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HIGHFIELD RESOURCES LIMITED — Capital/Financing Update 2014
Aug 3, 2014
65048_rns_2014-08-03_58bbbc32-060d-404b-bd86-9ed17dd8898f.pdf
Capital/Financing Update
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ASX Release 4 August 2014
MUGA POTASH PROJECT DELIVERS SUBSTANTIAL UPSIDE INTO SHALLOW PREVIOUSLY UNEXPLORED PROJECT AREA
Highlights
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Shallow potash mineralisation intersected in three drill holes outside of current JORC Measured and Indicated Mineral Resource estimate including:
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J13-07 – 1.8m at 12.8% K2O (20.2% KCl) from 285.7m and 1.2m at 13.1% K2O (20.7% KCl) from 288.4m
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J13-08 – 4.5m at 12.0% K2O (19.0% KCl) from 239.9m and 1.2m at 16.6% K2O (26.3% KCl) from 245m
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J13-10 – 1.8m at 16.1% K2O (25.6% KCl) from 240.1m and 0.9m at 14.3% K2O (22.6% KCl) from 252.4m
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Upgraded JORC Measured and Indicated Mineral Resource being prepared to include extensions to mineralisation outside of current Mineral Resource
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New drill holes identifying strong shallow mineralisation expected to enhance DFS mine plan and life
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Ten infill drill hole program commenced
Spanish potash developer Highfield Resources (HFR:ASX) (the “Company”) is pleased to announce additional exploration results from its initial Muga-Vipasca Project area drill campaign.
The Muga-Vipasca Project (formerly the Javier-Vipasca Project, refer ASX News Release-Javier Potash Project Divided Into Two Potash Projects – 29 July 2014) area includes two 100% owned potash projects located in Spain´s potash producing Ebro Basin. The Project area covers over 110 km2 and encompasses the Javier Basin that is defined by the Muga and Vipasca leases.
Managing Director Anthony Hall commented:
The extension of potash mineralisation into the shallow south eastern area of the Muga Project is great news for our initial mine target as it provides additional shallow options for the commencement of mining and the decline access.
The extent of mineralisation is also likely to provide a longer mine life than projected in the PFS – and this is before we consider upside from projects at Vipasca and Pintano that abut the Muga Project area.
Highfield Resources Ltd. ACN 153 918 257 ASX: HFR
Registered Office C/– HLB Mann Judd 169 Fullarton Road Dulwich, SA 5065 Australia
Head Office Calle Navas de Tolosa, 5 - 1°B, 31002 Pamplona, Spain
Directors Company Secretary Derek Carter Donald Stephens Richard Crookes Anthony Hall Owen Hegarty Pedro Rodriguez
Issued Capital 155.825 million shares 103 million performance shares 23.3 million options
–––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––– Tel: +61 8 8133 5098 Tel: +34 948 050 577 Fax: +61 8 8431 3502 Fax: +34 948 050 578
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Drilling Results
The Company has recently completed the final drill holes of its initial planned drilling campaign in the MugaVipasca Project area. Drill holes J13-01, J13-07, J13-08, J13-10 and J13-11 were designed to test the extent of mineralisation along strike into the south eastern section of the Project area (Figure 1). With the exception of J1311, the mineralisation showed very positive extension into the shallow south eastern section.
J13-10 that intersected sylvinite mineralisation starting at depths from surface of less than 240m, including 1.8m at 16.1% K2O (25.6% KCl) from 240m and 0.9m at 14.3% K2O (22.6% KCl) from 252m.
J13-08 in the central western part of the Javier Basin intersected 13.2m of mixed sylvinite and carnallite mineralisation starting at depths from surface of 235.1m. The 13.2m included 4.5m at 12.0% K2O (19.0% KCl) from 239.0m and 1.2m at 16.6% K2O (26.3% KCl) from 245m. The carnallite mineralisation appeared restricted to the A Bed.
J13-07 intersected 5.1m of sylvinite mineralisation starting at depths from surface of 281.8m. The 5.1m included 1.8m at 12.8% K2O (20.2% KCl) from 285.7m and 1.2m at 13.1% K2O (20.7% KCl) from 287.2m.
J13-01 intersected 0.9m of sylvinite mineralisation starting at depths from surface of 285.6m. J13-11 did not intersect potash mineralisation and has served to define the extent of mineralisation between the Muga and Pintano Projects.
J13-04 was designed to test the historical Undues de Lerda drill hole. Consistent with the Undues de Lerda drill hole, J13-04 only intersected a thin upper salt above the thick lower evaporite layer. J13-11 also lacked potash mineralisation, possibly due to a depositional or structural high as suggested in the regional seismic approaching the saddle area that divides the Javier Basin from Pintano.
Upgraded JORC Mineral Resource Estimate
The Company´s independent resource and engineering consultants, Agapito Associates Inc., are currently preparing an upgraded JORC Mineral Resource estimate utilising the information obtained from the recently completed drill holes. This Resource estimate is expected to be completed on receipt of results from the second phase of drilling in the current Quarter.
The Company believes the upgraded JORC Mineral Resource estimate and the drilling campaign demonstrating strong shallow mineralisation into the south eastern section of the Muga-Vipasca Project area along strike will serve to enhance the mine plan and life. The DFS that is currently being completed is expected to benefit from this.
Infill Drill and Resource Extension Program
The Company and Agapito Associates have recently developed an infill and resource extension drill program that has been designed to provide sufficient information for mine planning purposes for the proposed Muga mine. This ten drill hole program has commenced and is targeted for completion in September 2014. Upon completion there will 34 holes in the Muga-Vipasca Project, primarily in the Muga Potash Project area.
For more information:
Mr Anthony Hall Managing Director Ph: +34 617 872 100
Mr Simon Hinsley Investor Relations Ph: +61 401 809 653
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Figure 1: Muga-Vipasca Project area showing current JORC Mineral Resource estimate, potash exploration drill holes and seismic lines
Competent Persons’ Statement
This ASX release was prepared by Mr. Anthony Hall, Managing Director of Highfield Resources. The information in this release that relates to Mineral Resources and Exploration Results is based on information prepared by Mr. Leo J. Gilbride, P.Eng. and Ms. Vanessa Santos, P.Geo. of Agapito Associates, Inc. (AAI) of Colorado, United States of America (USA). Mr. Gilbride is a licensed professional engineer in the State of Colorado, USA and is a registered member of the Society of Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration, Inc. (SME). Ms. Santos is a licensed professional geologist in South Carolina and Georgia, USA, and is a registered member of the SME. SME is a Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Code ‘Recognized Professional Organization’ (RPO). An RPO is an accredited organization to which the Competent Person (CP) under JORC Code Reporting Standards must belong in order to report Exploration Results, Mineral Resources, or Ore Reserves through the ASX. Mr. Gilbride is a Principal and Ms. Santos is the Chief Geologist with AAI and both have sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity which they are undertaking to qualify as a CP as defined in the 2012 Edition of the JORC Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves. Mr. Gilbride and Ms. Santos consent to the inclusion in the release of the matters based on their information in the form and context in which it appears.
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About Highfield Resources
Highfield Resources is an ASX-Listed potash company with four 100%-owned projects located in Spain (Figure 2).
The Company’s Javier, Pintano (Figure 3) and Sierra del Perdón potash projects are located in the Ebro potash producing basin in Northern Spain covering a project area of nearly 400km[2] . The Sierra del Perdón project includes two former operating mines. The Company has completed a PFS for its Muga (formerly Javier) Project and is currently working towards completing a DFS by the end of the 2014 Calendar Year.
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Figure 2: Location of Highfield´s Muga-Vipasca, Pintano, and Sierra del Perdón Projects in Northern Spain
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Figure 3: Pintano Project area showing current JORC Mineral Resource estimate, potash exploration drill holes and seismic lines
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New Drill Hole Assay Results for Muga-Vipasca Project Area
Table 1: Summary of J13-01 Assay Results – Selected Intervals
DDH J13-01 POTASH GRADES (ICP analysis)
| K2O(%) | MgO(%) | Na2O(%) | Cl(%) | SO4(%) | CaO(%) | Water Insolubles |
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| From 285.60 to 286.50 Thickness: 0.9 m CAPA"B" |
Average max. Value min. Value |
8.69 10.00 7.54 |
1.49 2.92 0.23 |
30.20 31.68 29.39 |
46.97 50.50 44.50 |
3.59 5.03 2.52 |
2.25 3.02 1.64 |
16.14 22.11 11.42 |
Notes:
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Max = maximum, Min = minimum
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ALS conducted assay using inductively coupled plasma (ICP) method. Samples were processed by ALS Sevilla, Camas, Spain and analysed by ALS Loughrea, Galway, Ireland
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Intervals are cored intervals (versus true thickness intervals).
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Composite grades calculated as length-weighted averages
Table 2: Summary of J13-07 Assay Results – Selected Intervals
DDH J13-07 POTASH GRADES (ICP analysis)
| K2O(%) | MgO(%) | Na2O(%) | Cl(%) | SO4(%) | CaO(%) | Water Insolubles |
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| From 281.80 to 283.3 Thickness: 1.5 m CAPA"CERO" |
Average max. Value min. Value |
5.46 14.76 0.92 |
1.15 2.09 0.33 |
24.98 29.93 21.03 |
39.38 43.20 36.30 |
2.88 5.51 2.55 |
2.22 2.60 1.92 |
32.52 39.43 24.63 |
|
| From 285.70 to 287.50 Thickness: 1.8 m CAPA"A" |
Average max. Value min. Value |
12.78 18.55 6.35 |
0.21 0.38 0.13 |
28.21 38.28 24.26 |
45.38 54.30 40.50 |
5.31 6.83 3.60 |
3.17 4.04 2.21 |
20.49 26.47 11.54 |
|
| From 288.40 to 289.60 Thickness: 1.2 m CAPA"B" |
Average max. Value min. Value |
13.08 16.02 10.88 |
0.08 0.10 0.03 |
33.40 37.88 28.31 |
49.83 57.90 43.60 |
4.55 6.32 3.27 |
2.63 3.69 1.75 |
18.18 18.18 0.22 |
|
| From 284.50 to 289.60 Thickness: 5.1 m Potash interval |
Average max. Value min. Value |
9.29 18.55 1.01 |
0.36 3.20 0.03 |
30.71 38.42 23.59 |
46.73 57.90 40.50 |
4.98 8.15 2.61 |
3.01 4.85 1.75 |
17.69 27.89 0.22 |
Notes:
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Max = maximum, Min = minimum
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ALS conducted assay using inductively coupled plasma (ICP) method. Samples were processed by ALS Sevilla, Camas, Spain and analysed by ALS Loughrea, Galway, Ireland
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Intervals are cored intervals (versus true thickness intervals).
