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FEBRUARY 15, 2010, 6:23 A.M. ET.Yara to Acquire Terra in $4.1 Billion Deal
Wall Street Journal
By KARL BRUZE
STOCKHOLM—Norwegian fertilizer company Yara International ASA Monday said it has agreed to acquire Terra Industries in a deal valued at $4.1 billion.
Yara said it planned to fund the acquisition by raising between $2 billion and $2.5 billion in a rights issue.
The company also reported a better-than-expected fourth quarter net profit, as global fertilizer demand has picked up from last season, when financial stress and risk aversion by distributors and farmers led to de-stocking in addition to lower application.
Yara's fourth-quarter net profit rose to 1.42 billion Norwegian kroner ($240.7 million) from a loss of 2.11 billion kroner a year earlier, above analysts' expectations for 472.2 million kroner. The net profit was boosted by a 1 billion-krone tax credit. "We saw a major improvement in fertilizer markets towards the end of the fourth quarter, as global nitrogen and phosphate markets turned demand-driven," said Jorgen Ole Haslestad, President and Chief Executive Officer of Yara.
Revenue in the fourth quarter was 13.40 billion kroner, down from 18.76 billion kroner a year ago, and below analysts' expectations for 14.12 billion kroner.
Analyst Are Grongstad at Agilis Faerder, which has a "strong buy" rating with a target price of 350 kroner for Yara, said the company's numbers were very good overall.
"Revenues were a bit disappointing, but margins and net income were very good numbers," Grongstad said, adding that the news on a deal with Terra Industries was also positive.
Based in Sioux City, Iowa, Terra has about 940 employees in the U.S. and Canada. Yara employs 8,000 people world-wide and provides fertilizer to 120 countries.
Western Potash Corp. Intersects 19.9 WT% K2O Over 22.25m with Little or No Carnallite, Provides an Update on Expanded Resource Definition Drilling and Seismic Program
Thu. December 03, 2009; Posted: 09:25 AM
http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/news/Stock%20News/2698087/
VANCOUVER, Dec 03, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- WPX | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating -- Western Potash Corp. (the "Company") (TSX.V: WPX, FSE: AHE) is pleased to provide results from the first two wells completed as part of the expanded 5 well, $8.5 million CAD resource definition program on the Milestone property in southern Saskatchewan. These wells are the fifth and sixth wells drilled on the property. Results from the Milestone-004 well returned a 23.35 m composite intersection of potash mineralization with a weighted average grade of 17.35 wt % K2O across three potash members, while the Milestone-005 well reported a 22.25 m composite intersection of potash mineralization with a weighted average grade of 19.89 wt % K2O across three potash members. Results from the Milestone-005 well are considered of particular interest as very little Carnallite was intersected in any of the three potash members, including the Esterhazy member. The presence of Carnallite in the Esterhazy member is not unusual in the region, but the absence of Carnallite in the Milestone-005 well does suggest that in some areas of the Milestone property parts of the Esterhazy member could be of economic interest.
The Milestone-004 and Milestone-005 wells, as shown in figure 1 are located approximately 3.0 km to the south and north respectively of the Milestone-003 well which reported a composite thickness of 24.4m of potash mineralization with a grade of 18.2% wt K2O in a press release dated August 24, 2009. A summary of the results from the two most recent wells are presented in Table 1.
Table 1: Potash thickness and weighted average grade from the Milestone -- 004 and Milestone-005 wells.
Well Potash Member From KB, m To KB, m Interval (m) K2O Wt % MgO Wt % Insoluble Wt % Best Intercept
Patience Lake 1735.7 1747.8 12.1 17.65 0.09 10.81 20.34 wt% K2O over 5.6m
Belle Plaine 1751.55 1756.75 5.2 18.72 0.09 3.97 25.94 wt% K2O over 2.25m
Milestone-004 Esterhazy 1774.95 1781 6.05 15.4 0.38 5.16 18.31wt% K2O over 3.4m, 0.2 wt% MgO
Total 23.35 17.31 0.17 7.82
Patience Lake 1703.1 1714.95 11.85 18.34 0.1 11.11 21.06 wt% K2O over 6.25m
Belle Plaine 1719.45 1723.9 4.45 21.25 0.06 4.4 25.8 wt% K2O over 2.6m
Milestone-005 Esterhazy 1742.3 1748.25 5.95 21.97 0.06 3.37 24.42wt% K2O over 4.15m, 0.06 wt% MgO
Total 22.25 19.89 0.08 7.70
Allana Resources Announces Drill Contract Awarded for Its Ethiopian Potash Project, Appointment of New Corporate Secretary and Grant of Options
Tue Dec 1, 7:30 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/01122009/28/link-f-ccnmatthews-allana-resources-announces-drill-contract-awarded-its-ethiopian.html
TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Dec. 1, 2009) - Allana Resources Inc. (TSX VENTURE: AAA.V) ("Allana"or the "Company"), is pleased to announce that it has awarded a drilling contract to Emerson Moore Drilling Ltd. ("EMD") for its Ethiopian Potash Project. EMD has extensive drilling experience and has completed projects in Equatorial Guinea, Liberia, Georgia, Slovakia, Jamaica, Spain, Kenya, Sudan, Kosovo and UK. EMD has successfully completed geotechnical and exploration drilling projects for a number of clients including Alcoa, Inc., ArcelorMittal, Golder Associates and Scott Wilson Group plc.
Allana is planning a 6-hole 2,500 metre drill program designed to confirm historic drilling results, to confirm the accuracy of the previous resource and to potentially increase the resource. Drilling is expected to begin in late January following the road rehabilitation currently underway and camp construction. It is expected that drill holes will vary in depth from 250 metres to 800 metres and will test both potash horizons near the current resource as well as in the centre of the evaporite basin. This will be the first phase of Allana's exploration program. It is planned that the drill program will be followed by down-hole seismic studies (vertical seismic profiling) and a program of surface 2D seismic over the southern part of the basin.
Farhad Abasov, Allana's President and CEO, stated: "Allana is very excited to complete this contract with EMD. This is the first step in fast-tracking our exploration program. EMD has extensive experience throughout Africa and in remote locations. We are also very pleased that the Ethiopian government is currently rehabilitating one of the roads leading to our project, and camp construction is scheduled to be completed for mid-January. Allana is looking forward to completing the first potash drill holes in the Danakhil Depression evaporite basin in over 30 years."
In addition to the drilling contract, Allana is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Brianna Davies as Corporate Secretary. Ms Davies is a corporate lawyer who works as a legal consultant to several publicly traded and private companies in the resource sector. Brianna received a Juris Doctorate from the University of Toronto in 2005 and an Honours B.A in Economics from McMaster University in 2002. Ms. Davies replaces Mr. Pat Gleeson who has resigned as Corporate Secretary but will continue on as a consultant to the Company.
In addition, the Company announces that it has granted a total of 1,350,000 stock options to various officers, directors and consultants to the Company pursuant to the stock option plan. The options will be exercisable for $0.315 per option and shall expire on December 1, 2014. Such options shall vest immediately subject to the applicable regulatory hold period. The grant of options remains subject to receipt of all required regulatory approvals.
In its press release dated October 6, 2009 Allana erroneously reported that Calivia Global LLC (Calivia) was formerly Nova International. The Company wishes to clarify that Calivia is an independent company specializing in the construction of modular camps and is in no way affiliated with Nova International.
Peter J. MacLean, Ph.D., P. Geo., Allana's VP Exploration, is a Qualified Person as defined under National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical information presented in this release.
About Allana Resources Inc.
Allana is a publicly traded corporation with a focus on the acquisition and development of potash assets internationally with its major focus on a previously explored potash property in Ethiopia with 43-101-compliant Inferred Mineral Resource of over 100 million tonnes of potash mineralization (Sylvite and Kainite) with a composite grade of 20.8 % KCl (see News Release Sept. 17, 2008). Allana has approximately 96.1 million shares outstanding and trades on the TSX-Venture exchange under the symbol "AAA".
Forward-Looking Statement
Except for statements of historical fact relating to the Company, certain information contained herein constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the impact of the drilling contract on the Company, the effect of the appointment on the Company, estimated production, the estimation of mineral reserves and mineral resources; the realization of mineral reserve estimates; the timing and amount of estimated future production; costs of production; capital expenditures; success of exploration activities; permitting time lines and permitting, mining or processing issues; government regulation of mining operations; environmental risks; unanticipated reclamation expenses; title disputes or claims; litigation liabilities; limitations on insurance coverage and the effect of terminating the investor relations contract. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE
Contacts
Farhad Abasov
Allana Resources Inc.
+1 416 309-2691
fabasov@allanaresources.com
Peter MacLean
Allana Resources Inc.
+1 416 861 2262
peter@allanaresources.com
Amazon Releases Results for the Quarter Ended September 30, 2009
Mon Nov 30, 8:59 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/30112009/28/link-f-ccnmatthews-amazon-releases-results-quarter-ended-september-30-2009.html
TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Nov. 30, 2009) - Amazon Mining Holding Plc (TSX VENTURE: AMZ.V) ("Amazon" or the "Company") announced today its unaudited interim consolidated financial statements for the three month period ended September 30, 2009 and provides the following corporate update.
During, the three-month period ended September 30, 2009 there was net income of Pounds Sterling 234,974 compared to a gain of Pounds Sterling 163,841 for the three-month period ended September 30, 2008. The gain was primarily due to the currency exchange gains (Pounds Sterling 436,449), as the company holds the majority of its cash in Canadian dollars which outperformed the British pound, the reporting currency, during the period. Amazon currently has a working capital position of approximately Pounds Sterling 4.2MM (Cdn$7.4MM).
Subsequent Period Summary
-- Amazon has commenced drilling at the Cerrado Verde project to
delineate an initial NI-43-101 resource on the property. While the
surface dimensions of the deposit are easily estimated by outcrop, and
grade can be estimated from grab samples, this will be the first
confirmation of thickness and first test of potassium grade at depth.
-- Amazon has entered into an agreement with Phoster Tecnologia de
Aglomeracoes ("Phoster"), to refine a process for the commercial
manufacture of ThermoPotash Fertilizer. The team at Phoster was
responsible for development work on thermo-phosphate, a widely used
premium fertilizer made from non-soluble phosphate rocks in Brazil. In
addition, Phoster brings a great deal of experience working with the
potash rich rocks from Cerrado Verde.
-- Amazon has retained the services of Coffey Mining to begin a
NI-43-101 Preliminary Economic Assessment. Coffey Mining has 50 years of
experience in supplying specialist services to the international mining
industry. This will provide an independently verified look at the
feasibility of Amazon's proposed ThermoPotash operations.
Commenting President & CEO, Cristiano Veloso, said, "The coming months will mark a significant acceleration in the development of our Cerrado Verde project. Amazon will seek to identify in detail the major challenges and risks involved in a project of this nature. This also marks a shift from the Company's cost saving mode of the past 18 months to a more focused use of its finances. Our past cost saving efforts have put us in an enviable position; We have funds on hand to complete much of the Cerrado Verde development work required to determine its potential economic value."
Other Matters
The 7.6 MM warrants striking at $1.55 per share, issued in conjunction with the Company's November 2007, initial public offering have expired as of November 23, 2009, without exercise.
Amazon has issued 5,000 stock options exercisable at $0.69 per share expiring August 26, 2014, and 50,000 stock options exercisable at $0.95 per share expiring November 11, 2014 to new consultants and staff.
About Amazon
Amazon Mining is a mineral exploration and development company founded by Brazilians in 2005. The company is focused on the development of Cerrado Verde project. Cerrado Verde is source of a potash rich rock from which Amazon plans to produce a slow-release, non-chloride, multi-nutrient, fertilizer product. Amazon Mining is a UK public company with shares listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange since November 2007.
On behalf of the Board of Directors of Amazon Mining Holding Plc, Jed Richardson, Vice President of Corporate Development
Cautionary Language and Forward Looking Statements
THIS PRESS RELEASE CONTAINS CERTAIN "FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS", WHICH INCLUDE BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO, STATEMENTS WITH RESPECT TO THE FUTURE FINANCIAL OR OPERATING PERFORMANCE OF THE COMPANY, ITS SUBSIDIARIES AND ITS PROJECTS, STATEMENTS REGARDING USE OF PROCEEDS, EXPLORATION PROSPECTS, IDENTIFICATION OF MINERAL RESERVES, COSTS OF AND CAPITAL FOR EXPLORATION PROJECTS, EXPLORATION EXPENDITURES, TIMING OF FUTURE EXPLORATION AND PERMITTING, REQUIREMENTS FOR ADDITIONAL CAPITAL, GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS OF MINING OPERATIONS, ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS, RECLAMATION EXPENSES, TITLE DISPUTES OR CLAIMS, AND LIMITATIONS OF INSURANCE COVERAGE. FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS CAN GENERALLY BE IDENTIFIED BY THE USE OF WORDS SUCH AS "PLANS", "EXPECTS", OR "DOES NOT EXPECT" OR "IS EXPECTED", "ANTICIPATES" OR "DOES NOT ANTICIPATE", OR "BELIEVES", "INTENDS", "FORECASTS", "BUDGET", "SCHEDULED", "ESTIMATES" OR VARIATIONS OF SUCH WORDS OR PHRASES OR STATE THAT CERTAIN ACTIONS, EVENT, OR RESULTS "MAY", "COULD", "WOULD", "MIGHT", OR "WILL BE TAKEN", "OCCUR" OR "BE ACHIEVED". FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS INVOLVE KNOWN AND UNKNOWN RISKS, UNCERTAINTIES AND OTHER FACTORS WHICH MAY CAUSE THE ACTUAL RESULTS, PERFORMANCE OR ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE COMPANY TO BE MATERIALLY DIFFERENT FROM ANY FUTURE RESULTS, PERFORMANCE OR ACHIEVEMENTS EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED BY SAID STATEMENTS. THERE CAN BE NO ASSURANCES THAT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS WILL PROVE TO BE ACCURATE, AS ACTUAL RESULTS AND FUTURE EVENTS COULD DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE ANTICIPATED IN SAID STATEMENTS. ACCORDINGLY, READERS SHOULD NOT PLACE UNDUE RELIANCE ON FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS.
The potential grades detailed in this release are conceptual in nature. There has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the targets being delineated as a mineral resource.
Readers are cautioned not to rely solely on the summary of such information contained in this release and are directed to the complete set of drill results posted on Amazon's website ( www.amazonplc.com) and filed on SEDAR ( www.sedar.com) and any future amendments to such. Readers are also directed to the cautionary notices and disclaimers contained herein.
NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
Contacts
Cristiano Veloso
Amazon Mining Holding Plc
President & Chief Executive Officer
+44 (0) 20 8133 7607
+44(0)20 7405 7773 (FAX)
cv@amazonplc.com
Jed Richardson
Amazon Mining Holding Plc
VP Corporate Development
+1(416)866-2966
+1(416)866-8829 (FAX)
jed@amazonplc.com
www.amazonplc.com
Trigon announces 100% shares tendered for Intercontinetal Potash offer
Wed Nov 25, 7:00 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/25112009/30/link-f-cnw-trigon-announces-100-shares-tendered-intercontinetal-potash-offer.html
/NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES OR TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES/
TORONTO, Nov. 25 /CNW/ - Trigon Uranium Corp. ("Trigon" or "the Company") (TSXV: TEL.V) announced today that its offer to purchase all shares of Intercontinental Potash Corp. ("ICP") that it does not already own as described in the news release dated June 19, 2009 and the management information circular (the "Circular") dated September 28, 2009 (the "Offer") expired, as planned, on November 19, 2009. Trigon also announces that 100% of ICP shares have been tendered to the Company under the Offer. Common Shares of the Company have not yet been issued under the Offer, and will be issued once the Company has reviewed and ensured the completeness of all documentation received, including the letters of acceptance and transmittal, share certificates, and relevant tax forms for non-residents. Once the Common Shares of the Company are issued under the Offer, all conditions necessary for the closing of the reverse takeover of the Company by ICP (the "Transaction") will have been met, subject to final approval by the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV").
In preparation for the closing of the Transaction, Trigon has completed the following: (i) an engagement letter with Wellington West Capital Markets Inc. on September 25, 2009, pursuant to which the Company agreed to issue one common share for each common share of ICP issued pursuant to a proposed financing to raise approximately $5 million at a price to be determined in the context of the market (the "Financing"); (ii) entered into a support agreement with ICP on September 28, 2009 outlining the details of the Offer; (iii) held a special meeting of shareholders on October 26, 2009, where the Transaction and other matters were approved; (iv) delivered the Offer document and letter of acceptance and transmittal to all ICP shareholders on October 29, 2009; and (v) filed articles of amendment with Industry Canada for the consolidation of its Common Shares, subject to which Trigon consolidated its shares on a 1 for 4 basis effective October 30, 2009 (the "Consolidation").
About Intercontinental Potash Corp
ICP is developing its Ochoa New Mexico property with the primary purpose of using polyhalite as feedstock to produce Sulphate of Potash. Sulphate of Potash, "SOP" or Potassium Sulphate, is premium priced potash. The market for SOP is approximately 4 million tonnes per year. SOP is used as a significant alternative fertilizer to sylvite (Muriate of Potash or MOP) for agricultural products such as fruits, vegetables, tobacco, potatoes, and horticultural plants. SOP has low "salinity" compared to MOP, and therefore is also used in various saline soils in the world, which are found for example in China, India, the Mediterranean, and the United States. Polyhalite may also be developed as a slow release multi-nutrient fertilizer which contains the plant macronutrients Potassium, Sulphate, Magnesium and Calcium. ICP's Ochoa property consists of federal sub-surface potassium permits granted by the Bureau of Land Management ("BLM") covering more than 36,500 acres of land. All reclamation plans, environmental plans, and archeological work have been approved by BLM
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of Trigon and ICP, including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, dependence upon regulatory and shareholder approvals, the execution of definitive documentation and the uncertainty of obtaining additional financing. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.
Completion of the Transaction, the Consolidation, the Financing and related matters are subject to a number of conditions and the receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals, including the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. The Transaction cannot close until all required regulatory approvals are obtained. There can be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all. Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the Circular, any information released or received with respect to the proposed transactions may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of Trigon should be considered highly speculative. The TSX Venture Exchange has in no way passed upon the merits of the proposed transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.
NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS
THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS
RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
Contacts
please visit www.trigonuraniumcorp.com or www.intercontinentalpotash.com or contact: Intercontinental Potash Corp
Sidney Himmel
President and Chief Executive Officer
(416) 624 3781
shimmel@intercontinentalpotash.com
or Investor Relations
Joanna Longo
Vice President
The Equicom Group
(416) 815-0700 ext. 233
jlongo@equicomgroup.com
Talon identifies seven potash intersections within its Sergipe Project in Brazil
Wed Nov 25, 8:58 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/25112009/30/link-f-cnw-talon-identifies-seven-potash-intersections-its-sergipe-project.html
Landholding extended with 14 additional licences granted
TSX:TLO
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, Nov. 25 /CNW/ - Talon Metals Corp., ("Talon" or the "Company") (TSX: TLO.TO) is pleased to provide an update on its Sergipe Potash Project located in Sergipe State, Brazil.
Since July 2009, Talon has extended its landholding position and identified a large drilling and geophysical data base for the Sergipe Potash Project. The area held now comprises ten onshore and two offshore prospects, in which the Company holds exploration licences for 57,501 hectares (142,087 acres), an increase of 36,384 hectares (89,906 acres) or 172%, over its original land position as reported in Talon's news release of July 6, 2009. This includes 14 exploration licences which have been granted in the past week.
In addition, Talon has submitted applications for further exploration licences over an area of 23,066 hectares (56,997 acres). Moreover, Talon is conducting negotiations with other parties to acquire interests in additional properties with potash potential within the Sergipe Basin.
"Talon's current landholding represents approximately 12% of the onshore portion of Sergipe sedimentary basin enhancing Talon's position in this basin, currently the only potash producing region in Brazil," said Mr. Stuart Comline, President and CEO of Talon. "The recently granted licences increase the area we hold, which may be underlain by significant potash deposits. Furthermore, we are most encouraged that we now have a number of prospects with drilled potash intersections as well as access to a more comprehensive drilling and seismic data base than we had originally anticipated would be available to us. This expanded data base will serve to enhance our exploration program."
Talon's exploration program includes an initial compilation of all available drilling and geophysical data (Phase I) in order to identify and to model priority targets within the Sergipe Basin, based on basin structure and the limits and zonation of the potash mineralization. The recent identification and acquisition of considerably more drilling and seismic data than originally anticipated will improve significantly the understanding and delineation of the potash targets, prior to the commencement of drilling.
