Categories
Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper Provides Pumpkin Hollow Operations Update

Nevada Copper Corp.
Nevada Copper Corp.

YERINGTON, Nev., Feb. 08, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nevada Copper Corp. (TSX: NCU) (OTC: NEVDF) (FSE: ZYTA) (“Nevada Copper” or the “Company”) provides updates on restart activities at its Pumpkin Hollow underground mine (the “Underground Mine”).

Randy Buffington, President and CEO of Nevada Copper, stated, “Since restarting mining and milling operations, we’ve made progress in a number of areas, including completion of life of mine projects such as the Geho dewatering system and phase two of the underground crushing and ore handling system, development of significant stope inventory underground and realignment of the site operations team, under the leadership of Chuck Pollard as Assistant General Manager. However, several unforeseen setbacks impacted our progress on meeting operational targets. We took critical steps and refocused resources to mitigate and address these issues. The hoisting and ore handling system has returned to full capacity and mill operations continue to incrementally improve with over two months of mill feed stockpiled on surface. While I am disappointed that these challenges have negatively impacted our ability to meet hoisting and processing targets, we continue to ramp-up toward steady state operations.”

Recent Operating Developments

  • Hoisting improvements implemented, hoisting increased in the fourth quarter
  • Over 135,000 tons of ore stockpiled on surface; over 190,000 tons of stope ore ready to mine
  • Unexpected bottlenecks encountered in process plant systems are being mitigated
  • Third ore pass and temporary use of ore bin from new life-of-mine (“LOM”) ore handling system provides material handling capacity to meet plan until underground crusher is installed
  • Paste plant fully commissioned
  • LOM fuel, paste lines in progress
  • LOM dewatering system in place
  • Development contractor ramping up development and expected to meet targets

Operational Status
As noted above, several key milestones have been achieved across many aspects of the mine, including completion of critical LOM projects and restart of all significant operations, however, key fourth quarter operational targets were not met. The following challenges impacted our progress in the fourth quarter:

  1. Underground dewatering – A build-up of water underground from increased development activities prior to completing the Geho dewatering pump project, caused several delays in progress including hoisting, capital projects construction, development and operations. The Geho pumps were successfully commissioned in November 2023, doubling pumping capacity, and all efforts were focused on removing the water from critical areas of the mine, which has now been cleared. Smaller pockets remaining are not expected to impact progress on stope mining or other development activities going forward. Full hoisting capabilities resumed in December 2023 and, with commissioning of the Geho system and additional surface infrastructure in place, we should now have sufficient pumping capacity to manage any temporary surges that are encountered. Additionally, we are implementing water reduction strategies including grouting programs to help reduce water inflows to mining areas.
  2. Ore handling – Completion of the ore handling portion of the underground crusher and ore handling system and a third ore pass in late 2023 has provided additional ore handling capabilities. Material handling is being routed through three existing ore passes and the recently completed ore handling facility noted above. Automation improvements to the hoisting system were made in December to increase reliability and consistency in operations with the expectation that further increases in hoisting rates would be achieved. Hoisting rates in January have improved dramatically, having achieved a daily record of 4,475 tons. Stope mining is planned to resume in February 2024 and ore handling and hoisting capabilities are expected to meet underground material deliveries and process plant operations.
  3. Process plant – The mill restarted in October 2023 and operated intermittently throughout the fourth quarter of 2023. The milling and flotation circuits operated well, achieving expected recoveries during periods of stable operations, however, unanticipated bottlenecks were encountered in the thickener and tails filter presses that caused repeated mill shutdowns. With the assistance of a technical consultant, upgrades to the filter presses, thickener equipment and operating protocols were made through December and into January. The second phase of the paste plant that delivers thickened tails directly to the paste plant has been fully constructed. Commissioning of the second phase is planned for February as stope mining resumes. Approximately 40-45% of the thickened tails will bypass the filter presses and go directly to paste plant in full operation, reducing the operational demand on the filter presses.

Life of Mine Infrastructure

In addition to the completion and commissioning of the Geho dewatering system and the second phase of the ore handling system, other LOM infrastructure improvements include the drilling of a new fuel delivery hole, drilling of a second paste hole that will provide life-of-mine paste delivery for EN Zone stopes and improvements to the water infiltration system on surface to handle excess surge capacity. A scope of work is being issued to potential contractors for the final phase of the ore handling system, which includes installation and commissioning of the crushing system.

Financing Matters

Considering the unexpected challenges described above, the Company has generated lower sales through the ramp-up process than previously anticipated, negatively impacting financing requirements. As previously disclosed, the Company has fully drawn US$25 million of debt pursuant to a deferred funding agreement with its two largest shareholders, Pala Investments Limited (“Pala”) and Mercuria Holdings (Singapore) Pte Ltd. Pala has since been providing sole funding for the Company’s operating needs in the form of debt on similar terms to the Company’s October 2022 credit facility with Pala, except such debt is unsecured and not guaranteed by the Company’s subsidiaries and the interest rate on the debt is SOFR + 10% and it matures in December 2024.

The Company requires additional financing in order to complete the ramp-up of the Underground Mine. While Pala has continued to support the Company, it is under no obligation to do so. The Company is also in discussions with other third parties. There is no assurance that additional financing will be obtained in a sufficient amount, or at all. In the absence of securing sufficient funding from Pala or other third parties, the Company will not be able to continue carrying on business.

Exploration Opportunities

As previously reported, the Company completed its 2023 drill program with a total of 11 holes (3,305 feet) drilled on the Copper Ridge target and 9 holes (1,653 feet) on the Dimples target. Preliminary assays continue to be received and analyzed by the Company and indicate that mineralization and alteration found at surface has been intersected in the drill holes. Further updates will be made once the final assays and QA/QC samples are expected to be received in the first quarter of 2024.

Qualified Person

The technical information and data in this news release has been reviewed by Steven Newman, Registered Member – SME, Vice President, Technical Services for Nevada Copper and Greg French, C.P.G., VP Exploration for Nevada Copper, who are non-independent Qualified Persons within the meaning of NI 43-101.

About Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) is the owner of the Pumpkin Hollow copper project located in Nevada, USA with substantial reserves and resources including copper, gold and silver. Its two fully permitted projects include the high-grade Underground Mine and processing facility, which was recently restarted and is undergoing a ramp up of operations to nameplate capacity, and a large-scale open pit PFS stage project.

Randy Buffington
President & CEO

For additional information, please see the Company’s website at www.nevadacopper.com, or contact:
Tracey Thom Vice President, IR and Community Relations
tthom@nevadacopper.com
+1 775 391 9029

Cautionary Language on Forward Looking Statements
This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements specifically include, but are not limited to, statements that relate to the ramp-up and restart of operations at the Underground Mine and the resolution of unexpected challenges and future financing needs. There can be no assurance that the ramp-up of the Underground Mine will be completed. Additional financing will be required to complete the ramp-up of the Underground Mine and there can be no assurance that any such additional financing will be available on terms that are favourable to the Company or at all.

Forward-looking statements and information include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “potential”, “is expected”, “anticipated”, “is targeted”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information should not be read as guarantees of future performance and results. They are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and events to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information.

Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, those relating to: the need for additional capital and no assurance can be given regarding the availability thereof; the ability of the Company to complete the restart and ramp-up of the Underground Mine within the expected cost estimates and timeframe; results of exploration programs; the impact of the effects of COVID-19 on the business and operations of the Company; the state of financial markets; history of losses; dilution; adverse events relating to milling operations, construction, development and restart and ramp-up, including the ability of the Company to address unexpected challenges; ground conditions; cost overruns relating to development, construction and restart and ramp-up of the Underground Mine; loss of material properties; interest rate increases; global economy; limited history of production; future metals price fluctuations; speculative nature of exploration activities; periodic interruptions to exploration, development and mining activities; environmental hazards and liability; industrial accidents; failure of processing and mining equipment to perform as expected; labour disputes; supply problems; uncertainty of production and cost estimates; the interpretation of drill results and the estimation of mineral resources and reserves; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; possible variations in ore reserves, grade of mineralization or recovery rates from management’s expectations and the difference may be material; legal and regulatory proceedings and community actions; accidents; title matters; regulatory approvals and restrictions; increased costs and physical risks relating to climate change, including extreme weather events, and new or revised regulations relating to climate change; permitting and licensing; dependence on management information systems and cyber security risks; volatility of the market price of the Company’s securities; insurance; competition; hedging activities; currency fluctuations; loss of key employees; other risks of the mining industry as well as those risks discussed in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2022 and in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 20, 2023. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are based upon assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including, without limitation: no adverse developments in respect of the property or operations at the project; no material changes to applicable laws; the restart and ramp-up of operations at the Underground Mine in accordance with management’s plans and expectations; no material adverse impacts from the effects of COVID-19 going forward; the Company will be able to obtain sufficient additional funding to complete the restart and ramp-up of the Underground Mine, no material adverse change to the price of copper from current levels; and the absence of any other factors that could cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended.

The forward-looking information and statements are stated as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements or information except as required by law. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information and statements, there may be other factors that could cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Specific reference is made to “Risks and Uncertainties” in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2022 and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 20, 2023, for a discussion of factors that may affect forward-looking statements and information. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, should other risks or uncertainties materialize or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and events may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements and information. For more information on the Company and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review the Company’s filings that are available at www.sedarplus.com.

