Wallace, A.B., 1991. Gold Mineralization at Fluorspar Canyon Near Beatty, Nye Country, Nevada. Geology of Ore Deposits of the Great Basin. Symposium Proceedings. Geological Society of Nevada, Reno, Nevada. pp935-946.

 

Hoisch, T.D., Heizler, M.T., and Zartman, R.E., 1997. Timing of detachment faulting in the Bullfrog Hills and Bare Mountain area, southwest Nevada—Inferences from 40Ar/39Ar, K-Ar, U-Pb, and fission track thermochronology: Journal of Geophysical Research, v. 102, p. 2815–2833.HydroCAD, 2015

 

Hynes-Griffin, M.E. and Franklin, A.G., 1984. Rationalizing the Seismic Coefficient Method; United States Army Corp of Engineers, Waterways Experiment Station, CWIS Work Unit 31145.

 

Jensen, Daniel A., 2022A. Title Report Update, Reward Property, 119 Unpatented Mining Claims, Nye County, Nevada, Unpublished Title Report on behalf of CR Reward LLC dated April 9, 2022, 6 Pages and Exhibits.

 

Jensen, Daniel A., 2022B. Title Report Update, Reward Property, 2 Unpatented Mining Claims, Nye County, Nevada, Unpublished Title Report on behalf of CR Reward LLC dated April 10, 2022, 9 Pages and Exhibits.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 2022157
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Jensen, Daniel A., 2022C. Title Report Update, Reward Property, 2 Unpatented Mining Claims, Nye County, Nevada, Unpublished Title Report on behalf of CR Reward LLC dated April 11, 2022, 10 Pages and Exhibits.

 

Jensen, Daniel A., 2022D. Title Report Update, Reward Property, 6 Patented Mining Claims, Nye County, Nevada, Unpublished Title Report on behalf of CR Reward LLC dated April 12, 2022, 5 Pages and Exhibits.

 

Kautz, 2007. Reward Mining Project Historic Context, Nye County, Nevada: 2.0 Prehistoric, Ethnohistoric, and Historic Contexts and Research Themes. Report prepared by Kautz Environmental Consultants, Inc. (Kautz) for the CR Briggs Corporation.

 

Laney, Debbie Column Leach Tests on Barrick Core Samples from Reward Property (Rayrock Mines, Inc. Memorandum, 1998).

 

Laney, Debbie Column Leach Tests on Rayrock Trench Samples from Reward Property (Rayrock Mines, Inc. Memorandum, 1998).

 

Lycopodium Minerals Canada, 2019: Reward Project feasibility study report; internal report prepared for CR Reward Limited Liability Company; dated September 6, 2019, p402.

 

Marinos, P. and Hoek, E., 2002. GSI: A Geologically Friendly Tool for Rock Mass Strength Estimation.

 

Marr, J., 2006. Geological Report and Proposal for Exploration Fluorspar Canyon. Sterling Gold Mining Corporation. Beatty, Nevada. Internal Report. p23.

 

McPartland, Jack S., Report on Bottle Roll Cyanidation Tests – Reward Cuttings Composites (McClelland Laboratories, Inc. Job No. 3175, 2007).

 

McPartland, Jack S., Report on Metallurgical Testing – Reward Drill Core Composites (McClelland Laboratories, Inc. Job No. 3206, 2008).

 

Monsen, S.A., Carr, M.D., Reheis, M.C. and Orkild, P.P., 1992. Geologic Map of Bare Mountain, Nye County, Nevada (1:24,000); U.S. Geological Survey, Miscellaneous Investigations Series Map 1-2201.

 

Moritz, R., 2000: What Have We Learnt About Orogenic Lode Gold Deposits Over the Past 20 Years?: article posted to University of Geneva, Switzerland, website, 7 p. accessed 8 February 2010, http://www.unige.ch/sciences/terre/mineral/publications/onlinepub/moritz_gold_brgm_2000.doc.

 

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), 2004. Soil Survey of Nye County, Nevada, Southwest Part: Part 1. United States Department of Agriculture. In cooperation with United States Department of Interior, Bureau of Land Management; and University of Nevada Agricultural Experiment Station.

