- Nicola Mining (TSX: NIM) has launched its 2025 Exploration Diamond Drilling Program at New Craigmont Copper Project, BC.
- The program targets 4,000-5,000 metres of drilling, with a budget of $1.5-2 million, identified using AI methods.
- Draken target identified as a key focus, showing promising porphyry-style alteration and copper oxide minerals.
Nicola Mining Inc. (TSX: NIM, OTCQB: HUSIF) has commenced its 2025 Exploration Diamond Drilling Program at the New Craigmont Copper Project, located near Merritt, British Columbia. This strategic initiative, budgeted at $1.5-2 million, involves 4,000-5,000 metres of diamond drilling to explore five priority targets identified through AI-based analysis in collaboration with ALS Geoanalytics (GoldSpot Discoveries Ltd.).
The 2025 program will focus on multiple target areas including MARB/CAS, West Craigmont/WP, and two new targets derived from GoldSpot's analysis. It aims to collect critical geological data to potentially develop a porphyry copper system. The Draken target is highlighted as particularly promising, with favourable surface modifications indicative of porphyry-style mineralization.
Advanced geochemical data collection methods, such as X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) and short-wave infrared (SWIR), will be employed under the guidance of GoldSpot. These methods will enhance the understanding of skarn and porphyry-style mineralization, contributing to more precise exploration targets. The drilling program is expected to conclude in September 2025, with results anticipated thereafter.