The Company provides no assurance that forward-looking statements and information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

Categories
Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper Provides Update on Pumpkin Hollow Restart Progress

YERINGTON, Nev., Aug. 11, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) (OTC: NEVDF) (FSE: ZYTA) (“Nevada Copper” or the “Company”) is pleased to provide an update on restart activities at its Pumpkin Hollow underground mine located in Yerington, Nevada (the “Underground Mine”).

Restart Progress

  • Underground development completed in Q2 2023 increased 65% to 1,424 feet (“ft”) as compared with Q1 2023 (496 ft).
  • Small Mine Development, Inc. (“SMD”), Nevada Copper’s development mining contractor, continues to ramp-up following their mobilization in June, with a 25% increase in average daily development footage in July compared with June development.
  • In Q2 2023, restart preparations for the mill and process plant advanced as planned and the mill is on track to restart in September 2023.
  • The surface stockpile has increased to approximately 73,000 tons of crushed ore, in preparation for sustained process operations on planned mill restart in September 2023.
  • Mining of the first stope began in early August and is expected to be completed before the end of August to provide an open stope for paste backfill placement to allow for commissioning of the paste plant.
  • Dumas Contracting USA Inc. (“Dumas”) completed all vertical and lateral development for the underground ore handling project and, as a result, the project has been turned over to RAM Enterprise, Inc. for the installation and commissioning of all mechanical and electrical components including the conveyors and crusher systems.
  • Dumas also advanced the Geho de-watering system installation and expects to have the new Geho pumps running by the end of the third quarter of 2023.
  • To date, the Company has rehabilitated ore passes #1 and #2 and expects to complete ore pass #3 in August 2023.
  • The Nevada Copper workforce has increased year to date by 30% to 177 employees, not including the development and projects contractor workforce; the largest workforce in the Company’s history.

Randy Buffington, President & CEO, stated: “The team, alongside our contracting partners, has made significant strides in advancing the underground mining and development activities at Pumpkin Hollow to enable the restart of milling activities in the third quarter, as planned. The process plant preparation and restart activities are moving forward well with September representing a significant milestone for Nevada Copper. The restart of processing operations will mark the end of restart activities and the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Nevada Copper as we realize the potential of this significant North American copper asset.”

2023 Outlook Reiterated

Nevada Copper reiterates its outlook for 2023 with the principal objective of achieving nameplate milling throughput of 5,000 tons per day (“tpd”) by the end of the year and all critical underground infrastructure complete and sufficient advance development to support sustained operations.

With the vent shaft project complete, underground lateral development continues to ramp-up as SMD increases staffing levels to meet development expectations. Lateral development over the second half of 2023 is planned to be 16,000 ft of combined primary and stope development. Commissioning of the underground crush and convey system is now scheduled for late October 2023 reflecting delays in underground excavation. To support the start of stope mining by the Company in September, existing ore passes and the surface crusher are being utilized until commissioning of the underground crusher is complete.

Mill restart is scheduled in September 2023 at an expected rate of approximately 3,500 tons per day. The mill and paste plant will be re-commissioned on low-grade stockpiled ore. Mill capacity and grade are expected to increase through the balance of 2023, however, milled grades will remain lower than average stope grades, as lower grade development ore constitutes a higher percentage of mill feed through these early commissioning months. The Company plans to truck its first concentrates in late September with first revenues expected in the fourth quarter.

Filing of Second Quarter 2023 Financial Statements and MD&A
Nevada Copper filed its consolidated interim financial statements and management’s discussion and analysis (“MD&A”) for the quarter ended June 30, 2023.  These filings can be found on the Company’s website at www.nevadacopper.com and the Company’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Qualified Person
The technical information and data in this news release has been reviewed by Steven Newman, member of SME, Vice President of Technical Services and Greg French, C.P.G., VP Exploration of Nevada Copper, each of whom are a non-independent Qualified Person within the meaning of NI 43-101.

About Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) is the owner of the Pumpkin Hollow copper project located in Nevada, USA with substantial reserves and resources including copper, gold and silver. Its two fully permitted projects include the high-grade Underground Mine and processing facility, which is undergoing a restart of operations, and a large-scale open pit PFS stage project.

Randy Buffington
President & CEO

For additional information, please see the Company’s website at www.nevadacopper.com, or contact:

Tracey Thom Vice President, IR and Community Relations
tthom@nevadacopper.com
+1 775 391 9029

Cautionary Language on Forward Looking Statements
This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements specifically include, but are not limited to, statements that relate to the advancement of restart operations at the Underground Mine. There can be no assurance that ramp-up of the Underground Mine will occur or will not cost more than expected and require the Company to raise additional financing. There can be no assurance that any such additional financing will be available on terms that are favourable to the Company or at all.

Forward-looking statements and information include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “potential”, “is expected”, “anticipated”, “is targeted”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information should not be read as guarantees of future performance and results. They are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and events to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information.

Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, those relating to: results of exploration programs, the potential need for additional capital and no assurance can be given regarding the availability thereof; the ability of the Company to complete the restart and ramp-up of the Underground Mine within the expected cost estimates and timeframe; the impact of COVID-19 on the business and operations of the Company; the state of financial markets; history of losses; dilution; adverse events relating to milling operations, construction, development and restart and ramp-up, including the ability of the Company to address underground development and process plant issues; ground conditions; cost overruns relating to development, construction and restart and ramp-up of the Underground Mine; loss of material properties; interest rate increases; global economy; limited history of production; future metals price fluctuations; speculative nature of exploration activities; periodic interruptions to exploration, development and mining activities; environmental hazards and liability; industrial accidents; failure of processing and mining equipment to perform as expected; labour disputes; supply problems; uncertainty of production and cost estimates; the interpretation of drill results and the estimation of mineral resources and reserves; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; possible variations in ore reserves, grade of mineralization or recovery rates from management’s expectations and the difference may be material; legal and regulatory proceedings and community actions; accidents; title matters; regulatory approvals and restrictions; increased costs and physical risks relating to climate change, including extreme weather events, and new or revised regulations relating to climate change; permitting and licensing; dependence on management information systems and cyber security risks; volatility of the market price of the Company’s securities; insurance; competition; hedging activities; currency fluctuations; loss of key employees; other risks of the mining industry as well as those risks discussed in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2022 and in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 20, 2023. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are based upon assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including, without limitation: no adverse developments in respect of the property or operations at the project; no material changes to applicable laws; the restart and ramp-up of operations at the Underground Mine in accordance with management’s plans and expectations; no material adverse impacts from COVID-19 going forward; the Company will be able to obtain sufficient additional funding to complete the restart and ramp-up of the Underground Mine, if required, no material adverse change to the price of copper from current levels; and the absence of any other factors that could cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended.

The forward-looking information and statements are stated as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements or information except as required by law. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information and statements, there may be other factors that could cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Specific reference is made to “Risks and Uncertainties” in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2022 and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 20, 2023, for a discussion of factors that may affect forward-looking statements and information. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, should other risks or uncertainties materialize or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and events may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements and information. For more information on the Company and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review the Company’s filings that are available at www.sedarplus.com.

The Company provides no assurance that forward-looking statements and information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

Categories
Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Nevada Copper

Pumpkin Hollow Underground Drill Program Extends Mineralization Highlighted by 36.5 feet of 2.46% Copper

Nevada Copper Corp.
Nevada Copper Corp.

Update on Underground and Regional Exploration Opportunities

Figure 1

Recent Underground Drilling
Recent Underground Drilling

Figure 2

Property Map with Exploration Target Locations
Property Map with Exploration Target Locations

Figure 3

Dimples Sampling (Gold)
Dimples Sampling (Gold)

Figure 4

Dimples Sampling (Copper)
Dimples Sampling (Copper)

YERINGTON, Nev., July 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) (OTC: NEVDF) (FSE: ZYTA) (“Nevada Copper” or the “Company”) today provides an update on its 2023 regional and underground exploration plans and recent exploration results at its approximate 36 square mile Pumpkin Hollow property located in Yerington, NV.  

Randy Buffington, President & CEO, commented, “The Pumpkin Hollow property is a significant land package, in a well-known copper belt, in a strong mining jurisdiction and with substantial mineral resources already identified. These recent underground drill results indicate expansion to known copper mineralization. Additionally, our review of historical data, coupled with recent surface sampling and analysis, has identified several targets of interest that warrant follow-up. Our team is currently focused on bringing the underground back into operation, including completion of the remaining capital projects, and advancing development activities, both of which are well underway. The planned start-up of milling operations and concentrate sales in Q3 2023 is on track with targeted nameplate milling rates of 5,000 tons per day expected to be achieved by the end of 2023. With a significant portion of the property located on private land, we are in a rare position to quickly take advantage of growth opportunities once we achieve steady state underground operations.”

