Leeuwin Metals Ltd (ASX:LM1) has begun sampling core from seven historic drill holes at its wholly-owned Jenpeg Lithium project in Manitoba, Canada, in which spodumene-bearing pegmatites were observed.
Jenpeg is emerging as a large-scale opportunity for Leeuwin Metals, with mapped pegmatite swarms covering more than 6 kilometres of strike, the lithium potential of which remains inadequately tested.
Historically, drilling at the site has intersected multiple sub-parallel lithium-caesium-tantalum (LCT) pegmatites of spodumene up to 20 metres thick and more than 400 metres strike length.
This sampling initiative follows successful discussions with the Manitoba Government and Geological Survey, with assay results expected in 4-8 weeks.
“Emerging lithium discovery”
Leeuwin managing director Christopher Piggott said: “Jenpeg is an emerging lithium discovery in Manitoba, with work to date indicating that the region has the potential to host a large-scale, lithium-rich pegmatite system.
“After successful negotiations, we have achieved a positive outcome for the company and further strengthened our relationship with the Manitoba Government and the Manitoba Geological Survey.
The sampling of this historical core is a significant step towards unlocking the value potential at Jenpeg.
Manitoba has a long history and expertise within the lithium sector, and we look forward to demonstrating the potential significance of this pegmatite system in our project.
With sampling underway, we look forward to updating the market in the coming weeks and months as we receive results from all our active work programs.”
Forward plan
Leeuwin expects to begin summer fieldwork in the September quarter and initially focus on the 6-kilometre trend of known spodumene-bearing pegmatites at Spodumene Island.
Exploration activities (rock chip and channel sampling, detailed geological mapping and remote sensing) will provide additional targets, informing ongoing exploration within the key areas while assisting regional exploration programs within its +1,700 square kilometres of tenure.
This work will ultimately aim to demonstrate the significant opportunity with the project and assist with the generation of drill targets and assist with the ongoing engagement of all key stakeholders.