-
Composite grades calculated as length-weighted averages
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Table 3: Summary of J13-08 Assay Results – Selected Intervals
DDH J13-08 POTASH GRADES (ICP analysis)
| K2O(%) | MgO(%) | Na2O(%) | Cl(%) | SO4(%) | CaO(%) | Water Insolubles |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| From 235.1 to 237.5 Thickness: 2.4 m CAPA"CERO" |
Average max. Value min. Value |
4.75 9.78 0.65 |
0.52 0.78 0.30 |
25.28 28.58 21.43 |
36.65 41.10 32.50 |
3.43 4.67 2.73 |
2.79 3.50 2.39 |
34.76 41.50 26.75 |
||
| From 239.90 to 244.40 Thickness: 4.5 m CAPA"A" |
Average max. Value min. Value |
12.01 15.30 9.70 |
4.62 7.48 0.33 |
19.99 27.77 14.96 |
45.99 50.80 36.90 |
4.15 8.42 2.79 |
2.68 5.44 1.82 |
12.76 21.44 0.69 |
||
| CAPA "B" | From 245.60 to 248.30 Thickness: 2.7 m Complete CAPA"B" |
Average max. Value min. Value |
10.78 25.66 1.43 |
0.18 0.25 0.08 |
29.63 41.79 21.30 |
47.33 54.40 40.70 |
6.73 8.48 4.31 |
4.08 5.18 2.67 |
14.96 22.52 8.63 |
|
| From 245.60 to 246.80 Thickness: 1.2 m High grade interval Including 60 cm |
Average max. Value min. Value Average |
16.61 25.66 7.85 22.80 |
0.19 0.25 0.12 0.17 |
25.73 30.33 21.30 22.01 |
46.38 53.80 41.10 42.80 |
6.24 7.37 4.31 5.21 |
3.83 4.52 2.67 3.21 |
14.66 18.89 8.63 18.51 |
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| From 235.10 to 248.30 Thickness: 13.2 m Complete potash interval |
Average max. Value min. Value |
8.48 25.66 0.65 |
1.94 7.48 0.08 |
25.30 41.79 14.96 |
43.08 54.40 32.50 |
4.45 8.48 2.70 |
3.01 5.44 1.82 |
20.75 42.37 0.69 |
||
| Notes: |
-
Max = maximum, Min = minimum 2. ALS conducted assay using inductively coupled plasma (ICP) method. Samples were processed by ALS Sevilla, Camas, Spain and analysed by ALS Loughrea, Galway, Ireland 3. Intervals are cored intervals (versus true thickness intervals).
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Composite grades calculated as length-weighted averages
Table 4: Summary of J13-10 Assay Results – Selected Intervals
DDH J13-10 POTASH GRADES (ICP analysis)
| K2O(%) | MgO(%) | Na2O(%) | Cl(%) | SO4(%) | CaO(%) | Water Insolubles |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| "A" | From 239.8 to 244 Thickness: 4.2 m Complete interval |
Average max. Value min. Value |
10.73 22.29 4.43 |
0.23 0.61 0.07 |
28.57 36.80 21.70 |
42.17 50.00 36.10 |
4.17 6.02 2.88 |
2.70 3.75 1.93 |
17.74 23.62 9.70 |
|
| CAPA | From 240.40 to 242.20 Thickness: 1.8 m selected interval |
Average max. Value min. Value |
16.14 22.29 9.46 |
0.30 0.61 0.17 |
25.38 28.58 21.70 |
42.11 49.40 36.60 |
3.62 4.97 2.88 |
2.42 3.16 1.93 |
18.16 23.01 10.06 |
|
| From 252.10 to 260.80 Thickness: 8.7 m Complete interval |
Average max. Value min. Value |
8.61 17.95 1.29 |
0.22 0.51 0.08 |
33.15 43.27 23.79 |
45.92 54.70 37.70 |
5.54 8.90 2.94 |
3.05 5.41 1.32 |
12.95 23.61 3.87 |
||
| CAPA "B" | From 252.40 to 253.30 Thickness: 0.9 m upper selected interval |
Average max. Value min. Value |
14.29 17.95 9.93 |
0.15 0.38 0.08 |
31.95 37.20 23.79 |
45.68 52.00 38.90 |
5.18 6.80 3.75 |
2.96 4.03 1.39 |
11.95 17.91 4.53 |
|
| From 259.00 to 260.80 Thickness: 1.8 m lower selected interval |
Average max. Value min. Value |
10.29 15.96 3.23 |
0.19 0.25 0.15 |
31.05 34.37 28.44 |
44.33 54.60 37.70 |
5.84 8.90 2.94 |
3.44 5.41 1.32 |
15.42 22.80 5.95 |
||
| Notes: |
-
Max = maximum, Min = minimum
-
ALS conducted assay using inductively coupled plasma (ICP) method. Samples were processed by ALS Sevilla, Camas, Spain and analysed by ALS Loughrea, Galway, Ireland 3. Intervals are cored intervals (versus true thickness intervals).
-
Composite grades calculated as length-weighted averages
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Appendix
Explanatory Notes to the Exploration Results for the Muga-Vipasca and Pintano Potash Projects
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Property Description
The project area is located in the northern portion of Spain within the Ebro Basin and is situated within the Navarra and Aragón provinces of Spain. The project area is divided into two sub-basins, Javier Basin (as defined here by the Muga and Vipasca leases) and the Pintano Basin, which are separated by an elevated saddle area. The MugaVipasca area occupies the western extent of the property, and the Pintano area is along the eastern extent (Figure 3).
Tenure and Surface Rights
Spanish mining permits are split into three categories: Exploration Permit (PE), Investigation Permit (PI), and Mining Concession. A PE is for desktop studies and lasts for a period of 1 year (it may be rolled over once). A PI is necessary for drilling, allows for the sinking of shafts and driving of declines and lasts for a period of 3 years (it may also be rolled over for multiple three-year periods). For a PI to be granted, an environmental review must be completed by the relevant government. A Mining Concession is for mineral extraction and lasts for periods of 30 years (it may be rolled over two times).
In addition to the above, if a permit sits in two provinces, it must be formally issued by the Central Government in Madrid under Article 71.3 of the Spanish Mining Code.
The Muga-Vipasca property comprises four main permits and two extension permits (Figure 2): Goyo, Fronterizo, Muga, and Vipasca. Goyo and Muga are granted PIs in Navarra. Fronterizo straddles the Navarra and Aragón border and was granted 5 February 2014. Three permits are pending. Vipasca was filed at the end of 2013, and it is not expected to be approved for the upcoming resource estimate. The Goyo Sur PI and Muga Sur PI are new applications. The CPs have reviewed the mineral tenure from documents provided by Highfield Resources (Highfield) (the “Company”) including permitting requirements, but have not independently verified the permitting status, legal status, ownership of the project area, underlying property agreements or permits.
The Pintano property comprises three PI and one PE permits (Figure 3): Molineras 10 (PI), Molineras 20 (PI), and Puntarrón (PI), and Puntarrón (PE). Puntarrón (PI) is pending. The Molineras 20 is under application and pending approval in 2014. For the existing Puntarrón (PE), Highfield has applied for a rollover to extend the exploration period an additional one year. Highfield is relied upon by the CPs for tenure status.
Geology
The Upper Eocene potash deposits occur in the sub-basins of Navarra and Aragón provinces within the larger Ebro Basin (Figure A-1). The Navarrese sub-basin includes the Muga-Vipasca (Javier) and adjoining Pintano deposits. This potash deposit contains a 100-meter (m)-thick Upper Eocene succession of alternating claystone and evaporites (anhydrite, halite, and sylvite). The evaporites accumulated in the elongated basin at the southern foreland of the Pyrenean range (Busson and Schreiber 1997). The evaporites overlie marine deposits and conclude in a transitional marine to non-marine environment with terrigenous influence. Open marine conditions existed in the Eocene-Oligocene epochs progressing to a more restricted environment dominated by evaporation and the deposition of marl, gypsum, halite, and potassium minerals. Later, tectonism and resulting salt deformations formed broad anticlines, synclines and overturned beds, which created outcrops of the evaporite sequence. The possibility exists that basement-related faulting has resulted in repeated (or overturned) mineralised beds.
Two fault systems dominate and bound the Javier Basin, to the north by the extension of the thrusting Loiti Fault and to the south by the Magdalena Fault, both resulting in the cropping out of the evaporite units (Figure A-2). The Basin axis is defined by the Javier-Undues Syncline. To the east, the Basin climbs to the Flexura de Ruesta, a northwest-southeast offset block contemporaneous with evaporite deformation that resulted in a higher saddle area between the Javier-Vipasca and Pintano sub-basins. Approximately vertical faults parallel to the west of the Flexura de Ruesta have been defined by two-dimensional (2D) seismic surveys (Empresa Nacional
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Figure A-1. Regional Geology of the Ebro and Jaca-Pamplona Basins (from University of Michigan 2004)
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Figure A-2. Muga-Vipasca Project Regional Structure and Drill Hole Locations
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Adaro Investigaciones Mineras [e.n. adaro] 1988–1991). Basin continuity to the west-northwest has not been welldefined by drilling programs or seismic surveys so far, but surface expression shows the evaporite outcrop as offset approximate to the Aragón River. Field investigation has shown an overthrust of much younger rocks, but generally lower angle structure than suggested by the offset.
The depositional environment is that of a restricted marine basin, influenced by eustasy, sea floor subsidence, and/or uplift and sediment input. It is suggested that the Basin is a combination of reflux and drawdown. Reflux represents a basin isolated from open marine conditions thereby characterised by restricted inflow, increased density, and increased salinity. Drawdown is simple evaporation in an isolated basin resulting in brine concentration and precipitation, consistent with the classic “bulls-eye” model (Garrett 1996). In this case, the Basin is further influenced by erosion at the basin edges due to contemporaneous and post-depositional uplift resulting in localised shallowing and sediment influx (Ortiz and Cabo 1981).
In the classic “bulls-eye” model, a basin that is cut off from open marine conditions will experience drawdown by evaporation in an arid to semi-arid environment. In the absence of sediment influx, precipitation will proceed from limestone to dolomite to gypsum and anhydrite to halite. Depending on the composition and influences of the brine at that time, the remaining potassium, magnesium, sulfates, and chlorides will progress from potassium and magnesium sulfates to sylvite and then carnallite. It is proposed herein that the formation of carnallite and sylvite be described as primary and secondary, respectively.
Potash is used to describe any number of potassium salts. By and large, the predominant economic potash is sylvite: potassium chloride (KCl) usually occurring mixed with halite to form the rock sylvinite which may have a potassium oxide (K2O) content of up to 63%. Carnallite, a potassium magnesium chloride (KCl•MgCl2•6H2O) is also abundant, but has K2O content only as high as 17%. “Carnallite” is used to refer to the mineral and the rock interchangeably, although “carnallitite” is the more correct terminology for the carnallite and halite mixture. Besides being a source of lower grade potassium, carnallite involves a more complex production process, so it is less economically attractive than is sylvite.