 

Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, 1997. The Nevada Mineral Industry – 1997. Special Publication MI-1997.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 2022158
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, 1999. The Nevada Mineral Industry – 1999. Special Publication MI-1999.

 

Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, 2001. The Nevada Mineral Industry – 2001. Special Publication MI-2001.

 

Noble, D.C., Weiss, S.I., and McKee, E.H., 1991, Magmatic and hydro- thermal activity, caldera geology, and regional extension in the western part of the southwestern Nevada volcanic field, in Raines, G.L., Lisle, R.E., Schaefer, R.W., and Wilkinson, W.H., eds., Geology and ore deposits of the Great Basin: Geological Society of Nevada, symposium proceedings, Reno, p. 913-934.

 

Papke K.G., and Davis, D.A., 2019: Mining Claim Procedures for Nevada Prospectors and Miners: Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Sixth Edition, accessed via the internet, https://pubs.nbmg.unr.edu/Mining-claim-procedures-for-NV-p/sp006.htm

 

Rasmussen, J.C. and Keith, S.B., 2015. Magma-Metal Series Classification of Mineralization in the Vicinity of Yucca Mountain, Nevada; n book: In New concepts and discoveries, volume II; Geological Society of Nevada, Editors: W.M. Pennell, L.J. Garside, P. 1131-1152.

 

Sawyer, D.A., Fleck,R.J., Lanphere, M.A., Warren, R.G., Broxton, D.E. and Hudson, M.R., 1994. Episodic caldera volcanism in the Miocene southwestern Nevada volcanic field: revised stratigraphic framework, 4OAd39Ar geochronology, and implications for magmatism and extension. Geological Society of America Bulletin 106, 304-1318.

 

Sloan, Robert, Mineralogical Assessment of Good Hope and Gold Ace Samples (ALS Metallurgy Report KM5696 2018).

 

Teal, L. and Jackson, M., 1997. Geological overview of the Carlin trend gold deposits and descriptions of recent discoveries; Society of Economic Geologists Newsletter, Number 31, October 1997, pp13-25.

 

Weiss, S.I., 1996. Hydrothermal Activity, Epithermal Mineralization and Regional Extension in the Southwestern Nevada Volcanic Field, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada, unpublished Ph.D. dissertation, p212.

 

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Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

28Date and Signature

 

This Technical Report titled “Mineral Resource Estimate for the Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA” is current as of the effective date of May 31, 2022 and was prepared and signed by Mr. Michael Dufresne of APEX Geoscience Ltd. and Mr. Tim Scott of Kappes, Cassiday & Associates.

 

Date: December 18, 2022 

Location: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada 

and Reno, Nevada, USA

 

In relation to Sections: 1.1 to 1.8, 1.10 to 12 and 14 to 25.4, 25.6, 25.8 to 27 and co-responsible for 25.7

 

Signed & Sealed” 

__________________ 
Michael B. Dufresne, M.Sc., P. Geol., P. Geo.
President
APEX Geoscience Ltd.
 

EGBC Permit to Practice # 1003016 

APEGA Permit to Practice # P005824

 

In relation to Sections: 1.9, 13, 25.5 and co-responsible for 25.7

 

Signed & Sealed” 

__________________ 
Timothy D. Scott, BA.Sc., RM SME
Senior Engineer and Project Manager
Kappes, Cassiday & Associates

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 2022160
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

29Certificate of Author

 

I, Michael Dufresne, M.Sc., P. Geol., P.Geo., do hereby certify that:

 

1.I am President and a Principal of APEX Geoscience Ltd., Suite 100, 11450 – 160th Street NW, Edmonton, AB, Canada, T5M 3Y7.

2.I graduated with a B.Sc. in Geology from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington in 1983 and with a M.Sc. in Economic Geology from the University of Alberta in 1987.

3.I am and have been registered as a Professional Geologist with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists (“APEGA”) of Alberta since 1989. I have been registered as a Professional Geologist with the association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of BC since 2012.

