Metal Energy Corp. (TSXV: MERG) has had significant success in its now complete, inaugural drill programme at the high-grade nickel and copper Manibridge project in the Thompson Nickel Belt, Manitoba.
“This first drill programme on our flagship Manibridge project was a success,” CEO, James Sykes, said.
“We had a 100% nickel-copper mineralisation intersection rate in every hole, and we confirmed our model. Most importantly, two holes confirmed nickel-copper sulphide mineralisation within gaps of our model.
“The nickel-copper sulphide system at Manibridge is completely open at depth which can add a significant amount of bulk tonnage to what’s already there. Preparations for our planned 10,000 metre follow-up drill programme are underway and we anticipate some exciting discoveries this summer.
“Nickel demand continues to grow with a projected shortfall of supply over the next decade; we intend to have Manibridge contributing to the North American electrification supply chain.
The company is preparing an in-depth video presentation to provide details on this completed drill programme, including its views on mineralisation controls and vectors for higher-grade nickel and copper occurrences.
Drilling was focussed within a one-kilometre strike-length of the Manibridge Mine which produced 1.3 million tonnes at 2.55% nickel and 0.27% copper from 1971 to 1977. Six drill holes (MNB001 to MNB006) were completed for a total of 2,350 m.
Drilling was cut short due to the expiration of the Government drill permits.
All drill holes successfully intersected nickel-copper sulphide mineralization, confirmed with a handheld XRF. Confirmation of sulphides ranged from 3.7 m thickness (MNB003) to 16.8 m thick (MNB001) including a couple of drill holes intersecting small occurrences of massive net-textured sulphides.
Drill hole MNB004 intersected sulphides over three separate intervals. All drill holes had evidence of nickel-copper sulphides remobilised in foliations and shears. Intense serpentinisation alteration of the sulphide bearing ultramafic rock types is interpreted to remobilise nickel-copper sulphides to other areas, therefore possibly providing higher-grade 10,000m Phase Two Drill Program on Manibridge
Preparations for Manibridge’s Phase Two 10,000m diamond drill programme are underway, with Metal Energy now acting as operator of the Project. The drilling contractor, accommodations, and support services have been secured, and the drill permits from the Manitoba Government are expected prior to month’s end. The company anticipates mobilization of the drill programme immediately thereafter.
Assays Pending
Geochemical assay results from the drill programme will be released once received from the lab and reviewed for QAQC. Metal Energy has been advised that the current turn-around time has been estimated at six to eight weeks. CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. was the operator for this drill programme.
About the Manibridge Project
Manibridge encompasses 4,368 hectares and is within the world-class Thompson Nickel Belt. The Project is 20 km southwest of Wabowden, which has significant infrastructure and capacity that has supported previous exploration programmes, including year-round highway access via Highway 6.
Metal Energy has acquired 49% interest in the Manibridge project effective March 22, 2022. The Company has elected to continue exploration to earn up to 70% in Manibridge with a long-term objective for 100% ownership of Manibridge.
For further information please visit: https://metalenergy.ca/