The regional stratigraphy is dominated by open and restricted marine conditions (Figure A-3). Evaporitic sedimentation (Guendulain Formation) directly overlies the fine marine offshore sediments (Pamplona Marls) (Ortiz and Cabo 1981; Orti et al. 1984). Both drill hole data and outcrop observations assign an average thickness of about 150m to the saline formation, which displays the following sequence from bottom to top:
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a) Basal sulfate member (basal anhydrite).
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b) Lower salt member (sal de muro or “bottom salt”), medium to very coarse recrystallised halite, medium grey to black and lower part may be brown and sandy as described below.
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c) Multiple sylvinitic beds lower member and a carnallitic upper member. The potash is characterised as fine to coarse granularity, typically light to medium orange-red in colour, of crystalline structure with high insolubles and interbedded halite. The upper unit exhibits brecciated structure suggesting recrystallisation after carnallite formation. Carnallite formation is limited in the Muga-Vipasca Project area and more commonly occurring in the Sierra del Perdón Project area.
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d) Upper saline member (sales de techo or “top salts”), alternating halite and clay layers, some of which exhibit deformation.
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e) Top marl member (margas fajeadas or “banded marls”) with intercalated anhydrite layers.
Overlying the salt is a siliciclastic detrital unit, made up of the Oligocene Galar Sandstone, Javier-Pintano hard layers, the Oligocene-Miocene Rocaforte Formation and, locally, the Igaza Conglomerates (Uncastillo Formation). This unit is capped by Quaternary and Oligocene sediments. The Quaternary is made up of alluvium, glacial till and debris (Orti et al. 1986).
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Figure A-3. Regional Stratigraphy of the Ebro Basin
These units have been simplified in the geologic modelling database as:
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Unidad del Oligoceno (UO) for Lutitas y Limolitas
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Unidad Detritica (UD) for Areniscas de Galar / Belsúe and (MF) as Margas Fajeadas (MF)
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Unidad Evaporitica (UE) for Sales de Techo (ST) and Sal Muro (SM) or Sal (S)
In the Muga-Vipasca Project area, the mineralogy is dominated by sylvinite, which is medium red-orange and white, largely coarse crystalline in bands and in heavily brecciated beds containing high levels of insoluble material,
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largely fine-grained clays, anhydrite, and marl. The upper potash beds transition to finely banded light brown marls and clays. The salts just below the potash tend to dark grey to black. In some lower beds, halite becomes brownish, sandy to coarsely granular sand and sandstone as sediment influx from the Basin edges. In portions of the halite beds, sediment influx from the Basin edges is seen as sandy to coarsely granular sands and sandstones. The lower salt is banded, exhibits very large cubic crystals and, in some cases, high angles and folding indicative of recrystallisation and structural deformation. The literature denotes this salt as the “sal vieja” or “old salt” (Ortiz and Cabo 1981). The evaporite beds and bands, in general, are separated by fine to very coarse crystallised and recrystallised salts, generally grey, sometimes light-to-medium honey brown or white, with anhydrite blebs, nodules, and clasts.
Exploration and Methodology
Extensive exploration was carried out originally by Potasas de Subiza, S.A. (POSUSA) through 1987 and later by e.n. adaro (1989–1991) in the late 1980s and early 1990s. e.n. adaro, the state-owned group tasked with exploration and development of Spain’s mineral resources, produced detailed reports and “reserve” studies of the Muga-Vipasca and Pintano areas. The drilling program completed in 1989–1990 was outlined in detail in reports that are referenced herein.
Muga-Vipasca Property
Potash mineralisation occurs in five principal sylvinite beds (descending 0, A, B, 1 and 2), ranging in depth from approximately 100m to more than 1,000m. The 8 October 2013 maiden Mineral Resource estimate for the MugaVipasca property was independently developed by USA geology and mining consultants AAI based on the results of documented geological studies, 2D seismic analysis, exploration drilling, electric logging (elogs), and chemical analyses on core from exploration holes drilled during the 1980s by POSUSA (1987).
Eleven drill holes were drilled in the 1980s (see Table A-1) (one was drilled to replace an incomplete well), and, in early 1991, detailed lithology logs and assays were completed. Fourteen new holes (see Table A-2) have been drilled and cored since 2013 by Geoalcali Sociedad Limitada (Geoalcali) for a total of 25 holes on the property.
The second phase of drilling in the Muga-Vipasca Project area is ten holes for infill drilling and resource extension. Detailed evaluation of this second phase will be part of the upcoming updated resource estimate. Assays for drill holes J13-01, J13-07, and J13-08, and J13-10 are presented with this press release. No assays for completed drill holes J13-04 or J13-11 will be performed.
The potash beds have been correlated using a combination of assays, core photos, and lithological and geophysical logs. The beds vary in grade and thickness and can be discontinuous. From top to bottom, the principal beds begin with potash “zero” or P0. P0 is newly defined with this drilling program and is typically of a lower grade, averaging less than 6% K2O where present. The bed designated as P0 is a transitional zone generally marked by low-grade orange sylvinite and halite interbedded with light- to medium-grey and thinly bedded clay and marls exhibiting some cross-cutting veining and recrystallisation near the top of salt. In J13-09, P0 is well developed with an approximate 2.7m true thickness (adjusted from apparent dip) averaging 11.7% K2O, based on provisional bed correlations. P0 is of low grade in JP-4.
The main beds are PA and PB, which are generally the thickest, of highest grade, and most continuous across the Basin. PA generally exhibits the highest degree of recrystallisation and brecciation, and is likely the geologic equivalent of the carnallite bed in the Sierra del Perdón Basin to the northwest. PA and PB are typically separated by about 1m or less of halite and, consequently, are treated as a combined single bed (PAB) for correlation purposes. PAB is typically of 9% to 13% K2O grade and has a thickness averaging about 3.6m true thickness where present. Thicknesses in this report are generally reported as true thickness, corrected from measured thickness.
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Table A-1. Muga-Vipasca Historic Drill Holes
| Drill Hole ID |
Easting (m) Northing (m) Elevation MSL (m) Date of Drilling Campaign Total Depth (m) Coordinates ETRS89* |
|---|---|
| Javier-2 Javier-3 JP-1 JP-2 JP-3 JP-3D (re-drill) JP-4 Las Nogueras (NGR) Molinar (MLN) Undues Lerda (UDL) La Vistana(VST) |
646902 4715320 506 896 pre-1987 647567 4717718 500 592 pre-1987 648035 4717117 475 731 1989-1990 648825 4716665 515 556 1989-1990 649528 4716734 574 455 1989-1990 649528 4716734 574 455 1991 649826 4715223 539 466 1989-1990 650403 4715811 605 402 pre-1987 648698 4714996 520 771 pre-1987 649905 4714120 622 616 pre-1987 649347 4716428 537 466 pre-1987 |
Note: ETRS89 = European Terrestrial Reference System 1989; MSL = mean sea level. *Pre-1987 drill-hole locations could not be relocated and are taken from maps.
Table A-2. Highfield Resources Muga-Vipasca 2013–2014 Drilling Campaign
| Drill Hole ID Start Date End Date |
Easting (m) Northing (m) Elevation MSL (m) Investigation Permit Coordinates ETRS89 Total Depth (m) |
|---|---|
| J13-01 1-May-14 15-May-14 J13-02 13-Mar-14 31-Mar-14 J13-03 5-Aug-13 25-Sep-14 J13-04 30-May-14 8-Jul-14 J13-05 28-Sep-13 6-Nov-13 J13-06 12-Sep-13 9-Oct-13 J13-07 22-Apr-14 6-May-14 J13-08 13-May-14 23-May-14 J13-09 15-Nov-13 12-Dec-13 J13-10 30-May-14 5-Jun-14 J13-11 14-Jun-14 10-Jul-14 J13-12 11-Mar-14 19-Mar-14 J13-13 11-Nov-13 3-Dec-13 J13-14 14-Nov-13 23-Dec-13 J13-15 ND J13-16 ND J14-01 ND J14-02 ND J14-04 ND J14-05 ND J14-07 ND J14-08 ND J14-10 ND |
651037 4715317 659 313 P.I. Muga 651271 4716794 752 306 P.I. Fronterizo 648952 4717328 554 421 P.I. Goyo 649629 4714046 624 650 P.I. Muga 648001 4716310 492 893 P.I. Goyo 646435 4717937 444 861 P.I. Goyo 651348 4714113 629 335 P.I. Muga 652948 4715331 855 318 P.I. Muga 647246 4716540 471 1,093 P.I. Goyo 652972 4714581 799 283 P.I. Muga 654064 4714167 885 402 P.I. Muga 649480 4716153 553 482 P.I Muga 646993 4718223 485 756 P.I. Goyo 646972 4715501 515 1,222 P.I. Goyo 647869 4718223 575 P.I. Goyo 645900 4717542 440 P.I. Goyo 648782 4715781 517 PI Fronterizo 651824 4716032 P.I. Muga 652600 4713998 820 P.I. Muga 651762 4714717 720 P.I. Muga 651627 4713310 740 P.I. Muga 653264 4713178 870 P.I. Muga 646635 4716219 530 P.I. Goyo |
Note: ND = not drilled. IP = in progress.
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P1 and P2 are generally thinner and more discontinuous than the overlying beds. Grade is variable in both beds and may be as high as 19% (in one 0.5m intercept) but typically averages about 2m thick and 8.7% K2O. P1 or P2 are usually more banded in appearance than PAB and appear to represent earlier potash deposition in a deeper part of the Basin. P2 may exhibit a pink colour with decimated white anhydrite nodules and steep bedding.
The core in most holes exhibits sylvinite bands separated by minor beds and bands of orange salt, which, themselves are bound by larger salt-brecciated bands. High-angle folding is occasionally evident in the core, suggesting variable steep structure and/or local deformation above the brecciated potash beds caused by secondary recrystallisation.
In drill hole J13-08, bed P0 is present over a 2.1m interval interbedded with characteristic light coloured and thinly laminated beds of clays and marls. The bed is separated from the underlying PAB bed by 1.4m of sediment. PAB shows typical dark brecciated mineralisation with minor banding over an interval of approximately 7.8m. Assay results to confirm thickness and grade are pending. J13-08 lies close to the northern Basin edge, but a welldeveloped thickness of PAB suggests the area was a depositional low.
Drill hole J13-01 intersected bed P0 and what is interpreted as the PAB bed. P0 and PAB show considerable thinning at approximately 0.1m and 1.0m thickness, respectively, suggesting a local depositional high.
Exploration drilling results for earlier holes are summarised in Highfield’s 1 May 2014, 12 May 2014 , and 5 June 2014 ASX releases.
