Critical Resources has deployed field teams to the Mavis Lake lithium project in Ontario, with key monitoring and assessment efforts designed to support the permitting of a future mining operation.
The company has commenced environmental studies to determine existing baseline conditions associated with the project area and to capture the footprint for a proposed site for the majority of the development.
Studies will include hydrology programs to determine seasonal water movement and baseline water quality; and initial monitoring and assessment of fisheries supported by an experienced First Nations environmental monitor.
Fish studies will incorporate habitat mapping, and electrofishing and netting in ponds, streams and lakes to determine the local fish communities and determine the presence of any sensitive watercourses.
The studies are required to support the environmental impact assessment (EIA) process and assist in identifying alternative design options and a preferred layout for the proposed mine and processing facilities.
Planning and contractor engagement has also commenced for the launch of geochemistry studies over the next few months.
Early-stage efforts
Managing director Alex Cheeseman said the various work streams comprise early-stage efforts to advance the project towards development.
“Mavis Lake will produce lithium to support global efforts to decarbonise the economy… we must ensure our role in that effort is underpinned by an operation which has been carefully and deliberately designed to have the lowest possible impact,” he said.
“Understanding the environment, the culture and history of the indigenous people and working together in a positive and co-operative fashion is the best way for us to move the project forward while ensuring respect to the lands, waters and our neighbours.”
High-grade results
Earlier this month, Critical reported reported “exceptional” thick and high-grade results from ongoing exploration at Mavis Lake.
Best assays were 50.2 metres at 1.28% lithium oxide from 203.6m, including multiple metre-wide segments of extremely high-grade spodumene mineralisation from 2.11% to 4.18%; and 65.45m at 0.84% lithium oxide from 186.25m, including 55m at 0.95% from 194m including 25.85m at 1.30% from 214m.