The initial geological model was based on the logs and results of 86 oil wells, previously drilled into the basin and which intersected the Ibura evaporite sequence, the host of the potash deposits. The number of wells now available to Talon within the basin has increased considerably to a total of 262 wells. The data from these wells has been acquired and is being processed, which will further refine Talon's model.
Furthermore, in the compilation of well drilling data to date, Talon has already identified seven historical oil wells that intersected potash mineralization within the Company's onshore properties. In most wells where potash mineralization has been intersected, there are multiple layers of potash, which have cumulative widths of 35 metres in the Sergi prospect, 38 metres in the Rio do Sal prospect and 46 metres in the Barra dos Coqueiros prospect. In the higher priority prospects, the depths of the potash mineralization varies between 1,167 metres and 1,610 metres.
Stratageo Soluções Tecnológicas Ltda ("Stratageo"), a Brazilian based geophysical consultancy with extensive experience in the Sergipe Basin for the oil industry, has been commissioned to acquire some 618 2D-seismic lines within the Sergipe Basin and reprocess selected lines specifically in the vicinity of Talon's ten onshore project areas. The data from these lines will provide a more accurate definition of the mineralized potash layers, the Ibura evaporite member, and the basin structure. A preliminary interpretation of this data over the Sergi prospect area indicates that the potash layers are flat-lying and laterally continuous with no major disturbances.
In addition, Talon has acquired data from previous regional gravity and magnetic surveys over the area of the Sergipe Basin. This data is being processed by Talon and will be reinterpreted and integrated in to the geological model, along with the drilling and seismic data.
Furthermore, Talon has submitted environmental reports for the Sergi prospect area which will facilitate the granting of operating licences to enable the Company to drill in this area. It is anticipated that these licences will be granted by February 2010. Applications for similar licences are being completed for the Rio do Sal and Barra dos Coqueiros prospects.
The processing, compilation and reinterpretation of the much enlarged data base has extended the Phase I work and delayed the commencement of the proposed drilling program until February 2010, pending receipt of the environmental licences. However the larger data base provides significant benefits. It will result in a more refined model of the priority targets, and over the long term, it should reduce in the amount of drilling required and accelerate the exploration program.
Qualified Person
Talon's exploration programs are being managed by Talon's VP Exploration, Mr. Paulo Ilidio de Brito (Member: AusIMM), who is a qualified person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Ilidio de Brito, who is responsible for the technical material in this release, has verified the data disclosed in this release.
About Talon
Talon is a TSX-listed company focused on the acquisition, exploration and development of high quality resource projects. The Company has a well-qualified exploration and management team with extensive experience in exploration and project management.
Talon has a treasury of approximately CDN$4.6 million and holds 2,450,000 common shares in Beadell Resources Limited (ASX: BDR.AX). Talon has 24,054,222 common shares outstanding and 30,239,222 shares fully diluted.
This news release contains certain "forward-looking information". All information, other than information pertaining to historical fact, which addresses activities, events or developments that Talon believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future constitutes forward-looking information. Forward-looking information reflects the current expectations or beliefs of Talon based on information currently available to Talon. Such forward-looking information includes, among other things, statements relating to: data from 2D-seismic lines within the Sergipe Basin; environmental reports submitted in respect of the Sergi prospect area and related prospective operating licences; and the Company's proposed drilling program. Forward-looking information is subject to significant risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking information, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on the Company. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to: changes in potash prices; the possibility that future exploration results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; political developments in Brazil; changes to regulations affecting the Company's activities; delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required regulatory approvals; the uncertainties involved in interpreting data from 2D-seismic lines; delays in commencing the Company's proposed drilling program; or other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry. Forward looking information speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking information are reasonable, forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such information due to the inherent uncertainty therein.
Contacts
on Talon please visit the Company's website at www.talonmetals.com or contact: Erica Belling
VP Investor Relations
Tau Capital Corp.
Tel: (416) 361-9636 x 243
Email: ebelling@taucapital.com
Legend seals deal for phosphate mine
18 November 2009 | by Michael Mills
http://www.miningaustralia.com.au/Article/Legend-seals-deal-for-phosphate-mine/505776.aspx
Legend International Holdings yesterday announced an alliance with Chinese fertiliser producer Wengfu to build a phosphate mine at its Georgina Basin project near Mt Isa, Queensland.
The company is also planning to build a beneficiation plant and a phosphoric acid plant on the site.
The two companies will together initially to carry out a feasibility study for mining and beneficiation.
Pending positive results, Wengfu and Legend will also investigate phosphoric acid manufacturing to produce specialty phosphate products.
After the completion of the studies, Wengfu will become an equity partner with Legend.
According to Legend, the Chinese producer’s experience in all aspects of phosphate rock mining, beneficiation, acid production and specialty phosphate chemical production will ensure the project is successful.
Wengfu is the one of the largest phosphate fertiliser producers in China, with two mines and several beneficiation, fertiliser and chemical plants.
The company produces over 2.5 million tonnes of finished fertiliser products per annum.
Encanto is now drilling into Potash at Ochapowace
Thu Nov 19, 9:00 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/19112009/30/link-f-cnw-encanto-drilling-potash-ochapowace.html
Drilling to begin early December at Muskowekwan prospect
Trading Symbol: TSXV EPO.V
VANCOUVER, Nov. 19 /CNW/ - Encanto Potash Corp. ("Encanto" or the "Company") President James Walchuck is pleased to announce that drilling at the Ochapowace prospect is now coring through the prairie evaporate; the geological formation that hosts the Saskatchewan potash beds.
Results are expected in early December 2009. Ochapowace is located 35 kilometres southwest of the Rocanville Mine operated by Potash Corp of Saskatchewan Inc.
Management also announces that drilling will begin shortly on the Muskowekwan prospect. The Company has received its INAC (Indian and Northern Affairs Canada) drilling permit for Muskowekwan, as well as the 3D seismic permit.
The Muskowekwan prospect is surrounded by several historical oil and gas wells which have shown all three major potash beds are present.
About Encanto:
Encanto Potash Corp. is a TSX Venture Exchange-listed Canadian resource company engaged in the exploration and development of potash properties in the Province of Saskatchewan, Canada - the largest producing region for potash in the world.
To find out more about Encanto Potash Corp., please visit the company website at www.encantopotash.com or review the documents filed on www.sedar.com.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
"James Walchuck"
Per:
----------------
James Walchuck
President and CEO
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as
that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts
responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
The foregoing information may contain forward-looking information relating to the future performance of the Company. Forward looking information is subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in our forward looking statements. Such risks and other factors include, among others, the actual results of exploration activities, changes in world commodity markets or equity markets, the risks of the mining industry including, without limitation, those associated with the environment, delays in obtaining governmental approvals, permits or financing or in the completion of development or construction activities, title disputes, change in government and changes to regulations affecting the mining industry, and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the Company's filings with the Canadian securities administrators (available at www.SEDAR.com). Forward-looking statements are made based on various assumptions and on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date the statements are made. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in the forward-looking information contained herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these assumptions, beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable law.
Contacts
James Walchuck
President and CEO
Tel: (604) 683-2402
Keith Schaefer
Vanguard Shareholder Solutions
Tel: (604) 608-0824
Toll Free: 1-866-918-0824
Encanto Potash Corp. announces drill permit for the Ochapowace First Nations lands
Fri Oct 30, 9:00 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/30102009/30/link-f-cnw-encanto-potash-corp-announces-drill-permit-ochapowace-first.html
Trading Symbol: TSXV EPO.V
VANCOUVER, Oct. 30 /CNW/ - Encanto Potash Corp. ("Encanto" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the granting of an INAC (Indian Northern Affairs Canada) drill permit for the Ochapowace First Nations lands, in Saskatchewan.
Barlon Engineering and Nabors Drilling of Calgary have been retained to conduct the drill program. This initial program will be comprised of a 1,350 metre hole. The purpose of the program is to evaluate the potential of the property to host economic grades of potash, as well as to calibrate the information received from the 2D and 3D seismic programs.
The Ochapowace First Nations lands are surrounded by several oil and gas boreholes that indicate there are 3 potash beds present on the property, and with significant widths.
Encanto has an agreement with the Ochapowace First Nations that gives them a 3% Gross Over Riding Royalty (GORR) upon production of any potash deposit that gets developed with Encanto on their lands.
Encanto CEO James Walchuck says "With this drill program, Encanto hopes to prove our theory that the potash found in surrounding oil wells goes completely through Ochapowace lands. Results from this program should be available in five to six weeks and will hopefully indicate potentially economic grades on the property."
The 2D seismic program continues on the Muskowekwan and Daystar First Nations land and is nearing completion. These are the fourth and fifth First Nations lands on which Encanto will have completed 2D seismic surveys.
Encanto is also pleased to announce the appointment of Gordon Keep as the independent Chairman of the Board. Mr. Keep is Executive Vice-President of Fiore Financial Corporation and has extensive business experience in investment banking, and creating public natural resource companies.
About Encanto:
Encanto Potash Corp. is a TSX Venture Exchange-listed Canadian resource company engaged in the exploration and development of potash properties in the Province of Saskatchewan, Canada - the largest producing region for potash in the world.
To find out more about Encanto Potash Corp., please visit the company website at www.encantopotash.com or review the documents filed on www.sedar.com.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
"James Walchuck"
Per:
------------------
James Walchuck
President and CEO
NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
THE FOREGOING INFORMATION MAY CONTAIN FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION RELATING TO THE FUTURE PERFORMANCE OF THE COMPANY. FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO A NUMBER OF KNOWN AND UNKNOWN RISKS, UNCERTAINTIES AND OTHER FACTORS THAT MAY CAUSE ACTUAL RESULTS TO DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE ANTICIPATED IN OUR FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS. SUCH RISKS AND OTHER FACTORS INCLUDE, AMONG OTHERS, THE ACTUAL RESULTS OF EXPLORATION ACTIVITIES, CHANGES IN WORLD COMMODITY MARKETS OR EQUITY MARKETS, THE RISKS OF THE MINING INDUSTRY INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THOSE ASSOCIATED WITH THE ENVIRONMENT, DELAYS IN OBTAINING GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS, PERMITS OR FINANCING OR IN THE COMPLETION OF DEVELOPMENT OR CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES, TITLE DISPUTES, CHANGE IN GOVERNMENT AND CHANGES TO REGULATIONS AFFECTING THE MINING INDUSTRY, AND OTHER RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES DETAILED FROM TIME TO TIME IN THE COMPANY'S FILINGS WITH THE CANADIAN SECURITIES ADMINISTRATORS (AVAILABLE AT WWW.SEDAR.COM). FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS ARE MADE BASED ON VARIOUS ASSUMPTIONS AND ON MANAGEMENT'S BELIEFS, ESTIMATES AND OPINIONS ON THE DATE THE STATEMENTS ARE MADE. SHOULD ONE OR MORE OF THESE RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES MATERIALIZE, OR SHOULD UNDERLYING ASSUMPTIONS PROVE INCORRECT, ACTUAL RESULTS MAY VARY MATERIALLY FROM THOSE DESCRIBED IN THE FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN. THE COMPANY UNDERTAKES NO OBLIGATION TO UPDATE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS IF THESE ASSUMPTIONS, BELIEFS, ESTIMATES AND OPINIONS OR OTHER CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD CHANGE, EXCEPT AS REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAW.
Contacts
James Walchuck
President and CEO
Tel: (604) 683-2402
Keith Schaefer
Vanguard Shareholder Solutions
Tel: (604) 608-0824
Toll Free: 1-866-918-0824
Allana Resources Considering Multiple Unsolicited Offers for Its Ethiopian Potash Project
Wed Oct 28, 7:30 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/28102009/28/link-f-ccnmatthews-allana-resources-considering-multiple-unsolicited-offers-its-ethiopian.html
TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Oct. 28, 2009) - Allana Resources Inc. (TSX VENTURE: AAA.V) ("Allana" or the "Company"), is pleased to announce that it has received multiple unsolicited offers from various strategic counterparties (the "Other Offers") to participate in its potash project located in the Danakil Depression in northeastern Ethiopia (the "Project"). Allana's management is currently evaluating the Other Offers, all of which include terms and conditions which are presently believed by management to be more attractive than the previously announced memorandum of understanding ("MOU") with ChinaCo (See Allana News Release dated July 20, 2009). In light of its receipt of the Other Offers, Allana will assess the Other Offers relative to the MOU. Following that assessment, Allana will pursue the transaction for the Project that it believes offers the greatest value to Allana's shareholders and is in the best interest of the Company. Allana management firmly believes the Project represents a significant, unique potash asset and that the Other Offers are a testament to the scale, quality, value and scarcity of the Project.
Farhad Abasov, Allana's President and CEO, stated, "Allana is pleased to receive additional offers for its significant potash project in Ethiopia. There are currently a number of attractive proposals available to the Company, including the initially contemplated transaction with ChinaCo. Allana will evaluate each one and will pursue the proposal that maximizes shareholder value and is in the best interest of the Company."
About Allana Resources Inc.
Allana is a publicly traded corporation with a focus on the acquisition and development of potash assets internationally with its major focus on a previously explored potash property in Ethiopia with 43-101-compliant Inferred Mineral Resource of over 100 million tonnes of potash mineralization (Sylvite and Kainite) with a composite grade of 20.8 % KCl (see Allana News Release Sept. 17, 2008). Allana has approximately 80.5 million shares outstanding and trades on the TSX-Venture Exchange under the symbol "AAA".
Forward-Looking Statement
Except for statements of historical fact relating to the Company, certain information contained herein constitutes ''forward-looking information'' under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the unsolicited offers and the likelihood of such offers being finalized on desirable terms to the Company, the estimated production, the estimation of mineral reserves and mineral resources; the realization of mineral reserve estimates; the timing and amount of estimated future production; costs of production; capital expenditures; success of exploration activities; permitting time lines and permitting, mining or processing issues; government regulation of mining operations; environmental risks; unanticipated reclamation expenses; title disputes or claims; litigation liabilities; limitations on insurance coverage and the effect of terminating the investor relations contract. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE
Contacts
Farhad Abasov
Allana Resources Inc.
+1 416 309-2691
fabasov@allanaresources.com
Peter MacLean
Allana Resources Inc.
+1 416 861 2262
peter@allanaresources.com
Trigon Shareholders Approve Reverse Takeover by Intercontinental Potash
Wed Oct 28, 7:00 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/28102009/30/link-f-cnw-trigon-shareholders-approve-reverse-takeover-intercontinental-potash.html
TORONTO, Oct. 28 /CNW/ - Trigon Uranium Corp. ("Trigon") (TSXV: TEL.V) announced today that it has received shareholder approval of all matters voted on at its special meeting of shareholders held on October 26, 2009 (the "Meeting"). The following items as described in the management information circular of Trigon dated September 28, 2009 (the "Circular") were approved by shareholders:
1. Election of Directors: Mr. Sidney Himmel, Dr. George Poling, The
Honourable Pierre Pettigrew P.C, Mr. Anthony Grey, Mr. Ernest Angelo,
Mr. John Greenslade, Mr. Knute Lee;
2. Consolidation of all of the outstanding common shares of Trigon on
the basis of one (1) "new" common share for every four (4) "old"
common shares outstanding (the "Consolidation"), and the change of
name of Trigon from "Trigon Uranium Corp." to "Intercontinental Potash
Corp." or such other name as may be acceptable to Industry Canada and
the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Name Change"); and
3. Acquisition by Trigon of up to 100% of the issued and outstanding
shares of Intercontinental Potash Corp. ("ICP") which it does not
otherwise own, all on the terms and subject to the conditions
contained in a Support Agreement dated as of September 25, 2009 among
Trigon and ICP, and the issuance of securities of Trigon in
consideration thereof (the "RTO").
99.5% of the proxies received and all of the shareholders present at the Meeting voted in favour of the transaction.
Sidney Himmel, President and CEO of Trigon Uranium Corp. and Intercontinental Potash Corp. stated "We are pleased that the Trigon shareholders support the acquisition of ICP. We believe the new company is positioned to develop polyhalite as the feedstock for very low cost production of the premium potash fertilizer, potassium sulphate, also known as "SOP". SOP is a value-added non-chloride potassium fertilizer which sells at a higher price than standard potash, sylvite. We believe that polyhalite can be developed as a cost-effective multinutrient and slow release potash fertilizer."
Further details of each of the RTO, Consolidation and Name Change are set forth in the Circular and in the joint press release of Trigon and ICP dated as of September 30, 2009, each of which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Each of the RTO, Consolidation and Name Change remain subject to the receipt of the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. The RTO is also subject to a minimum number of ICP shares being tendered to the offer to purchase.
About Intercontinental Potash Corp
ICP is developing its potash properties with specific focus on Polyhalite as a slow-release multi-nutrient fertilizer and as a potassium sulphate potash fertilizer from its 100%-owned Ochoa project in Lea County, New Mexico. Polyhalite is comparable to other multi-nutrient potassium fertilizers such as langbeinite in which towards two million tons are sold per year. Polyhalite has the advantage of being a cost effective, chloride-free new fertilizer. The Company's Ochoa property consists of federal sub-surface potassium permits granted by the Bureau of Land Management ("BLM") covering more than 36,500 acres of land. All reclamation plans, environmental plans, and archeological work have been approved by BLM.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of Trigon and ICP, including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, dependence upon regulatory and shareholder approvals, the execution of definitive documentation and the uncertainty of obtaining additional financing. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.
Completion of the RTO, the Consolidation, the Name Change, the Financing and related matters are subject to a number of conditions and the receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals, including the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. The RTO cannot close until all required regulatory approvals are obtained. There can be no assurance that the transaction will be completed as proposed or at all. Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the Circular, any information released or received with respect to the proposed transactions may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of Trigon should be considered highly speculative. The TSX Venture Exchange has in no way passed upon the merits of the proposed transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.
NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER
(AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE)
ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
Contacts
please visit www.trigonuraniumcorp.com or www.intercontinentalpotash.com or contact: Intercontinental Potash Corp
Sidney Himmel
President and Chief Executive Officer
(416) 624-3781
shimmel@intercontinentalpotash.com
or Investor Relations
Joanna Longo
Vice President
The Equicom Group
(416) 815-0700 ext. 233
jlongo@equicomgroup.com
UPDATE 2-Sirius Exploration buys Australian potash permits
Fri Oct 23, 2009 6:58am EDT
http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idAFBNG51232920091023?rpc=44
* Sirius to buy Derby Salt for 13 mln stg in stock
* To issue 100 mln new shares to Derby shareholders
* Sirius shares rise as much as 11.6 pct (Recasts, adds details)
Oct 23 (Reuters) - Sirius Exploration Plc (SXX.L), a diversified mining and exploration holding company, said it bought an Australian firm holding salt and potash permits for 13 million pounds ($21.60 million) in stock, sending its shares up as much as 11.6 percent.
Last week, Sirius had agreed to buy Australia's Adavale, which holds mineral exploration permits in Queensland, in a share deal worth 19.5 million pounds [ID:nLF523060] .
Sirius, which focuses on North America and Australia, on Friday said Perth-based private firm Derby Salt Pty Ltd holds mineral leases of more than 125,000 hectares in the Kimberley region of Western Australia.
The leases allow for the exploration and extraction of salt and potash, an essential mineral needed for plant growth, and the creation of caverns for the storage of natural gas or potentially carbon dioxide.
Sirius said Derby Salt's shareholders, the Catlow Family Trust, have accepted 100 million new Sirius Exploration shares at 13 pence per share.
The new shares represent 16.65 percent of Sirius's enlarged issued share capital, the company said.
Sirius said the acquisition gave it a subsidiary which had major potential to establish a conventional salt and potash mining operation.
"We believe that the demand for potash, salt and energy storage will increase worldwide and the acquisition of Derby Salt in Western Australia will complement our similar activities in North Dakota and Queensland," Sirius Chairman Richard Poulden said in a statement.
In September, Sirius had agreed to buy AusPotash Corp, a Canadian company which develops mineral properties, for up to 13.4 million pounds.
According to a forecast in September, demand for potash is expected to rebound gradually in China, North America and Brazil in the coming months as economic conditions improve and the crop nutrient's price stabilises at more affordable levels. [ID:nN21196055]
Sirius shares were up 2.3 percent at 11 pence at 1057 GMT on Friday on the London Stock Exchange. They touched a high of 11.6 pence earlier in the session. ($1=.6018 Pound) (Reporting by Kumar Alagappan in Bangalore; Editing by Vinu Pilakkott)
Atacama Granted Drill Permits for Salvador Potash Project in Brazil
Tue Oct 20, 11:52 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/20102009/28/link-f-ccnmatthews-atacama-granted-drill-permits-salvador-potash-project-brazil.html
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Oct. 20, 2009) - Atacama Minerals Corp. (TSX VENTURE: AAM.V) ("Atacama" or "the Company") is pleased to announce that it has been granted the necessary governmental permits to commence drilling on its Salvador Potash Project located near the city of Salvador, Bahia, on the northeastern coast of Brazil. A rig is currently being mobilized to site for the immediate commencement of the drilling program.