Additional lower beds in the depositional center of the Basin may exist, as suggested in the logs from drill holes JP09 and JP13-13, but there is insufficient information to confirm whether these are new beds or repeated beds in the lower salt layers. Potash (and salts) are plastic and mobilise with faulting, folding, and recrystallisation processes. In some cases, faulting is “basement” derived and can produce faulted or thrusted beds which attenuate up geologic sequence through the salt beds. Additional drilling will help to determine the nature of these beds.
J13-01 intersected 0.9m of sylvinite mineralisation starting at depths from 285.6m.
Infill drilling of J13-04 near Undues de Lerda has confirmed the low-grade mineralogy seen in Undues de Lerda. Additional work is necessary to interpret this environment.
J13-07 intersected 5.1m of sylvinite mineralisation starting at depths from surface of 281.8m. The 5.1m included 1.5m at 14.5% K2O from 285.7m and 1.8m at 9.1% K2O from 287.2m. J13-10 intersected sylvinite mineralisation including 1.8m at 15.2% K2O from 240m and 0.9m at 14.3% K2O from 252m.
J13-08 in the central western part of the Basin intersected 13.2m of mixed sylvinite and carnallite mineralisation starting at depths from surface of 235.1m. The 13.2m included 4.5m at 11.6% K2O from 239.0m and 1.2m at 16.6% K2O from 245m. The carnallite mineralisation appeared restricted to the A bed.
Positive mineralisation was reported in J13-10 but not in J13-11. J13-11 is the westernmost hole approaching the saddle area that separates the Muga-Vipasca Project from the Pintano Basin. J13-11 did not intersect potash mineralisation and has served to define the extent of mineralisation between the Muga and Pintano Projects.
Pintano Property
Eight potash exploration holes were drilled (one was drilled to replace an incomplete well) on the Pintano property (Figure 3) between the 1980s and 1991 (see Table A-3) by POSUSA (1987) and e.n. adaro (1989–1991). P13-01 is the first modern hole drilled on the Pintano property (Table A-4). The lithologies are similar to
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Table A-3. Pintano Historic Drill Holes
| Drill Hole ID |
Easting (m) Northing (m) Elevation MSL (m) Coordinates ETRS89 Total Depth (m) Date of Drilling Campaign* |
|---|---|
| PP-1 PP-2 PP-2B (re-drill) PP-3 PINTANO-1 PINTANO-2 PINTANO-3 MAGDALENA |
656008 4713006 768 381 1989 659016 4711519 684 550 1990 659016 4711519 684 550 1990 660723 4710642 632 871 1990 659920 4711165 660 694 pre-1987 662324 4713579 750 700 pre-1987 660259 4713154 635 670 pre-1987 658223 4710282 800 381 pre-1987 |
Note: ETRS89 = European Terrestrial Reference System 1989; MSL = mean sea level. *Pre-1987 drill-hole locations could not be relocated and are taken from maps.
Table A-4. Highfield Resources Pintano 2014 Drilling Campaign
| Drill Hole ID Start Date End Date |
Easting (m) Northing (m) Elevation MSL (m) Coordinates ETRS89 Total Depth (m) Investigation Permit |
|---|---|
| P13-01 9-Apr-14 8-May-14 P13-02 5-May-14 IC P13-03 ND P13-04 ND P13-05 ND P13-06 ND P13-07 ND P13-08 ND |
659872 4711004 644 714 P.I. Molineras 10 662183 4710758 732 IC P.I. Molineras 10 661333 4712596 P.I. Molineras 10 660222 4709702 P.I. Molineras 10 663158 4710346 P.I. Molineras 20 658456 4711796 P.I. Molineras 10 663156 4711876 P.I. Molineras 20 663188 4709099 P.I. Molineras 20 |
Note: ND = not drilled. IP = in progress. IC=Incomplete
those in Muga-Vipasca and the potash beds are correlatable to beds in Muga-Vipasca, including an 8.9m mineralised zone (depth 640m) selected for assay. Additional intervals have been selected for assay, and confirmation of correlations is in process. P13-02 is incomplete and will be kicked-off or redrilled.
Potash mineralisation occurs in the same stratigraphic sequence described for the Muga-Vipasca property. The 20 November 2013 maiden Inferred Mineral Resource estimate for the Pintano property was independently developed by AAI based on the historical data produced by POSUSA (1987) and e.n. adaro (1989–1991).
Seismic Surveys and Structure
A 2D high-resolution seismic survey was run for POSUSA in August–October 1988 by Compagnie Generale de Geophysique (CGG) over the Muga-Vipasca property. This consisted of 9 lines totalling 55 kilometers (km). An additional 2D seismic survey was performed at an (unknown) later date, increasing the total available seismic survey data to 16 lines covering the majority of the Muga-Vipasca and Pintano properties, totalling 87.3km (RPS Energy Canada Limited [RPS] 2013). The resulting structure maps for both the top ( techo ) and bottom ( muro ) of salt (Figure A-4) were developed by CGG in combination with the regional seismic, field maps, satellite imagery and drill hole data.
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Figure A-4. Seismic Detected Faults on Top and Bottom of Salt (after CGG)
RPS (formerly RPS Boyd Petrosearch) of Calgary, Alberta, Canada completed a re-interpretation in 2013 of the 2D historical seismic lines and profiles on behalf of Highfield. The re-interpretation program was designed to review the overall accuracy of the historical data in terms of good correlation to drill hole data and geological intersections, as well as identify any sub-surface structures that may adversely affect the salt-bearing strata. A total of 16 seismic survey lines were reviewed and were tied to wells with historical wireline data. The paper copies of the seismic profiles were digitized as the original tapes were unavailable. RPS interpreted that there is no indication of widespread salt removal due to faulting or dissolution. Deep structural features are noted across the Muga and Pintano Project areas, but only poor quality seismic data exist over these features.
The CPs used these structural data, but upon their review concluded they had more confidence in the original interpreted seismic structure map produced by CGG, which provided more complete detail.
Two surfaces are defined in the current geologic/computer model: 1) the base of the salt and 2) top of the Pamplona Marls. The potash-bearing zones lack any velocity/density contrasts within the salt, so it is not possible to detect potash or map the structure of the zone directly. Seismic interpretation does not extend to the northwest part of the Basin.
For the Muga-Vipasca Project area, depositional basin bounds are defined to the west at the east-southeast/northnorthwest trending Rocaforte Syncline near the margin of the Aragón River. Associated with this syncline is the Sierra de Leyre anticlinal structure that overthrusts the Pamplona Marls Formation. This thrust and two reverse faults run approximately east-west. The first fault is within the Pamplona Marls over Yesa turbidites and the second which makes the Yesa turbidites coincident with the Liedena Sandstone.
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Along the south of the Muga-Vipasca property, the basin is bound by the La Magdalena Anticline and Fault, characterised by beds steepening to periclinal structure at the crest and then to overturned beds resulting from thrusting to the east, exhibited at the surface in sandstones of the Muga-Vipasca Formation. The Magdalena anticline is sub-parallel to the Javier-Undues Syncline in the western portion of the basin with gentle dipping on the northern flank; the southern flank dips increasingly to vertical and is overturned from Undues de Lerda to the Flexura de Ruesta. The Flexure is marked by a series of bounding normal and transverse faults to define the eastern basin edge as it climbs to a saddle area between the Muga-Vipasca and Pintano Basins. The Pintano Syncline trends in the east-west direction for about 20km and can be considered the continuation of the Javier eastern syncline.
The northern part of the Muga-Vipasca Basin is defined by the extension of the Loiti Fault which also corresponds to the synsedimentary line between marine sediments within the basin to the Eocene-Oligocene continental sediments at the thrust front, resulting in cropping out of the evaporites.
The first deposits in the region, occurring at the end of the Cretaceous period, were characterised by a regressive period with reddish continental deposits. The Eocene is marked by the beginning of tectonic compression, causing formation of subsiding basins parallel to the Pyrenees Mountains with emersion and erosion in some parts.
The different basins are separated by orogenic events developing in the north and south as turbidite basin carbonate platforms. Towards the end of the Eocene epoch, the sedimentation axis migrated south to the JacaPamplona Basin, on which the Oligocene materials were deposited. The pre-evaporitic basin sedimentation occurs in a context of continuous tectonic compression during the Eocene and Oligocene epochs, as synsedimentary tectonics of the end of the orogeny, with pronounced sediment influx. The influence of the turbidites towards the end of the Eocene epoch in the Bartoniense series, are sourced from the east initially into the Pintano Basin and contained by the Flexura de Ruesta and then from the northwest into the basin as the Belsue Formation, indicative of continued subsidence.
The formation of the evaporites is further influenced by the basin restriction, and paleo highs and lows which are perhaps defined by block faulting as well as the main structural basin bounds.
A detailed interpretation of structure is in progress for the Pintano property.
Quality Control and Data Confirmation
The 2013–2014 drilling program has been operated by Highfield personnel. Details of the sampling techniques and oversight of the quality control program are summarised in Table A-5.
The CPs reviewed the available historical geophysical logs to compare estimated K2O from natural gamma and/or spectral gamma logs versus the assayed values. Comparisons show good agreement, indicating that gamma can be a good indirect measure of K2O content.
Highfield and ALS Global (ALS), the primary contract laboratory, maintained quality control procedures of standards, duplicates, and blanks. Highfield made multiple Standard or Certified Reference Material-type (SRM or CRM) samples representing low-, medium-, and high-grade (LG, MG, HG) potassium material, but the insertion rate is insufficient to determine repeatability and calibration of the target instrumentation. SRM samples, blanks, and duplicates were inserted, both by Highfield personnel during sample preparation and by ALS as part of their own quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) program. ALS inserted commercial standards BCR-113 and BCR114, both potash fertilizer materials, muriate of potash (MOP) and sulfate of potash (SOP), respectively, as well as their own internal standard, SY-4, a diorite gneiss used as a blank material. The insertion rate is one blank, one SRM, and one laboratory duplicate per 20 samples or batch.
ALS assayed samples both by inductively coupled plasma (ICP) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). In general, the ICP and XRF techniques show reasonable agreement with the XRF method exhibiting modestly elevated K2O values over the ICP method.
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Duplicates were submitted to ALS, and ICP results show good internal agreement. Check samples were tested at Saskatchewan Research Council Laboratory (SRC). In general, SRC reports K2O values lower than reported by ALS. Because ALS and SRC show good internal agreement, the bias suggests a calibration issue.
Supporting analytical details appear in Highfield’s 1 May 2014 ASX release.
Additional Work
Additional drilling and geological modelling is ongoing to continue to define and expand the resource.
A regional Transient Electromagnetic Sounding (TEM) geophysical program has been completed in the Goyo area to define the continuity of the salt package. International Geophysical Technology, SL (IGT) has prepared a report which is being evaluated for possible expansion of the program to the south and east. Combined with data obtained from the drill holes by Vertical Electrical Soundings (VES), the program is intended to define the regional thickness and extent of the evaporite layer using resistivity. Data resolution may be limited to a depth range of 1000m which would limit the usefulness in the deeper parts of the basin.
