Mining News: Northern Neighbors: Minto production exceeds expectations

Capstone Mining Corp. April 13 reported that its copper production for the three months ending March 31 totaled 23,700 metric tons, with by-products of zinc, molybdenum, lead, silver and gold. The Minto Mine in Yukon Territory produced 4,095 metric tons of copper in concentrates, 37,919 ounces of silver and 3,792 oz. gold. This production was significantly higher than planned due to ore from Area 118 underground that was above model grades, combined with the mining of an area required for water storage, which was not in the mine plan. The current plan has the mill continuing to process underground and stockpiled ore, with surface mining on hold until a pending water use license amendment is issued. The Yukon Water Board held a hearing on the amendment during the first week of March, and Capstone anticipates its issuance in the second quarter. Capstone’s Pinto Valley Mine in Arizona produced 15,809 metric tons of copper in concentrate and cathode, and the company’s Cozamin Mine in Mexico produced 3,373 metric tons of copper in concentrate during the first three months of 2015.

- Shane Lasley