Vancouver, BC, 3 March 2021 – Newlox Gold Ventures Corp. (“Newlox” or the “Company”) (CSE: LUX | Frankfurt: NGO) is pleased to report that the local artisanal mining partners have begun reconditioning the Boston Mine adits (tunnels) in anticipation of enhanced mineral processing without the need for mercury. The reconditioning will allow increased mine output to support the commissioning of the new processing circuit, eliminating mercury use to improve environmental conditions while simultaneously boosting efficiency.
Local miners have operated informal and formal mines continuously in the Central Gold Belt of Costa Rica and the area of the Boston Mine since the early 1900s, while traditional pre-industrial mining and goldsmithing history in the area dates to 400-500 AD. Precious metals production and smithing are an integral part of local groups’ heritage and traditions and continue to be practiced today for both economic and cultural reasons. Now, for the first time since the introduction of the mercury amalgamation process, artisanal gold and silver production will be achieved with zero use of mercury and its associated environmental damage.
As an expansion to the Newlox artisanal tailings remediation and precious metals recovery project, the Company is implementing a new partner-mining project in association with local stakeholders. The local partners continue to exploit their gold veins while the Company will provide advisory, engineering, and processing support to achieve efficient gold and silver recovery using environmentally positive technology. Both the Company and local stakeholders are keen to advance this project’s development and anticipate that it will provide economic, social, and environmental benefits to all parties.
Newlox management were welcomed to the Boston Mine, which has been in continuous operation for decades and is currently being refurbished in anticipation of supplying raw feedstock to the Boston Processing Plant. This processing plant is fully permitted and is at an advanced stage development, with commissioning expected in the second quarter of this year.
At full scale, the Boston Plant is expected to process 150 tonnes per day of feedstock at a grade of +-15 grams per tonne gold with a significant silver component. Net revenues after all production costs will be split 50/50 between the miners and Newlox. The Company expects the Boston Project to contribute to Newlox’s near-term growth significantly.
A Message from Ryan Jackson, President & CEO:
“We are delighted to see our local partners refurbishing and upgrading their mines in anticipation of the commissioning of the new processing facility. Mining and precious metals are an integral component of the local population’s economy, culture, and history in Central America. We are honoured to be invited to assist in the sustainable development of the local economy.
Although artisanal mining has a long and rich history in this area, traditional metal extraction methods have had harmful environmental consequences. By providing access for local mining groups to modern mineral processing technology, Newlox will empower local miners to enhance their economic, social, and environmental circumstances while advancing our Company’s growth strategy.” |