References
Busson, G. and B. C. Schreiber (Eds.) (1997). Sedimentary Deposition in Rift and Foreland Basins in France and Spain (Paleogene and Lower Neogene) . Columbia University Press, 480 pp.
e.n. adaro (1988-1991). Investigación y Evaluación de Mineral en el Area de Javier-Los Pintano Memoria, informe para Potasas de Subiza S.A, Departamento de Yacimientos Sedimentarios (internal document).
Garrett, D. E. (1996). Potash Deposits, Processing, Properties and Uses . London: Chapman & Hall.
Geoalcali S.L. (2012). “Navarra-Aragón Basin Potash Deposits Assessment Spain.” Internal document.
Highfield Resources (2013). “Highfield Resources Delivers Maiden Inferred JORC Resource of 163.2 Mt of Sylvinite at Javier.” ASX press release, 08 October, 6 pp.
International Plant Nutrition Institute (2014). Website assessed by V. Santos 5 May, http://www.ipni.net/publication/nss.nsf/0/8FBD66599EAB433F852579AF00741710/$FILE/NSS-03%20Potassi umChloride.pdf.
Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) (2012). “Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves.” Effective 20 December 2012 and mandatory from 01 December 2013, 44 pp.
Moore, P. (2012, June). “Potash from Iberia.” Retrieved January 2013 from Info Mine: http://www.infomine. com/library/publications/docs/InternationalMining/Moore2012u.pdf.
Ortiz, L. R. and F. R. Cabo (1981). “The Saline (Potash) Formation of the Navarra Basin (Upper Eocene, Spain).” Petrology, Revista del Instituto de Investigaciones Geologicas Diputacion Provincial . Universiad de Barcelona, Voy 35-1981/82 (72–121).
Orti Cabo, F., L. Rosell Ortiz, and J. J. L. y Pueyo Mur (1984). “Cuenca Evapor. (Potásica) Surpir. del Eoc. sup. Aportac. para una Interpr. Deposic. Libro Homenaje a L. Sánchez de la Torre.” Publicaciones de Geología , nº 20. Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, pp. 209–231.
Orti, F., J. M. Salvany, L. Rosell, J.J. Pueyo, and M. Ingles (1986). “Evaporitas Antiguas (Navarra) y Actuales (Los Monegros) de la Cuenca del Ebro.” Guia de las Excursiones del XI Congreso Español de Sedimentología , Barcelona.POSUSA, (1987). “Recursos Minerales Reservas ‘Javier-Los Pintano’ y ‘Monreal,’ (internal document) .
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RPS Energy Canada Limited (2013). “Javier-Pintano 2D Seismic Project Preliminary Interpretation.” Report prepared for Highfield Resources, January.
Stirrett, T. and K. Mayes (2013). “JORC Mineral Resource Estimate of the Javier-Pintano Project Area, Spain.” Internal report prepared for Highfield Resources Ltd., 25 April.
University of Michigan (2004). “Geologic Map of the Pyrenees.” Website available at http://wwwpersonal.umich.edu /~jmpares/Pyrenees-Trip.html.
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Table A-5. JORC Checklist of Assessment and Reporting Criteria
Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data
| Criteria | **JORC ** | **Code explanation ** | Commentary | Commentary | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sampling | | Nature and quality of sampling (e.g. cut channels, | | Eleven historic drill holes (see Table A-1) (one was drilled to replace an incomplete | |
| techniques | random chips, or specific specialised industry | well) were drilled in the 1980s and in early 1991. detailed lithology logs and assays | |||
| standard measurement tools appropriate to the | on core were completed. Fourteen new holes (see Table A-2) have been drilled, | ||||
| minerals under investigation, such as down hole | cored, and assayed in 2013 and early 2014 by Geoalcali Sociedad Limitada | ||||
| gamma sondes, or handheld XRF instruments, | (Geoalcali) for a total of twenty-five holes on the Muga-Vipasca property. A second | ||||
| etc.). These examples should not be taken as | phase of drilling of ten holes has begun for infill drilling and resource extension to | ||||
| limiting the broad meaning of sampling. | be used in the upcoming resource estimate. Geoalcali is a 100% owned Spanish | ||||
| | Include reference to measures taken to ensure | subsidiary of Highfield Limited (Highfield or the “Company”). | |||
| sample representivity and the appropriate | | The historical drilling program resulted in compiled reports which are referenced in | |||
| calibration of any measurement tools or systems | Appendix—Explanatory Notes to the Exploration Results for the Muga-Vipasca | ||||
| used. | (formerly Javier-Vipasca) Potash Project. The historical programs, in general, were | ||||
| | Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that | well-documented. | |||
| are Material to the Public Report. | | The new drill holes have been geologically logged, photographed, and assayed. | |||
| | In cases where ‘industry standard’ work has been | Some of the holes were geophysically logged through the mineralised zone. | |||
| done this would be relatively simple (e.g. ‘reverse | Following logging and photographing, samples are marked and numbered for | ||||
| circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire assay’). In other cases more |
assay. Core is sawed with hydraulic oil as the lubricating agent; half core is retained and shrink-wrapped, and samples to be assayed are bagged and secured with plastic ties and boxed for shipping to ALS Global (ALS) for crushing, grinding |
||||
| explanation may be required, such as where there | and splitting. Cored samples are assayed by inductively coupled plasma-optical | ||||
| is coarse gold that has inherent sampling | emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) by ALS. Sample | ||||
| problems. Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (e.g. submarine nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed information. |
preparation is in Seville, Spain and assay work is completed in Loughrea, County Galway, Ireland. ALS has a documented methodology and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) protocol. |
||||
| | The historical holes contributed to a maiden Joint Ore Reserves Committee | ||||
| (JORC) Inferred Resource in September 2013 (Stirrett and Mayes 2013). Of the | |||||
| historical holes, a comparative study to re-assay to test the quality and accuracy of | |||||
| the historical assays showed moderate agreement. Re-sampling of three | |||||
| mineralised drill holes was completed by independent advisor North Rim | |||||
| Exploration Ltd(North Rim). The re-sampled assayresults for J-3,Nogueras |
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| Criteria | **JORC ** | **Code explanation ** | Commentary | Commentary | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (NGR), La Vistana (VST) individually showed large degrees of variation from the | |||||
| historical results, but with an average difference of 3.68% K2O overall. The results | |||||
| are documented in an internal report to Highfield (Stirrett and Mayes 2013) and | |||||
| discussed in more detail in the “Quality of Assay” section here. The report is | |||||
| referenced herein. | |||||
| | Geophysical logs available on four historical holes (JP-1, -2, -3, and -4) were | ||||
| compared to the assay results to test the validity of those data. The Javier Pintano | |||||
| Project area is abbreviated as “JP.” | |||||
| Drilling | | Drill type (e.g., core, reverse circulation, open-hole | |
Drilling procedures are unknown from historical Javier holes drilled prior to 1987 | |
| techniques | hammer, rotary air blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, | including drill holes J-2, J-3, VST, NGR, Molinar (MLN), and Undues de Lerda | |||
| etc.) and details (e.g., core diameter, triple or | (UDR). | ||||
| standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face- sampling bit or other type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method, etc.). |
| The drilling program completed in 1989–1990 was outlined in detail by Empresa Nacional Adaro Investigaciones Mineras (e.n. adaro 1989–1991). e.n. adaro, the state-owned group tasked with exploration and development of Spain’s mineral |
|||
| resources, produced detailed reports and “reserve” studies of the Muga-Vipasca | |||||
| area. | |||||
| | Historical drilling was completed with the Mayhew 1500 drill rig from June to August | ||||
| 1989. During this time, JP-1 through JP-4 were completed. Holes were drilled | |||||
| open hole to core point. The tricone bit used for open hole drilling was reduced | |||||
| through stages from 12 1/4-inch to 5 7/8-inch diameter. Upon completion, the hole | |||||
| was abandoned and cemented through the 8 1/2-inch diameter drill hole. | |||||
| Approximately 2,208m were drilled in Javier, not accounting for some re-drilling in | |||||
| JP-3 and JP-4. For JP-3 and JP-4, the mineralised zone was drilled into and not | |||||
| cored for assay. Both holes were re-drilled through the salt section to take the | |||||
| appropriate cores. No record of a re-drilled hole is available for JP-4; two assay | |||||
| sets were available for JP-3, listed as JP-3 and JP-3D. JP-3D was the re-drilled | |||||
| hole and was completely cored. Limited deviation data are available for JP-1, JP-2, | |||||
| JP-3, JP-3D, and JP-4 for the lower half/salt section and were used in the model. If | |||||
| no deviation surveys were found, then the holes were considered to be vertical. | |||||
| | In 2013, a drilling program was initiated in Javier. In some cases, holes were cored | ||||
| from surface, and in others, the holes were open holes drilled to the top of salt. | |||||
| When thetop ofsalt isreached,themudisre-formulatedto a super-saturated brine |
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| Criteria | JORC | Code explanation | Commentary | Commentary | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| to eliminate or diminish dissolution of the highly soluble evaporite minerals. In the | |||||
| second phase of the 2014 program, procedural changes have been adapted to | |||||
| open hole drill and case above the salt and core only beginning in the banded | |||||
| marls and through the salt. This should decrease the time to complete each hole | |||||
| and reduce the risk of drilling problems that result in reducing hole diameter and | |||||
| smaller core diameter. Drilling is contracted to Geonor Servicios Tecnicos S.L. of | |||||
| Galicia, Spain using a Christensen CS3000 and Forida Golden Bear and Sondeos | |||||
| y Perforaciones Industriales del Bierzo (SPI) (J13-09, SPRDrill 260). Drilling was | |||||
| supervised by Highfield geologists. | |||||
| Drill sample | | Method of recording and assessing core and chip | | Detailed information on core recovery for the historical program is not available, but | |
| recovery | sample recoveries and results assessed. | the assay data are largely complete over the mineralised zones. | |||
| | Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and | |
Core recovery on the 2013–2014 drilling campaign averaged greater than 95% in | ||
| ensure representative nature of the samples. | the mineralised zones although some samples show dissolution due to | ||||
| | Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and whether sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of fine/coarse material. |
undersaturated brine mud. Typically these samples are thought to under-report the target potassium mineralogy because of the highly soluble nature of those minerals, but it is also possible that less desirable or deleterious mineralogy (i.e. MgO) may also under-report in this situation. |
|||
| | Core sampling procedure is well-documented in the 2013–2014 drilling program. | ||||
| Logging | | Whether core and chip samples have been | | Lithology logs were completed for the historical drilling programs. The 1989–1990 | |
| geologically and geotechnically logged to a level | drilling program included Javier and Pintano wells: JP-1 to JP-4, PP-2/2B, and | ||||
| of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource | PP-3. The sample intervals were comparable to industry standards (generally <30 | ||||
| estimation, mining studies and metallurgical | centimetres [cm]) but the methodology is unknown. Thirty centimetres is typically | ||||
| studies. | used for a maximum sample length for potash in order to assure samples are not | ||||
| | Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or costean, channel, etc.) photography. |
diluted and confidence in mineralogy is maintained over the interval. Assay intervals for the unknown (pre-1987) drilling program used a much larger sampling interval (up to 2.44m) for NGR, VST, and J-3. |
|||
| | The total length and percentage of the relevant intersections logged. |
| In the modern program, cuttings were collected and core was logged, photographed, sampled, and assayed in approximately 0.3m lengths. Core point, if not coring from surface, was generally within the banded marls above the salt and |
||
| was completed at the base of the salt at the anhydrite marker bed to ensure | |||||
| complete coring through the salts and the mineralised zones. |
Page 23 of 38