2023 Underground Drilling Highlights

  • Approximately 31,500 feet of drilling planned (approximately US$5 million program).
  • Approximately 4,900 feet drilled to date with one drill rig, and a second drill rig recently deployed.
  • Results of drilling indicate mineralization extension in the ES zone (see Figure 1), including 36.5 feet of 2.46% copper within a larger interval of 99 feet of 1.4% copper (Cu) in hole NC23U-007. Other notable results include:
DDH IDFrom
(ft)
To
(ft)
Length
(ft)
Cu %Ag gptAu gpt
NC23U-0021424101.6214.2000.251
NC23U-002294304.810.81.768.4020.132
NC23U-0046070101.6311.6000.316
NC23U-005128143151.269.9130.267
NC23U-00668.479.811.41.275.7380.165
NC23U-007246344.598.51.43.5580.144
including300336.536.52.465.3420.318
NC23U-008123.515531.51.594.3420.264
NC23U-008425435101.563.2500.190
NC23U-008445480351.823.9860.291
NC23U-009188203151.321.4330.087
gpt = grams per tonne; Ag = silver
 

The 2023 East North (EN) and East South (ES) underground drill program began in the first quarter of 2023 and is focused on stope definition drilling and near-mine resource expansion targets. Drilling is expected to continue in the ES and EN zone through the remainder of the year. The deposit remains open in all directions.

The Pumpkin Hollow property has not been extensively explored in the past as the Company was focused on developing the known mineral resources, resulting in the development of the underground mine and advancement of the open pit project. Recent drone magnetic surveys have identified several high-quality targets of interest. Surface reconnaissance targeting these high-quality areas demonstrates that these targets have the potential to host additional independent mineralized systems, outside of the existing deposits.

New Area Identified in Pumpkin Hollow Site Wide Exploration – Dimples

Nevada Copper has identified a new exploration target, the Dimples target, located just south of the proposed open pit area in the southern area of the property (Figure 2). Analysis of recent surface grab samples has returned encouraging results including gold values of up to 61 gpt gold (Au). A total of 55 grab samples have been collected in 2023 with 42 of those samples returning gold values greater than 0.1 gpt Au and 14 samples being greater than 1 gpt Au, in quartz rich veins within granodiorite porphyry (Figure 3). Higher-grade copper was identified in eleven samples, with values greater than 1.0% Cu (Figure 4). High-grade copper rich zones are found in the granodiorite porphyry veins as well as skarns within metavolcanics. The Mesozoic rocks in the area are dominated by granodiorite porphyries and metavolcanics.

Additional News from the Copper Ridge Target

Surface sampling results from surface outcrops and prospect pits in the Copper Ridge area have indicated a potential for high-grade copper, highlighted by grades including 5.03% and 5.43% Cu. The Copper Ridge property is located north of the main Pumpkin Hollow property covered by 103 hectares through unpatented and patented claims. The target was mined for high-grade copper in the early 1900’s through several adits as well as a 122-meter inclined shaft.

The 2023 program is designed to follow-up on historic reconnaissance work completed in the early 1990s by a major copper company and has the potential to provide additional high-grade feed for the existing underground mill. A total of 70 historic and new rock samples were collected to confirm and extend the known mineralization along the vein and dike structures in the Yerington Batholith granodiorites. Forty-four samples assayed greater than 0.1% copper. Samples greater than 2.0% Cu were summarized in Table 1 of the Company’s February 13th, 2023, news release.

Follow-up trenching and a reverse circulation drill program are planned to further evaluate these high potential targets.

The grades identified in this press release are conceptual in nature as there has not been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the delineation of a mineral resource.

Qualified Person
The technical information and data in this news release has been reviewed by Greg French, C.P.G., VP Exploration of Nevada Copper, who is a non-independent Qualified Person within the meaning of NI 43-101.

Quality Assurance and Quality Control
The analytical work referred to herein was performed by American Assay Labs (AAL) located in Sparks, Nevada.  AAL is an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory. The Samples were crushed so that >80% passes 10 mesh, followed by pulverizing to >90% passes 75 < 150 mesh. Prepared samples were run using a three-acid digestion process and conventional ICP-AES analysis. Gold determination was via standard atomic absorption (AA) finish 30-gram fire-assay (FA) analysis.  Blank, standard and duplicate samples were routinely inserted and monitored for quality assurance and quality control.

The historic analytical work was performed by Chemex Labs Inc. and ALS Minerals, currently ALS Geochemistry (ALS) located in Nevada.  ALS is an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory. The samples were crushed so that >80% passes 10 mesh, followed by pulverizing split to < 150 mesh. Prepared samples were run using an acid digestion process and conventional ICP-AES analysis. Gold determination was via standard atomic absorption (AA) finish 30-gram fire-assay (FA) analysis.

Nevada Copper detected no significant QA/QC issues during review of the data and is not aware of any sampling or other factors that could materially affect the accuracy or reliability of the data referred to herein.

About Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) is the owner of the Pumpkin Hollow copper project located in Nevada, USA with substantial reserves and resources including copper, gold and silver. Its two fully permitted projects include the high-grade Underground Mine and processing facility, which is expected to restart milling operations in 2023, and a large-scale open pit PFS stage project.

Randy Buffington
President & CEO

For additional information, please see the Company’s website at www.nevadacopper.com, or contact:

Tracey Thom Vice President, IR and Community Relations
tthom@nevadacopper.com
+1 775 391 9029

Figure 1 – Recent Underground Drilling

Recent Underground Drilling
Recent Underground Drilling

*Grey holes – assays pending

Figure 2 – Property Map with Exploration Target Locations

Property Map with Exploration Target Locations
Property Map with Exploration Target Locations

Figure 3 – Dimples Sampling (Gold)

Dimples Sampling (Gold)
Dimples Sampling (Gold)

Figure 4 – Dimples Sampling (Copper)

Dimples Sampling (Copper)
Dimples Sampling (Copper)

Cautionary Language on Forward Looking Statements
This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements specifically include, but are not limited to, statements that relate to future exploration and the potential outcome of exploration programs, development and restart and ramp-up plans and activities at the Underground Mine and the timing in respect thereof.

Forward-looking statements and information include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “potential”, “is expected”, “anticipated”, “is targeted”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information should not be read as guarantees of future performance and results. They are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and events to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information.

Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, those relating to: results of exploration programs, requirements for additional capital and no assurance can be given regarding the availability thereof; the ability of the Company to complete the restart and ramp-up of the Underground Mine within the expected cost estimates and timeframe; the impact of COVID-19 on the business and operations of the Company; the state of financial markets; history of losses; dilution; adverse events relating to milling operations, construction, development and restart and ramp-up, including the ability of the Company to address underground development and process plant issues; ground conditions; cost overruns relating to development, construction and restart and ramp-up of the Underground Mine; loss of material properties; interest rate increases; global economy; limited history of production; future metals price fluctuations; speculative nature of exploration activities; periodic interruptions to exploration, development and mining activities; environmental hazards and liability; industrial accidents; failure of processing and mining equipment to perform as expected; labour disputes; supply problems; uncertainty of production and cost estimates; the interpretation of drill results and the estimation of mineral resources and reserves; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; possible variations in ore reserves, grade of mineralization or recovery rates from management’s expectations and the difference may be material; legal and regulatory proceedings and community actions; accidents; title matters; regulatory approvals and restrictions; increased costs and physical risks relating to climate change, including extreme weather events, and new or revised regulations relating to climate change; permitting and licensing; dependence on management information systems and cyber security risks; volatility of the market price of the Company’s securities; insurance; competition; hedging activities; currency fluctuations; loss of key employees; other risks of the mining industry as well as those risks discussed in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2022 and in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 20, 2023. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are based upon assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including, without limitation: no adverse developments in respect of the property or operations at the project; no material changes to applicable laws; the restart and ramp-up of operations at the Underground Mine in accordance with management’s plans and expectations; no material adverse impacts from COVID-19 going forward; the Company will be able to obtain sufficient additional funding to complete the restart and ramp-up of the Underground Mine, no material adverse change to the price of copper from current levels; and the absence of any other factors that could cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended.

The forward-looking information and statements are stated as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements or information except as required by law. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information and statements, there may be other factors that could cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Specific reference is made to “Risks and Uncertainties” in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2022 and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 20, 2023, for a discussion of factors that may affect forward-looking statements and information. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, should other risks or uncertainties materialize or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and events may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements and information. For more information on the Company and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review the Company’s filings that are available at www.sedar.com.

The Company provides no assurance that forward-looking statements and information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

Photos accompanying this announcement arer available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/33287b0a-4643-4316-8a39-08e81b110e72
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4a06e4cb-c8da-43bc-b046-a73b578531c8
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/287539cd-14b0-4a30-b300-a3b7553c2511
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/981a35f8-eff7-4e75-aff0-d3ce6c056df6

Categories
Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper Provides Results of 2023 Annual General and Special Meeting of Shareholders

Nevada Copper Corp.
Nevada Copper Corp.

YERINGTON, Nev., June 20, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) (OTC: NEVDF) (FSE: ZYTA) (“Nevada Copper” or the “Company”) provides the results from its 2023 Annual General and Special Meeting of shareholders (the “Meeting”), held today in Toronto. Shareholders holding a total of 419,941,084 common shares of the Company (“Common Shares”) were represented by proxy at the Meeting, representing approximately 58.04% of the total 723,508,700 Common Shares outstanding as of the record date. Shareholders voted in favour of all items of business before the Meeting.

