Ausenco Engineering Canada has been selected by U.S. GoldMining to conduct a preliminary economic assessment (PEA) for the Whistler gold-copper project in Alaska, US.
This initial study, in line with US and Canadian regulations, aims to evaluate the project’s viability for a potential open-pit mine and processing facility.
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The PEA will investigate the development potential of the Whistler Project near Anchorage.
With an estimated 6.48 million ounces (moz) of gold equivalent in the indicated resource category and 4.16moz in the inferred category, the project shows promise, particularly with its higher-grade core material accessible near the surface.
Moose Mountain Technical Services is set to provide an updated mineral resource estimate, incorporating data from the 2024 drilling campaign.
Concurrently, Base Metallurgical Laboratories is conducting metallurgical tests to inform the assessment.
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By GlobalDataU.S. GoldMining chief executive officer Tim Smith said: “We are delighted to be able to announce that we have partnered with Ausenco on this important work programme. We are excited to begin working towards delivering the first PEA on Whistler, which we believe could present a robust future mining opportunity and has the potential to unlock significant value for shareholders.
“We look forward to providing periodic updates as the study progresses, for which we are currently targeting completion before year-end.”
After a competitive bidding process involving 13 consultancies and a thorough review of six shortlisted candidates, Ausenco was chosen for its comprehensive expertise and successful track record in similar studies.
Ausenco Southwest USA Minerals & Metals vice-president David Thomas said: “Ausenco is pleased to partner with U.S. GoldMining on the Whistler Gold-Copper Project PEA. We have successfully completed studies for clients around the world, including initial concept studies, pre-feasibility studies and definitive studies.
“As a lifelong Alaskan who lived many years in the Matanuska-Susitna (Mat-Su) Borough – where the Whistler Project is located – I am delighted to add to the direct Alaskan experience of the team and help deliver U.S. GoldMining a robust, sustainable mining study.”
The Whistler Project is located on a 53,700-acre property within the Alaska Range, 170km north-west of Anchorage.