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| Criteria | **JORC ** | **Code explanation ** | Commentary | Commentary | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sub-sampling | | If core, whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, | | On the historical holes, grooved samples were taken for assay through the potash | |
| techniques | half or all core taken. | mineralisation. These samples were produced by sawing a shallow channel into | |||
| and sample preparation |
| If non-core, whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc. and whether sampled wet or dry. |
the core surfaces. This is not usually considered good practice, but is sometimes used to keep the core intact. Independent technical advisor North Rim (Stirrett and Mayes 2013) conducted a re-assay of available holes to test the validity of the |
||
| |
For all sample types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation technique. Quality control procedures adopted for all sub- sampling stages to maximise representivity of samples. |
| historic data, as discussed below in “Quality of assay data and laboratory tests.” On the 2013–2014 drilling campaign core holes, samples were halved and quartered, with a quarter sent for assay. This sampling methodology is the modern industry standard. The sample intervals of approximately 0.3m in length were taken over the length of the mineralised interval. Cores were usually PQ (85 millimeter [mm]), but in the case of difficult drilling conditions, coring was reduced to HQ (63.5mm) as was the case for J13-13 (at 642m depth below the mineralised |
||
| | Measures taken to ensure that the sampling is | zone) and J13-09 (from 484m depth) and J13-06 (at 458m). J13-08 and J13-05 | |||
| representative of the in situ material collected, | were HX cored through the mineralised zone. This smaller core diameter is not | ||||
| including for instance results for field | ideal for assay as some duplicates have shown variability. In all cases, hole size | ||||
| duplicate/second-half sampling. | was reduced to continue drilling in difficult hole conditions (lost circulation or kick- | ||||
| | Whether sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material being sampled. |
off) and is not part of normal procedure. The program forward has made procedural changes to reduce the risk of the need to downsize hole diameter. |
|||
| Quality of | | The nature, quality and appropriateness of the | | Geochemical results are available for the 1989–1990 drilling campaign, complete | |
| assay data | assaying and laboratory procedures used and | with 570 assays. The results were obtained through the internal Potasas de | |||
| and laboratory | whether the technique is considered partial or | Subiza S.A. (POSUSA) lab and were analysed for KCl, MgCl2, NaCl, insolubles, | |||
| tests | total. | and clay. The intervals listed for these samples reflect the thickness of the sample | |||
| | For geophysical tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc., the parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument |
as measured in the drill core; however, true thicknesses for the sample intervals is outlined in the historical strip logs to account for structural dip of the intervals. Samples were typically limited to 30cm or less to maintain good sample resolution. |
|||
| make and model, reading times, calibrations | | No original assays are available for the pre-1987 drilling program. Results for P-1, | |||
| factors applied and their derivation, etc. | J-3, VST, and NGR are summarised from the e.n. adaro comprehensive reports | ||||
| | Nature of quality control procedures adopted (e.g. standards, blanks, duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of |
(e.n. adaro 1989–1991). These drill holes were only analysed for KCl, and therefore lack results pertaining to MgCl2 (to determine carnallite content) or insolubles. UDR was not assayed and its mineralisation is reported to be of “insignificant grade.” In this case, mineralisation was interpreted to be <5% K2O in |
|||
| thePAB mainbed, asrepresentative of the sampling cutoffat thetime, based ona |
Page 24 of 38
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| Criteria | JORC Code explanation | Commentary | Commentary | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| accuracy (i.e. lack of bias) and precision have | review of e. n. adaro’s assay results. This will be changed in the forthcoming | |||
| been established. | resource estimation to reflect the new data from J13-04. | |||
| | The “grooving” technique on the historical assay sampling was used to minimise | |||
| destruction of core and may not be representative. The method of geochemical | ||||
| analyses used for both the 1989–1990 drilling campaign and the pre-1987 drilling | ||||
| program is unknown as is the identity of the lab that conducted the geochemical | ||||
| analyses. | ||||
| | A resampling program was carried out by North Rim (Stirrett and Mayes 2013). | |||
| Re-sampling on VST, NGR, and J-3 was carried out at the Litoteca de Sondeos in | ||||
| Spain, the state-run core lab. North Rim noted that large intervals of core were not | ||||
| present or missing for both VST and NGR, and thus could not be re-sampled. | ||||
| North Rim attempted to duplicate the historical sample intervals; their methodology | ||||
| is described below: | ||||
o For the re-sampling of historical core samples, the start and end of each |
||||
| sample was identified using blue corrugated plastic to ensure the proper | ||||
| intervals were selected for slabbing. For each sample, a line was drawn | ||||
| across the top after the core was fit together. Once the sample intervals were | ||||
| determined, one-quarter of the core was cut for sampling. A hand-held circular | ||||
| saw with a diamond-tipped blade was used to cut the core. Once the entire | ||||
| interval was cut, the cut surface was wiped down with a damp cloth to remove | ||||
| any rock powder generated by cutting. The quarter core was divided into | ||||
| individual samples by drawing straight lines across the core diameter in | ||||
| permanent black marker as identified by the blue plastic markers. The | ||||
| determination of individual samples was based entirely on the historical | ||||
| sample intervals. No additional sampling was completed. As the samples | ||||
| were chosen, they were labelled using a numbering scheme that incorporated | ||||
| both the drill hole number and a sample number (i.e., J3-583RS). An “RS” | ||||
| was incorporated at the end of the sample to indicate “re-sample.” Each | ||||
| sample and its corresponding sample tag were placed into a waterproof, | ||||
| plastic sample bag and stapled to enclose the sample within the bag. Samples | ||||
| were placed into sturdy cardboard boxes and packed with styrofoam. Shipping | ||||
| sheetswere completedthat includedwell information, box numbers, sample |
Page 25 of 38
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| Criteria | JORC Code explanation | Commentary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| numbers, and contact information and accompanied the samples to the | |||
| Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) Laboratories in Saskatoon, | |||
| Saskatchewan, Canada. | |||
o In the re-assayed sampling program, the correlation plot between the historical |
|||
| samples and their re-analysed equivalents has an average difference of 3.68% | |||
| K2O overall. The results indicate a general over-estimation of grade within the | |||
| historical samples, with 87% of the historical samples having higher K2O grade | |||
| than the re-sampled analyses indicate. This is not a systematic difference, but | |||
| instead indicates that the variation is more likely due to sampling technique | |||
| rather than a problematic analytical technique or procedure. | |||
o In the 2013–2014 sampling program, assay was by ICP-OES and XRF. |
|||
o Highfield and ALS, the primary contract laboratory, maintained quality control |
|||
| procedures of standards, duplicates and blanks. SRM, blanks and duplicates | |||
| were inserted, both by Highfield personnel during sample preparation and by | |||
| ALS as part of their own QA/QC program. | |||
o ALS inserted commercial standards BCR-113 and BCR-114 both potash |
|||
| fertilizer materials, a MOP (Muriate of Potash) and SOP (Sulfate of Potash), | |||
| respectively, as well as their own internal standard as a blank material SY-4, a | |||
| diorite gneiss. | |||
o Duplicates were submitted to ALS and show good internal agreement. |
|||
o Highfield made multiple Standard or Certified Reference Material-type (SRM or |
|||
| CRM) samples representing low-, medium-, and high-grade (LG, MG, HG) | |||
| potash material, but the insertion rate is insufficient and outside round-robin | |||
| testing is too limited to make reasonable conclusions as to accuracy and | |||
| precision. Insertion rate is one blank, one SRM, and one lab duplicate per 20 | |||
| samples or batch. | |||
o Check samples were tested at SRC. In general, SRC reports K2O values |
|||
| lower than ALS reports. Because ALS and SRC show good internal | |||
| agreement, this suggests a calibration issue. |
Page 26 of 38
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| Criteria | **JORC ** | **Code explanation ** | Commentary | Commentary | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verification of | | The verification of significant intersections by | | The re-sampling program of historical cores was carried out under the supervision | |
| sampling and | either independent or alternative company | of North Rim and documented in a report to Highfield. The goal of the geochemical | |||
| assaying | personnel. | re-sampling program was to acquire sufficient confidence in the historical assay | |||
| | The use of twinned holes. | data to develop a JORC Code-compliant Mineral Resource estimate. Only three | |||
| drill holes with cored intervals containing potash mineralisation were available for | |||||
| re-sampling within the project area: VST, NGR, and J-3. | |||||
| | Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols. |
| AAI reviewed the available historical geophysical logs (run by Schlumberger) to compare estimated K2O from natural gamma and/or spectral gamma logs versus the assayed value, which showed very good agreement. |
||
| | Discuss any adjustment to assay data. | | ALS assayed samples both by ICP and XRF. In general, ICP analysis shows adequate agreement with assays by XRF, which report, consistently, slightly higher |
||
| values of K2O. Other holes showed similar bias, thereby substantiating testing | |||||
| precision. The ICP method is the base method used for resource estimation. | |||||
| | Highfield receives all assay data in .xls or .csv format from the laboratories and one | ||||
| person is responsible for transferring those data into a master database and | |||||
| maintaining the QA/QC monitoring. AAI independently graphed the QA/QC data. | |||||
| | A database was built from the historical drill hole information by Highfield and | ||||
| checked by AAI against the historical reporting of assays and intervals listed on the | |||||
| lithologic logs. | |||||
| | The master database was checked against the ALS-issued Certificates of Analysis | ||||
| (COA). | |||||
| Location of | | Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill | |
Historical collar locations were re-located in most cases and re-surveyed. Some | |
| data points | holes (collar and down-hole surveys), trenches, | historical collars could not be located as many were drilled on agricultural land. | |||
| mine workings and other locations used in Mineral | Historical drill hole location maps consistently show locations and so suggest | ||||
| Resource estimation. | confidence in the hole coordinates. Specifically JP-1, JP-2, MLN, and Javier 3 | ||||
| |
Specification of the grid system used. Quality and adequacy of topographic control. |
could not be relocated. Historical data and maps are referenced to the European Datum 50 (ED50) and have been updated to the European Terrestrial Reference System 1989 (ETRS89) datum for compatibility with modern survey information. |
|||
| | All new locations from the 2013–2014 drilling program are surveyed before and | ||||
| after drilling by a licensed surveyor. |
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| Criteria | **JORC ** | **Code explanation ** | Commentary | Commentary | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Data spacing | | Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results. | | Exploration drill hole spacing is illustrated on the scaled maps in Figures 2 and 3. | |
| and distribution |
| Whether the data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral |
Samples have been composited over the thickness of identified potash beds for the reporting of exploration results. Potash bed names are provisional pending regional correlations. |
||
| Resource and Ore Reserve estimation | | Data spacing and distribution adequacy will be discussed in the context of the | |||