Voting Details
The following eight nominees were elected as directors of the Company until the next annual shareholder meeting of the Company or until their successors are elected or appointed, with the detailed voting results as follows:

NomineeVotes For% ForVotes Withheld% Withheld
Tom Albanese405,053,99099.64%1,461,6050.36%
Michael Brown404,802,02299.58%1,713,5730.42%
Randy Buffington404,007,54799.38%2,508,0480.62%
Guillaume de Dardel403,883,02999.35%2,632,5660.65%
Raffaele (Lucio) Genovese403,618,25299.29%2,897,3430.71%
Stephen Gill403,990,21699.38%2,525,3790.62%
Evgenij Iorich404,002,05899.38%2,513,5370.62%
G. Ernest (Ernie) Nutter404,360,92099.47%2,154,6750.53%

At the Meeting, the shareholders of the Company also (i) fixed the number of directors at eight for the ensuing year, (ii) voted to appoint PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as the Company’s auditor and authorized the directors to fix their remuneration, and (iii) approved the omnibus equity incentive plan of the Company. A report on all matters voted on at the meeting has been filed on SEDAR.

About Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) is the owner of the Pumpkin Hollow copper project located in Nevada, USA with substantial mineral reserves and resources including copper, gold and silver. Its two permitted projects include the higher-grade Underground Mine and processing facility, which is undergoing a restart of operations, and a large-scale open pit PFS stage project.

Randy Buffington
President & CEO

For more information, please see the Company’s website at www.nevadacopper.com, or contact:

Tracey Thom Vice President, IR and Community Relations
tthom@nevadacopper.com | +1-775-391-9029

Categories
Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper Signs Mining Development Contract with Small Mine Development, LLC

Nevada Copper Corp.
Nevada Copper Corp.

Capital and Development Projects Progressing Well

Geho Pumping Station

Monorail Installed
Monorail Installed

Ore Pass 2

Ore Pass 2 Completion
Ore Pass 2 Completion

Vent Shaft

Completion of construction of the vent shaft.
Completion of construction of the vent shaft.

Coarse Ore Bin

Conveyor Drift Excavation
Conveyor Drift Excavation

Coarse Ore Bin

Vertical Excavation
Vertical Excavation

YERINGTON, Nev., May 16, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nevada Copper Corp. (TSX: NCU) (OTC: NEVDF) (FSE: ZYTA) (“Nevada Copper” or the “Company”) is pleased to provide additional details on the previously announced award of a 66,000-foot underground lateral development contract with US-based Small Mine Development, LLC (“SMD”).  SMD began mobilization activities on May 10, 2023. 

Randy Buffington, President & CEO, commented, “We are very pleased to award this contract to SMD, who have a strong reputation for safe and productive development in Nevada hard rock mines. Partnering with SMD is an effective way to ensure we have the ore stopes available to achieve and maintain our planned steady state production rate of approximately 5,000 tons per day.”

Key Components of Development Contract

  • 66,000 feet of lateral capital development over a 24-month contract period;
  • Delivery of fully developed ore stopes in 2023 to restart and maintain nameplate milling operations (approximately 5,000 tpd); and
  • Unit rate agreement for development and associated services to align SMD and Nevada Copper for success on this key restart deliverable.

Nevada Copper will self-perform stope mining in addition to managing ore and waste handling and underground stope ground support services, allowing each group to focus within their specific expertise.

Development and Capital Projects Progress

We have either substantially completed or well advanced various debottlenecking projects that were previously defined as key for a successful ramp-up to steady state, including:

  • Construction of the vent shaft is complete, and the surface fans have been commissioned.
  • Ore pass 2 rehabilitation is complete, increasing materials handling flexibility and decreasing material re-handle.
  • Vertical excavation of the coarse ore bin is complete, and excavation of the conveyor drift is in progress.
  • Underground electrical infrastructure is in place to support the development contractor’s ventilation requirements.
  • A key ventilation raise in the 2798 level is in progress and expected to be completed by the end of May 2023. This ventilation raise is critical to providing air circulation to all active areas of the mine.
  • Installation of the monorail is complete for the underground dewatering system (Geho project).
  • Ongoing lateral development is well advanced beyond the first and second dike crossings into the EN Zone and continues to demonstrate competent ground conditions, as anticipated by the model.
  • Non-critical path third dike crossing continues to be advanced with completion planned in Q2 2023.

About SMD
SMD is a US-based and well-respected underground development contractor with significant experience in underground mining in the United States, and particularly in Nevada. With approximately 650 employees in the United States and a full complement of available mining equipment, SMD is well positioned to support Nevada Copper’s underground development goals.

Qualified Persons
The technical information and data in this news release has been reviewed by Steven Newman, Registered Member – SME, Vice President, Technical Services for Nevada Copper, and Greg French, C.P.G., VP Exploration of Nevada Copper, who are non-independent Qualified Persons within the meaning of NI 43-101.

About Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) is the owner of the Pumpkin Hollow copper project located in Nevada, USA with substantial reserves and resources including copper, gold and silver. Its two fully permitted projects include the high-grade Underground Mine and processing facility, which is undergoing a restart of operations, and a large-scale permitted open pit PFS stage project.

Randy Buffington
President & CEO

For additional information, please see the Company’s website at www.nevadacopper.com, or contact:

Tracey Thom Vice President, IR and Community Relations
tthom@nevadacopper.com
+1 775 391 9029

Cautionary Language on Forward Looking Statements
This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information specifically include, but are not limited to, statements that relate to the completion of planned development activities at the Underground Mine.

Forward-looking statements and information include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “potential”, “is expected”, “anticipated”, “is targeted”, “budgeted”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information should not be read as guarantees of future performance and results. They are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and events to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information.

Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, those relating to: the ability of the Company to complete the restart and ramp-up of the Underground Mine within the expected cost estimates and timeframe; the impact of COVID-19 on the business and operations of the Company; the state of financial markets; history of losses; dilution; adverse events relating to milling operations, construction, development and restart and ramp-up, including the ability of the Company to address underground development and process plant issues; ground conditions; cost overruns relating to development, construction restart and ramp-up of the Underground Mine; loss of material properties; interest rate increases; global economy; limited history of production; future metals price fluctuations; speculative nature of exploration activities; periodic interruptions to exploration, development and mining activities; environmental hazards and liability; industrial accidents; failure of processing and mining equipment to perform as expected; labor disputes; supply problems; uncertainty of production and cost estimates; the interpretation of drill results and the estimation of mineral resources and reserves; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; possible variations in ore reserves, grade of mineralization or recovery rates from management’s expectations and the difference may be material; legal and regulatory proceedings and community actions; accidents; title matters; regulatory approvals and restrictions; increased costs and physical risks relating to climate change, including extreme weather events, and new or revised regulations relating to climate change; permitting and licensing; dependence on management information systems and cyber security risks; volatility of the market price of the Company’s securities; insurance; competition; hedging activities; currency fluctuations; loss of key employees; other risks of the mining industry, as well as those risks discussed in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2022 and in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 20, 2023. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are based upon assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including, without limitation: no adverse developments in respect of the property or operations at the project; no material changes to applicable laws; the restart and ramp-up of operations at the Underground Mine in accordance with management’s plans and expectations; no material adverse impacts from COVID-19 going forward; the Company will be able to obtain sufficient additional funding, if required, to complete the restart and ramp-up of the Underground Mine, no material adverse change to the price of copper from current levels; and the absence of any other factors that could cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended.

The forward-looking information and statements are stated as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements or information except as required by law. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information and statements, there may be other factors that could cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Specific reference is made to “Risks and Uncertainties” in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2022 and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 20, 2023, for a discussion of factors that may affect forward-looking statements and information. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, should other risks or uncertainties materialize or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and events may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements and information. For more information on the Company and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review the Company’s filings that are available at www.sedar.com.

The Company provides no assurance that forward-looking statements and information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

Geho Pumping Station – Monorail Installed

Monorail Installed
Monorail Installed

Ore Pass 2 Completed

Ore Pass 2 Completion
Ore Pass 2 Completion

Vent Shaft Completion

Completion of construction of the vent shaft.
Completion of construction of the vent shaft.

Coarse Ore Bin Conveyor Drift Excavation

Conveyor Drift Excavation
Conveyor Drift Excavation

Coarse Ore Bin Vertical Excavation

Vertical Excavation
Vertical Excavation

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7fe18d1c-0a0f-4775-b9b3-b5572a1c6db6
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0c1ade46-1748-46ff-b696-9464bf015b80
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/35bbc5ec-658c-4f68-9c9d-72c19a63d052
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c3310264-0b50-4ed0-a8df-daab797fde3c
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/425feee4-0657-4a31-aabb-083734933036
Categories
Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper Files Financial Statements, MD&A and AIF for the Year Ended December 31, 2022

Nevada Copper Corp.
Nevada Copper Corp.

YERINGTON, Nev., May 11, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) (OTC: NEVDF) (FSE: ZYTA) (“Nevada Copper” or the “Company”) today announced that it has filed its consolidated interim financial statements and management’s discussion and analysis (“MD&A”) for the quarter ended March 31, 2023.  These filings can be found on the Company’s website at www.nevadacopper.com and the Company’s SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.

About Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) is the owner of the Pumpkin Hollow copper project located in Nevada, USA with substantial reserves and resources including copper, gold and silver. Its two fully permitted projects include the high-grade Underground Mine and processing facility, which is undergoing a restart of operations, and a large-scale open pit PFS stage project.

Randy Buffington
President & CEO

For additional information, please see the Company’s website at www.nevadacopper.com, or contact:

Tracey Thom Vice President, IR and Community Relations
tthom@nevadacopper.com
+1 775 391 9029

Categories
Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper Announces Significant Financing Package Supporting Completion Of The Underground Mine Ramp-Up; Significant Debt Reduction

Nevada Copper Corp.

Nevada Copper Corp.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

ALL FIGURES BELOW EXPRESSED IN U.S. DOLLARS UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

Up to $70 million of restart and ramp-up financing supported by significant shareholders:

  • $35 million bought deal public equity offering of Units with subscription commitments from Pala Investments Limited (“Pala”) and Mercuria Energy Holdings (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. (“Mercuria”)
  • $10 million available under the existing senior credit facility; Nevada Copper to seek lender consent for a further $10 million expansion to the senior credit facility
  • Up to $10 million of new loan proceeds from Pala
  • $5 million cash proceeds from warrant exercise by Mercuria

Up to an additional $45 million of funding to support the ramp-up of the Underground Mine:

  • $25 million funding facility from Pala and Mercuria, accessible at Nevada Copper’s option
  • Up to $15 million of stream deliveries financed through Triple Flag Precious Metals Corp. (“Triple Flag”) commitments under the senior credit facility, at the election of Nevada Copper
  • $5 million copper option to Mercuria

Equitization of $82 million of debt:

  • Retirement of all currently outstanding Pala debt under its credit facility with the Company via exercise of warrants held by Pala

Key Benefits of Transaction include:

  • Provides funding towards nameplate production capacity for the Underground Mine (as defined below) by the end of 2023
  • Exercise of Pala warrants strengthens balance sheet through $82 million reduction in debt
  • Demonstrates key shareholder support and confidence in the Underground Mine and other opportunities across the Pumpkin Hollow land holdings
  • Allows immediate mobilization of leading US underground mining contractor, Small Mine Development, LLC (“SMD”)

YERINGTON, Nev., May 09, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nevada Copper Corp. (TSX: NCU) (OTC: NEVDF) (FSE: ZYTA) (“Nevada Copper” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce a financing package providing up to $115 million to advance the ramp-up of the Company’s Pumpkin Hollow underground mine (the “Underground Mine”), with the goal of achieving nameplate production capacity of 5,000 tons per day by the end of 2023.

Randy Buffington, President & CEO, commented, “We continue to make excellent progress on our capital and development projects in preparation for restart of mining in the second half of 2023. With significant progress delivered across capital projects, drilling and mine development, in addition to the mobilization of SMD as the underground mining contractor, we are moving swiftly to complete the ramp-up of the Underground Mine. With significant copper mineral reserves and resources and once operating at nameplate capacity, the Underground Mine will support the global drive towards electrification and a renewable energy future. This financing positions us to advance our ramp-up of the Underground Mine and meet our goal of achieving steady state operations by the end of 2023.”

The Company has entered into an agreement with Scotia Capital Inc. (“Scotiabank”), on behalf of a syndicate of underwriters (collectively, the “Underwriters”), pursuant to which the Underwriters have agreed to purchase on a bought deal basis 173,705,000 units of the Company (the “Units”) at a price of C$0.27 per Unit (the “Offering Price”) for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately C$47 million (the “Offering”).

Each Unit will consist of one common share of the Company (each a “Common Share”) and one-half of one Common Share purchase warrant (each full warrant, a “Warrant” and collectively the “Warrants”). Each Warrant will be exercisable for one Common Share (each a “Warrant Share”) at a price of C$0.34 per Warrant Share at any time for a period of 16 months following closing of the Offering.

The Company has granted the Underwriters an option, exercisable in whole or in part, at the sole discretion of the Underwriters, at any time for a period of 30 days from and including the closing of the Offering, to purchase from the Company up to an additional 15% of the Units sold under the Offering, on the same terms and conditions of the Offering to cover over-allotments, if any, and for market stabilization purposes (the “Over-Allotment Option”). The Over-Allotment Option may be exercised by the Underwriters to purchase additional Units, Common Shares, Warrants or any combination thereof. In the event the Over-Allotment Option is exercised in full, the aggregate gross proceeds of the Offering to the Company will be approximately C$54 million.

The Units will be offered by way of a short form prospectus to be filed in all provinces of Canada, except Quebec. The Offering is expected to close on or about May 30, 2023, subject to the receipt of all necessary regulatory and stock exchange approvals, including the approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”) and applicable securities regulatory authorities.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Offering and those contemplated under the Financing Agreement (as defined below) to continue funding the restart and ramp-up of the Company’s Pumpkin Hollow Underground Mine and for general corporate purposes, including working capital.

Pala, the Company’s largest shareholder, has agreed to purchase an aggregate of C$33.5 million of Units under the Offering (the “Pala Subscription Commitment”). If sufficient funds are raised in the Offering from third-party investors (other than Pala and Mercuria), Pala will not subscribe for its maximum Subscription Commitment, and may not subscribe for any Units if aggregate gross proceeds of C$40.2 million in the Offering are otherwise raised from such other third-party investors.

Mercuria, another significant shareholder of the Company, has agreed to subscribe for an aggregate of C$6.7 million of Units under the Offering (and together with the Pala Subscription Commitment, the “Subscription Commitments”) on the terms and conditions of the Offering.

Additionally, on May 9, 2023, the Company entered into a binding financing package agreement with Pala, Mercuria and TF R&S Canada Ltd., an affiliate of Triple Flag, the Company’s stream and royalty financing partner (the “Financing Agreement”), with respect to the transactions described below.

Warrant Exercises

In conjunction with the Offering, Pala has committed to the Company that it will exercise all of the Common Share purchase warrants (the “Pala Warrant Exercise”) that it has been issued in connection with the amendment and restatement of the credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) between the Company and Pala, entered into in October 2022 as part of the Company’s October 2022 financing (the “Pala Warrants”). Concurrent with closing of the Offering, Pala will exercise such maximum number of Pala Warrants such that, after giving effect to the Offering (including any subscription by Pala under the Subscription Commitment), Pala’s ownership interest in the Company will be 49.99% (the “Initial Pala Exercise”). The exercise price in respect of the Pala Warrant Exercise will be paid through the extinguishment of debt under the Credit Facility. Promptly following closing of the Offering (including the Initial Pala Exercise), Pala and the Company intend to submit customary filings to applicable U.S. governmental authorities pursuant to the United States Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 to permit Pala to exceed a 49.99% ownership interest in the Company (the “HSR Filings”). Following submission of the HSR Filings, an approximate 30-day regulatory review period will commence. Pala has committed to exercise the balance of the remaining outstanding Pala Warrants (the “Subsequent Pala Exercise”) promptly following expiry of the review period or clearance by the applicable regulatory authorities, whichever occurs earliest (the “HSR Clearance”). Upon the completion of the Subsequent Pala Exercise, all amounts outstanding under the Credit Facility will be deemed fully repaid. This will result in the approximately $82 million currently outstanding principal amount and accrued interest under the Credit Facility being repaid.

Additionally, in conjunction with the Offering, Mercuria has agreed to exercise $5 million of the Common Share purchase warrants that it was issued in connection with the Company’s October 2022 financing (collectively, the “Mercuria Warrant Exercise”, and together with the Pala Warrant Exercise, the “Warrant Exercises”).

Upon the completion of the Warrant Exercises and after giving effect to the Offering (assuming there is no exercise of the Over-Allotment Option and no other issuances of Common Shares), Pala’s ownership interest in the Company on a non-diluted basis would increase from approximately 43% to approximately 64% (assuming Pala is required to fund its full Subscription Commitment in the Offering and receipt of applicable regulatory clearance) and Mercuria’s ownership interest in the Company on a non-diluted basis would decrease from approximately 24% to approximately 17%.

Additional $10 Million Committed under the KfW Facility Extension Tranche; Seeking further $10 million Expansion under the KfW Facility

On October 28, 2022, a new tranche of up to $25 million (the “Extension Tranche”) was added to the Company’s senior credit facility (the “KfW Facility”) with KfW IPEX-Bank GmbH (“KfW”), of which Pala, Mercuria, and Triple Flag committed, in aggregate, the first $15 million, which has since been drawn by the Company. Pursuant to the Financing Agreement, Pala, Mercuria and Triple Flag commit to provide the remaining $10 million undrawn amount under the Extension Tranche, with Pala, Mercuria and Triple Flag committing to each provide $3.33 million of the Extension Tranche (the “Extension Funding”), in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Extension Tranche.

Pursuant to the Financing Agreement, the Company, Pala, Mercuria and Triple Flag have agreed to support the expansion of the Extension Tranche by $10 million, to an aggregate amount of $35 million. Such extension is subject to the approval of KfW and the Company’s other lenders. If such approval is obtained, each of Pala, Mercuria and Triple Flag would provide $3.33 million of such extended tranche and any draws under such extension would be made in accordance with the terms and conditions of the KfW Facility.

