Kootenay Silver Inc. Makes Headway with Major Resource Estimate at Columba
On June 17, 2025, Kootenay Silver Inc. (TSXV: KTN; OTCQX: KOOYF) made headlines by announcing its inaugural Mineral Resource Estimate for the Columba Silver Project located in Chihuahua, Mexico. This report reveals an inferred mineral resource of approximately 54 million ounces of silver, averaging an impressive 284 grams per ton (gpt). This announcement marks an essential milestone in Kootenay's journey to enhance the Columba Project into a notable silver exploration and development target.
The Columba Project: A Goldmine of Potential
The Columba Project is situated in a high-potential region characterized by an epithermal vein system, contributing to its prospects for substantial silver and other mineral resources. Kootenay's team, led by President and CEO James McDonald, expresses optimism regarding the project’s potential, highlighting that this maiden resource estimate serves as just a baseline for future expansions.
McDonald noted that the company's next drill program is expected to bolster this estimate, thanks to numerous unexplored and open-ended mineralized zones within the project area. The project boasts a notable density of mineralized structures, including 17 distinct epithermal veins, which all remain wide open for further exploration.
Highlights from the Mineral Resource Estimate
Key takeaways from the resource estimate include:
- - Total Inferred Resources: 54.1 million ounces of silver, 25.2 million pounds of lead, and 65.6 million pounds of zinc, equating to a total tonnage of 5.92 million tons.
- - Regional Geology: The veins display excellent continuity and are rich with a silver grade averaging 284 gpt, along with 0.19% lead and 0.50% zinc.
- - Expansion Opportunities: Areas identified for potential expansion include the D vein, which is anticipated to extend vertically, suggesting untapped resources that could further enhance the project’s economic viability.
As stated by Mr. McDonald, this achievement is a testament to the hard work and commitment of the Kootenay team. The future exploration and drilling plans encompass an additional 50,000 meters, focusing particularly on both expanding known resource zones and probing newly identified targets.
Exploration History and Quality Control Measures
Historically, the Columba Project has not seen focused exploration over the past 40 years. Kootenay Silver has revitalized this area, emphasizing a rigorous QA/QC program to ensure the accuracy of its results. Samples from the project undergo thorough protocols, including detailed mapping, airborne magnetic surveys, and extensive drilling. The company has secured a long-term surface access agreement, covering all previously mineralized areas.
This comprehensive approach aids in establishing Kootenay's credibility and reinforces its aim to forge ahead in defining an economically significant resource at Columba. Given the current developments, Kootenay Silver remains committed to unlocking the vast potential of the Columba Project, aiming to elevate it from exploration to productive mining operations.
Looking Ahead
Kootenay Silver Inc. is enthusiastic about expanding its resource estimates and accelerating exploration activities at Columba. As the company proceeds, it invites stakeholders to watch for updates as greater insights into the silver potential of this promising project unfold. The Columba Project stands as a significant player in the Sierra Madre Region, reaffirming Kootenay’s reputation for advancing quality silver exploration to foster growth amid thriving global silver markets.