| procedure(s) and classifications applied. | pending Mineral Resource estimate when reported. | ||||
| | Whether sample compositing has been applied. | ||||
| Orientation of | | Whether the orientation of sampling achieves | | Some deviation data were available in the 2013–2014 drilling program. In building | |
| data in | unbiased sampling of possible structures and the | the new database, apparent bed dips from the lithology logs were incorporated | |||
| relation to | extent to which this is known, considering the | from historical and new holes to attempt to correct to true bed thickness. | |||
| geological structure |
| deposit type. If the relationship between the drilling orientation |
| Historical holes were assumed to be vertical in the absence of deviation surveys. Deviation data show relatively vertical trajectories in surveyed holes. Data on bed |
|
| and the orientation of key mineralised structures is | orientation were incorporated into the database to calculate apparent true | ||||
| considered to have introduced a sampling bias, | thickness. | ||||
| this should be assessed and reported if material. | | The regional structure is discussed in more detail in “Geology”, but the Basin | |||
| structural dip is interpreted from regional the CGG “base of salt” map and new drill | |||||
| hole control. The deposit is bedded, but the historical seismic maps show mostly | |||||
| vertical faults parallel to the Flexura de Ruesta, propagating to the west as well as | |||||
| up through the top of salt. An historical structure map with fault offsets is used for | |||||
| the interpretation of bed orientation. Further, it is well known that the northern Loiti | |||||
| Fault System and the south Magdalena system and anticline result in cropping out | |||||
| and overturning of the evaporites, and steep dips are interpreted to be in parallel to | |||||
| these structures, again in conjunction with drill hole data where available. In the | |||||
| case of J13-02, the salt bed thins considerably and potash mineralisation is absent; | |||||
| this is interpreted as a basin high or the basin edge. J13-12, drilled in 2014, shows | |||||
| good geologic agreement with the nearby historical holes La Vistana and JP 3-D. | |||||
| P0 shows weak mineralisation but PAB shows 12% grade of composited K2O in a | |||||
| 4.3m true thickness, P1 is 17.5% grade with a 0.6m thickness, and P2 contains | |||||
| very low grades. This compares to La Vistana PAB at 11.1% grade and 4.5m | |||||
| thickness, P1 is 12.1% grade of K2O at 1.7m thickness, P2 shows 10.4% K2O and | |||||
| 2m thickness. |
Page 28 of 38
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| Criteria | **JORC ** | **Code explanation ** | Commentary | Commentary | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sample | | The measures taken to ensure sample security. | | In the 2013–2014 drilling program, Highfield personnel maintained effective chain | |
| security | of custody procedures for the samples. Core was picked up at the drill site and | ||||
| brought to the secured warehouse for detailed logging and sampling. Following | |||||
| sampling (see sections on sampling herein), sample bags and boxes were secured | |||||
| with zip ties for shipping to the laboratory. | |||||
| Audits or | | The results of any audits or reviews of sampling | | Besides the re-sampling program carried out by North Rim, AAI compared | |
| reviews | techniques and data. | historical assay data to estimate K2O from geophysical records. In addition, ALS | |||
| assayed samples both by ICP and XRF and these values were compared as | |||||
| discussed in “Verification of sampling and assaying data.” |
Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results (Criteria listed in the preceding section also apply to this section.)
| Criteria **JORC Code explanation ** |
Commentary |
|---|---|
| Mineral tenement and land tenure status Type, reference name/number, location and ownership including agreements or material issues with third parties such as joint ventures, partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests, historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental settings. The security of the tenure held at the time of reporting along with any known impediments to obtaining a license to operate in the area. |
Property descriptions and land status were obtained from the list of lands as set forth in the documents provided by Highfield. The Muga-Vipasca property is comprised of four permits (see Figure 2). Goyo and Muga are granted Investigation Permits (PI) in Navarra. Fronterizo straddles the Navarra and Aragón border and its PI was granted 05 February 2014. Vipasca is a newer application applied for at the end of 2013 and is not expected to be approved in time for this resource estimate. Goyo Sur PI and Muga Sur PI are new applications. The Pintano property comprises three PI and one PE permits (Figure 3): Molineras 10 (PI), Molineras 20, and Puntarrón (PI), and Puntarrón (PE). Puntarrón (PI) is pending. The Molineras 20 is under application and pending approval in 2014. For the existing Puntarrón (PE), Highfield has applied for a rollover to extend the exploration period an additional one year. The CPs have reviewed the mineral tenure from documents provided by Highfield including permitting requirements, but have not independently verified the permitting status,legalstatus, ownership of the projectarea, underlying property |
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| Criteria **JORC Code explanation ** |
Commentary |
|---|---|
| agreements or permits. Therefore, AAI has fully relied upon, and disclaims responsibility for that information. Exploration and exploitation of mineral deposits and other geological resources in Spain are governed by the Mining Law 22/1973, which is further governed by the Royal Decree 2857/1978. All sub-surface geological structures, rocks, and minerals are considered the property of the public domain and are categorised into four sections under the Spanish law (A, B, C, and D), and must have mining authority authorisation and supervision for commercial exploitation. Section C covers the minerals of interest for Highfield, and a mining concession would need to be awarded prior to exploitation which requires the accompaniment of environmental permits and municipal licenses (electrical, water etc.). Generally exploration and investigation permits are applied for prior to applying for a mining concession (not legal obligation), and are aimed at determining the mineral resource potential of the area through exploration practices (drilling, seismic, sampling etc.). These are granted through the region’s government/mining authority where the exploration or investigative work will take place. Exploration permits (PE) are valid for one year and can be renewed for one additional year. A PE allows only non-intrusive investigation, which is defined by the various Spanish regions and can vary. A PI is good for up to three years and renewable in three-year terms or longer depending on the scope of the intended work. Investigation permits carry with them municipal approval as they are publically released for community discussion. To carry out work under the investigation permit, the permittee must contract with the individual the landowners to allow for access and occupation of the land during the exploration. In order for both types of permits to remain valid, the applicable taxes must be paid and the permittee must comply with the applicable regulations and exploration plan approved by the mining authority. Investigation permits require assessment reporting which requires the permittee to submit working plans, budgets, and initiate work within certain time allotments. Exploration and investigationpermits can be transferred in whole or inpart to other thirdparties |
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| Criteria **JORC Code explanation ** |
Commentary |
|---|---|
| with enough technical and financial backing, but must be authorised by the proper mining authorities in Spain. |
|
| Exploration done by other parties Acknowledgment and appraisal of exploration by other parties. |
The historical drilling program completed in 1989–1990 was outlined in detail by e.n. adaro (1989–1991). e.n. adaro, the state-owned group tasked with exploration and development of Spain’s mineral resources, produced detailed reports and “reserve” studies of the Javier area. Potash was first discovered in the Ebro Basin in the Catalonia area in 1912 at Suria after the potash discoveries in Germany (Moore 2012). Salt was first discovered through drilling, later followed by four economic potash mining zones with a combined total thickness of 2.0 to 8.0 m (Stirrett and Mayes 2013). The potash horizons in the area were identified to cover approximately 160 square kilometers (km2) at depths of approximately 500m sub-surface, unless they were brought closer to surface by anticlinal or tectonic structures (Stirrett and Mayes 2013). Several deposits were located in the Catalonia area, including, Cardona, Suria, Fodina, Balsareny, Sallent, and Manresa. Several of these areas were developed into mines and are all flanked by anticlinal structures. The potash deposits in the Navarra region were not located until later, in 1927, through comparative studies to the deposits found at Catalonia (Stirrett and Mayes 2013). The exploration efforts later led to the development of a mine near Pamplona and Beriain. Production at Pamplona began in 1963 with a capacity of 250,000 tonnes per year (tpy) of K2O. A thick carnallite member overlies the sylvinite, so in 1970 a refinery with the capacity for 300,000tpy was built to accommodate for carnallite from the Esparza (Stirrett and Mayes 2013). Carnallite mining was ceased in 1977. Inclined ramps for the mine were located near Esparza, reaching the centre of the mine, with further shafts located at Beriain, Guendulain and Undiano. In 1982, 2.2 million tonnes of sylvinite were extracted with an average K2O grade of 11.7% (Stirrett and Mayes 2013). The operations in Navarra were closed in the late 1990s. |
| Geology Deposit type, geological setting and style of mineralisation. |
The Upper Eocene potash deposits occur in the sub-basins of Navarra and Aragón provinces within the larger Ebro Basin (Figure A-1). The Navarrese sub- |
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| Criteria **JORC Code explanation ** |
Commentary |
|---|---|
| basin includes the Javier and adjoining Pintano deposits, the former being the subject of this resource estimate. This potash deposit contains a 100m-thick Upper Eocene succession of alternating claystone and evaporites (sulfate, halite, and sylvite). The evaporites accumulated in the elongated basin at the southern foreland of the Pyrenean range. The evaporites overlie marine deposits and conclude in a transitional marine to non-marine environment with terrigenous influence. Open marine conditions existed in the Eocene-Oligocene progressing to a restricted environment dominated by evaporation and the deposition of marl, gypsum, halite and potassium minerals. Later tectonism and resulting salt deformations formed broad anticlines and synclines and overturned beds, resulting in cropping out. The possibility exists that basement-related faulting has resulted in repeatedly overturned mineralised beds. Two fault systems dominate (Figure A-2) and bound the basin, to the north by the extension of the thrusting Loiti Fault and to the south by the Magdalena Fault, both resulting in the cropping out of the evaporite units, resulting in alteration to gypsum. The basin axis is defined by the Javier-Undues Syncline. To the east, the basin climbs to the Flexura de Ruesta believed to be a northwest-southeast offset block resulting in a higher saddle area between the Javier and Pintano sub- basins. Basin continuity to the west-northwest is not well-defined by drilling or seismic survey. A 2D high-resolution seismic survey was run for POSUSA in August–October 1988, by CGG over most of what is now the project area. This consisted of 9 lines totalling 55km (Geoalcali 2012). The resulting structure maps for both the top (techo) and bottom (muro) of salt were developed by CGG in combination with the regional seismic, field map, satellite imagery, and drill hole data. The surface, defined as the base of the salt and top of the Pamplona Marls, will be used in the new geologic/computer model. The potash-bearing zones lack any velocity/density contrasts within the salt; it is not possible to detect potash or map the structure of the zone directly. Coverage of the seismic interpretation does not extend to the northwest part of the basin. Potash is used to describe any number of potassium salts. By and large, the predominant economicpotash is sylvite: a KCl usuallyfound mixed with salt to |
Page 32 of 38
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| Criteria **JORC Code explanation ** |
Commentary |
|---|---|
