Leeuwin Metals Ltd (ASX:LM1) has identified multiple spodumene-bearing pegmatites over a 4.7-kilometre trend from its initial field program at the Cross Lake Lithium Project in Manitoba, Canada.
This marks the first such finding along the Cross Lake Greenstone Belt, expanding beyond the known spodumene-bearing pegmatites identified through the re-sampling of historic drill holes and historical channel sampling.
A total of 30 channel samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis with results expected in the March quarter of 2024.
Upon completion of the fieldwork program, Leeuwin aims to kick off drilling activities in the first half of 2024 and has submitted the drill permit application to the Manitoba government to do the same.
Multiple spodumene rich LCT pegmatites
Leeuwin managing director Christopher Piggott said: “We are very pleased to have completed this phase of the fieldwork at the Cross Lake Lithium Project, which has confirmed the potential large scale and under-explored nature of the project.
“Our work has also clearly indicated that there are multiple Spodumene-rich LCT pegmatites present within a 4.7-kilometre trend.
“The level of anomalism across the trend is highly encouraging with the expectation that more will be discovered once activities are completed to expose under-cover outcrop and by future drilling.
“We look forward to advancing exploration at the project with a view to drilling testing some of these areas in the first half of next year.
“Our team is enthusiastic about exploring this highly mineral-rich region and we remain committed to executing comprehensive exploration programs while collaborating with the Government and local First Nation communities.”
4.7km trend with multiple LCT pegmatites and s present
Fieldwork program
Leeuwin has completed initial boots-on-the-ground exploration activities, focused on additional rock chip and channel sampling, detailed geological mapping, and using remote sensing tools.
This work has defined the potential large-scale lithium opportunity in a region that has previously not been subject to systematic lithium exploration.
The work to date has been very encouraging, with the company able to identify over 15 pegmatites.
We have also confirmed the under-explored nature of the area where vegetation covers the majority of potential outcrop – it remains an attractive exploration opportunity.
Leeuwin VP of exploration Danniel Oosterman said: “I'm excited about our 2023 fieldwork at Cross Lake.
“It has validated the strong results we have gathered from the historic drilling and put into perspective the potential the project possesses in terms of scale; it's clear that there's much more to uncover.
“With numerous Spodumene-rich pegmatites extending for a minimum 4.7 kilometres in trend, outlined by only a modest amount of fieldwork, we're eager to explore further.
“Next year, we plan to drill in these promising areas as well as augment our exploration efforts with a focus on expanding our results in this target-rich environment.”
Forward plan
With the completion of 2023 fieldwork and based on the results received as part of exploration activities carried out with respect to historical drill holes, the company is very encouraged by the results and is aiming to complete a maiden drill program at the project in the first half of 2024.
A drill permit has been submitted to the Manitoba Department of Economic Development, Investment and Trade for an initial 10,000 metres of drilling.
This application process will run in parallel with the company’s ongoing engagement and consultation with First Nation communities.
Additionally, the company has applied for the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund (MMDF), which is aimed at supporting mineral exploration in the province of Manitoba by making available funding of up to C$300,000 if successful.
The outcome of this is expected to be known in the March quarter of 2024.
Read more on Proactive Investors AU