"The Salvador Potash Project is located within a large on-shore sedimentary basin with the potential to host a major new potash deposit in Brazil. The Company is now ready to move forward with the first phase of exploration drilling," says Edward Posey, President and CEO of Atacama Minerals Corp. "In the past months geological mapping along with geophysical surveying and studies of historical drilling have returned very encouraging results and we are eager to begin the first round of drilling."
Atacama Minerals holds exploration permits which have been recently expanded to cover an area of 2,500 square kilometers over the southern on-shore portion of the Reconcavo Sedimentary Basin. Historical drilling records indicate the occurrence of potash beds of various meters in thickness at depths of approximately 1,000 meters, directly overlying the halite salt bed located in the evaporitic section of the lower Alianca Formation of upper Jurassic age.
The first phase drilling is designed to define the depth, thickness and grade of the potash beds within the central portion of the project area, approximately two kilometers from a historic drill hole, MQ-3, which intercepted 9 meters of sylvinite at a depth of 1,100 meters in 1972 (see Company's news release of July 14, 2008).
Brazil imports about 90% of its potash needs and is the world's second largest potash importer. In 2008, Brazil consumed an estimated 7.4 million tonnes of potash of which 6.5 million tonnes was imported. The country is a major exporter of coffee, sugar, soybeans, tobacco, beef and poultry. Brazil plans to continue expanding agricultural production in the coming years, driving further potash demand, expected to reach ten million tonnes by the year 2015 (British Sulphur Consultants).
About Atacama Minerals
Atacama Minerals Corp. is a Canadian company focused on discovery and development of economic industrial minerals projects in South America. The Company currently produces approximately 1,000 tpa iodine from its Aguas Blancas iodine/nitrate mine in northern Chile. Phased development planning to produce specialty nitrate fertilizers as a by-product of the Company's iodine operations is underway. In addition, the Company holds an extensive potash exploration project in northeastern Brazil.
On behalf of the Board,
Edward F. Posey, President
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contacts
Sophia Shane
Atacama Minerals Corp.
Corporate Development
(604) 689-7842
(604) 689-4250 (FAX)
www.atacama.com
Phosphate Australia resource jumps at Highland Plains in Northern Territory
by Amy Dry
http://www.proactiveinvestors.com.au/companies/news/2917/phosphate-australia-resource-jumps-at-highland-plains-in-northern-territory-2917.html
Phosphate Australia (ASX: POZ) has upgraded the resource at Highland Plains to a 14 Mt, at the company’s flagship phosphate project in the Northern Territory.
Investors liked the news, pushing the stock up 8.7%.
The enhanced estimate within the project’s Western Mine Target Zone has been prepared at a cut-off of 15 per cent P2O5, compared with the zone’s previous estimate of seven Mt at 23 per cent P2O5.
The Highland Plain’s total Inferred Resource comprises 56 Mt grading 16 per cent P2O5.
Phosphate Australia managing director Andrew James said the company was in a good financial position to advance the project.
“The company is in a strong financial position to progress the project through the important near-term studies and reporting schedule required to achieve the Company’s objective of developing Australia’s lowest operating cost, new phosphate mining operation.
The WMTZ has emerged as the principal focus of the company, with the zone planned to support a startup mine with the production of 500,000 to 1 million tonnes per annum of beneficiated rock phosphate with trucking to the Gulf of Carpentaria coast.
With ongoing exploration drilling, there is further potential for Phosphate Australia to increase the global resource base at Highland Plains.
Last month, the company announced high grade hits at the project, including 10 metres at 24.7 per cent P2O5 from 8 metres; (with four metres at 31.1 per cent from 11 metres) and five metres at 24.7 per cent P2O5 from 34 metres at the project.
The project is located within EL 25068, 500km east of Tennant Creek and abutting the NT border with Queensland. There are also transport options to port, either to Queensland or ports in NT, as well as a rail option via the Tennant Creek Railhead.
Fresh from a capital raising, POZ is cashed up, with $8m cash on board.
Encanto Potash Corp. announces 2D seismic has begun on the Muskowekwan First Nations lands
Wed Oct 7, 2:49 PM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/07102009/30/link-f-cnw-encanto-potash-corp-announces-2d-seismic-begun-muskowekwan.html
Trading Symbol: TSXV EPO.V
VANCOUVER, Oct. 7 /CNW/ - Encanto Potash Corp. ("Encanto" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has commenced a 2D seismic program on the Muskowekwan First Nations lands which are located approximately 100 kilometres north of Regina, Saskatchewan.
The Muskowekwan lands consist of 43,000 acres of gentle rolling plains. To date six oil and gas wells surround the Muskowekwan Exploration Participation Agreement ("EPA") lands and have shown at least three potash beds are present in each of these wells.
"We are pleased and excited to see Encanto commence potash exploration on our Muskowekwan First Nations lands," says Muskowekwan Chief Reg Bellerose. "The economic potential and benefits resulting from a potash mine has our entire community excited. The exploration agreements the Muskowekwan have with Encanto and the planned exploration program fully respect our treaty rights and stewardship of our land. We look forward to working with Encanto and moving this project forward."
This is the seventh EPA that Encanto has signed with First Nations in Saskatchewan, totaling approximately 187,000 acres (75,675 hectares). This does not include the Spar Property that has recently been purchased from Lion Energy Corp. (formerly Raytec Metals Corp.).
As soon as this seismic survey is complete at the Muskowekwan lands, Encanto will begin another 2D seismic program at the nearby Daystar First Nations lands. Encanto has a fall 2009 budget of $6,500,000 of flow-through money required to be spent by December 31, 2009. These flow through funds have been earmarked to include 2D and 3D seismic testing, as well as drilling several holes in the respective areas.
Encanto Chief Executive Officer James Walchuck states, "The Muskowekwan lands are in the heart of some of the best potash lands in the world and we are very excited to begin our 2D seismic work."
About Encanto:
Encanto Potash Corp. is a TSX Venture Exchange-listed Canadian resource company engaged in the exploration and development of potash properties in the Province of Saskatchewan, Canada - the largest producing region for potash in the world.
To find out more about Encanto Potash Corp., please visit the company website at www.encantopotash.com or review the documents filed on www.sedar.com.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
"James Walchuck"
Per: ------------------
James Walchuck
President and CEO
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as
that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts
responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
The foregoing information may contain forward-looking information relating to the future performance of the Company. Forward looking information is subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in our forward looking statements. Such risks and other factors include, among others, the actual results of exploration activities, changes in world commodity markets or equity markets, the risks of the mining industry including, without limitation, those associated with the environment, delays in obtaining governmental approvals, permits or financing or in the completion of development or construction activities, title disputes, change in government and changes to regulations affecting the mining industry, and other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the Company's filings with the Canadian securities administrators (available at www.SEDAR.com). Forward-looking statements are made based on various assumptions and on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date the statements are made. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in the forward-looking information contained herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these assumptions, beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable law.
Contacts
James Walchuck
President and CEO
Tel: (604) 683-2402
Keith Schaefer
Vanguard Shareholder Solutions
Tel: (604) 608-0824
Toll Free: 1-866-918-0824
Western Potash Corp. Begins Resource Definition Drilling And 3D Seismic Surveys at Milestone, Fourth Well Intersects a Composite Thickness of Twenty F
Thu Oct 8, 1:42 PM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/08102009/34/biz-f-business-wire-western-potash-corp-begins-resource-definition-drilling-3d.html
VANCOUVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Western Potash Corp. (the “Company”) (TSX.V: WPX, FSE: AHE) is pleased to announce that it has initiated a resource definition drill program consisting of 5 wells in the area surrounding the Milestone-003 well which intersected a composite thickness of 24.4m of potash mineralization with a grade of 18.2% wt K2O, as reported in a press release dated August 24, 2009. The Company’s wholly-owned Milestone property, comprising 500 square km in area, is located approximately 30 km southeast of Regina, and is southeast of Mosaic’s Belle Plaine Mine, one of the largest producing potash solution mines in the world.
The Company’s board has approved an $8.5 million CAD budget for this program and is expecting to produce an NI-43-101 compliant inferred resource calculation during Q4 2009. The Company will also complete an NI-43-101 compliant indicated and inferred resource calculation based on the results of the expanded 5 well resource definition drill program, 2D seismic, and 3D seismic surveys. This report is expected to be complete during early 2010, dependant on the completion and results of the aforementioned drilling and seismic surveys.
The Company also reports the completion of the first well in the current resource definition program. The Milestone-004 well is the fifth well drilled on the Milestone property and is located approximately 3.0 km to the south of the Milestone-003 well which reported a composite thickness of 24.4m of potash mineralization with a grade of 18.2% wt K2O.
Coring of the Milestone - 004 well has intersected the Prairie Evaporite Formation at a vertical depth of 1,727.6 m. Visual geological evaluation of the core in conjunction with down-hole gamma ray logs indicate strong potash grades, very low carnallite content, and very promising minimum formation temperatures of 60° C within the two upper members, with some carnallite present in the Esterhazy member. The following potash member thicknesses are indicated by the down-hole gamma ray logs:
Member
From (m) To (m) Thickness (m)
Patience Lake 1736.4 1750.0 13.6
Belle Plaine 1752.0 1757.4 5.4
Esterhazy 1775.0 1781.0 6.0
Passport Metals Inc.: Arizona Potash Property Acquisition, Lease with Option to Purchase
Wednesday October 14, 12:36 pm ET
http://ca.us.biz.yahoo.com/iw/091014/0547501.html?.v=1
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - 10/14/09) - Passport Metals Inc. (TSX-V:PPI - News) has signed a 4 year lease with an option to purchase on the Twin Butte Ranch, in the potash bearing Holbrook Basin of east-central Arizona. The Twin Butte Ranch comprises some 28,526 acres (11,544 hectares) of private deeded land with 76.7% or approximately 21,894 acres (8,860 hectares) overlying the potash horizons within the Holbrook Basin.
Under the terms of the agreement Passport can earn a 100% undivided interest in the deeded land and sub-surface minerals rights by making lease payments totaling US$500,000 over the next four years and, upon exercising its option to purchase, by paying US$20,000,000 for the entire Twin Butte Ranch including all sub-surface mineral rights excepting those pertaining to oil and gas, petrified wood and geothermal resources. There are no royalties associated with the sub-surface mineral rights.
The central 1,500 square kilometres or 155,000 hectares of the Holbrook Basin was found to be underlain by potash as a result of exploration in the 1960's and 1970's by Arkla Exploration Company and Duval Corporation among others. Steven L. Rauzi of the Arizona Geological Survey reviewed the data and published an Open File Report in 2008 which showed the potash horizons ranged from 5 to in excess of 30 feet throughout the Basin. He further estimated a geologic target for the entire Holbrook Basin of 682 million tonnes at 6% K2O to 2.58 billion tonnes at 20% K2O.
According to the isopach map with Rauzi's report, the potash horizon underlying the Twin Butte Ranch property appears to thicken from 10 feet to in excess of 20 feet from northwest to southeast across the ranch property.
Nine of the Arkla Exploration Company holes lie within the current boundaries of the Twin Butte Ranch property. Two of the holes were outside of the limits of the potash. Six of the remaining seven holes were concentrated in the southwest area of the ranch including the four with assay results, which were 7.05% K2O to 14.50% K2O over 4 feet (1.2 metres). Arkla did not assay all of the holes as they relied on gamma ray logs to determine the presence of potassium, and hence potash in the drill holes. The gamma ray logs show the potash horizon ranges in width from 4 to 10 feet (1.2 to 3.0 metres). The depth to the top of the potash horizon ranges from 990 to 1440 feet (301.8 to 438.9 metres).
The location of these seven holes, along with the remaining Arkla drill holes and the four holes completed by Passport earlier this year within the entire Passport Holbrook Basin holdings is shown in the following map. The map can also be found on the Company's website at http://www.passportmetals.net/Holbrook%20Basin%20Holdings%2010-Oct-2009.jpg.
The Arkla drilling tested only 6 of the 36 sections of land comprising the Twin Butte Ranch property, concentrating largely in the southwest part of the ranch. Passport plans an aggressive drill program initially focused on the southeast portion of the ranch to test the thickest areas of potash.
The Twin Butte Lease brings Passport's total land holdings within the Holbrook Basin to almost 33,000 acres (13,350 hectares). President Richard Hunter is very pleased with the agreement to lease and purchase the Twin Butte Ranch, saying: "Passport has more than tripled its landholdings in the Holbrook Basin by adding some 36 sections of private lands to the 18 sections of State lands it already had. We are now one of the largest landholders, if not the largest landholder, drilling for potash in the Holbrook Basin."
Based on Rauzi's geological target estimate of the entire Holbrook Basin, the 13,350 hectares now under option or lease to Passport could host 8.61% of the total geological target of the 155,000 hectares or 58.7 million tonnes at 6% K2O to 222.2 million tonnes at 20% K2O.
There are no current 43-101 mineral reserves or mineral resources on the Passport Metals Inc. Holbrook Basin Potash Project holdings. The reader is cautioned that the potential quantity and grade indicated above is conceptual in nature. It has been provided only for illustration purposes. At this time, there has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the discovery of these mineral resources.
Passport will immediately apply to the Arizona Oil and Gas Commission for permits to commence drilling on the Twin Butte Ranch property. Since Passport will be exploring on private land, the permitting process is considerably expedited in comparison to state or federal lands. All sites will be reclaimed to the standard required by the Arizona Land Commission for State Exploration Permits.
Due to relatively shallow depths to the top of the potash layers (300-450 metres), the potash deposits of the Holbrook Basin are considered favorable for either conventional underground or in-situ solution mining. Previous drilling has indicated that faulting and layer disruption from diapir effects common to salt deposits are minimal, thereby allowing for increased ease and decreased costs of all future exploration and development activities.
R. Tim Henneberry, P.Geo., a Director of Passport, is the Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, who has reviewed and approved the technical content of this news release.
On behalf of the Board of Directors
PASSPORT METALS INC.
Laara Shaffer, Director
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contact:
Contacts:
Passport Metals Inc.
Laara Shaffer
Director
(604) 687-0300
(604) 687-0151 (FAX)
www.passportmetals.net
Source: Passport Metals Inc.
Athabasca Potash mulls increased mine size at Burr
Thu Oct 15, 2009 6:22pm EDT
http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idAFN1531270020091015?rpc=44&sp=true
* Considering 3-4 mln tonne per year mine at Burr site
* To complete study on larger mine in 7-8 weeks (Figures in U.S. dollars unless noted)
By Euan Rocha
TORONTO, Oct 15 (Reuters) - Athabasca Potash (API.TO) is studying the economics and feasibility of increasing the size of its proposed Burr project in Western Canada, a top official for the miner said on Thursday.
In its resource report filed with regulatory authorities a year ago, the Canadian potash explorer had outlined capital expenditure costs of slightly over C$2 billion to build a 2 million tonne per year potash mine.
However, the company is now exploring the feasibility of producing 3 million to 4 million tonnes of potash annually from the project, Chief Operating Officer Terry Walbaum, said in an interview with Reuters.
Walbaum said the study on the revised mine size will likely be completed and submitted to the company's board in the next seven to eight weeks. The results will likely be a part of Athabasca's pre-feasibility study, which was originally expected to be completed in the third-quarter of 2009.
Based on Athabasca's most recent resource estimates, analysts believe that the Burr project in the province of Saskatchewan could result in a potash mine producing 2 million tonnes annually for 50 to 70 years.
Although increased annual production would lower the anticipated mine life, it could improve the economics of the project by lowering the capital expenditure costs per tonne, associated with the mine build.
Bank of Montreal analyst Joel Jackson estimates the Burr project could cost about $2.5 billion for a 2 million-tonne mine, which works out to capital expenditure costs of $1,250 per tonne.
By comparison, Jackson expects Potash One's (KCL.TO) Legacy project to cost $1.9 billion for a 2.5 million-tonne mine, giving capital expenditure costs of $752 per tonne.
The Legacy and Burr projects are two of the most well-advanced new projects in Saskatchewan, a major producer of global potash supply.
The Burr project is amenable to conventional shaft mining, while Legacy is better suited to solution mining, which uses water to dissolve the mineral from ore.
Building a conventional shaft mine involves higher up-front capital expenditures than a solution mine, but over the long run, operating costs for a solution mine tend to be higher than those of conventional shaft mines.
A larger mine at Burr, while raising overall mine-build costs, is likely to reduce capital expenditure costs per tonne of annual production and allow projected costs per tonne to compare more favorably with other proposed potash expansions in the resource-rich province.
Moreover, lower capital expenditure costs per tonne and higher output are likely to make Burr more attractive to potential partners from emerging economies like India and China, which are keen to secure long-term potash supplies. [ID:nN0987897] [ID:nN07471037]
Athabasca and most other junior potash explorers are looking for partners to develop their projects, given the high capital costs involved in building a potash mine.
Walbaum indicated that one of the primary motivating factors for considering a larger mine was that emerging market players are seeking projects that have large production capacity.
($1=$1.03 Canadian) (Reporting by Euan Rocha; editing by Rob Wilson)
North American potash inventories decline in September
Thu Oct 15, 2009 9:45pm EDT
http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idAFN1527288220091016?rpc=44
* North American potash inventories down 54,000 tonnes
* Potash inventories still 142 pct above prior 5-yr average
TORONTO, Oct 15 (Reuters) - Potash Corp of Saskatchewan (POT.TO) said on Thursday North American potash inventories declined for a third consecutive month, but inventories at the manufacturer level continue to remain well above average.
Potash Corp, the world's largest producer of the crop nutrient, said North American producer inventories in September fell by 54,000 tonnes to just above 3 million tonnes, down from prior-month levels but still 142 percent more than the previous five-year average.
Potash inventories had risen steadily through the first-half of 2009, despite major production cuts, as farmers concerned by exorbitant pricing and hurt by the credit crunch had deferred fertilizer application.
Buyers of the nutrient were also staying out of the market in anticipation of big annual import contracts signed by India and China, which typically set the tone for spot market pricing.
In July, India signed contracts to import the bulk of its annual potash requirements at $460 a tonne, well below last year's contract price of more than $600 and the spot market price of $700 at the time.
The new Indian contract has brought some international buyers back into the market, but many buyers and distributors still remain on the sidelines and are waiting for Chinese importers to finalize their annual contract, as they believe that potash prices could fall further.
In a set of graphical data posted to its website, Potash Corp also indicated that potash spot market pricing was almost flat at just under $500 per tonne in September. (Reporting by Euan Rocha)
Allana Resources Announces Camp Construction Initiated at Its Ethiopian Potash Project
Tue Oct 6, 12:52 PM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/06102009/28/link-f-ccnmatthews-allana-resources-announces-camp-construction-initiated-its-ethiopian.html
TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Oct. 6, 2009) - Allana Resources Inc. (TSX VENTURE: AAA.V) ("Allana" or the "Company"), is pleased to announce that it has commissioned Calivia Global LLC ("Calivia") to construct an all-season camp at its Ethiopia Potash Project. Calivia, formerly Nova International, has extensive experience in modular camp construction in various locations worldwide and its client list includes Alcoa, Wega Mining, Orsu Metal and Madagascar Oil.
Camp construction is scheduled to begin immediately and is completion is planned by the end of November. The plans for the air conditioned camp is for it to house up to 20 people and include dormitories, a complete kitchen, diesel generator as well as water purification technology. The camp's plans incorporate a modular design to allow for staged expansion as the project grows.
Farhad Abasov, Allana's President and CEO, stated, "Allana is excited to take this first step to help expedite our upcoming drill program. The new camp will provide solid infrastructure designed to meet the challenging climate of the Dallol region. Personnel using the camp will have year round, safe and secure access to the area from which to work and this will be important as we move through the drilling stage and into the feasibility stage of the project."
About Allana Resources Inc.
Allana is a publicly traded corporation with a focus on the acquisition and development of potash assets internationally with its major focus on a previously explored potash property in Ethiopia with 43-101-compliant Inferred Mineral Resource of over 100 million tonnes of potash mineralization (Sylvite and Kainite) with a composite grade of 20.8 % KCl. Allana has approximately 80 million shares outstanding and trades on the TSX-Venture exchange under the symbol "AAA".
Peter J. MacLean, Ph.D., P. Geo., Allana's VP Exploration, is a Qualified Person as defined under National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical information presented in this release.
