BlackEarth Minerals first phase Donnelly River exploration identifies 13 nickel-copper-PGE targets

BlackEarth Minerals NL (ASX:BEM) has identified 13 nickel-copper-PGE targets after completing the first phase of exploration on the Donnelly River Project, 240 kilometres south of Perth, Western Australia. Analysis of available open file technical data has confirmed and highlights the prospectivity of Donnelly River for mafic-ultramafic intrusion related nickel-copper-platinum group elements (PGE) mineralisation. Preliminary targeting using available open-file geophysical datasets has identified the 13 first-order targets that warrant detailed investigation. “Encouraging results” BlackEarth managing director Tom Revy said: “The board is highly encouraged by the results of the initial review of data on the Donnelly River Project. “The addition of a further critical commodities-based project provides both commodity and geographical diversity to the company’s current quality portfolio of assets. “We certainly look forward to receiving further results from this project in the coming months.” Open File TMI magnetic image highlighting identified priority targets. Proposed work-programs The targets identified include an area of elevated nickel centrally located within the project area, which will be investigated as a priority. BlackEarth’s geochemical consultants are assessing the available reconnaissance geochemical sampling previously completed across the project area, which will form the basis for follow-up programs targeting the newly identified targets. Pending any permitting requirements this work is expected to begin next months. Geophysical consultants have also been appointed to undertake processing of historical geophysical surveys and to design and cost an initial airborne electromagnetic survey covering E70/4825. Targets generated from this will subsequently be the subject of focused ground based geophysical, geochemical and geological work programs. The company will then begin the statutory permitting process. Shares are up almost 8% in early trade to 5.5 cents.