| form the rock sylvinite which may have a K2O content of up to 63% in its purest form. Carnallite, a potassium magnesium chloride (KCl•MgCl2•6H2O), is also abundant, but has K2O content only as high as 17%. “Carnallite” is used to refer to the mineral and the rock interchangeably, although “carnallitite” is the more correct terminology for the carnallite and halite mixture. Besides being a source of lower grade potassium, carnallite involves a more complex production path, so it is less economically attractive. The depositional environment is that of a restricted marine basin, influenced by eustasy, sea floor subsidence, and/or uplift and sediment input. It is suggested that the basin is a combination of reflux and drawdown. Reflux represents a basin isolated from open marine conditions thereby restricting inflow, increasing density, and increasing salinity. Drawdown is simple evaporation in an isolated basin resulting in brine concentration and precipitation. This is the classic “bulls-eye” model (Garrett 1996). In this case, the basin is further influenced by erosion at the basin edges due to contemporaneous and post-depositional uplift, resulting in localised shallowing and sediment influx (Ortiz and Cabo 1981). In that classic model, a basin that is cut off from open marine conditions will experience drawdown by evaporation in an arid to semi-arid environment. In the absence of sediment influx, precipitation will proceed from limestone to dolomite to gypsum and anhydrite to halite. Depending on the composition and influences of the brine at that time, the remaining potassium, magnesium, sulfates, and chlorides will progress from potassium and magnesium sulfates to sylvite and then carnallite. The formation of sylvite and carnallite are proposed herein as secondary and primary, respectively. In the Muga-Vipasca Project areas, the mineralogy is dominated by sylvinite, appearing as medium red-orange and white, largely coarse crystals in bands and in heavily brecciated beds with high insoluble material, largely fine-grained clays, anhydrite and marl. Mixed sylvinite and carnallite was noted in J13-08 in the PA bed. The upper potash beds transition to finely banded light brown marls and clays. The salts just below the potash tend to dark grey to black. In some lower beds, halite becomes brownish, sandy to coarsely granular sand and sandstone as sediment influx from the basin edges. In portions of the halite beds, sediment influx from the basin edges is seen as sandyto coarsely granular sands and |
Page 33 of 38
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| Criteria **JORC Code explanation ** |
Commentary |
|---|---|
| sandstones. The lower salt is banded, exhibits very large cubic crystals and, in some cases, high angles and folding indicative of recrystallisation and structural deformation. The literature denotes this salt as the “sal vieja” or “old salt” (Ortiz and Cabo 1981). The evaporite beds and bands, in general, are separated by fine to very coarse crystallised and recrystallised salts, generally grey, sometimes light to medium honey brown or white, with anhydrite blebs, nodules and clasts. |
|
| Drill hole information A summary of all information material to the understanding of the exploration results including a tabulation of the following information for all Material drill holes: o easting and northing of the drill hole collaro elevation or RL (Reduced Level—elevation above sea level in metres) of the drill hole collar o dip and azimuth of the holeo down hole length and interception deptho hole length. If the exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that the information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract from the understanding of the report, the Competent Person should clearly explain why this is the case. |
Table A-1 shows the historical drill holes and Table A-2 shows the drill holes from the 2013–2014 drilling program including planned holes defined for the second phase of Muga-Vipasca exploration drilling. |
| Data aggregation methods In reporting Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or minimum grade truncations (e.g. cutting of high grades) and cut off grades are usually Material and should be stated. Where aggregate intercepts incorporate short lengths of high grade results and longer lengths of lowgraderesults,the procedure usedforsuch |
Composites by weighted average were made from the geochemical data to optimise grade and thickness of the mineralised seams in both the new and historical data. Composites were summarised by bed and hole in Table A-3 in Upgraded JORC Compliant Resource Estimate For Javier Project 16 May 14. This press release includes some picks that are preliminary and further drilling will add confidence. Some potash zones could not be correlated across the basin. |
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| Criteria **JORC Code explanation ** |
Commentary |
|---|---|
| aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations should be shown in detail. The assumptions used for any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly stated. |
All potassic values are in K2O percent. Most cations are reported as oxides and water-soluble material on a percent basis. ICP and XRF testing reports are in elemental values, but the industry standard is to report in oxides. |
| Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept lengths These relationships are particularly important in the reporting of Exploration Results. If the geometry of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is known, its nature should be reported. If it is not known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there should be a clear statement to this effect (e.g. ‘down hole length, true width not known’). |
Some deviation data were available in the 2013–2014 drilling program. In building the new database, apparent bed dips from the lithology logs were incorporated from historical and new holes to attempt to correct to true vertical bed thickness. In some cases, high-angled bedding is noted within the potash beds, but may be an indication of recrystallisation of carnallite to sylvinite, resulting in a volume reduction largely by the hydrous component of carnallite. In those cases, apparent dip was reduced to reflect the bed below or above the potash which in most cases was less steep. In the absence of deviation surveys, historical holes were assumed to be vertical. Data on bed orientation were incorporated into the database to calculate apparent true thickness. |
| Diagrams Appropriate maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts should be included for any significant discovery being reported. These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill hole collar locations and appropriate sectional views. |
Figures 1 and 2 illustrate Highfield’s Muga-Vipasca and Pintano properties showing the current JORC Mineral Resource footprints. Figure A-4 shows the Muga-Vipasca regional structure and location of drill holes. |
| Balanced reporting Where comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades and/or widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of Exploration Results. |
Detailed exploration drilling results from individual holes appear in Highfield’s 1 May 2014 ASX release. Updated assay results are presented in subsequent news ASX news releases here and previously dated Highfield’s 1 May 2014, 12 May 2014,and 5 June 2014 ASXreleases. |
| Other substantive Other exploration data, if meaningful and material, should bereportedincluding (but not limitedto): |
A 2D high-resolution seismic survey was run for POSUSA in August–October 1988, by CGG over mostof what isnow the projectarea. This consisted of9lines |
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| Criteria **JORC Code explanation ** |
Commentary |
|---|---|
| exploration data geological observations; geophysical survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk samples—size and method of treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock characteristics; potential deleterious or contaminating substances. |
totalling 55km (Geoalcali 2012). An additional 2D seismic was run at a later date (unknown) increasing the total available seismic to 16 lines, totalling 87.3km (RPS 2013). RPS of Calgary, Alberta, Canada completed a re-interpretation of the 2D historical seismic lines and profiles on behalf of Highfield. The re-interpretation program was designed to review the overall accuracy of the historical data in terms of good correlation to drill hole data and geological intersections, as well as identify any sub-surface structures that may adversely affect the salt-bearing strata within the project area. A total of 16 lines were reviewed and were tied to wells with historical wireline data from the 2D seismic RPS. The paper copies of the seismic were digitized as the original tapes were unavailable. RPS interpreted that there is no indication of widespread salt removal due to faulting or dissolution. Deep structural features are noted across the project area, and only poor quality seismic data exist over these features. A large-scale structural high is present between the Javier and Pintano areas, separating them geologically. The surface defined as the base of the salt and top of the Pamplona Marls was used in the current geologic/computer model. The potash-bearing zones lack any velocity/density contrasts within the salt; it is not possible to detect potash or map the structure of the zone directly. Coverage of the seismic interpretation does not extend to the northwest part of the basin. |
| Further work The nature and scale of planned further work (e.g. tests for lateral extensions or depth extensions or large-scale step-out drilling). Diagrams clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas, provided this information is not commercially sensitive. |
Drilling is ongoing to continue to define and expand the resource. J13-07 was completed in the central western part of the basin and intersected a potash bed estimated to be 4.5m thick at 282m depth. New Muga-Vipasca holes are the subject of this release and results presented here include J13-01, J13-07, J13-08, J13-10 as are preliminary information on J13-04 and J13-11 (see Figure 2). J13-01 is located north and slightly west of J13-07, and southeast of Nogueras. J13-08 lies in the central western part of the Basin. Both holes demonstrate mineralisation continuity to the east. J13-10 and J13-04 did not have mineralisation intersections. |
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| Criteria | JORC Code explanation | Commentary | Commentary | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| | The second phase of drilling in the Muga-Vipasca Project area is ten holes for infill | |||
| drilling and resource extension. Detailed evaluation of this second phase of | ||||
| drilling will be part of the upcoming updated resource estimate. | ||||
| | P13-01 has been completed and is the first modern hole drilled in the Pintano | |||
| Project area (see Figure 3). P13-02 is incomplete and will either be kicked-off or | ||||
| redrilled. | ||||
| | J13-01 intersected P0, and what is interpreted as PAB, but shows considerable | |||
| thinning at 0.1m, and less than 1.0m thickness, respectively, suggesting a | ||||
| depositional high. | ||||
| | Bed P0 is present over a 2.1m interval interbedded with the characteristic light | |||
| coloured and thinly laminated beds of clays and marls. It is separated from the | ||||
| underlying PAB bed by 1.4m of sediment. PAB shows the typical dark brecciated | ||||
| mineralisation with minor banding over an interval of about 7.8m. Assay results | ||||
| and downhole geophysical review to confirm thickness, grade, and correlations are | ||||
| pending. | ||||
| | Drill hole P13-01 has been completed and intersects lithologies and correlatable | |||
| beds similar to those in Muga-Vipasca, including an 8.9m mineralised zone | ||||
| selected for assay. Additional intervals have been selected for assay. Depths of | ||||
| beds are from 620m to 652m. | ||||
| | A regional transient electromagnetic sounding (TEM) geophysical program has | |||
| been completed in the Goyo area as planned to define the continuity of the salt | ||||
| package. International Geophysical Technology, SL (IGT) has prepared a report | ||||
| which is being evaluated for possible expansion of the program to the south and | ||||
| east. Combined with data obtained from the drill holes by Vertical Electrical | ||||
| Soundings (VES), the program is intended to define the regional thickness and | ||||
| extent of the evaporite layer using resistivity. Data resolution may be limited to a | ||||
| depth range of 1000m which would limit the usefulness in the deeper parts of the | ||||
| basin. |
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Section 3 Estimation and Reporting of Mineral Resources No new information regarding the estimation and reporting of mineral resources is presented. The reader is directed to the 16 May 2014 ASX release.
Section 4 Estimation and Reporting of Ore Reserves No mineral reserves are reported.
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