Forward-Looking Statement
Except for statements of historical fact relating to the Company, certain information contained herein constitutes ''forward-looking information'' under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the plans for the camp and the timing of its construction, estimated production, the estimation of mineral reserves and mineral resources; the realization of mineral reserve estimates; the timing and amount of estimated future production; costs of production; capital expenditures; success of exploration activities; permitting time lines and permitting, mining or processing issues; government regulation of mining operations; environmental risks; unanticipated reclamation expenses; title disputes or claims; litigation liabilities; limitations on insurance coverage and the effect of terminating the investor relations contract. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as ''plans'', ''expects'' or ''does not expect'', ''is expected'', ''budget'', ''scheduled'', ''estimates'', ''forecasts'', ''intends'', ''anticipates'' or ''does not anticipate'', or ''believes'', or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results ''may'', ''could'', ''would'', ''might'' or ''will be taken'', ''occur'' or ''be achieved''. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE
Contacts
Farhad Abasov
Allana Resources Inc.
+1 416 309-2691
fabasov@allanaresources.com
Peter MacLean
Allana Resources Inc.
+1 416 861 2262
peter@allanaresources.com
Oklo to commence development of its large phosphate project in Mali
Thursday , 15 Oct 2009
http://www.mineweb.net/mineweb/view/mineweb/en/page674?oid=90810&sn=Detail
Highlights:
Oklo plans to commence a development programme at its Tatteul Phosphate Project in north east Mali;
Oklo will undertake a broad mapping, pitting and sampling programme at Tatteul and begin work in the NW portion of the project where phosphate beds outcrop over a 640km2 area;
The conceptual project target of the Tatteul Phosphate Project ranges between 50Mt and 500Mt rock phosphate this is based on published geological data (refer to definition below). This tonnage range does not constitute a resource estimate;
The flat lying exposed phosphate beds comprise phosphatic shale and bone beds that have grades between 10% and 34% P2O5;
Between the late 1970s and the early 1990s rock phosphate, known as Tilemsi PR, was mined at Tamaguillelt at a grade of 27-28% P2O5;
In medium and long term productivity trials conducted on the yield rates of Tilemsi PR, it was concluded that Tilemsi PR is practically equivalent to TSP (Triple phosphate Fertiliser) per unit of P2O5.
Australian based phosphate and uranium exploration company Oklo Uranium Limited (ASX: OKU) has completed a review of its Tatteul Project in north east Mali, West Africa. The review focussed on establishing a conceptual target tonnage range, as well as assessing possible commercial developmental strategies.
In August and September last year Oklo reported to the ASX the acquisition of a large phosphate project in Mali. The Tatteul Project hosts approximately 185 kilometres of contiguous outcrop of phosphate-bearing shale. In the north-west part of the project alone, the phosphate beds cover an area of 640km2. The phosphate occurrence in the region is reasonably well-known. Grades, thicknesses and lateral continuity from previous exploration and mining activities were accessed and reported in previous ASX announcements.
Preliminary Market Research Results
A review of previous phosphate mining activity conducted in the north east of Mali and quality of the rock phosphate (PR) was undertaken by Oklo in an attempt to understand likely markets and scale of development opportunity. The results have proven extremely positive.
Phosphate Pricing Poised For Turnaround
Melinda Peer, 10.09.09, 5:05 PM ET
http://www.forbes.com/2009/10/09/fertilizers-phosphate-potash-markets-equities-agriculture_print.html
It's been a fallow year for fertilizers and although demand is likely to remain soft through much of next year, improved phosphate demand represents green shoots in the market.
"Among the three major crop nutrients, we believe phosphate has the highest probability for further pricing improvement over the next 12 months," said RBC Capital Markets Fai Lee. She said prices likely bottomed in June and have since climbed 18%--a trend that bodes well for Mosaic, the largest integrated phosphate producer.
The outlook for potash isn't as clear. Although orders are expected to improve from 2009 levels, the strength of the eventual turnaround remains clouded by pricing uncertainty.
"Recent price declines, lack of demand and high producer inventory levels have reinforced buyers' perceptions that they could be further rewarded by continuing to hold off on their potash purchases," Lee said, adding that the strength of potash's recovery will also largely demand on whether China resumes its potash imports in 2010.
Longer-term, demand for both nutrients remain strong. Global population growth will require more food production, making farmers worldwide more dependent on fertilizers.
"According to the International Plant Nutrition Institute, fertilizer accounts for approximately 40% of crop yields," Lee said. "In the major agricultural regions of China, India and Brazil, potash and phosphate application rates are below scientifically recommended levels and improved fertilization practices could lead to higher yields."
Shares of fertilizer companies closed Friday's trading session broadly lower. Mosaic lost 42 cents, or 0.9%, at $49.24; Potash shed $2.77, or 3%, at $90.23 and Agrium closed down by 86 cents, or 1.6%, at $51.91.
M&A moves could extend junior potash play rally
Sun Oct 11, 2009 10:48am EDT
http://ca.reuters.com/article/businessNews/idCATRE59A19C20091011?sp=true
By Euan Rocha
TORONTO (Reuters) - Early-stage Canadian potash companies may have room to extend their healthy rally this year, given the prospect of takeovers by established miners or emerging market players hungry for supply.
But investors will need to cherry-pick those juniors that are most willing and able to strike a deal with potential partners or buyers.
Analysts see the companies with the most viable projects attracting the first deals and securing the best terms.
"It's like going to a dance, if you don't partner up with the pretty girls, then there might not be any pretty girls left," said Wellington West analyst Robert Winslow.
Still, analysts said any concrete deal with one of the juniors is likely to boost valuations across the group.
Small Canadian potash plays are typically overshadowed by industry giants Potash Corp (POT.TO: Quote), Mosaic Co (MOS.N: Quote) and Agrium Inc (AGU.TO: Quote). The big three producers of the crop nutrient have plenty of reserves and argue that greenfield mines are not economically viable at this time, as new mines costs billions of dollars to build.
But those prohibitive development costs give smaller potash explorers a strong incentive to seek alliances and engage in deals that can produce a big payoff for investors.
These include deals with potash producers with aging mines, such as Germany's K+S (SDFG.DE: Quote), or with established miners looking to enter the potash sector, such as BHP Billiton (BHP.AX: Quote) or Vale (VALE5.SA: Quote).
Other possible buyers include customers in emerging economies like India and China, who are looking to sidestep the market dominance currently enjoyed by a small clutch of major potash producers.
U.S. Awasthi the head of India's largest fertilizer distributor, IFFCO, has said his company is looking at setting up potash joint ventures overseas.
Two other Indian companies, MMTC (MMTC.BO: Quote) and Rashtriya Chemicals & Fertilizers (RSTC.BO: Quote), have also been engaged in talks with Athabasca Potash (API.TO: Quote).
ON THE MARKET
Shares of Athabasca, which are trading around C$6.50, are up 480 percent year-to-date, after it announced it was exploring strategic alternatives, including the possible sale of all or part of the company.
Despite the run-up, GMP Securities analyst Anoop Prihar sees Athabasca's shares rising further and has boosted his price target to C$8 from C$3.35.
But Winslow contends that shares of Potash One (KCL.TO: Quote) are the ones most likely to outpace the rest of the pack.
"The reason we like Potash One more in terms of our rating is that its CEO, Paul Matysek, is much more aggressive at trying to find partners," said Winslow, noting that well known mining promoter Robert Friedland is chairman of the company's board.
Moreover, Potash One is trading around C$2.35 well below analysts' average price target of C$4.96. Its proposed Legacy project is likely to be the first new potash mine in Saskatchewan in decades. As a solution-style mine, Legacy would entail lower capital expenses than Athabasca's flagship Burr project, which is better suited to conventional shaft mining.
Though a conventional shaft mine is costlier to build its operating costs are lower than that of a solution mine, which uses water to dissolve the desired mineral from ore.
Bank of Montreal analyst Joel Jackson notes that although the proposed Legacy project is not the cheapest in terms of capital expenditures per tonne of annual production, it is less costly than some mine expansions currently planned by Potash Corp and Mosaic.
That said, Jackson still believes, "with capex estimates for a new greenfield potash mine ranging from $600 to $1,500 per tonne, depending on mine plan and scale, financing still remains the greatest impediment facing junior potash developments."
Analysts expect that a deal for either Athabasca, or Potash One is likely to boost the shares of other Canadian-listed producers, such as Western Potash (WPX.V: Quote), Allana Resources (AAA.V: Quote) and MagIndustries Corp (MAA.TO: Quote).
Western Potash is expected to have a resource estimate and pre-feasibility study completed next year. While, Allana and MagIndustries currently have preliminary agreements with Chinese companies interested in developing assets that the two Canadian companies own in the Congo and Ethiopia.
"I would say there is a good chance of a re-rating in the sector, if any group gets a concrete offer tabled," said Winslow.
($1=$1.04 Canadian)
(Reporting by Euan Rocha)
Potash One Initiates a Full Feasibility Study for Its Legacy Project in Southern Saskatchewan
Monday October 5, 9:00 am ET
http://ca.us.biz.yahoo.com/iw/091005/0544050.html?.v=1
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - 10/05/09) - Potash One Inc. (the "Company" or "Potash One") (TSX:KCL - News) is pleased to announce that it has commenced work on a feasibility study (the "Study" or the "Feasibility Study") for its Legacy potash solution-mining project in Southern Saskatchewan, Canada.
Potash One Inc. has re-engaged SNC-Lavalin Inc. of Montreal, QC to complete the study in cooperation with Potash One and other specialized consultants, which include Whiting Equipment Canada, Inc. a leading provider of evaporator and crystallizer technology to the potash industry.
Subsequent to the very positive results of Legacy's completed Pre-Feasibility Study as announced in June 2009 (NR 09-14), the Company's engineering staff and consultants focused on reviewing project parameters and completing a number of key trade-off and optimization studies in preparation for the Feasibility Study. Feasibility engineering and procurement work started in August 2009 and, as of the current date, the project team is now mobilized and working through the planned report.
With an expected completion date of mid 2010, the Feasibility Study will provide a comprehensive overview of all aspects of the project including the following: land and mineral rights, processing, transportation and logistics, port space options, a detailed market analysis and, of course, refined capital and operating cost estimates along with financial performance metrics.
Paul F. Matysek, President and CEO of Potash One Inc., commented: "A bankable Feasibility Study is the next progressive step in the project development of Legacy. The initiation of our Feasibility Study is a continuation of the Company's long term strategic plans for the Legacy project to become the first new greenfield Potash mine in Saskatchewan in over 40 years. Our Management team has a proven track record for timely delivery and rigorous execution of our Project development plans and the completion of this final phase will position us head and shoulders above any other planned greenfield project in Canada in terms of a thorough independent evaluation and clear development path."
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS,
Paul F. Matysek, M.Sc., P.Geo., President and Chief Executive Officer
About Potash One Inc.:
Potash One Inc. is a well-funded TSX-listed Canadian resource Company engaged in the exploration and development of advanced potash properties amenable to solution mining. The Company owns a 100% interest in the 97,240 acre Legacy Project which has an NI 43-101 compliant Measured Resource of 29 million tonnes of recoverable KCl, Indicated Mineral Resource of 222 million tonnes of KCl and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 852 million tonnes of KCl. The Company has recently completed a pre-feasibility study with SNC-Lavalin with robust economics at current potash pricing. The Legacy Project is adjacent to the largest producing solution potash mine in the world. The Company also owns more than 515,000 acres of Potash Subsurface Exploration Permits in Saskatchewan, Canada.
Forward-Looking Statements: Statements in this release that are forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning the specific factors disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in the Company's periodic filings with Canadian Securities Regulators. Such information contained herein represents management's best judgment as of the date hereof based on information currently available. Statements in this press release other than purely historical information, including statements relating to the Company's future plans and objectives or expected results, constitute forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties inherent in the Company's business, including risks inherent in mineral exploration and development. The Company does not assume the obligation to update any forward-looking statement. There are numerous risks and other factors that will influence a development decision, including concluding resource evaluations on mineral properties, extraction and processing design limitations, financing requirements, permitting risks and economic factors, all of which may be beyond the control of the Company.
The Toronto Stock Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.
Contact:
Contacts:
Potash One Inc.
Paul F. Matysek
President and Chief Executive Officer
(604) 331-4431
(604) 408-4799 (FAX)
info@potash1.com
www.potashone.com
Source: Potash One Inc.
Legend International Holdings Inc. Announces It Now Holds 100% of D-Tree Phosphate Project, Queensland, Australia
Tue Sep 29, 4:40 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/29092009/34/biz-f-business-wire-legend-international-holdings-inc-announces-holds-100-d.html
MELBOURNE, Australia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Legend International Holdings, Inc (OTCBB: LGDI.OB) with phosphate projects in the State of Queensland, today announced that it holds 100% of the D-Tree phosphate project following Mt Isa Metals Ltd’s (“MET”) exit from the joint venture.
Legend, as manager of the D-Tree Joint Venture, had invoiced MET $1.739 million for MET’s 20% interest in the D-Tree project for the period September 1, 2008 to June 30, 2009. MET has decided to dilute rather than pay the invoices and in accordance with the Joint Venture agreement, MET’s interest has reduced to less than 5%, thus requiring MET to exit the Joint Venture. MET retains a royalty of A$0.50 per tonne from product from the D-Tree Joint Venture tenements.
Forward-Looking Statements
Forward-looking statements in this press release are made pursuant to the “safe harbour” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, the risks of exploration and development stage projects, risks associated with environmental and other regulatory matters, mining risks and competition and the volatility of mineral prices. Actual results and timetables could vary significantly. Additional information about these and other factors that could affect the Company’s business is set forth in the Company’s fiscal 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Legend International Holdings Inc
Mr. Joseph Gutnick
Chief Executive Officer
Tel: +011 613 8532 2866
Fax: +011 613 8532 2805
E-mail: josephg@axisc.com.au
or
Legend International Holdings Inc
General Manager Business
New York Office
Tel: (212) 223 0018
Fax: (212) 223 1169
E-mail: legendinfo@axisc.com.au
Junior potash explorers may lure top farming nations
25/09/09
By Pav Jordan
http://www.globeinvestor.com/servlet/WireFeedRedirect?cf=GlobeInvestor/config&vg=BigAdVariableGenerator&date=20090925&archive=roc&slug=2009-09-25T192930Z_01_TRE58O5QB_RTROPTT_0_CBUSINESS-US-POTASH-DEALS-JUNIORS
TORONTO (Reuters) - Junior potash producers may find willing partners in China, India and other farming nations, as the majors stay off the takeover trail to develop their own huge reserves.
The smaller companies are sitting on large potash deposits they cannot afford to develop. And if the big producers are not interested, the juniors will need to be inventive to get their mines built, given that the huge cost of developing new projects may actually scare away investors.
"The small guys are having very active dialogue looking for strategic investors, looking for that source of equity to help them get built," said Dan Barclay, head of mergers and acquisitions, Canada, for Bank of Montreal.
"Do I think a bunch of these guys are going to get sold? I do not," he added. "Do I think they are going to go out and find strategic equity to help them move their business plan along? Yes I do."
From the cane fields of Brazil to the great rice fields of India and China, potash is an essential nutrient to improve the resistance of plants to disease and to boost crop quality and yield.
But a cartel-like handful of firms currently controls supply and pricing, leaving importers searching for alternative ways to get the fertilizer they need.
The smaller companies "really need a sugar daddy like me to come along and bail them out," said Bill Doyle, the chief executive of Potash Corp of Saskatchewan , the world's No. 1 producer.
"Of course we are not going to, because we have hundreds of years of reserves from our own mines and we are doing our own expansions much cheaper than building greenfields," he said in an interview, referring to building mines from scratch.
Even so, there appears to be some interest in finding alternatives to the big producers.
The Indian Farmers Fertiliser Co-operative Ltd (IFFCO), which relies on imports for its supply, said it was evaluating a few projects.
"We are working on potential joint ventures. Potash is not simple. It is a ... risky venture. We have to evaluate very carefully," U.S. Awasthi, managing director of IFFCO, said in an interview this week.
He said Canada was one option that IFFCO has considered, as well as projects closer to home.
The Canadian small-cap sector includes Athabasca Minerals , Potash One Inc and Western Potash Corp .
While some small producers have faded from the spotlight, these are some of companies that continue to beat their drums, insisting they have deposits that are worth developing.
Vancouver-based Potash One said last week that it submitted a proposal to environmental authorities for its Legacy project in the western Canadian province of Saskatchewan -- a major source of potash -- and said it represents the first new potash production facility in the province in more than 40 years.
Encanto Potash Speeds Up Permitting And Progress In Saskatchewan Through Alliances With First Nations
By Charles Wyatt
http://www.minesite.com/nc/minews/singlenews/article/encanto-potash-speeds-up-permitting-and-progress-in-saskatchewan-through-alliances-with-first-nation/1080.html
First, a short history of Encanto Potash as a listed company. It’s short because it was only two months ago that Canadian-listed Angus Ventures closed its acquisition of Encanto Potash Corporation and took on its name as well as its assets. At the same time Raytec Metals agreed to sell all its interests in potash, which included the Spar and KP452 properties, to the new combined company. In return Raytec got 20.68 million shares in Encanto at a price deemed to be C25 cents per share, so a value of C$4.96 million was put on these potash assets, equal to Raytec’s original acquisition cost plus costs incurred at the date of the deal. In addition Raytec has agreed to spend C$6.5 million on its own and Encanto’s potash properties by the end of this year, and for this it will earn a 51 per cent interest in the properties. The final chapter in this saga is that Encanto can buy back this 51 per cent interest for 26 million shares, a move which would give Raytec a 29 per cent holding in the enlarged Encanto.
The result is that Encanto has a useful shareholder as well as a highly prospective portfolio of potash properties in Saskatchewan, which Canadians term the potash capital of the world. The timing of Encanto’s arrival on the potash scene is excellent, as the fertiliser industry has recently gone through one of those periods of madness that afflict commodities from time to time. Prices had risen too high on the back of the biofuel fiasco, a high oil price, and the general crescendo which came to an abrupt halt in 2008. Farmers had slashed their demand for fertilisers and a number of producers went out of business. But there is only a limited amount of time for which the use of fertilisers can be reduced to this extent, before crop yields are reduced significantly. Sanity will gradually return to this market, supported by rising demand. Potash is a major ingredient in most commercial fertilisers.
The current position is that fertiliser prices have fallen back from their peak. Meanwhile, fertiliser use is becoming more efficient, through the use of computerised spreaders. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization expects demand will be 60 per cent higher by 2030, with most of the increase coming from developing countries. Not a bad time, as Chief Executive Jim Walchuck points out, to be building a portolio of potash properties which can be brought into production sequentially.
The initiative for Encanto emanated from a group associated with oil and gas drilling in Saskatchewan and Alberta. They had noticed from their own drill cores just how consistent the beds of potash in the region were, in terms of both width and grade. What they also noticed was that the oil and gas operators who signed land deals with First Nations Bands had much more constructive relationships than those who dealt with the provincial authorities. The provincial authorities were riddled with unnecessary and time consuming bureaucracy whereas by dealing with First Nations the permitting process was simplified in a major way. Once a sensible deal has been agreed with the local band , it is then ratified by Indian Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) and there are no arguments from farmers or municipalities to hold things up. What matters is that the prospects are in the right place and the leaders of the local First Nations band are supportive.
The basic deal with the First Nations in this instance is that Encanto retains a 100 per cent interest in the various prospects, but a three per cent royalty will be payable to the First Nation band owning the land when production starts. The royalty is above the going rate, so provides plenty of incentive for the First Nations to come on board as it will pay off big-time on any project going through to production. Anyway, the oil and gas operators put together 29 letters of interest on properties prospective for potash with the First Nations and then whittled them down to five. These were then taken down to Vancouver where a successful business man named Jim Hutton partnered with the operators and the deals started, with Endeavour Capital acting as adviser to Encanto.
The first four potash prospects on which Encanto is focusing are all within a radius of about 80 kilometers and are close to railway and highway infrastructure - vital when dealing with a bulk commodity such as potash. These four are the Ochapowace and Chacachas prospects, covering a combined 78,000 acres and near existing mines, the Day Star prospect and the Muscowpetung prospect. All are in a prime potash territory which typically hosts three significant potash-bearing beds. So far Encanto has obtained Indian Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) permits on the Ochapawace, Chacachas and Muscowpetung prospects and permits are pending on the Day Star and Muskowekwan prospect. The act of carrying out surveying, seismic and drilling establishes Encanto as the principal in the alliance when things progress to the feasibility stage.
