#United States #Idaho #Integra Resources #DeLamar Project #BLM

Integra Resources Receives Federal Permitting Schedule for DeLamar Heap Leach Project

Integra Resources Corp. has announced a significant advancement in the development of its DeLamar Heap Leach Project, located in southwestern Idaho. The United States Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has established a formal federal permitting schedule in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). This newly defined pathway is set to expedite the permitting process, significantly reducing uncertainties that previously plagued the project.

Accelerated Timeline

According to the BLM's schedule, a Notice of Intent (NOI) will be published in the second quarter of 2026. This will initiate a 15-month NEPA review period, with the aim of completing the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and issuing a Record of Decision (ROD) by the third quarter of 2027. This timeline marks a notable improvement over earlier projections, enhancing the visibility and efficiency of the permitting process.

As stated by George Salamis, President and CEO of Integra, the establishment of this schedule is a transformational milestone not only for the DeLamar Project but also for the company. He emphasized that this clearly defined, expedited pathway mitigates one of the most significant hurdles in mine development across the United States, offering more assurance and clarity for investors and stakeholders.

Project Readiness

The DeLamar Project has undergone nearly a decade of extensive preparatory work, including environmental data collection, explorative studies, and engineering assessments. This groundwork has positioned the project favorably for the upcoming rigorous environmental review process. Proactive engagement with local communities and Tribal Nations has contributed to refining the project based on diverse insights and feedback.

Upon the publication of the NOI, a public scoping process will commence, inviting commentary from federal, state, and local agencies, as well as Tribal Nations and the public. This process aims to identify concerns that will shape the development of alternative project plans, seeking to minimize any adverse impacts.

Once the scoping is completed, environmental impact assessments will be conducted to evaluate the potential effects of the Project and any alternatives. The anticipated EIS, expected to be completed by late 2027, will outline a preferred alternative along with necessary mitigation measures, including ongoing collaboration with Tribal Nations to protect culturally sensitive sites.

Future Steps and Project Economic Potential

While the NEPA review and permitting process are ongoing, Integra plans to continue progressing various permits required before construction commences. These include permits for groundwater compliance, wastewater discharge, air quality, and overall project reclamation. The completion of these permits will be vital for moving forward with construction plans once the Project receives the necessary green light.

The DeLamar Project signifies a rare opportunity in the United States as one of the few advanced-stage gold and silver developments benefiting from an expedited federal permitting timeline. Integra's recent Feasibility Study has indicated promising economics, reinforcing confidence in the project's viability, including its potential to generate robust cash flows early in its operational life.

With a total production estimate of approximately 1.1 million ounces of gold equivalent over a designated ten-year period, the anticipated median annual output stands at around 106,000 ounces. The financial projections indicate an impressive after-tax Net Present Value (NPV) of $774 million and a robust Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 46% under base case scenarios. Even greater returns are anticipated using current market prices.

In summary, the DeLamar Heap Leach Project stands at a pivotal moment in its development journey, poised to deliver significant long-term value in an attractive market environment for gold and silver. The comprehensive approach taken toward environmental compliance and community engagement positions Integra Resources as a proactive player in sustainable mining practices.