4.I have worked as a geologist for more than 35 years since my graduation from University and have extensive experience with exploration for, and the evaluation of, gold deposits of various types, including structurally-controlled, locally-disseminated, sediment-hosted, quartz vein mineralization including mineral resource estimates.

5.I have read the definition of “Qualified Person” set out in National Instrument 43-101 (“NI 43-101”) and certify that by reason of my education, affiliation with a professional association (as defined in NI 43-101) and past relevant work experience, I fulfill the requirements to be a “Qualified Person” for the purposes of NI 43-101.

6.I am responsible for sections 1.1 to 1.8, 1.10 to 12 and 14 to 25.4, 25.6, 25.8 to 27 and co-responsible for 25.7 of the technical report titled “Mineral Resource Estimate for the Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA”, with an effective date of May 31st, 2022 (the “Technical Report”). I visited the Reward Project on August 2nd, 2017 and August 12th and 15th, 2019.

7.To the best of my knowledge, information and belief, the Technical Report contains all relevant scientific and technical information that is required to be disclosed, to make the Technical Report not misleading.

8.I have read National Instrument 43-101 and Form 43-101F1, and the Technical Report has been prepared in compliance with that instrument and form.

9.I am independent of the issuer, the vendor and the Property applying all of the tests in section 1.5 of both NI 43-101 and 43-101CP.

10.I have had prior involvement with the Property as a QP and co-author of a Feasibility Study and Technical Report on behalf of CR Reward in September 2019.

11.I consent to the filing of the Technical Report with any stock exchange and other regulatory authority and any publication by them for regulatory purposes, including electronic publication in the public company files or their websites.

 

Signing date: June 29th, 2022 

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

 

Signed & Sealed” 

___________________

Michael Dufresne, M.Sc., P. Geol., P.Geo.

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 2022161
 

 

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA

 

  Kappes, Cassiday & Associates

 

Certificate of Qualified Person

 

I, Timothy D. Scott, of Las Vegas Nevada, USA do hereby certify that as an author of "Mineral Resource Estimate for the Reward Project, Nye County, Nevada, USA" prepared for CR Reward LLC. and Augusta Gold Corp., Effective Date 31 May 2022, and dated 29 June 2022 that:

 

1.I am an independent consultant affiliated as an Associate with the firm of Kappes, Cassiday and Associates, 7950 Security Circle, Reno, Nevada, USA 89506 since 2006 and my personal address is 140 S. Buteo Woods Ln., Las Vegas, Nevada USA 89144.
   
2.I graduated from Montana College of Mineral Science and Technology in 1987 with a Bachelor of Science in Geological Engineering degree.
   
3.I am a Registered Member in good standing of the Society of Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration (4153680RM). I have practiced my profession continuously since 1987 in all aspects of mineral processing, metallurgy, and gold extraction; heap leaching; and design and construction of mineral processing and metals extraction facilities. I am a "Qualified Person" for the purposes of NI 43-101 by reason of my education, affiliation with a professional association as defined by NI-43-101 and past relevant work experience.
   
4.I have practiced my profession continuously for 35 years.
   
5.I am responsible for sections 1.9, 13.0, 25.5 and co responsible for section 25.7.
   
6.I have read the definition of "Qualified Person" set out in National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) and certify that, by reason of my education, affiliation with a professional association (as defined in NI 43-101) and past relevant work experience, I am a "qualified person" for the purpose of NI 43-101.
   
7.I visited the site on 22 September 2018, and May 16, 2022.
   
8.I am independent of the issuer in accordance with the application of Section 1.5 of National Instrument 43-101.
   
9.I have been involved with previous studies regarding the Property since June, 2017.
   
10.I have read National Instrument 43-101 and Form 43-101F1 and the Technical Report has been prepared in compliance with same.
   
11.At the effective date of the Technical Report, to the best of my knowledge, information and belief, the Technical Report contains all scientific and technical information that is required to be disclosed to make the Technical Report not misleading.

 

Dated at Reno, Nevada, USA this 29' day of June 2022.

 

"Signed & Sealed"

____________________

Timothy D. Scitt, SME (4153680RM)

 

Effective Date: May 31st, 2022162

 

v3.23.4
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