The deal with Raytec also brought in two potash properties which are not involved in First Nations Alliance - Spar and KP452. These are basically one and the same, as Spar consists of five exploration permit applications, and KP452 is simply an extension. Spar is the most advanced prospect in Encanto’s portfolio as it has a NI 43-101 resource estimate of 12.49 million tonnes of K20 (potassium oxide) and a further 12.24 million tonnes inferred. Altogether the claims cover 180,000 acres close to claims held by BHP Billiton Diamonds, so all may not be lost if the potash grades are not economic. A potash project has to be big to be worth spending all the money required for development. This is why Jim Walchuck is carrying out a combination of 2D seismic and drilling to assess the economic potential of the potash-bearing beds. The combination of drilling and 2D returns maximum information over a maximum area at minimum cost.
Until now it looked as if Spar would be on pole position, but last week Jim announced that another Exploration Participation Agreement had been signed with the Muskowekwan First Nation on ground where oil drilling has already confirmed the presence of potash beds. It now looks as if this may overtake Spar, as Encanto reckons that the land package of 43,000 acres is big enough to support a mine if data gleaned so far stands up to examination by 2D seismic and drilling. As soon as the permits are in hand drilling will start, and it looks as if it will only take a fortnight for INAC to issue them. Compare this with the interminable delays involved getting things through provincial authorities and it is easy to see why Encanto sets such store by these First Nations alliances. The Chief of this band, after all, has a Masters degree in economics, and is not likely to hand over assets to a company that he does not believe is capable of adding significant value.
Encanto has therefore started life at a canter. Given that the potash market is still in a degree of disarray it looks to be an ideal time to be building resources. The First Nations alliances should enable the company to catch up quickly, and potential partners will appreciate that a lot of thinking has gone into its progress thus far. Encanto has agreements with seven First Nations bands to assist them in developing potash resources on their lands, which cover an aggregate area of over 76,000 hectares in south-eastern Saskatchewan. Initial drilling results on the latest prospect will be available well before Christmas and a resource estimate is expected in the fall of 2010. These, combined with an improving background for potash, should keep the shares on the move.
Allana's Chinese Partner Successfully Completes Due Diligence and Receives Government Approval
Tue Sep 15, 12:25 PM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/15092009/28/link-f-ccnmatthews-allana-s-chinese-partner-successfully-completes-due-diligence.html
TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Sept. 15, 2009) - Allana Resources Inc. (TSX VENTURE: AAA.V) ("Allana" or the Company"), is pleased to provide an update on the status of the Company's joint venture MOU with a government-owned Chinese company ("ChinaCo") to develop Allana's Ethiopian potash project announced in its press release of July 20, 2009.
The Company has entered into a memorandum of understanding ("MOU") with a large government-owned exploration and development company in China with respect to the joint financing and development of the Company's Potash project in the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia ("Joint Venture").
Allana is pleased to report that ChinaCo has successfully completed its due diligence on the Ethiopian potash project. The due diligence included extensive data compilation, land title research and two site visits to Allana's potash project. The due diligence period was slightly delayed due to uncharacteristically high rainfall west of the Danakhil which led to minor road obstructions. Allana's technical team accompanied ChinaCo's Ethiopian geological team to the project area where historic drill hole collars and the historic mining shaft were inspected.
ChinaCo has also informed Allana's management that it has received approval from the Chinese government to execute a definitive agreement which will outline the final terms of the partnership.
In addition, Allana is pleased to report that ChinaCo has agreed to discuss enhanced deal terms with Allana in the coming weeks. The final signing of a definitive agreement, originally scheduled for Sept. 14, is now expected to take place by October 31, 2009. This extension was necessary due to the delay in the due diligence as well as the revised terms currently under discussion.
Since the finalization of the definitive agreement is taking longer than anticipated, Allana and ChinaCo have agreed that certain steps should be taken in order to ensure that Allana's exploration and development timelines remain on track. This may include camp construction and other actions prior to the definitive agreement being signed.
ChinaCo is a well-established exploration and development company with a successful track record in China and internationally. They have operated dozens of exploration and development projects in various resource sectors. ChinaCo has substantial potash exploration and development experience as well. Allana's Chinese partner is very active in Africa, particularly in Ethiopia. ChinaCo has an established technical base in Ethiopia which will allow Allana to advance its exploration and development program very quickly.
Upon closing of the transaction, Allana expects to be in a more solid financial and technical condition to deliver on its potash project development objectives.
About Allana Resources Inc.:
Allana is a publicly traded corporation with a focus on the acquisition and development of potash assets internationally and recently optioned a previously explored potash property in Ethiopia with NI 43-101-compliant Inferred Mineral Resource of over 100 million tonnes of potash mineralization (Sylvite and Kainite) with a composite grade of 20.8 % KCl (see News Release Sept. 17, 2008). Allana has approximately 80.5 million shares outstanding and trades on the TSX-Venture exchange under the symbol "AAA".
Cautionary Notes
Except for statements of historical fact relating to the Company, certain information contained herein constitutes ''forward-looking information'' under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the effect of the investment, the terms and timing of a definitive agreement, the proposed terms of the joint venture, the terms of the financing, estimated production, the estimation of mineral reserves and mineral resources; the realization of mineral reserve estimates; the timing and amount of estimated future production; costs of production; capital expenditures; success of exploration activities; permitting time lines and permitting, mining or processing issues; government regulation of mining operations; environmental risks; unanticipated reclamation expenses; title disputes or claims; litigation liabilities; limitations on insurance and the receipt of all required regulatory approvals. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as ''plans'', ''expects'' or ''does not expect'', ''is expected'', ''budget'', ''scheduled'', ''estimates'', ''forecasts'', ''intends'', ''anticipates'' or ''does not anticipate'', or ''believes'', or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results ''may'', ''could'', ''would'', ''might'' or ''will be taken'', ''occur'' or ''be achieved''. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
Contacts
Farhad Abasov
Allana Resources Inc.
(416) 309-2691
fabasov@allanaresources.com
Peter MacLean
Allana Resources Inc.
(416) 861-2262
peter@allanaresources.com
Potash One Submits Project Proposal for Its Legacy Project to Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment
Tuesday September 15, 8:00 am ET
http://ca.us.biz.yahoo.com/iw/090915/0537192.html?.v=1
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - 09/15/09) - Potash One Inc. (TSX:KCL - News) (the "Company" or "Potash One") is pleased to announce that it has submitted its project proposal (the "Project Proposal") to the Ministry of Environment of the Province of Saskatchewan (the "Ministry"). The Project Proposal was filed electronically on September 11, 2009 and represents the first formal step towards obtaining environmental approval for Potash One's Legacy potash solution mining project in Saskatchewan, Canada.
The lead regulator for Saskatchewan potash projects is the Ministry of Environment. The process, defined by the Ministry, formally begins with the submission of a project proposal. Based on the information contained in a project proposal, project-specific guidelines are provided to the proponent by the Ministry, which serve to focus the environmental assessment activities for the project. Potash One's environmental assessment activities will culminate with the submission of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The EIS will form the basis for environmental approval of the project; an approval required before construction licensing may be obtained.
It is important to note, that while the Project Proposal is the first formal step in the assessment process, Potash One and its specialized consultants have been actively collecting environmental baseline data, carrying environmental assessment activities and engaging stakeholders for over 18 months. Potash One elected to take this comprehensive and proactive approach to the Project Proposal based on the experience and leadership of its environmental consultant Golder Associates of Saskatoon. Their experience has found that where the Project Proposal contemplates and addresses fully all the relevant issues and is transparent, it facilitates a full and complete assessment of the project in the Regulator's initial review. This can result in a smoother and more expedient review and approval process for Potash One. Potash One believes its Legacy Project and the design work completed to date is environmentally sound and looks forward to working with the Ministry to obtain environmental approval.
Paul F. Matysek, President and CEO of Potash One Inc., commented: "The submission of the Project Proposal for Legacy is a key corporate milestone. It has taken significant resources to arrive at this point, however, Potash One's commitment to being thorough on environmental matters demands a significant level of investment and effort. Environmental stewardship and sensitivity along with open and transparent dialogue with the regulators will continue to be a part of our corporate mandate as an emerging potash producer. From a project development perspective, the submission of the Project Proposal initiates the formal environmental assessment process, leading to construction licensing. We now look forward to working with the regulators to obtain the required licenses and to Legacy becoming the first new potash production facility in Saskatchewan in over 40 years."
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS,
Paul F. Matysek, M.Sc., P.Geo., President and Chief Executive Officer
About Potash One Inc.:
Potash One Inc. is a well-funded TSX-listed Canadian resource company engaged in the exploration and development of advanced potash properties amenable to solution mining. The Company owns a 100% interest in the 97,240 acre Legacy Project which has a NI 43-101 compliant Measured Resource of 29 million tonnes of recoverable KCl, Indicated Mineral Resource of 222 million tonnes of KCl and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 852 million tonnes of KCl. The Company has recently completed a pre-feasibility study with SNC-Lavalin with robust economics at current potash pricing. The Legacy Project is adjacent to the largest producing solution potash mine in the world. The Company also owns more than 515,000 acres of Potash Subsurface Exploration Permits in Saskatchewan, Canada.
Forward-Looking Statements: Statements in this release that are forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning the specific factors disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in the Company's periodic filings with Canadian Securities Regulators. Such information contained herein represents management's best judgment as of the date hereof based on information currently available. Statements in this press release other than purely historical information, including statements relating to the Company's future plans and objectives or expected results, constitute forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties inherent in the Company's business, including risks inherent in mineral exploration and development. The Company does not assume the obligation to update any forward-looking statement. There are numerous risks and other factors that will influence a development decision, including concluding resource evaluations on mineral properties, extraction and processing design limitations, financing requirements, permitting risks and economic factors, all of which may be beyond the control of the Company.
The Toronto Stock Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.
Contact:
Contacts:
Potash One Inc.
Paul F. Matysek, M.Sc., P.Geo.
President and Chief Executive Officer
(604) 331-4431
(604) 408-4799 (FAX)
Email: info@potash1.com
Website: www.potash1.com
Source: Potash One Inc.
PhosCan Chemical Announces Results for Quarter Ended July 31, 2009
Thu Sep 10, 2:14 PM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/10092009/28/link-f-ccnmatthews-phoscan-chemical-announces-results-quarter-ended-july-31.html
TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Sept. 10, 2009) - (All dollar amounts are expressed in Canadian currency unless otherwise noted.)
PhosCan Chemical Corp. (TSX: FOS.TO) announces its financial and operating results for the quarter ended July 31, 2009.
Financial Results
PhosCan reported a net loss for the quarter ended July 31, 2009 of $704,661 compared to $832,574 during the same period of the previous year. The decrease in net loss of $127,913 was due to decreases in general and administrative expense and stock-option compensation expense, offset partly by increases in professional and legal fees, a write-off of forfeited advances, and a decrease in other income.
General and administrative expense decreased by $129,114 during the quarter primarily due to cost-cutting measures implemented by management and lower levels of corporate activity related to the reduced level of development of the Martison Phosphate Project. Stock-option compensation expense fell by $214,089 as no new stock options were granted during the quarter.
Professional and legal fees increased by $58,499 during the quarter primarily due to the engagement of professional advisors to help PhosCan source and evaluate corporate development opportunities. The Company wrote-off $118,750 of advances that were forfeited following the termination of certain contracts that were entered into prior to the decision by the Company on December 8, 2008 to defer several tasks related to the development of the Martison Project.
The decrease in other income was primarily due to a $118,733 increase in foreign exchange losses, which consisted of unrealized losses net of realized gains. During the three months ended July 31, 2009, the Company purchased U.S. dollars in part to fund anticipated U.S. dollar-denominated expenditures on the Martison Project and in part because it viewed an opportunity to sell U.S. dollars at a later time for a gain. At quarter-end, the Company held US$9 million to fund the anticipated expenditures and the unrealized foreign exchange losses were due to the effect of an appreciating U.S. dollar on this U.S. dollar cash balance. During the current quarter, the Company realized on the opportunity to sell a portion of its U.S. dollars for a gain, which resulted in the realized foreign exchange gains.
Cash and cash equivalents plus short-term investments decreased by $3,069,648 during the six months ended July 31, 2009 to $69,691,789 while working capital decreased by $2,652,992 to $69,299,620. The decreases were primarily due to expenditures on the Martison Project and general and administrative expenses, both of which included expenditures arising as a result of the slow-down in the development of the Martison Project, such as the termination benefits paid to the Executive Vice President, Operations and Projects during the three months ended April 30, 2009. Working capital decreased less than cash and cash equivalents plus short-term investments because accounts payable and accrued liabilities decreased by $567,763 as a result of reduced development activity at the Martison Project during the six months ended July 31, 2009.
Capitalized expenditures on the Martison Project were $86,200,226 at July 31, 2009, an increase of $1,542,238 from January 31, 2009. The increase is primarily due to the ongoing work, as described below, under the reduced development program announced on December 8, 2008.
PhosCan had no long-term debt at July 31, 2009 and has met all of its financial obligations. The Company expects that existing working capital will be sufficient to advance the Martison Project under the reduced development program, as well as enable the Company to review a broad range of corporate development opportunities that have the potential to enhance shareholder value. PhosCan will be required to raise a significant amount of additional funds should it elect in the future to proceed with full-scale development of the Martison Project.
Operating Results
Under the reduced development program announced by PhosCan on December 8, 2008, the Company continued to advance the following aspects of the Martison Project during the quarter:
- Surveying and other work to take the Martison Project mine claims to lease;
- Bench and pilot plant beneficiation testing of phosphate ore from the Martison Project;
- Phosphoric acid pilot plant testing of flotation concentrate produced from the pilot plant beneficiation test program to collect critical data for engineering design; and
- Under an agreement with IAMGOLD Corp., evaluating the niobium at the Martison Project.
The Company continues to actively source and review a broad range of corporate development opportunities and is confident it will be able to execute on one or more that have the potential to enhance shareholder value.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements with respect to the Martison Phosphate Project, and matters concerning the business, operations, strategy, and financial performance of PhosCan. These statements generally can be identified by use of forward-looking words such as "may", "will", "expect", "estimate", "anticipate", "intends", "believe" or "continue" or the negative thereof or similar variations. Such forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by the inherent risks and uncertainties surrounding future expectations, including that the estimates and projections regarding the Martison Project are realized. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions which may prove to be incorrect. Unless otherwise stated, all forward looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release and PhosCan does not undertake any obligation to update such statements except as required by law.
Contacts
Stephen Case
PhosCan Chemical Corp.
President & CEO
(416) 972-9222
James Pringle
PhosCan Chemical Corp.
Vice President Finance & CFO
(416) 972-9222
Encanto announces agreement on large new potash property
Thu Sep 10, 9:00 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/10092009/30/link-f-cnw-encanto-announces-agreement-large-new-potash-property.html
Trading Symbol: TSXV EPO.V
VANCOUVER, Sept. 10 /CNW/ - Encanto Potash Corp. ("Encanto" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has signed an Exploration Participation Agreement (EPA) with the Muskowekwan First Nations in Saskatchewan. The Muskowekwan EPA lands are located approximately 100 kilometres north of Regina, and consist of 43,000 acres of gentle rolling plains.
Several oil wells drilled all around the Muskowekwan EPA lands have shown potash beds are regionally present in the stratigraphy.
"I want to thank the Muskowekwan First Nations for having confidence in us to develop these lands," said Encanto's Chief Executive Officer James Walchuck. "We believe that this land package is large enough that it could support a mine if we find enough economic mineralization. Our team is mobilized and ready to move forward on the lands contained in the Muskowekwan EPA."
Encanto plans to start a 2D seismic survey on the EPA lands as soon as the necessary permits are obtained. Encanto anticipates that the Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) permits will be issued within two weeks.
This is seventh EPA that Encanto has signed with First Nations in Saskatchewan, totaling approximately 187,000 acres. This does not include the Spar Property that has recently been purchased from Raytec Metals.
About Encanto:
Encanto Potash Corp. is a TSX Venture Exchange-listed Canadian resource company engaged in the exploration and development of potash properties in the Province of Saskatchewan, Canada - the largest producing region for potash in the world. Encanto has agreements with seven First Nations Peoples to assist them in developing potash resources on their lands, which are located within a radius of about 80 kilometres, and cover an aggregate area of over 76,000 hectares in South-Eastern Saskatchewan. In addition, Raytec currently holds over 72,800 hectares of potash permits in Saskatchewan.
To find out more about Encanto Potash Corp., please visit the company website at www.encantopotash.com or review the documents filed on www.sedar.com.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
"James Walchuck"
Per:
----------------
James Walchuck
President and CEO
NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS
THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS
RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE
THE FOREGOING INFORMATION MAY CONTAIN FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS RELATING TO THE FUTURE PERFORMANCE OF ENCANTO POTASH CORP. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS, SPECIFICALLY THOSE CONCERNING FUTURE PERFORMANCE, ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES, AND ACTUAL RESULTS MAY DIFFER MATERIALLY. THESE RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES ARE DETAILED FROM TIME TO TIME IN THE COMPANY'S FILINGS WITH THE APPROPRIATE SECURITIES COMMISSIONS.
Contacts
James Walchuck
President and CEO
Tel: (604) 683-2402
Keith Schaefer
Vanguard Shareholder Solutions
Tel: (604) 608-0824
Toll Free: 1-866-918-0824
Potash One Announces Purchase of Legacy Project Plant Site Land
Friday September 11, 12:14 pm ET
http://ca.us.biz.yahoo.com/iw/090911/0536274.html?.v=1
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - 09/11/09) - Potash One Inc. (the "Company" or "Potash One") (TSX:KCL - News) is pleased to announce that it has completed the purchase of sufficient surface land acreage to facilitate the development of the plant site facility for its Legacy potash solution mining project in Saskatchewan, Canada.
Since its inception in 2005, Potash One completed a significant exploration program over its wholly owned KP-289 Potash Permit area (the "Legacy Project"). This program has led the Company to favor a land position in the south region of the permit area for its initial mining activity. The area was selected based upon the most favorable solution mining characteristics which include total potash thickness, KCl grade, along with formation depth and temperature.
With its primary mining area determined, Potash One has focused its efforts to the selection of the plant site location. The plant site placement is an extremely important aspect of the Legacy Project as it affects both Environmental and Regulatory approvals, as well as project economics.
The plant site will support the following:
- processing facilities,
- clean salt storage area,
- brine pond and cooling ponds,
- maintenance and administration buildings, and
- utility infrastructure.
The site selection was also driven by geophysical and hydrogeological characterization, proximity to transport infrastructure and water and utility services.
Potash One completed an airborne geophysical survey (performed by Fugro) over the entire 97,000+ acre permit area and executed an extensive geotechnical drilling program (comprising over 40 geotechnical and hydrogeological holes) in and around the preferred plant site region. From this data, an optimal plant location was selected and a land acquisition program undertaken.
The land acquisition program, while remaining active, has now successfully secured over 1,920 acres (777.3 ha) which encompasses its preferred site location. This area is sufficient to house all intended plant site facilities for the full 40 year initial mine life. Additional land acquisitions are being considered in order to provide other strategic advantages and buffer space, but those optional lands are not necessary for the Legacy Project to establish its primary mine site and production facility.
Paul F. Matysek, President and CEO of Potash One Inc., commented: "Purchasing adequate surface land in the area that was identified as the ideal plant site location represents a significant accomplishment in the ongoing development of the Legacy Project. We now have direct ownership of ample land acreage to ensure a flexible and efficient plant layout and design. This along with the highly detailed geological and solution mining data obtained to date, truly brings Potash One a significant step closer to making Legacy a reality."
About Potash One Inc.:
Potash One Inc. is a well-funded TSX-listed Canadian resource company engaged in the exploration and development of advanced potash properties amenable to solution mining. The Company owns a 100% interest in the 97,240 acre Legacy Project which has an NI 43-101 Measured Resource of 29 million tonnes of KCl, Indicated Mineral Resource of 222 million tonnes of KCl and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 852 million tonnes of KCl. The Company has recently completed a pre-feasibility study with SNC-Lavalin with robust economics at current potash pricing. The Legacy Project is adjacent to the largest producing solution potash mine in the world. The Company also owns more than 515,000 acres of Potash Subsurface Mineral Exploration Permits in Saskatchewan, Canada.
Forward-Looking Statements: Statements in this release that are forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning the specific factors disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in the corporation's periodic filings with Canadian Securities Regulators. Such information contained herein represents management's best judgment as of the date hereof based on information currently available. Statements in this press release other than purely historical information, including statements relating to the company's future plans and objectives or expected results, constitute forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties inherent in the company's business, including risks inherent in mineral exploration and development. The company does not assume the obligation to update any forward-looking statement. There are numerous risks and other factors that will influence a development decision, including concluding resource evaluations on mineral properties, extraction and processing design limitations, financing requirements, permitting risks and economic factors, all of which may be beyond the control of the company.
The Toronto Stock Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.
Contact:
Contacts:
Potash One Inc.