Deliveries under Stream Agreement Temporarily Financed through Extension Tranche

The Company and Triple Flag have agreed that certain metal deliveries that become due to Triple Flag under the Company’s stream agreement with Triple Flag will be financed through loans or advances committed by Triple Flag under the Extension Tranche (subject to refreshed draw room becoming available thereunder) up to a maximum of $15 million for 2023, and, subject to certain conditions, for 2024.

Deferred Funding Agreement

Upon the closing of the Offering, Pala and Mercuria have agreed to enter into a deferred funding agreement in favour of the Company (the “Deferred Funding Agreement”), pursuant to which Pala and Mercuria will provide up to $15 million and $10 million, respectively, subject to certain conditions, to be drawn pro rata by the Company, if required, until June 30, 2024. To the extent that the gross proceeds of the Offering, including any exercise of the Over-Allotment Option, exceeds $39.5 million, the $25 million deferred funding amount will be reduced, pro rata, on a dollar-for-dollar basis. These funds, if required, will be advanced in exchange for Common Shares, convertible and/or non-convertible debt of the Company.

The closing of the Offering is conditional on the execution of the Deferred Funding Agreement, as well as the completion of the Initial Pala Exercise, the Mercuria Warrant Exercise and the Extension Funding.

Pala has also agreed to provide $10 million in debt funding to the Company (some of which has already been advanced).

Consistent with the Company’s stated plans and prior disclosure, the Company has retained SMD as its underground lateral development contractor.

Mercuria Copper Option

Pursuant to the Financing Agreement, the Company has agreed to grant Mercuria an option to acquire, for an aggregate purchase price of $5 million, call options on a portion of the Company’s copper production on market terms to be agreed between the Company and Mercuria (the “Copper Option”). The Copper Option is subject to compliance with regulatory requirements (including any required approvals by the TSX), any required third-party consents (including the Company’s lenders, if required) and the approval by the independent directors of the Company.

Concord Extension

On April 27, 2023, the Company and Concord Resources Limited (“Concord”) agreed to extend the term of the Company’s working capital facility with Concord (the “Working Capital Facility”) for 36 months upon satisfaction of certain completion conditions, which would allow the Company to re-commence draws under the Working Capital Facility upon the resumption of concentrate deliveries to Concord.

Delisting Review

In connection with the Company’s October 2022 financing, the Company was granted a “financial hardship” exemption from the TSX requirements to obtain shareholder approval of certain components of the financing package. As a consequence, the TSX placed the Company under remedial delisting review, which is normal practice when a listed issuer seeks to rely on this exemption. The TSX has since confirmed that no remedial action is required by the Company in respect of the delisting review and that it satisfied the TSX’s applicable requirements for continued listing. As a result of the foregoing, the delisting review has now been lifted by the TSX.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

About Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) is the owner of the Pumpkin Hollow copper project located in Nevada, USA with substantial mineral reserves and resources including copper, gold and silver. Its two permitted projects include the higher-grade Underground Mine and processing facility, which is undergoing a restart of operations, and a large-scale open pit PFS stage project.

Randy Buffington
President & CEO

For additional information, please see the Company’s website at www.nevadacopper.com, or contact:

Tracey Thom Vice President, IR and Community Relations
tthom@nevadacopper.com
+1 775 391 9029

Cautionary Language on Forward Looking Statements
This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information specifically include, but are not limited to, statements that relate to the completion of the Offering and the timing thereof, the Subscription Commitments, the timing of the Warrant Exercises, the availability of the undrawn portion of the Extension Tranche, the execution of the Deferred Funding Agreement, the use of proceeds of the Offering and the Financing Agreement, regulatory matters relating to the HSR Clearance and the achievement of the nameplate capacity of the production at the Underground Mine and the timing thereof. There can be no assurance that the Offering or the Warrant Exercises or the other transactions referred to herein will be completed or that ramp-up of the Underground Mine and the achievement of nameplate production capacity will occur or will not cost more than expected and require the Company to raise additional financing. There can be no assurance that any such additional financing will be available on terms that are favourable to the Company or at all.

Forward-looking statements and information include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “potential”, “is expected”, “anticipated”, “is targeted”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information should not be read as guarantees of future performance and results. They are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and events to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information.

Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, those relating to: the ability of the Company to complete the restart and ramp-up of the Underground Mine within the expected cost estimates and timeframe; the impact of COVID-19 on the business and operations of the Company; the state of financial markets; history of losses; dilution; adverse events relating to milling operations, construction, development and restart and ramp-up, including the ability of the Company to address underground development and process plant issues; ground conditions; cost overruns relating to development, construction restart and ramp-up of the Underground Mine; loss of material properties; interest rate increases; global economy; limited history of production; future metals price fluctuations; speculative nature of exploration activities; periodic interruptions to exploration, development and mining activities; environmental hazards and liability; industrial accidents; failure of processing and mining equipment to perform as expected; labor disputes; supply problems; uncertainty of production and cost estimates; the interpretation of drill results and the estimation of mineral resources and reserves; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; possible variations in ore reserves, grade of mineralization or recovery rates from management’s expectations and the difference may be material; legal and regulatory proceedings and community actions; accidents; title matters; regulatory approvals and restrictions; increased costs and physical risks relating to climate change, including extreme weather events, and new or revised regulations relating to climate change; permitting and licensing; dependence on management information systems and cyber security risks; volatility of the market price of the Company’s securities; insurance; competition; hedging activities; currency fluctuations; loss of key employees; other risks of the mining industry as well as those risks discussed in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2022 and in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 20, 2023. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are based upon assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including, without limitation: no adverse developments in respect of the property or operations at the project; no material changes to applicable laws; the restart and ramp-up of operations at the Underground Mine in accordance with management’s plans and expectations; no material adverse impacts from COVID-19 going forward; the Company will be able to obtain sufficient additional funding to complete the restart and ramp-up of the Underground Mine, no material adverse change to the price of copper from current levels; and the absence of any other factors that could cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended.

The forward-looking information and statements are stated as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements or information except as required by law. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information and statements, there may be other factors that could cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Specific reference is made to “Risks and Uncertainties” in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2022 and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 20, 2023, for a discussion of factors that may affect forward-looking statements and information. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, should other risks or uncertainties materialize or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and events may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements and information. For more information on the Company and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review the Company’s filings that are available at www.sedar.com.

The Company provides no assurance that forward-looking statements and information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

Categories
Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper Provides Update in Pumpkin Hollow Project

Nevada Copper Corp.
Nevada Copper Corp.

Capital Projects Construction Contract Awarded to Dumas Mining

YERINGTON, Nev., Feb. 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) (OTC: NEVDF) (FSE: ZYTA) (“Nevada Copper” or the “Company”) is pleased to provide an update on restart and operational activities for its Pumpkin Hollow underground copper mine (the “Underground Mine”).

Randy Buffington, President & CEO of Nevada Copper, stated, “Our Pumpkin Hollow team is focused on advancing the restart project quickly and safely. We are building on the momentum of the recent achievements by the underground crews as they have progressed through the dike structure and are advancing into the EN Zone in anticipation of the underground development contractor arriving on site and commencing development. The technical and leadership teams are in place and committed to executing this restart plan. We are targeting a mill restart in the third quarter with a quick ramp up to nameplate capacity by the end of 2023.”

Production Restart Highlights

  • Clear line of site to full-scale production
    • Simple and low-risk pathway to full-scale production established, comprising:
      • Phase 1 Q4 2022 to Q1 2023: Finalize dike crossings to access EN Zone initial stoping area (complete), confirm all key technical hires for restart (complete), and award capital projects contract (complete).
      • Phase 2 Q2 2023: Prioritized development of higher-grade EN Zone stope area.
      • Phase 3 Q3 to Q4 2023: Restart of proven mill, with surface and underground ore feed developed and short ramp-up to nameplate capacity.
  • Phase 1 Restart Milestones Achieved
    • Development into the EN Zone has demonstrated that rock quality is consistent with our geotechnical model, which predicted competent ground within the EN Zone, and development is progressing at full round lengths and standard ground support.
    • Definition drilling and assaying of all initial EN Zone stopes planned for extraction in 2023 is complete representing approximately 210K tons of stope ore, providing significant visibility on quality and grade of ore feed.
    • Contract awarded for completion of capital projects to debottleneck restart of development and underground operations.
    • Development mining contract award well progressed.
    • All key technical positions in place, with substantially strengthened operational leadership team on-site.
  • Operations significantly de-risked
    • Completion of both critical dike headings, securing the Underground Mine with full access to the primary EN Zone stope area. The third dike crossing is progressing well and, while it is not required to meet 2023 operating objectives, is expected to be completed in the first half of 2023.
    • Building planned surface stockpile of approximately 150K tons of run-of-mine ore ahead of mill start-up provides substantial operating buffer for milling operations.
    • Debottlenecking capital projects front-ended to provide additional operating flexibility.

Further Details on Production Restart

Underground Development Proceeding as Planned

The Nevada Copper operations team continues to make rapid progress on all underground activities including mine development, hoisting, stope preparation, and underground projects.

The historically reported dike crossings that provide initial stope top and bottom access into the EN Zone were fully established and completed in December 2022, and development is progressing toward stoping areas. Both key development drives that have crossed the dike have encountered ground conditions at or better than expectation, confirming the geotechnical model that predicted higher quality rock. Definition drilling of the initial stopes to feed the restart of milling operations in Q3 2023 have been completed and assayed, and confirm rock quality, grade and geometry represented by the geologic and reserve models.

