Mining News: Northern Neighbors: African Queen issued Yellowjacket permit

African Queen Mines Ltd. Oct. 22 said the British Columbia Ministry of Energy and Mines has issued it a permit that approves a mine plan and reclamation program for the Yellowjacket gold mine near Atlin in northern B.C. African Queen acquired the property from Athabasca Nuclear Corp., formerly Yellowjacket Resources Ltd., earlier this year. The property encompasses hardrock as well as placer gold prospects, and has been the subject of various historical mining operations that span more than a century. A 400-metric-tons-per-day mill and concentrator, as well as other equipment from a hardrock operation established by Yellowjacket Resources remains in place. Mining was suspended for a variety of reasons including engineering and equipment problems as well as financial issues arising from the recession in the industry. African Queen CEO Irwin Olian said, “Our first priority will be development of a new geologic model for the project through exploration, whilst at the same time we are evaluating the utility of plant and equipment on site and undertaking engineering studies designed to optimize results from future mining operations.” African Queen is a Vancouver, B.C.-based exploration company with gold properties in Africa and Canada.

- Shane Lasley