Paul F. Matysek, M.Sc., P.Geo.
President and Chief Executive Officer
(604) 331-4431
(604) 408-4799 (FAX)
info@potash1.com
www.potash1.com
Source: Potash One Inc.
Minemakers expects Namibia marine phosphate scoping study in Q4
http://www.miningweekly.com/article/minemakers-expects-namibia-marine-phosphate-scoping-study-in-q4-2009-09-04
By: Esmarie Swanepoel
4th September 2009
PERTH (miningweekly.com) - ASX-listed phosphate miner Minemakers' scoping study for its Sandpaper/Meob phosphate project, off the coast of Namibia, is likely to be completed in the fourth quarter, GM Mike Woodborne said on Friday.
Speaking at the Africa Downunder conference, he stated that the company would complete its current resource development programme in the next two weeks, after which it would undertake further sampling of the project area.
Woodborne said that the sampling would go down to 5 m, which would penetrate well below the 2 m boundary that has been researched and established for the resource base. He noted that the data collected from this sampling would further assist in completing the feasibility studies.
Minemakers would work on the feasibility study during 2010, and would aim to go to production by 2011.
Minemakers was currently in a joint venture with Australia's Union Resources and black-empowered Tugeni Investments, to develop the 8 000 km2 marine phosphate project.
The project has an estimated inferred resource of around 1,5-billion tons, at around 18,7%, and an indicated resource estimate of 73,9-million tons, at 20,57% phosphate.
The phosphate would be mined from the seabed on the coast of Namibia and transported to the Richard's Bay terminal, where it would go through land-based processing. Woodborne noted that the location of the plant would enable Minemakers to focus on exporting the final product, specifically to the American, Asian and African markets.
Minemakers acquired fellow Australian junior Bonaparte earlier this year.
Great Quest Reports Area of Tin Hina Concession Increased from 230 to 417 Square Kilometres
Thu Sep 3, 1:16 PM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/03092009/28/link-f-ccnmatthews-great-quest-reports-area-tin-hina-concession-increased.html
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Sept. 3, 2009) - Willis W. Osborne, President of Great Quest Metals Ltd. (TSX VENTURE: GQ.V)(FRANKFURT: GQM.F), is pleased to announce that the Government of Mali has issued a new 90 day Autorisation d'Exploration on the Tin Hina concession increasing the area of the original Tin Hina concession from 230 to 417 square kilometres. This permit is in the name of Engrais Phosphates du Mali SA, a Malian company owned 88% by Great Quest. The company has complied with the terms of the ongoing permit by completing a program in June and has submitted a report. This also satisfies the terms of the new permit, so the company will be next applying for the subsequent permits.
The enlargement of the Tin Hina concession considerably enhances the possibility of finding a significant phosphate mineral resource in the area. A. Allon in his 1959 report, Phosphates Du Soudan, on the phosphate deposits in the Tilemsi district of eastern Mali, included a map of the Tin Hina-Tin Behouki phosphate zone. Mr. Allon mapped this zone over a length of 8.22 kilometres in an east-west direction. The original 230 square kilometre concession covered only 3.41 kilometers of this length. The 417 square km concession covers all of it. Work by A. Allon has shown that the layer or bed of phosphate rock at the Tin Hina area is the same as that within the Alfatchafa hill, 3.7 kilometres to the nouth, so it is very extensive. The enlarged concession also covers additional hills similar to the Alfatchafa and Tin Hina which could also be prospective for the future discovery of phosphate.
During the June program, 26 grab samples were taken from exposures of rock over a distance of 6,870 metres along the southeast and south sides of the Alfatchafa hill where a layer of phosphate rock occurs within a Middle Eocene sedimentary sequence. Results of the analyses of these samples ranged from 5.11 to 33.05% P2 O5 and averaged 24.50% P2 O5. The thickness of the zone of phosphate rock, where observed, ranges from 0.40 to 1.7 metres. The P2 O5 occurs mainly in the mineral apatite.
The next program, in November will consist of RAB drilling, pitting and sampling on the Alfatchafa hill to establish a NI 43-101 compliant mineral resource, sampling in the area mapped by A. Allon along the Tin Hina-Tin Behouki phosphate occurrence and RAB drilling in the Tin Hina area. Carl G. Verley (P.Geol), the Qualified Person pursuant to NI 43-101, has reviewed the contents of this news release.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF GREAT QUEST METALS LTD.
Willis W. Osborne, President
12g3-2(b) Exemption #82-3116
Standard & Poor's Listed
The statements that are not historical facts and are forward-looking statements involving known and unknown risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to vary materially from the targeted results.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contacts
George Butterworth
Great Quest Metals Ltd.
Investor Relations
604-689-2882 or Toll Free: 877-325-3838
604-684-5854 (FAX)
info@greatquest.com
www.greatquest.com
Legend International Holdings Inc. Announces Major Milestone Exploration Permit Granted for Paradise South (Previously Lady Annie) EPM 16942
Fri Aug 28, 6:00 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/28082009/34/biz-f-business-wire-legend-international-holdings-inc-announces-major-milestone-exploration.html
MELBOURNE, Australia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Legend International Holdings, Inc (Legend) (OTCBB: LGDI.OB) is pleased to announce that the Queensland Government has granted the Exploration Permit for Paradise South EPM 16942 (previously Lady Annie) to Legend International Holdings Inc, today on 28th August 2009. Please see the Legend website www.lgdi.net for this press release with a location map.
The grant of this permit is a major step forward for the Legend Phosphate Project as Paradise South is considered the flagship project and core landholdings for the future long term beneficiation project.
Paradise South has had a long history of development and was discovered in 1967 by BH South Ltd and named the Lady Annie-Lady Jane phosphate deposit. At the time it was considered that “the Lady Annie deposit, both by location and quality, is the one which will make possible the initiation of the project” (Thompson, L.D, & Russel, R.T, 1971). The low level of contaminants in the rock, combined with the amenability to flotation and the large resource size convinced BH South that this deposit should be the first phosphate development in Australia. Intensive feasibility studies were then commenced with the goal of proving the reserves, transportation, power, water and product marketing of Lady Annie phosphate rock concentrate.
In 1973 the feasibility studies were concluded with the construction and operation of an onsite pilot plant which operated for one year. The plant processed 64,000 tonnes of material from 10 large excavations which proved that a world market quality rock concentrate could be produced from which high quality phosphoric acid, Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) and Mono-Ammonium Phosphate (MAP) could be made. The resultant positive feasibility study was shelved in 1974 when the phosphate prices spiked and focus was instead directed on the Duchess deposit to the south whereby a small amount of direct shipping ore (DSO) could be quickly mined in order to capitalise on the high market price at the time and then transported on the nearby rail infrastructure which terminated in an international port facility at Townsville.
The 1974 price spike, along with development of subsequent infrastructure and collapse of the phosphate rock price in the late 70’s and early 80’s meant that the Lady Annie deposit was never developed, even though millions of dollars had already been spent on producing the positive feasibility study. Legend International Holdings Inc, after now being granted the initial tenure required before a Mining Lease Application can be submitted, has been awarded a significant opportunity to now develop these deposits.
Legend plans to commence validation drilling early in the next quarter on EPM16942 after drilling has finished on the current drill program at Paradise North (EPM17330) which is focused on delineating material for the Stage 1 DSO project. Work has already commenced on Paradise South (EPM16942) in the design of appropriate metallurgical process flow sheets for beneficiation and baseline work for receiving environmental approvals is also well underway.
Reference:
Thompson, L.D, & Russel, R.T, 1971, ’Discovery, Exploration and Investigations of Phosphate Deposits in Queensland’ Economic Geology of Australia and Papua New Guinea, Monograph 5.
Background
Legend is led by Joseph Gutnick, a prominent Australian mining industry entrepreneur, who has overseen some of Australia's largest and most prestigious resource discoveries.
Legend's primary focus is the development of its phosphate interests in the Georgina Basin, Queensland, Australia including Paradise (formerly Lady Annie and Lady Jane), D-Tree, Thorntonia, Lily Creek, Quita Creek, Sherrin Creek and Highland Plains.
Legend plans to produce an average of 5 million tonnes per year of phosphate rock concentrate of 30%+ P2O5 by 2012, thus becoming one of the world's leading producers of phosphate rock. More information on Legend is available at http://www.lgdi.net/.
Forward-Looking Statements
Forward-looking statements in this press release are made pursuant to the “safe harbour” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, the risks of exploration and development stage projects, risks associated with environmental and other regulatory matters, mining risks and competition and the volatility of mineral prices. Actual results and timetables could vary significantly. Additional information about these and other factors that could affect the Company’s business is set forth in the Company’s fiscal 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Legend International Holdings Inc
Joseph Gutnick, +61 3 8532 2866
Fax: +61 3 8532 2805
President & Chief Executive Officer
josephg@axisc.com.au
or
Legend International Holdings Inc
New York Office
General Manager Business, 212-223-0018
Fax: 212-223-1169
legendinfo@axisc.com.au
Raytec finalizes agreements with Encanto Potash Corp. and acquires shares
Mon Aug 24, 4:15 PM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/24082009/31/link-f-prnewswire-raytec-finalizes-agreements-encanto-potash-corp-acquires-shares.html
TSX.V-RAY
VANCOUVER, Aug. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - Raytec Metals Corp. (the "Company" or "Raytec") (TSX.V - RAY) is pleased to announce that it has closed its previously announced transactions with Encanto Potash Corp. ("Encanto"). Raytec has transferred all of its interests in its potash properties in Saskatchewan to Encanto's operating subsidiary in exchange for 19,846,525 common shares of Encanto, at a deemed total value of $0.25 per share ($4,961,631 in total). As a result, Raytec now owns 19,846,525 common shares of Encanto representing approximately 14.76% of the common shares of Encanto. Raytec has acquired the common shares of Encanto for investment purposes.
Raytec will also incur $6,500,000 in expenditures on Encanto's existing potash properties and Raytec's potash properties (collectively, the "Potash Properties") by December 31, 2009, to earn a 51% interest in the Potash Properties. Encanto will have the option to repurchase the 51% Raytec interest in the Potash Properties for 26,000,000 common shares of Encanto. If this option is exercised, Raytec will own an aggregate of up to 45,846,525 shares of Encanto which will be equal to an estimated 28.57% of Encanto's issued shares based on its current issued share capital.
The Company will file a report describing the above transactions with applicable securities regulators, a copy of which will be available under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. For further information, or to obtain a copy of the early warning report, please contact Brian Thurston, President and Chief Executive Officer (Tel: (604) 688-6410).
About Raytec:
Raytec Metals Corp. is a well-financed, Canadian exploration company with recently signed agreements with Africa Oil Corp. The Company holds an approximately 20% interest in Sulphur Solutions Inc., an emerging fertilizer company developing state-of-the-art patented technology for the production of micronized sulphur fertilizer. The Company is further diversified with a uranium joint venture project in the Athabasca Basin of Saskatchewan and an iron ore project in Ontario.
On behalf of the Board,
RAYTEC METALS CORP.
"Brian Thurston"
Brian Thurston,
President and CEO
NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS
THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS
RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE
This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address exploration drilling, exploration activities, expenditures and events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements regarding the transaction, expenditures to be incurred, shares to be issued and interests to be transferred there under, and any future exploration plans and expenditures. Although, the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, exploration and exploration successes, and continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. These statements are based on a number of assumptions, including among others, assumptions regarding general business and economic conditions, the timing and receipt of regulatory and governmental approvals for the transactions described herein, the ability of the Company and other parties to satisfy Exchange and other regulatory requirements in a timely manner, the availability of financing for the Company's proposed transactions and programs on reasonable terms, and the ability of third-party service providers to deliver services in a timely manner. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
SOURCE Raytec Metals Corp.
Western Potash Corp. Reports a Composite Thickness of 24.4 Metres of Potash Mineralization with a Grade of 18.2 Wt % K2O across Three Potash Members from the Fourth Well at Milestone ...
http://www.marketwatch.com/story/western-potash-corp-reports-a-composite-thickness-of-244-metres-of-potash-mineralization-with-a-grade-of-182-wt-k2o-across-three-potash-members-from-the-fourth-well-at-milestone-2009-08-24
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug 24, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Western Potash Corp. Reports a Composite Thickness of 24.4 Metres of Potash Mineralization with a Grade of 18.2 Wt % K2O across Three Potash Members from the Fourth Well at Milestone, Prepares for Expanded Drilling and Seismic Program with Goal towards Resource Definition
Western Potash Corp. (the "Company") /quotes/comstock/30o!ahe (DE:AHE 0.30, +0.00, +0.33%) is pleased to announce that it has received the complete results from its first phase drill program on the Milestone property in southern Saskatchewan. Gamma ray results have been reported in previous news releases for the four wells drilled in the initial exploration phase and potash assay results for the first well were reported in a June 15th, 2009 company release. Highlighted in the fourth well is a 24.4 m composite intersection of potash mineralization with a weighted average grade of 18.2 wt % K2O across three potash members.
The 100% owned Milestone property, comprising 500 square kilometers, is located 30 kilometers southeast of Regina, and southeast of Mosaic's Belle Plaine Mine, one of the largest producing potash solution mines in the world. The potash mineralization encountered within the Patience Lake and Belle Plaine potash members in this drill program is similar in grade and thickness to those reported at the operating Belle Plain mine.
The Milestone-003 well is the fourth well drilled on the Milestone property and is located approximately 12.5 km and 7.5 km to the southeast of the first and second well sites reported previously. A summary of the results from this well are presented in Table 1.
Table 1: Potash thickness and weighted average grade from the Milestone - 003 well.
Potash Member From To Interval K2O MgO Insoluble Best Intercept
(KB, m) (KB, m) (m) Wt % Wt % Wt %
Patience Lake 1715.55 1729.5 13.9 18.38 0.09 11.32 21.34 wt% K2O over 6.1m
Belle Plaine 1731.45 1736.3 4.85 18.37 0.09 3.78 20.11 wt% K2O over 3.6m
Esterhazy 1756.15 1761.8 5.60 17.75 1.57 3.96 30.17wt% K2O over 1.7m
Total 24.35 18.23 0.43 8.13
Table 2: Potash thickness and weighted average grade from the Milestone-002 and Milestone-002A wells.
Hole Potash Member From To Interval K2O MgO Insoluble
(KB, m) (KB, m) (m) Wt % Wt % Wt %
Milestone 002 Patience Lake 1680.7 1681 0.3 17.5 0.06 7.8
Belle Plaine 1697.5 1701.7 4.2 15.59 0.08 5.2
Esterhazy 1719.9 1726.2 6.3 22.28 0.06 5.35
Total 10.8 19.55 0.07 5.36
Milestone 002A Patience Lake 1674 1683 9 17.53 0.09 10.58
Belle Plaine 1687.35 1691.3 3.9 12.82 0.09 4.71
Esterhazy 1710.4 1716.9 6.5 24.1 0.93 5.38
Total 19.4 18.78 0.37 7.66
Great Quest Reports Analyses on 26 Grab Samples from Outcrops of Phosphate Rock Average 24.50% P2 O5
Thu Aug 20, 4:27 PM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/20082009/28/link-f-ccnmatthews-great-quest-reports-analyses-26-grab-samples-outcrops.html
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Aug. 20, 2009) - Willis W. Osborne, President of Great Quest Metals Ltd. (TSX VENTURE: GQ.V)(FRANKFURT: GQM.F), is pleased to announce the results of a preliminary program of sampling and mapping within the 230 sq km Tin Hina phosphate concession in eastern Mali, West Africa. Great Quest holds an 88% interest in the company holding the concession.
During the program, 26 grab samples were taken from exposures of rock over a distance of 6,870 metres along the southeast and south side of a hill where a layer of phosphate rock occurs within a Middle Eocene sedimentary sequence. Results of the analyses of these samples ranged from 5.11 to 33.05% P2 O5 and averaged 24.50% P2 O5. The thickness of the zone of phosphate rock, where observed, ranges from 0.40 to 1.7 metres. The P2 O5 occurs mainly in the mineral apatite.
The depth of the phosphate rock on the southeast side of the hill is approximately 8 metres. It is overlain from top to bottom by phosphate rock with laterite, phosphate with gravel, phosphate with laterite, phosphate with clay and finally pink clay and yellow sandstone. Assays from one pit along the section above the bed of phosphate rock returned values below 1% P2 O5.
The next program will consist of a combination of RAB drilling and the digging of pits on a grid over the part of the hill north of the southern slope to define a NI 43-101 compliant resource.
The samples were prepared for analysis by ALS Chemex in Bamako, Mali and whole rock analyses were carried out by ALS Chemex in Vancouver, BC. Carl G. Verley (P.Geol), the Qualified Person pursuant to NI 43-101, has reviewed the contents of this news release.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF GREAT QUEST METALS LTD.
Willis W. Osborne, President
12g3-2(b) Exemption #82-3116
Standard & Poor's Listed
The statements that are not historical facts and are forward-looking statements involving known and unknown risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to vary materially from the targeted results.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contacts
George Butterworth
Great Quest Metals Ltd.
Investor Relations
604-689-2882 or Toll Free: 877-325-3838
604-684-5854 (FAX)
info@greatquest.com
www.greatquest.com
UPDATE 2-North American potash inventories decline in July
Tue Aug 18, 2009 9:54am EDT
http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idAFN1841180320090818?rpc=44
* Potash spot market pricing slips in July
* North American potash inventories down 129,000 tonnes
* Potash Corp shares rise 0.3 percent in early trade (Adds analyst comment, share price move, by-line; all figures in U.S. dollars)
By Euan Rocha
TORONTO, Aug 18 (Reuters) - Potash Corp of Saskatchewan (POT.TO) said North American potash pricing declined in July, but the world's largest producer of the key crop nutrient also noted that manufacturers' inventories in North America fell for the first time this year.
Potash Corp said on Tuesday that North American potash inventories in July fell by 129,000 tonnes to just under 3.5 million tonnes, down from prior-month levels but still more than double the previous five-year average.
Nevertheless, this is the first indication that sales of potash have begun to move again, after a consistent inventory build through the first half of 2009.
Potash Corp shares rose 0.3 percent to $91.42 in early trade on the New York Stock Exchange, while those of its peers Mosaic Co (MOS.N) and Agrium Inc (AGU.N) (AGU.TO) rose 0.7 percent and 1.0 percent, respectively.
Potash inventories had risen steadily through the course of 2009, despite major production cuts, as farmers concerned by exorbitant pricing and hurt by the credit crunch had deferred application of the crop nutrient.
Potash buyers were also staying out of the market in anticipation of big annual import contracts signed by India and China, which typically set the tone for spot market pricing.
Last month, India signed contracts to import the bulk of its annual potash requirements at $460 a tonne, well below last year's contract price of more than $600 and the spot market price of $700 at the time.
The new Indian contract has led to a decline in potash spot market prices and brought other international buyers back into the market.
"The decline in July (inventories) is clearly a surprise as most market observers did not expect any positive momentum given that producers did not begin to ship to India until an agreement was reached in late July," said Broadpoint AmTech analyst Edlain Rodriguez, in a note to clients.
In a group of graphs posted to its website, Potash Corp also indicated that potash spot market pricing fell to $600 per tonne in July from $700 in the prior month.
"We continue to believe that near-term potash conditions are approaching a bottom, setting the stage for a strong rebound in 2010 that will lead to higher earnings and multiple expansion," said Rodriguez. ($1= $1.10 Canadian) (Reporting by Euan Rocha; Editing by Lisa Von Ahn and Gerald E. McCormick)
Athabasca Potash Inc. Announces Second Quarter Results
Mon Aug 17, 11:53 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/17082009/28/link-f-ccnmatthews-athabasca-potash-inc-announces-second-quarter-results.html
SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN--(Marketwire - Aug. 17, 2009) - Athabasca Potash Inc. (TSX: API.TO) ("Athabasca" or the "Company") announced that it has filed the results of Company's operations for the three months ended June 30, 2009 all of which will be available at www.sedar.com or www.athabascapotash.ca.
Highlights for the second quarter include:
- Updated Mineral Resource estimate for the Burr Project, including an estimated 425 million tonnes of Measured and Indicated Mineral resource
- Expenditures on mineral properties totalled $4,494,000 for the quarter
- Cash and cash equivalents of $22,909,138 at June 30, 2009
- Issued and outstanding shares of 37,340,867 at June 30, 2009
Burr Project
During the second quarter of 2009, API continued to focus on the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and the Pre-feasibility Study (PFS) for its 100% owned Burr Project. The Burr Project site is located 107 km (140 km by highway) east of the City of Saskatoon in the Province of Saskatchewan, Canada. The southern boundary of the project area is located 13.5 km north of the Lanigan Mine headframe (owned and operated by Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan) and 26 km northwest of the town site of Lanigan.