Underground Development Contractor Update

The Company has completed the bid process for the development mining contractor and is in the final stages of negotiations for a unit rate contract with an internationally recognized major mining services contractor.

Key components of the development contract include:

  • 72,000 feet of lateral capital development over a 24-month contract period;
  • Delivery of full development stopes by Q3 2023 to provide sufficient faces and stopes to restart and maintain nameplate milling operations (approximately 5,000 tpd); and
  • Nevada Copper’s operating team will perform all stope mining starting in Q3 2023.

Critical Construction Projects Progressing

The Company awarded Dumas Contracting USA, Inc. (“Dumas”) a $12 million construction contract to complete critical capital projects including the coarse ore bin and installation of an underground jaw crusher, permanent dewatering system, vent shaft stripping and surface fans. Dumas is a leading full-service underground mining contractor providing mine construction, development, production mining, mine services and engineering early-stage projects through well-established operating mines throughout the Americas.

Vent Shaft – Final stripping of the vent shaft commenced in January in preparation for connection of the surface fans, which are expected to be commissioned in early Q2 2023. The stripping is planned to be completed ahead of development contractor mobilization and the vent shaft is expected to provide the necessary ventilation for the life of the mine.

Ore Handling System – The additional ore handling system allows for increased ore throughput rates to the shaft hoisting system, enabling operations to ultimately exceed nameplate production. Engineering for ore handling system has been completed, and all long-lead items are on-site including the jaw crusher. Excavation is underway and planning for the installation of the system has already commenced.

Dewatering System – The pumps for the permanent dewatering system are on site and ready for installation. Once installed, the additional pumps are expected to provide all dewatering requirements for the life of the mine.

Regional Exploration Opportunities

The Company has completed a thorough review of regional mapping for its Pumpkin Hollow land position and several high-quality targets of interest have been identified. Surface sampling results from the Copper Ridge area have indicated the high-grade potential, highlighted by grades including 5.03% and 5.43% copper (see table below for additional assay information) that warrant additional investigation. In 2023, detailed mapping, interpretation of recent geophysical analysis and surface sampling are planned to follow-up on other identified high-potential targets on the Nevada Copper land position. The grades identified are conceptual in nature as there has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the delineation of a mineral resource. Grades were determined through third-party labs, as detailed below under “Quality Assurance and Quality Control”.

Table of Assays (samples greater than 1%)
Sample IDEasting (m)Northing (m)Elevation (m)Cu (%)Au (ppm)Ag (ppm)
533857318720431651014512.310.0360.5
533861318751431651214582.360.008<0.2
533862318766431651214591.540.1300.2
1615147319706431702314433.350.0304.8
1615150319603431707214443.650.0110.4
1615178319087431678215172.020.1195.4
1669223319621431708214422.650.0452.7
1669224319678431703314443.100.0564.4
1669225318483431651514131.601.4302.7
1669229318639431648114371.190.1800.8
1669232318607431663714401.030.1041.1
M59971*319729431702014405.030.15010.0
M59982*318739431652714465.430.07516.0
M59984*318789431660114704.100.0558.0
M59994*318438431650714052.871.4906.0

* Historic sample

Board Changes

Ms. Kate Southwell will be stepping down as a member of the Board of Directors effective February 28, 2023 to pursue other career opportunities. Stephen Gill, Chairman of the Board stated, “The Board and management team appreciate Kate’s valuable input during her tenure, particularly with regard to financing and commercial matters and as Chair of the Sustainability Committee and wish her well in her future endeavors”. The Nominating Committee of the Board is in the process of identifying qualified candidates to fill the vacant role at or prior to this year’s annual shareholder meeting.

Qualified Person

The technical information and data in this news release has been reviewed by Steven Newman, Registered Member – SME, Vice President, Technical Services for Nevada Copper, and Greg French, C.P.G., VP Exploration of Nevada Copper, who are non-independent Qualified Persons within the meaning of NI 43-101.

Quality Assurance and Quality Control

The analytical work was performed by American Assay Labs (AAL) located in Sparks, Nevada. AAL is an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory. The Samples were crushed so that >80% passes 10 mesh, followed by pulverizing to >90% passes 75 < 150 mesh. Prepared samples were run using a three-acid digestion process and conventional ICP-AES analysis. Gold determination was via standard atomic absorption (AA) finish 30-gram fire-assay (FA) analysis. Blank, standard and duplicate samples were routinely inserted and monitored for quality assurance and quality control.

The historic analytical work was performed by Chemex Labs Inc., currently ALS Geochemistry (ALS) located in, Nevada. ALS is an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory. The samples were crushed so that >80% passes 10 mesh, followed by pulverizing split to < 150 mesh. Prepared samples were run using an acid digestion process and conventional ICP-AES analysis. Gold determination was via standard atomic absorption (AA) finish 30-gram fire-assay (FA) analysis.

Nevada Copper detected no significant QA/QC issues during review of the data and is not aware of any sampling or other factors that could materially affect the accuracy or reliability of the data referred to herein.

About Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) is a copper producer and owner of the Pumpkin Hollow copper project. Located in Nevada, USA, Pumpkin Hollow has substantial reserves and resources including copper, gold and silver. Its two fully permitted projects include the high-grade Underground Mine and processing facility, which is now in the production stage, and a large-scale open pit PFS stage project.

Randy Buffington
President & CEO

For additional information, please see the Company’s website at www.nevadacopper.com, or contact:

Tracey Thom Vice President, IR and Community Relations
tthom@nevadacopper.com
+1 775 391 9029

Cautionary Language on Forward Looking Statements
This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements specifically include, but are not limited to, statements that relate to development and ramp-up plans and activities at the Underground Mine and the timing in respect thereof.

Forward-looking statements and information include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “potential”, “is expected”, “anticipated”, “is targeted”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information should not be read as guarantees of future performance and results. They are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and events to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information.

Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, those relating to: requirements for additional capital and no assurance can be given regarding the availability thereof; the outcome of discussions with vendors; the ability of the Company to complete the ramp-up of the Underground Mine within the expected cost estimates and timeframe; the impact of COVID-19 on the business and operations of the Company; the state of financial markets; history of losses; dilution; adverse events relating to milling operations, construction, development and ramp-up, including the ability of the Company to address underground development and process plant issues; ground conditions; cost overruns relating to development, construction and ramp-up of the Underground Mine; loss of material properties; interest rate increases; global economy; limited history of production; future metals price fluctuations; speculative nature of exploration activities; periodic interruptions to exploration, development and mining activities; environmental hazards and liability; industrial accidents; failure of processing and mining equipment to perform as expected; labour disputes; supply problems; uncertainty of production and cost estimates; the interpretation of drill results and the estimation of mineral resources and reserves; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; possible variations in ore reserves, grade of mineralization or recovery rates from management’s expectations and the difference may be material; legal and regulatory proceedings and community actions; accidents; title matters; regulatory approvals and restrictions; increased costs and physical risks relating to climate change, including extreme weather events, and new or revised regulations relating to climate change; permitting and licensing; dependence on management information systems and cyber security risks; volatility of the market price of the Company’s securities; insurance; competition; hedging activities; currency fluctuations; loss of key employees; other risks of the mining industry as well as those risks discussed in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2021 and the quarter ended September 30, 2022 and in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 31, 2022. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are based upon assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including, without limitation: no adverse developments in respect of the property or operations at the project; no material changes to applicable laws; the ramp-up of operations at the Underground Mine in accordance with management’s plans and expectations; no worsening of the current COVID-19 related work restrictions; reduced impacts of COVID-19 going forward; the Company will be able to obtain sufficient additional funding to complete the ramp-up, no material adverse change to the price of copper from current levels; and the absence of any other factors that could cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended.

The forward-looking information and statements are stated as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements or information except as required by law. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information and statements, there may be other factors that could cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Specific reference is made to “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2021 and the quarter ended September 30, 2022 and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 31, 2022, for a discussion of factors that may affect forward-looking statements and information. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, should other risks or uncertainties materialize or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and events may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements and information. For more information on the Company and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review the Company’s filings that are available at www.sedar.com.

The Company provides no assurance that forward-looking statements and information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

Categories
Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper Receives US$20 Million from Closing of Second Tranche of Restart Financing Package and Provides Update

Nevada Copper, Proven and Probable

YERINGTON, Nev., Dec. 29, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) (OTC: NEVDF) (FSE: ZYTA) (“Nevada Copper” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that the second tranche of funding of an aggregate of US$20 million provided by Mercuria Energy (“Mercuria”) and Triple Flag Precious Metals Corp. (“Triple Flag”) has been released from escrow to Nevada Copper as part of the Company’s restart financing package (the “Restart Financing Package”), the first tranche of which closed on October 28, 2022. In exchange for its US$10 million portion of the second tranche of funding, Mercuria received 63,411,540 common shares of the Company. The US$10 million portion of the second tranche of funding provided by Triple Flag resulted in the completion of the increase of its existing net smelter returns royalty on the Company’s open pit project from 0.7% to 2%. In connection with the closing conditions relating to the second tranche, the Company and Mercuria have determined that certain informational and other matters will be addressed post-closing. Please see the Company’s prior press releases on October 28, 2022 and October 25, 2022 for additional details regarding the Restart Financing Package, including the use of proceeds therefrom.

