The Minto Copper-Gold Deposit, Yukon - IOCG or What?

2006

Sherwood acquired the Minto Project from ASARCO et al in June 2005 and aims to recommence construction of a mining operation in 2006 at this permitted, partially constructed, high grade copper-gold project. The geologic setting of the deposit is unusual, some say unique, with elements of IOCG, porphyry and other deposit types. Essentially the deposit comprises bornite-chalcopyrite-magnetite mineralization within a flat lying zone of foliated granites, within a largely unaltered orogenic granite batholith. Other sulphides, such as pyrite, are rare to absent, and alteration and mineralization does not cross the knife edge contact between the foliated and orogenic granites. The deposit has been defined by over 300 drill holes, yet a clear understanding of the origins of the deposit remains uncertain. In its paper, Sherwood will review the geology, alteration and mineralization of the Minto deposit, attempt to provide some insight into controls on mineralization, and review possible exploration models with implication for further exploration. Sherwood will also provide an update on activities in 2005 leading to a new feasibility study in Q2/2006 and a planned production decision in the same year.

Keywords: Copper, Deposit, Development, Yukon, Porphyry, Production, IOCG, Feasibility, Permitted, Gold