The PFS is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2009. The EIS documents were submitted and received on August 5, 2009 by the Saskatchewan Department of Environment for review. From March 30 to April 2, 2009 API held a second round of open house consultation meetings as part of the EIS public consultation process. Open house consultation meetings were held in Burr, Humboldt, Lanigan, and Saskatoon. The Company believes there is positive public support for the development of a potash mine.
On May 29, 2009 the Company announced an updated National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") compliant potash resource estimate for the Burr Project prepared by Lions Gate Geological Consulting Inc. ("LGGC"). The targeted mining members, including both the Upper Patience Lake ("UPL") and Lower Patience Lake ("LPL") Sub-Members, contain estimated Measured Mineral Resources of 125,800,000 tonnes at a grade of 21.27% potassium oxide ("K2O"), Indicated Mineral Resources of 299,000,000 tonnes at a grade of 23.07 % K2O, and Inferred Mineral Resources of 186,900,000 tonnes at a grade of 23.55% K2O. The updated resource estimate has an effective date of May 22, 2009. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves have no demonstrated economic viability. Susan Lomas, P.Geo. of LGGC, is the "Qualified Person" (as defined in NI 43-101) for having prepared the mineral resource estimates and scientific and technical information in this press release and has reviewed the results reported herein. For more scientific and technical information relating to the estimated mineral resources for the Burr Project, please refer to the Company's press release dated May 29, 2009 and the technical report entitled "NI 43-101 Technical Report for a Resource Estimation on the Burr Project, Athabasca Potash Inc., Saskatchewan, Canada" with an effective date of September 18, 2008 (the "Technical Report"). The May 29, 2009 press release and the Technical Report are available at www.sedar.com or www.athabascapotash.ca.
Quarter End Results ($ 000's)
As of June 30, 2009, API's cash and cash equivalents balance decreased to $22,909 from $31,578 at December 31, 2008. At June 30, 2009, API's working capital position decreased to $20,698 from $30,368 at December 31, 2008. During the six months ended June 30, 2009, the Company raised a total of $257 through the issuance of common shares, before issuance of costs, upon the exercise of the over-allotment and brokers warrants related to the IPO completed in December 2007.
API recorded a quarterly net loss of $699 or ($0.02) per share compared to a loss of $210 or $0.01 per share for the same period in 2008. Income for the quarter resulted from the Company's investments of excess cash reserves in short-term deposits and rental of farm property. For the quarter ending June 30, 2009, the Company reported interest revenue of $49 and rental revenue of $73 compared to $534 and nil for the quarter ending June 30, 2008. Revenues decreased $257 to $122 for three months ended June 30, 2009 from $379 for 2008. This decrease was due to lower interest income resulting from lower cash deposits held during 2009 and reduced interest rates on the cash deposits held during 2009.
Total operating costs for the quarter ending June 30, 2009 equalled $1,459 compared to $686 in the second quarter of 2008. This represents an increase of $773 reflecting an increase in the majority of the Company's categories of operations. Significant increases occurred for salaries and wages ($513), office and administration ($88) and professional fees ($239).
Balance Sheet ($ 000) June 30, 2009 December 31, 2008
Current Assets 22,909 31,578
Total Assets 61,091 62,280
Current Liabilities 2,537 1,507
Future income tax liability 85 1,032
Share capital 57,608 57,222
Contributed surplus 5,850 5,805
Deficit (4,989) (3,286)
Statements of Income
(For 3 Months Ended) June 30, 2009 June 30, 2008
Interest and Rental Revenue 122 379
Operating Expenses 1,459 686
Loss for the period before income taxes (1,337) (307)
Net Loss for the period (699) (210)
Loss per share (.02) (.01)
Statements of Cash Flows
(For 3 Months Ended) June 30, 2009 June 30, 2008
Cash flows from Operating Activities (1,805) (162)
Cash flows from Investing activities (3,664) (1,001)
Cash flows from Financing Activities 205 193
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents (5,264) (970)
Cash, beginning of period 28,173 46,630
Cash, end of period 22,909 45,660
Encanto completes purchase of Raytec potash assets
Wed Aug 12, 4:16 PM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/12082009/30/link-f-cnw-encanto-completes-purchase-raytec-potash-assets.html
FUNDING OF $6.5 MILLION CONCURRENT WITH PURCHASE
Trading Symbol: TSXV EPO.V
VANCOUVER, Aug. 12 /CNW/ - Encanto Potash Corp. ("Encanto" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed its previously announced transactions with Raytec Metals Corp. ("Raytec").
Raytec has transferred all of its interests in its potash properties in Saskatchewan to Encanto's operating subsidiary in exchange for 19,846,525 common shares of Encanto, at a deemed total value of $0.25 per share ($4,961,631 in total). One of the Raytec properties, Permit KP 441, which is part of the Spar Property, is the subject of a technical report (the "Report") prepared by Agapito Associates, Inc., dated July 29, 2009 the authors of which are Dr. Michael Hardy, P.Eng, Dr. Douglas F. Hambley, P.Eng, and Joseph E. Crawford, L.P.G. The Report will be filed on SEDAR concurrently with this news release. The following is a summary of the data in Tables 4 and 5 of the Report outlining the resources in KP 441:
Mineral Resource in KP 441
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1)Average Average
Total Grade Carnallite Average (2)Recov-
Thickness over over Insolubles erable
over Potash Potash over K(2)O
Potash Zone Zone Potash Resource
Member Zone (m) (% K(2)O) (% MgCl(2)) Zone (%) (Mt)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inferred Mineral Resource
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Upper
Belle
Plaine 2.98 14.54 0.28 7.90 4.43
Lower
Belle
Plaine 1.34 30.45 0.23 1.89 7.05
Total 24.31 0.25 4.21 11.48
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Indicated Mineral Resource
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lower
Patience
Lake 3.06 31.02 0.24 3.87 5.09
Upper
Belle
Plaine 2.97 14.73 0.28 7.92 3.44
Lower
Belle
Plaine 1.34 30.16 0.22 1.90 3.51
Total 26.12 0.25 4.45 12.04
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) Average grade calculated using re-assayed data where available and
historic assay data elsewhere
(2) Recoverable in-place K(2)O tonnes assuming a density of
2.08 tonnes/m(3) and an overall recovery of 36% (10% geologic anomaly
and 40% recovery)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
MagIndustries Corp. Extends Exclusivity Period of Previously Announced MOU to August 31, 2009
Fri Jul 31, 6:00 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/31072009/28/link-f-ccnmatthews-magindustries-corp-extends-exclusivity-period-previously-announced-mou.html
TORONTO, CANADA--(Marketwire - July 31, 2009) - MagIndustries Corp. ("MagIndustries" or the "Company") (TSX VENTURE: MAA.V) is pleased to announce that, further to its press releases of June 12 and June 15 2009, the term of the Memorandum of Understanding ("MOU") signed June 12, 2009 has been extended from July 31, 2009 to August 31, 2009.
The MOU provides for a proposed purchase of 400 million common shares of MagIndustries by a large Chinese based multi-national company (the "Subscriber") at a price of Cdn$ 0.70 per common share (the "Investment"). The Investment is also conditional on the arrangement of debt financing for the completion of Phase I of the Company's Kouilou Potash Project in the Republic of Congo, as a complement or alternative to debt financing that could be available to the Company from other sources, on terms agreeable to MagIndustries.
Since the signing of the MOU, the Company and the Subscriber have made significant progress with the due diligence process. Diligence sessions have taken place in Africa, Europe and North America between the Company, the Subscriber and the parties' respective legal, technical and financial advisers. Further meetings between the Company and the Subscriber are scheduled in Beijing during the first week of August.
All of the independent directors of MagIndustries have constituted a committee to review the transaction and the committee has retained independent legal and financial advisors to assist the committee with such review.
Closing of the transaction contemplated by the MOU is subject to a number of conditions and approvals which include, among other conditions, approval of the transaction by MagIndustries' Board of Directors, approval by a majority of MagIndustries shareholders at a special meeting of shareholders, the approval of all relevant regulatory and government authorities and satisfactory completion of due diligence. Given these conditions there is no assurance that the transaction will be completed.
About MagIndustries Corp.
MagIndustries is a Canadian company whose common shares are listed on the TSX-Venture Exchange and trades in Canadian currency under the symbol "MAA". The Company has 359,552,462 shares outstanding on an undiluted basis. MagIndustries' resource subsidiaries are operating and developing major industrial projects in the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo. More information on the Company is available at its website, www.magindustries.com
Except for historical information, this press release contains forward-looking statements, which reflect the Company's current expectation regarding future events. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual results to differ materially from those statements. Those risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, changing market conditions, and other risks detailed from time-to-time in the Company's ongoing filings. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events in this press release might not occur.
Cusip: 55917T 102
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contacts
Mr. Rich Morrow
MagIndustries Corp.
Executive Vice President
1-416-368-7911
rmorrow@magindustries.com
Mr. Richard Pratt
MagIndustries Corp.
General Counsel
1-416-368-7911
rpratt@magindustries.com
Sprott Resource Corp. Announces Stonegate Agricom Drill Results
Thu Jul 30, 7:00 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/30072009/30/link-f-cnw-sprott-resource-corp-announces-stonegate-agricom-drill-results.html
TORONTO, July 30 /CNW/ - (TSX: SCP.TO) - Sprott Resource Corp. ("SRC") announced today the results of a trenching and drilling program (the "Program") completed by Stonegate Agricom Ltd. ("Stonegate") on Stonegate's Mantaro Phosphate Property in Peru (the "Property"). SRC owns 77.25% of the outstanding shares of Stonegate.
The Program included 6 trenches and 22 drill holes (from 7 platforms) on the Philip concession on the Property over a length of approximately 3.2 kilometres. The overall strike length of the mineralized zone on the Property is approximately 27 km. Mineralization on the Property is present as three distinct parallel zones exhibiting similar widths to that seen on the Philip concession.
Grades recorded from the 6 trenches were similar to the existing inferred mineral resource noted in the NI 43-101 technical report filed on August 29, 2008 (the "Technical Report"). The Technical Report identified an inferred mineral resource of 45.17 million tonnes grading 15.4% P(2)O(5). A copy of the Technical Report, which includes a description of the Property and the Philip concession, can be found on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) or on SRC's website (www.sprottresource.com).
The results obtained from the 6 trenches completed in the Program are summarized in Table 1 below:
Table 1: Trenching Results
------------------
Interval Grade
------------------
(metres) P(2)O(5)
------------------------------
Trench A-A' 22.00 16.66%
------------------------------
Trench B-B' 19.00 15.14%
------------------------------
Trench 3 25.00 16.87%
------------------------------
Trench 9 31.00 16.34%
------------------------------
Trench 10 20.00 13.31%
------------------------------
Trench 14 14.00 13.20%
------------------------------
Table 2: Diamond Drilling Results
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hole Number Inclination Interval From To Grade
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
(metres) (metres) (metres) P(2)O(5)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-01 -45 degrees 22.00 70.00 92.00 13.01%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-01A -70 degrees 22.00 84.00 106.00 11.42%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-01B -90 degrees 20.00 124.00 144.00 12.57%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-02 -45 degrees 16.00 60.00 76.00 8.64%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
And -45 degrees 14.00 102.00 116.00 7.42%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-02A -70 degrees 14.00 66.00 80.00 8.60%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-02B -90 degrees 20.00 76.00 96.00 8.07%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-06 -45 degrees 14.00 70.00 84.00 10.10%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-06A -70 degrees 16.00 72.00 88.00 9.31%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-06B -90 degrees 20.00 96.00 116.00 9.73%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-07 -45 degrees 22.00 76.00 98.00 10.29%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-07A -70 degrees 24.00 94.00 118.00 10.27%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-07B -90 degrees 18.00 142.00 160.00 10.37%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-08 -45 degrees 20.00 64.00 84.00 10.36%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-08A -70 degrees 20.00 74.00 94.00 10.05%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-08B -90 degrees 20.00 88.00 108.00 10.35%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-12 -45 degrees 18.00 60.00 78.00 10.00%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-12A -70 degrees 16.00 76.00 92.00 10.28%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-12B -90 degrees 18.00 98.00 116.00 10.18%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-14 -45 degrees 14.00 86.00 100.00 9.35%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-14A -70 degrees 16.00 118.00 134.00 11.10%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
PM-DDH-14B -90 degrees 24.00 152.00 176.00 10.87%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: Deposit dip is 45 degrees. Intervals are core widths, not true
widths.
Raytec Formalizes Deal to Sell Potash Assets
Thursday July 30, 6:00 am ET
http://ca.us.biz.yahoo.com/iw/090730/0523440.html?.v=1
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - 07/30/09) - Further to its news release dated June 16, 2009, Raytec Metals Corp. (the "Company" or "Raytec") (TSX-V:RAY - News) is pleased to report that it has entered into agreements (the "Agreements"), replacing the original letter of intent, to formalize the sale of all of its potash interests to Encanto Potash Corp. ("Encanto").
Raytec will transfer all of its interests in its Spar and KP452 potash properties in Saskatchewan to Encanto, or its subsidiary, in exchange for 19,846,525 common shares of Encanto, at a deemed total value of $4,961,631. Raytec will also incur $6.5 million in expenditures on Encanto's existing potash properties and Raytec's potash properties (collectively, the "Potash Properties") by Dec. 31, 2009, to earn a 51% interest in the Potash Properties. Encanto will have the option to repurchase the 51% Raytec interest in the Potash Properties for 26 million shares of Encanto.
The Agreements remain subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval. A finders' fee will be payable in accordance with TSX Venture Exchange policies.
About Raytec:
Raytec Metals Corp. is a well-financed, Canadian exploration company with a recently signed Farm-In letter of intent with Africa Oil Corp. and recently signed formal agreements with Encanto Potash Corp. Raytec currently holds over 180,000 acres of potash permits in Saskatchewan, Canada - the largest producing region for potash in the world. The Company holds approximately a 20 per cent interest in Sulphur Solutions Inc., an emerging fertilizer company developing state-of-the-art patented technology for the production of micronized sulphur fertilizer. The Company is further diversified with an iron ore project in Ontario, and a uranium joint venture project in the Athabasca Basin of Saskatchewan.
To find out more about Raytec Metals Corp., please visit the company website at www.raytecmetals.com or review the documents filed on www.sedar.com.
On behalf of the Board, RAYTEC METALS CORP.
Brian Thurston, President and CEO
This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address exploration drilling, exploration activities and events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements regarding the Offering (including the anticipated closing date) and future exploration plans and expenditures. Although, the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, exploration and exploration successes, and continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. These statements are based on a number of assumptions, including among others, assumptions regarding general business and economic conditions, the timing and receipt of regulatory and governmental approvals for the transactions described herein, the ability of the Company and other parties to satisfy stock exchange and other regulatory requirements in a timely manner, the availability of financing for the Company's proposed transactions and programs on reasonable terms, and the ability of third-party service providers to deliver services in a timely manner. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected on the forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.
Contact:
Contacts:
Raytec Metals Corp.
Brian Thurston
President and CEO
604 688 6410
604 688 6402 (FAX)
www.raytecmetals.com
Source: Raytec Metals Corp.
China to buy into Canadian potash projects in Africa
* Marc Davis, BNW News Wire
http://www.resourceinvestor.com/News/2009/7/Pages/China-to-buy-into-Canadian-potash-projects-in-Africa.aspx?channel=4&utm_source=resourceinvestor&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=traffic&cmpid=resourceinvestor
In recent months, plenty of headlines have been garnered by several intrepid and well-financed potash exploration juniors that are vying to muscle-in on Saskatchewan’s lucrative potash mining industry. That uber-financier Robert Friedland is now the chairman of one of these mining juniors adds further sizzle to the emerging Prairie Potash Rush.
However, a couple of other potash explorers are also making impressive headway, but in more exotic locations. One of them is Toronto-based Allana Resources (TSX.V: AAA), which is hard at work with the development of a potash deposit in Ethiopia. It already has an inferred resource calculation of 105.2 million tonnes of potash, averaging an impressive grade of 20.8%, that has been outlined by way of past drill results.
The other is MagIndustries Corp. (TSX.V: MAA) which is in the early stages of developing a potash project in the Republic of Congo (ROC). MagIndustries’ early-stage efforts to develop rich potash supplies in Central Africa has already attracted the attention of the world’s fastest-emerging industrial nation, China. The company announced plans just last month that it was in preliminary negotiations with an unnamed Chinese multinational that may buy a large share position with a current valuation of up to Cdn. $280 million.
This impressive endorsement of MagIndustries’ flagship project acutely illustrates how very few undeveloped potash fields are dotted around the world. Indeed, even though over 150 nations import potash, only a dozen or so actually produce this indispensible agricultural nutrient (of which Canada, Russia and Belarus account for about 80% of global output).
Hence, government-owned Chinese companies with large treasuries are anxious to secure enough minerals to sustain their country's remarkable economic growth. So much so that they are willing to invest billions in ever-volatile, war-ravaged regions such as central Africa. ROC should not be confused with its much larger neighbor, Democratic Republic of Congo, which garners all the tragic headlines for its protracted humanitarian crisis.
Indeed, the world’s largest consumer of mineral resources is fast becoming a key source of mining capital for Canadian companies – large and small. This reality was underscored earlier this month when state-owned China Investment Corp. purchased a 17.2% equity stake in Vancouver-based Teck Resources – a diversified global mining powerhouse.
Such developments bode especially well for Allana Resources. It announced just this week its own preliminary joint venture agreement with a major state-run Chinese mining company to build a potash mine on Allana’s property in the potash-rich Danakil Evaporate Basin. The Chinese have also agreed to buy up to a 19.99% share position in Allana, which will infuse as much as Cdn. $4.5 million into the company’s treasury.
This is a milestone development that will put Allana “on the map,” according to one Toronto-based mining analyst who spoke to BNW News Wire on condition that his name is not used as he is not an official spokesperson for his investment bank.
“If the deal goes ahead, it will offer Allana considerable leverage concerning their efforts to expand and commercialize this deposit. And it also raises Allana’s profile in the investment industry,” he adds.
Much of Ethiopia’s appeal as a prospective future supplier of potash stems from its status as a politically stable developing economy with a democratic government. In recent years, Ethiopia has also implemented investor-friendly legislation, including legal safeguards for foreign mining companies, such as constitutional protection from expropriation.
Farhad Abasov, the President and CEO of Allana, says the Chinese are willing to bankroll 70% of the cost of the mine development project in return for the right to earn a comparable interest. And, though potash mines ordinarily have extremely high start-up costs (typically starting at the Cdn. $3 billion mark), Allana’s suitor has very deep pockets.
“Our future partner is one of China’s largest government-owned exploration and development organizations with over 10,000 employees and dozens of projects throughout China and a number of foreign countries, including Ethiopia,” he said in a July 20 company news release.
“We view this joint venture as a key strategic step in developing long-term partnerships with China-based mining and fertilizer organizations.”
Abasov told BNW News Wire that the Chinese are most interested in the ‘big picture’ potential of his company’s project, which is located in a potash basin that has similar geology to and is twice the size as the prolific Urals potash basin in Russia.
“Though we have 105,200,000 tonnes of potash already outlined in the inferred category, we’re ultimately targeting a potential resource up to four to five times this size, based on an independent technical study that is compliant with Canadian regulatory requirements,” he says.
“This would be world-class. And we’re confident that a future mine in this geological environment could be one of the lowest cost producers in the world.”
This project’s compelling economic dynamics are largely due to the fact that it is amenable to low-cost solution extraction (involving the flooding of drill holes with hot water to dissolve the potash for extraction), according to Vikas Ranjan, managing director of the Toronto-based investment research firm, Ubika Research.
“Solution extraction mines also involve significantly shorter developmental timelines than conventional brownfield potash mines (which can take 5-7 years to build), and this offers Allana another major competitive advantage,” he adds.
Amazon to Produce ThermoPotash Sample
Mon Jul 27, 9:43 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/27072009/28/link-f-ccnmatthews-amazon-produce-thermopotash-sample.html
TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - July 27, 2009) - Amazon Mining Holding Plc (TSX VENTURE: AMZ.V)("Amazon" or the "Company"), is pleased to announce the Board of Directors has approved a metallurgical engineering bench test program to produce ThermoPotash sample from the Cerrado Verde Project. Cerrado Verde is a source of potash rich rock from which Amazon plans to produce a slow-release, non-chloride, multi-nutrient, fertilizer product. Work will be undertaken by specialists already experienced with Amazon's potash rock. The work will include analysis of pyro-metallurgical options to create ThermoPotash as well as an alternative hydrometallurgical processes to produce conventional potash salt.