The Company continues to progress restart activities at its Pumpkin Hollow underground copper mine (the “Underground Mine”), including:

  • Development mining contractor – the Company is finalizing its selection of a development mining contractor and expects to award a contract in Q1 2023.
  • Capital projects – the Company is finalizing contract conditions with a capital projects contractor to complete the installation of the Geho dewatering system and coarse ore bin and rehabilitation of the vent shaft. Authorization to proceed with mobilization planning has been given to allow for an expedient ramp-up once the contract has been awarded.
  • Underground development work – hoisting of material to surface recently commenced at the Underground Mine and other development activities, such as advancing through the final dike crossing, completion of the maintenance shop and rehabilitation of ore passes, continue in preparation for mobilization of a development mining contractor in 2023.

About Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) is a copper producer and owner of the Pumpkin Hollow copper project. Located in Nevada, USA, Pumpkin Hollow has substantial reserves and resources including copper, gold and silver. Its two fully permitted projects include the high-grade Underground Mine and processing facility, which is now in the production stage, and a large-scale open pit PFS stage project.

Randy Buffington
President & CEO

For additional information, please see the Company’s website at www.nevadacopper.com, or contact:

Tracey Thom Vice President, IR and Community Relations
tthom@nevadacopper.com
+1 775 391 9029

Cautionary Language on Forward Looking Statements
This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements specifically include, but are not limited to, statements that relate to development and ramp-up plans and activities at the Underground Mine and the timing in respect thereof.

Forward-looking statements and information include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “potential”, “is expected”, “anticipated”, “is targeted”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information should not be read as guarantees of future performance and results. They are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and events to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information.

Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, those relating to: requirements for additional capital and no assurance can be given regarding the availability thereof; the outcome of discussions with vendors; the ability of the Company to complete the ramp-up of the Underground Mine within the expected cost estimates and timeframe; the impact of COVID-19 on the business and operations of the Company; the state of financial markets; history of losses; dilution; adverse events relating to milling operations, construction, development and ramp-up, including the ability of the Company to address underground development and process plant issues; ground conditions; cost overruns relating to development, construction and ramp-up of the Underground Mine; loss of material properties; interest rate increases; global economy; limited history of production; future metals price fluctuations; speculative nature of exploration activities; periodic interruptions to exploration, development and mining activities; environmental hazards and liability; industrial accidents; failure of processing and mining equipment to perform as expected; labour disputes; supply problems; uncertainty of production and cost estimates; the interpretation of drill results and the estimation of mineral resources and reserves; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; possible variations in ore reserves, grade of mineralization or recovery rates from management’s expectations and the difference may be material; legal and regulatory proceedings and community actions; accidents; title matters; regulatory approvals and restrictions; increased costs and physical risks relating to climate change, including extreme weather events, and new or revised regulations relating to climate change; permitting and licensing; dependence on management information systems and cyber security risks; volatility of the market price of the Company’s securities; insurance; competition; hedging activities; currency fluctuations; loss of key employees; other risks of the mining industry as well as those risks discussed in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2021 and the quarter ended September 30, 2022 and in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 31, 2022. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are based upon assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including, without limitation: no adverse developments in respect of the property or operations at the project; no material changes to applicable laws; the ramp-up of operations at the Underground Mine in accordance with management’s plans and expectations; no worsening of the current COVID-19 related work restrictions; reduced impacts of COVID-19 going forward; the Company will be able to obtain sufficient additional funding to complete the ramp-up, no material adverse change to the price of copper from current levels; and the absence of any other factors that could cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended.

The forward-looking information and statements are stated as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements or information except as required by law. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information and statements, there may be other factors that could cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Specific reference is made to “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2021 and the quarter ended September 30, 2022 and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 31, 2022, for a discussion of factors that may affect forward-looking statements and information. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, should other risks or uncertainties materialize or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and events may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements and information. For more information on the Company and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review the Company’s filings that are available at www.sedar.com.

The Company provides no assurance that forward-looking statements and information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

Categories
Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper Appoints Gregory J. Martin as Chief Financial Officer

Nevada Copper Corp.
Nevada Copper Corp.

Files Third Quarter 2022 Financial Statements and MD&A

YERINGTON, Nev., Nov. 14, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) (OTC: NEVDF) (FSE: ZYTA) (“Nevada Copper” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Greg Martin as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, effective November 21, 2022.   In leading the Company’s financial functions, Mr. Martin will be integral to building fiscal discipline and structures to support the restart and ramp-up of the Company’s underground mine. In addition, he will oversee concentrate marketing, and generally assist with leading the team through the restart and ramp-up process.

Randy Buffington, President & CEO of Nevada Copper, stated, “We are very pleased that Greg will be joining the Company and taking on such a critical role in leading the finance group. His experience and leadership in mining, and specifically in Nevada operations, will be crucial in reinforcing the financial rigor needed as we transition through the capital development projects phase of the operational restart at Pumpkin Hollow to mining and milling over the next year. Looking forward, we are making good progress with the open pit prefeasibility study and look forward to Greg’s input at this key stage of development.”

Mr. Martin has nearly 30 years of experience in various financial and business development roles, primarily in the mining sector. He has held senior finance roles in several multi-national mining and mining-related companies including SSR Mining Inc. (where he was CFO from 2012 to 2021), NovaGold Resources Inc., Finning International Inc., Zincore Metals Inc. and Placer Dome Inc. He has a proven track record of providing leadership through company transitions, growth and development while implementing the fiscal discipline and structure to support sustainable operations. Mr. Martin is a Certified Professional Accountant (C.G.A.), holds an MBA from the University of Western Ontario and a Bachelor of Applied Science from the University of British Columbia.

Filing of Third Quarter 2022 Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) of Financial Results

The Company has filed its unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements and the related MD&A for the third quarter and year to date periods ended September 30, 2022.  These filings can be found at www.sedar.com.

About Nevada Copper

Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) is a copper producer and owner of the Pumpkin Hollow copper project. Located in Nevada, USA, Pumpkin Hollow has substantial reserves and resources including copper, gold and silver. Its two fully permitted projects include the high-grade Underground Mine and processing facility, which is now in the production stage, and a large-scale open pit project, which is advancing towards feasibility status.

Randy Buffington
President & CEO

For additional information, please see the Company’s website at www.nevadacopper.com, or contact:

Tracey Thom Vice President, IR and Community Relations
tthom@nevadacopper.com
+1 775 391 9029

Cautionary Language on Forward Looking Statements
This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements specifically include, but are not limited to, statements that relate to Mr. Martin’s role with the Company.

Forward-looking statements and information include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “potential”, “is expected”, “anticipated”, “is targeted”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information should not be read as guarantees of future performance and results. They are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and events to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information.

Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, those relating to: requirements for additional capital and no assurance can be given regarding the availability thereof; the outcome of discussions with vendors; the ability of the Company to complete the ramp-up of the Underground Mine within the expected cost estimates and timeframe; the impact of COVID-19 on the business and operations of the Company; the state of financial markets; history of losses; dilution; adverse events relating to milling operations, construction, development and ramp-up, including the ability of the Company to address underground development and process plant issues; ground conditions; cost overruns relating to development, construction and ramp-up of the Underground Mine; loss of material properties; interest rate increases; global economy; limited history of production; future metals price fluctuations; speculative nature of exploration activities; periodic interruptions to exploration, development and mining activities; environmental hazards and liability; industrial accidents; failure of processing and mining equipment to perform as expected; labour disputes; supply problems; uncertainty of production and cost estimates; the interpretation of drill results and the estimation of mineral resources and reserves; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; possible variations in ore reserves, grade of mineralization or recovery rates from management’s expectations and the difference may be material; legal and regulatory proceedings and community actions; accidents; title matters; regulatory approvals and restrictions; increased costs and physical risks relating to climate change, including extreme weather events, and new or revised regulations relating to climate change; permitting and licensing; dependence on management information systems and cyber security risks; volatility of the market price of the Company’s securities; insurance; competition; hedging activities; currency fluctuations; loss of key employees; other risks of the mining industry as well as those risks discussed in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2021 and the quarter ended March 31, 2022 and in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 31, 2022. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are based upon assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including, without limitation: no adverse developments in respect of the property or operations at the project; no material changes to applicable laws; the ramp-up of operations at the Underground Mine in accordance with management’s plans and expectations; no worsening of the current COVID-19 related work restrictions; reduced impacts of COVID-19 going forward; the Company will be able to obtain sufficient additional funding to complete the ramp-up, no material adverse change to the price of copper from current levels; and the absence of any other factors that could cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended.

The forward-looking information and statements are stated as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements or information except as required by law. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information and statements, there may be other factors that could cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Specific reference is made to “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2021 and the quarter ended March 31, 2022 and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 31, 2022, for a discussion of factors that may affect forward-looking statements and information. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, should other risks or uncertainties materialize or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and events may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements and information. For more information on the Company and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review the Company’s filings that are available at www.sedar.com.

The Company provides no assurance that forward-looking statements and information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.