Amazon's work will be done in parallel to Brazil's Centre of Mineral Technologies ("CETEM") ongoing research efforts (See May 4, 2009 Press Release). Since May, CETEM has completed a literature review and rock technological characterization. CETEM plans to initiate lab scale tests during Q3 2009.
Commenting President & CEO Cristiano Veloso, said, "Brazil is the world's fastest growing consumer of potash, and is dependent on costly imports for 92% of the country's requirements. It is our hope that our work program will mark a significant step in solving this problem. The company continues to explore partnerships with public and private intuitions for ThermoPotash agronomic tests".
In addition, Amazon announces the appointment of Mr. Jed Richardson to the Board of Directors. Mr. Richardson has served the company in the role of Vice President of Corporate Development since June 2008. Prior to joining Amazon, Mr. Richardson was a Mining analyst with Cormark Securities part of an 8 year career in mining research with Cormark/Sprott Securities and RBC Capital Markets. Mr Richardson holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Mining Engineering from the University of Toronto.
Commenting President & CEO Cristiano Veloso, said, "Mr Richardson was instrumental in identifying Cerrado Verde opportunity and has played a key role in shaping the Company's strategic vision. He has a wealth of experience in Mining Equity Capital Markets and project valuation. His talents and dedication will be a welcomed addition to the Company's Board"
Other Matters
Amazon has issued a total of 630,000 stock options exercisable at $0.495 per share, to new members of the Board of Directors, Chairman Mr. Peter Gundy, Dr. Henrique Cavalcanti and Dr. Renato Gomes as well as consultants and staff.
About Amazon
Amazon Mining, listed on the TSX Venture Exchange, is a mineral exploration company engaged in creating shareholder value by developing mineral properties in Brazil. The company is focused on the development of the Cerrado Verde project. Cerrado Verde is a source of potash rich rock from which Amazon plans to produce a slow-release, non-chloride, multi-nutrient, fertilizer product.
On behalf of the Board of Directors of Amazon Mining Holding Plc, Cristiano Veloso, President and CEO.
Cautionary Language and Forward Looking Statements
THIS PRESS RELEASE CONTAINS CERTAIN "FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS", WHICH INCLUDE BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO, STATEMENTS WITH RESPECT TO THE FUTURE FINANCIAL OR OPERATING PERFORMANCE OF THE COMPANY, ITS SUBSIDIARIES AND ITS PROJECTS, STATEMENTS REGARDING USE OF PROCEEDS, EXPLORATION PROSPECTS, IDENTIFICATION OF MINERAL RESERVES, COSTS OF AND CAPITAL FOR EXPLORATION PROJECTS, EXPLORATION EXPENDITURES, TIMING OF FUTURE EXPLORATION AND PERMITTING, REQUIREMENTS FOR ADDITIONAL CAPITAL, GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS OF MINING OPERATIONS, ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS, RECLAMATION EXPENSES, TITLE DISPUTES OR CLAIMS, AND LIMITATIONS OF INSURANCE COVERAGE. FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS CAN GENERALLY BE IDENTIFIED BY THE USE OF WORDS SUCH AS "PLANS", "EXPECTS", OR "DOES NOT EXPECT" OR "IS EXPECTED", "ANTICIPATES" OR "DOES NOT ANTICIPATE", OR "BELIEVES", "INTENDS", "FORECASTS", "BUDGET", "SCHEDULED", "ESTIMATES" OR VARIATIONS OF SUCH WORDS OR PHRASES OR STATE THAT CERTAIN ACTIONS, EVENT, OR RESULTS "MAY", "COULD", "WOULD", "MIGHT", OR "WILL BE TAKEN", "OCCUR" OR "BE ACHIEVED". FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS INVOLVE KNOWN AND UNKNOWN RISKS, UNCERTAINTIES AND OTHER FACTORS WHICH MAY CAUSE THE ACTUAL RESULTS, PERFORMANCE OR ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE COMPANY TO BE MATERIALLY DIFFERENT FROM ANY FUTURE RESULTS, PERFORMANCE OR ACHIEVEMENTS EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED BY SAID STATEMENTS. THERE CAN BE NO ASSURANCES THAT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS WILL PROVE TO BE ACCURATE, AS ACTUAL RESULTS AND FUTURE EVENTS COULD DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE ANTICIPATED IN SAID STATEMENTS. ACCORDINGLY, READERS SHOULD NOT PLACE UNDUE RELIANCE ON FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS.
The potential grades detailed in this release are conceptual in nature. There has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the targets being delineated as a mineral resource.
Readers are cautioned not to rely solely on the summary of such information contained in this release and are directed to the complete set of drill results posted on Amazon's website ( www.amazonplc.com) and filed on SEDAR ( www.sedar.com) and any future amendments to such. Readers are also directed to the cautionary notices and disclaimers contained herein.
NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
Contacts
Cristiano Veloso
Amazon Mining Holding Plc
President & Chief Executive Officer
+44 (0) 20 8133 7607
+44(0)20 7405 7773 (FAX)
cv@amazonplc.com
Jed Richardson
Amazon Mining Holding Plc
VP Corporate Development
+1 (416) 866-2966
+1 (416) 866-8829 (FAX)
jed@amazonplc.com
www.amazonplc.com
A Great Quest Subsidiary is Granted an Autorisation d'Exploration on a Malian Phosphate Concession
Fri Jul 24, 11:47 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/24072009/28/link-f-ccnmatthews-great-quest-subsidiary-granted-autorisation-d-exploration-malian.html
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - July 24, 2009) - Willis W. Osborne, President of Great Quest Metals Ltd. (TSX VENTURE: GQ.V)(FRANKFURT: GQM.F), is very pleased to announce that the Malian Government granted an Autorisation d'Exploration on a 230 square kilometre phosphate concession, designated as the Tin Hina concession, in the Tilemsi area, eastern Mali, West Africa to Engrais Phosphates du Mali-SA. Great Quest holds an 88% interest in Engrais Phosphates du Mali-SA.
A preliminary exploration survey, as required under the terms of the permit, has been completed. During the program, Company geologists outlined a substantial occurrence of phosphate rock on top of a 4,000 x 7,000 metre hill. A total of 58 samples from 6 pits and 31 outcrops were taken within the concession during the program. The samples have been submitted for assay to determine the content of P2 O5, contained mainly in the mineral, apatite.
The Company will not be acquiring either the Tamaguilelt phosphate deposit or the 36,000 tonne-per-year phosphate plant in Bourem; nevertheless, it will continue to evaluate the Tin Hina concession as well as other phosphate opportunities in the area. This strategic acquisition will help position the Company in the very important fertilizer sector within the agricultural industry.
Great Quest also holds the Kenieba and Bourdala gold concessions in Mali as well as the Taseko copper-gold-molybdenum property in British Columbia. Carl G. Verley (P.Geol), the Qualified Person pursuant to NI 43-101, has reviewed the contents of this news release.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF GREAT QUEST METALS LTD.
Willis W. Osborne, President
12g3-2(b) Exemption #82-3116
Standard & Poor's Listed
The statements that are not historical facts and are forward-looking statements involving known and unknown risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to vary materially from the targeted results.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contacts
George Butterworth
Great Quest Metals Ltd.
Investor Relations
604-689-2882 or Toll Free: 877-325-3838
604-684-5854 (FAX)
info@greatquest.com
www.greatquest.com
Potash One Files Summary of the Pre-Feasibility Study Report
Thursday July 23, 12:46 pm ET
http://ca.us.biz.yahoo.com/iw/090723/0521663.html?.v=1
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - 07/23/09) - Potash One Inc. (the "Company" or "Potash One") (TSX:KCL - News) is pleased to announce that further to its news release dated June 18, 2009, it has filed today with the Canadian securities regulators, a 17 page summary (the "Summary") of the Preliminary Feasibility Study (the "PFS") on its Legacy potash solution mining project in Saskatchewan, Canada. The Summary was compiled by Potash One Inc. The Summary will be available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com on July 24, 2009 and also on the Company's website at www.potash1.com.
The highlights of the Potash One - Legacy Project include:
- Initial Mine Life: 40 years
- Measured Resources of 29 million tonnes and Indicated Resources of 222
million tonnes of KCl Product
- Annual Potash Production: 2.5 million tonnes per year of KCl
- Estimated Project Capital Cost - (Millions US$)
Direct Costs 1,134.8
EPCM Services 133.7
Field Indirects 44.6
Owner's Cost 89.1
Commissioning and Start-up 15.7
Escalation 80.4
20% Contingency 299.7
Risk Allowance 78.5
Total Estimated Project Capital Cost 1,877
- Estimated after-tax and royalty Internal Rate of Return (IRR) is 30.1%
- Estimated Net Present Value (NPV) after tax at a 10% discount rate is
US$4.47 Billion
- After-tax payback period of approximately 3.3 years
- A Q2 2009-normalized flat line average price of US$525 per tonne of KCl,
FOB Vancouver over life of mine
- Recommendation to Potash One by SNC Lavalin to advance the Legacy Project
to the Feasibility Study stage, based on the favourable results of the PFS
summarized above
Trigon's Intercontinental Potash Corp. Announces Preparation of Preliminary Economic Assessment of Ochoa Project
Tue Jul 21, 7:00 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/21072009/30/link-f-cnw-trigon-s-intercontinental-potash-corp-announces-preparation-preliminary.html
/NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES OR TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES/
TORONTO, July 21 /CNW/ - Mr. Sidney Himmel, President and CEO of Trigon Uranium Corp. ("Trigon") (TSXV: TEL.V) and of Intercontinental Potash Corp. ("ICP" or "the Company") is pleased to announce plans for completion of a National Instrument 43-101 compliant Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") of its Ochoa Polyhalite Project ("Ochoa"), which is located in New Mexico. Polyhalite is a potash mineral which the Company anticipates will be developed as slow release, non-chloride, multinutrient potash fertilizer in the natural mineral, or which can be used as a potassium sulphate fertilizer after processing.
The PEA will be prepared by Chemrox Technologies ("Chemrox Technologies") of Greenwood Village, Colorado and Gustavson Associates LLC ("Gustavson) of Lakewood, Colorado. Chemrox Technologies, www.chemrox.com, offers geological services including National Instrument 43-101 reports, and Competent Person Reports, and performs due diligence evaluations and prefeasibility/feasibility studies for mining companies throughout the world. Gustavson www.gustavson.com is a global consulting firm consisting of geologists, geophysicists, engineers, economists, and financial experts specializing in natural resource evaluations and mine development.
Significant work has been completed since filings by Trigon of the prior NI-43-101 prepared by Micon on December 22, 2008 and February 4, 2009. The PEA is anticipated to include a conceptual mining and processing plan based upon inferred resource estimates, and various assumed commodity prices and product marketing strategies.
It is intended that findings and conclusions to be contained in the NI-43-101 report will be included in the information circular (the "Circular") of Trigon which is being prepared for the meeting at which shareholders of Trigon will be invited to approve the proposed acquisition of ICP by way of Reverse Takeover ("RTO"). Trigon recently issued a comprehensive news release dated June 19, 2009, announcing the proposed RTO involving an offer to purchase the common shares of ICP that it does not already own. The RTO will be governed by a Support Agreement to be entered into between Trigon and ICP, and will be subject to a number of conditions including a condition that 75% of non-Trigon shareholders of ICP tender their shares to the offer. The completion of the RTO requires that the independent shareholders of Trigon approve the RTO by way of shareholder vote at a special meeting of the shareholders.
Background Information:
Ochoa comprises 16 federal prospecting permits covering an area of 36,589 acres located about 20 miles east of Carlsbad, New Mexico. The Company has applied for additional exploration permits comprising approximately 9,000 acres. Recent investigations have confirmed the existence of polyhalite at the Ochoa property and its likely physical characteristics. The correlation of polyhalite presence with geophysical gamma logs and acoustic logs has also been confirmed. The Company has also obtained polyhalite core from the Rustler Formation from historical drilling close to the Ochoa project.
The Company performed a series of tests on polyhalite rock from the Salado Formation that is also a target horizon on the Ochoa property to determine the rock's physical and chemical characteristics. The polyhalite rock obtained from a small seam in a langbeinite mine contains minor amounts of halite. The physical removal of halite in Salado polyhalite by size fraction and solubility successfully removed the halite or salt. It was determined that upgrading the concentration of such polyhalite concentration can be accomplished by simple washing. It was also determined that the polyhalite can occur as both large crystals and as fine grained masses in the Salado Formation tested. Further the Company has determined that early dissolution of potassium and magnesium is released in a sustained water bath and that that post-bath samples indicate the presence of slower-release polyhalite fractions as well.
Based on the study of polyhalite core samples from the shallower Rustler Formation in the vicinity of Ochoa, it was confirmed that the presence of polyhalite can be determined from gamma logs and physical density logs such as those utilized on the Ochoa permit. X-ray fluorescence and X-ray diffraction of the lower part of core samples obtained from the Rustler Formation, north of Ochoa, confirmed 73% to 90% or more polyhalite by weight across several feet. The upper core samples are currently at the lab and are also undergoing analyses of textures and mineral phases by microscopy and by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) before and after the samples are exposed to moisture. This will be followed by a series of tests on fresh core to determine the affects of different extractive processes to concentrate polyhalite and potassium. Results of the latter work should be available during the summer.
Polyhalite in the Potash Markets and Recent Pricing:
ICP believes that it can develop polyhalite as direct-application multi-nutrient and non-chloride fertilizer potassium mineral. The term "potash" is commonly limited to the mineral sylvite, which is potassium chloride. However, "potash" should include all potassium fertilizers including the nitrates and sulphates. Such potassium sulphate fertilizers include the mineral Langbeinite, mined in New Mexico at locations close to Ochoa and distributed internationally, and schoenite which is extracted from sulphate-rich brines in China and the Great Salt Lake of Utah.
New Mexico is one of the Four Corner States where Trigon has been active in mineral exploration and development including the Permian Basin where polyhalite has been found. Minor polyhalite trends were also found in the Paradox Basin but these occurrences lacked the structural suitability necessary for underground mining as was found at Ochoa in New Mexico. Both The Mosaic Company and Intrepid Potash produce sylvite and langbeinite from mines in New Mexico where we understand that the occurrence of polyhalite in their mines is erratic and non-economic. The potassium sulphate fertilizer market is a proven market with current world operating capacity of approximately 8 million tonnes.
The non-chloride fertilizer products are potassium sulphate and potassium nitrates. These meet the following demands: (i) chloride sensitive crops which include most fruits, vegetables, horticultural crops; (ii) tobacco; (iii) salty and arid soils such as soils in India and North Africa; and (iv) soils where cultivation is intense and there is therefore a tendency towards chloride build-up. Salty soils reduce water uptake which is further reduced by chloride. Arid soils allow for the buildup of chloride which reduces water uptake and causes toxicity making potassium sulfate a desirable substitute.
The geological aspects of this press release were reviewed by Sean Muller, P. Geo., and a Qualified Person under NI43-101. Mr. Muller is an independent contractor who provides technical assistance to ICP in potash exploration and development.
About Trigon and ICP:
Trigon Uranium Corp. is an exploration and development company focused in the western and southwestern United States, with operations based in its Golden, Colorado office. Intercontinental Potash Corp. is a private company with 37% ownership by Trigon and is involved in the acquisition, exploration, and development of polyhalite and potash-related minerals in the United States southwest. The shares of Trigon traded on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "TEL".
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of Trigon and ICP, including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, dependence upon regulatory and shareholder approvals, the execution of definitive documentation and the uncertainty of obtaining additional financing. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. Trigon does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS
THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS
RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
Contacts
please visit www.trigonuraniumcorp.com or www.intercontinentalpotash.com or contact: Trigon Uranium Corp.
Sidney Himmel
President and CEO
Toronto
Ontario
T: (416) 624-3781
shimmel@intercontinentalpotash.com
Spur Ventures Updates Progress in China and in Implementing Its New Strategy
Mon Jul 20, 9:01 AM
http://ca.news.finance.yahoo.com/s/20072009/28/link-f-ccnmatthews-spur-ventures-updates-progress-china-implementing-its-new.html
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - July 20, 2009) - All amounts are expressed in US dollars, unless otherwise stated
Spur Ventures Inc. ("Spur" or the "Company") (TSX: SVU.TO)(OTCBB: SPVEF.OB) today gave an update on its progress in China and the implementation of its New Strategy announced in its October 30, 2008 Press Release.
"In recent months Spur has been encouraged by the spirit of cooperation exhibited by both our Chinese Joint Venture Partner, Hubei Yichang Phosphate Chemical Co. Ltd. (YPCC) and the Chinese authorities," Dr. Rob Rennie, Spur's President and CEO, stated. YPCC has offered to increase its equity holding in Yichang Maple Leaf Chemicals (YMC) through the increased value of the two phosphate mines and by funding the completion of the Mono ammonium Phosphate (MAP) Project which was idled in the 3Q2008.
KEY DEVELOPMENTS
YMC Integrated Phosphate Project
YPCC and Spur Form Task Force to Advance the Mining License Transfers
Although YPCC is responsible for the formal transfer of the two mining licenses to YMC there are many tasks requiring both JV partners to work together for the ultimate success of YMC. YPCC has invited Spur to form a joint Task Force to work together to accomplish these various tasks.
The transfer of the Skukongping and Dianziping mining licenses involves at least seven key sub processes which must be advanced in parallel. It is a complex and time consuming process which requires approval by various government departments (noted in parentheses) at the Yichang City, Hubei Province and sometimes Central Beijing government level of:
1. Updated reserves report and mining plan (Land and Resources)
2. Updated value of the mines (State Owned Administration and Supervisory Commission (SASAC) and Land and Resources)
3. Updated capital cost and implementation plan of the Project (Commerce Bureau and Ministry of Commerce)
4. Extension of the 5 year term of the mining license for the Skukongping mines which expires on October 9, 2009 (Land and Resources)
5. Annual review of the Project progress and renewal of YMC's Business License on or before November 24, 2009 (Commerce Bureau and Hubei Administration for Industry and Commerce (AIC))
6. Modified Joint Venture agreement with increased equity ownership for YPCC reflecting the current higher value of the phosphate mines and cash contributions to MAP Project (Commerce Bureau, AIC and MofCom)
7. Transfer of the two mining licenses from YPCC to YMC (SASAC and Land and Resources)
"Both Spur and YPCC recognize the challenges and time involved to complete these tasks for the transfer of the mining licenses but are more encouraged than at any time in recent years that we are making real progress," Rennie stated.
Loan Repayment from Chinese Joint Venture Partner (YPCC)
YPCC has repaid the fourth yens 400,000 ($58,530) installment leaving yens 324,563 ($47,730) to be paid in August for completion of all amounts due.
Diversifying Spur
Spur has engaged the services of a consultant with extensive experience in business development and investment banking to assist in analyzing new opportunities for Spur in the natural resource sector. A number of potential opportunities in both the fertilizer and precious metal sectors have been reviewed but management has concluded that none of these opportunities have so far merited investment.
Spur Continues to Control Its Costs and Remains in a Strong Working Capital Position
As Spur concentrates on the transfer of the mining licenses and looks for other opportunities the Company has significantly reduced its operational costs and is operating with only a core team in China and Canada. Year over year, total expenses are 35% lower due to reductions of 50% in travel, 54% in professional fees, 67% in transfer agent and filing fees and 20% in consulting fees. Salary, wage and benefits are down only 19% due to one time severance payments to 100 of the two joint ventures' 120 employees in China.
As of June 30, 2009, the Company maintained a balance of cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments of $CDN 24.1 million equivalent to $CDN 0.40 per share. Spur is currently trading at 50% of that value.
This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed to be "forward-looking statements" regarding the timing and content of upcoming programs. Although Spur Ventures believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include phosphate and potash prices, exploitation and exploration successes, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions.
The Toronto Stock Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contacts
Dr. Robert Rennie
Spur Ventures Inc.
rrennie@spur-ventures.com
Mr. Michael Kuta
Spur Ventures Inc.
604-697-6201
mkuta@spur-ventures.com
www.spur-ventures.com
Focus of board will be Canadian (Ozzy?) listed and/or based grass roots fertilizer plays.
Undeveloped potash and phosphate resources have the potential for huge gains in the future as the need for fertilizer increases.
This board is an offshoot of the informative Grains Oilseeds board. http://www.investorshub.com/boards/board.asp?board_id=4925
Creation of this board is with the intent to keep the focus of the original board on developing agricultural stories rather than junior mining plays and all that entails.
“We can substitute atomic energy for oil and coal, but there is absolutely no substitute for phosphorous.” - Isaac Asimov
"But we don't like buying the big guy. We like buying the little guy that no one else is buying." - Eric Sprott
"If you took conventional fertilizer away from the world, 40 per cent of the grain would disappear" - Agrium CEO Mike Wilson
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