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Metals And Mining Review: Specials Magazine
In the Abitibi Gold Belt, one of the world’s richest gold-bearing regions, Opawica Explorations is pioneering the next Canadian gold rush. With three strategically located properties in the region—Bazooka, Arrowhead and McWatters—the dynamic junior exploration company transforms each drill and survey into a high-grade gold discovery. Opawica’s properties are located near major gold mining companies like Yamana Gold, Iamgold and Agnico Eagle, positioning it at the center of a highly productive mining zone. The properties boast grades and mineralization that rival those of major gold producers. Abitibi is a highly competitive, resource-rich district with hidden lodes waiting to be unearthed. Using a targeted drilling strategy, Opawica is working toward unearthing multimillion-ounce gold deposits, establishing itself as an attractive acquisition target for mining behemoths. “As we advance our drilling and exploration, we are positioned to transform from a junior explorer into a key player in this world-class mining district,” says Blake Morgan, CEO, president & director. Over the past five years, it has raised over $8 million in exploration capital, fueling projects with strong mineralization and high-grade results. Opawica's financial strength leaves it primed for significant growth, with favorable operating conditions fueling the momentum. Quebec's pro-mining policies and robust governmental support create an ideal environment for exploration. The region's well-established infrastructure, including paved roads and a steady water supply, complements this. Sustainability is another key advantage. Quebec’s renewable hydroelectric power drives Opawica’s operations, allowing it to balance mining success with environmental responsibility. Unlocking the Value of Prime Gold Properties The Bazooka property is Opawica’s most promising asset. It is completely surrounded by Agnico Eagle and adjacent to Yamana Gold's Wasamac project, which holds over two million ounces of gold and was recently acquired for $2.6 billion. This underscores the region’s value and the potential for additional high-yield discoveries. Iamgold’s Mouska gold mine is near this, further solidifying its position as an exceptionally gold-saturated environment....Read more
Diamond Drilling Services Company of the Year in Canada 2025
Forage Fusion Drilling is a family-owned diamond drilling company with a 45-year legacy of turning the impossible into routine success. What began as a weekend job for a 12-year-old boy at his uncle’s company has evolved into a renowned force in the drilling industry, with operations across Canada, Africa, and Greenland. Today, the company operates over 40 drills tailored for a variety of applications, including geotechnical, environmental projects, limited-access and exploration drilling, its ‘signature strength.’ CEO Michael MacTavish’s journey from learning traditional drilling methods to leading a dynamic, multi-division enterprise has shaped a company built on passion, hands-on experience, and a relentless drive for excellence. That foundation is evident in every aspect of Forage Fusion Drilling’s operations, which are defined by precision, adaptability, and consistent performance. The company addresses complex challenges—from operating in demanding environments to motivating a workforce increasingly driven by financial incentives with a proactive, forward-thinking approach. At the core of every operation is a commitment to safety, consistently above productivity. Through comprehensive training and a culture of accountability, the team consistently upholds high standards of risk mitigation and procedural integrity. Forage Fusion Drilling primarily serves junior mining companies involved in exploration drilling, partnering with them on projects ranging from modest 1,500-meter drills to expansive undertakings exceeding 75,000 meters. Each contract with clients begins with a comprehensive needs assessment, allowing it to tailor solutions that align with client objectives and environmental conditions. One of the company’s flagship projects in James Bay showcases Forage Fusion Drilling’s exceptional capacity to scale operations efficiently. Over the past three years, it has drilled more than 300,000 meters in the region, expanding from a single rig to a 13-drill operation. Whether operating in remote areas of Africa, conducting exploratory work in Botswana, or partnering with Patriot Battery Metals in Northern Quebec, Forage Fusion Drilling consistently demonstrates exceptional competence and operational excellence. Community-Centered Philosophy A defining characteristic of Forage Fusion Drilling is its commitment to community involvement. Understanding the value of local engagement, the company established Muskw, a joint venture with the Cree of Northern Quebec. This initiative creates employment opportunities for Indigenous workers while supporting skill development within the diamond drilling industry, serving as a cornerstone for building and sustaining long-term partnerships. ...Read more
CXO INSIGHTS
Navigating the Depths: Pioneering Technologies that Drive Efficiency and Sustainability
Ryan Ewing, Operations and Maintenance Manager, Rio Tinto
Maximizing Your Mine's Performance with Technical Lubricant Expertise
Sharon Perichak, Global Segment Marketing Manager - Mining, Agriculture & Industrial Greases, HF Sinclair [NYSE: DINO]
Understanding Mining Project Management
Ken Reindl, General Manager Corporate Accounts Mining, Dyno Nobel
Navigating Economic and Sustainability Goals in Mining
Sophie Bertrand, Senior Director of Sustainability, New Gold Inc [NYSE: NGD]
Driving Exploration Excellence
Clayton Pearson, Exploration Manager, Vale Base Metals
Shaping the Future of Sustainable Exploration
Catherine Maguire, Director of Exploration, Lundin Mining Corporation
IN FOCUS
Canada's Leading Role in Sustainable Gold Exploration
Canada, endowed with abundant mineral resources and a longstanding mining heritage, continues to shine as one of the world’s most promising regions for gold exploration.
The Strategic Role of Diamond Drilling Services in Canada's Mineral Exploration
Diamond drilling services in Canada are fundamental to the exploration and development of the nation’s mineral resources.
EDITORIAL
The New Era of Exploration and Sustainability
Emerging trends in mining technology are reshaping gold exploration and diamond drilling, enabling more precise discoveries, efficient operations and sustainable resource development. Companies are increasingly turning to innovation, not only to improve extraction methods but to align with evolving environmental standards and operational efficiency goals. This shift reflects a broader industry move toward smarter, more responsible resource development.
Driving this transformation is a wave of digital and operational advancements. From advanced data analytics and AI modeling to low-impact drilling systems and real-time monitoring tools, today's mining operations are becoming more intelligent and adaptive. These technologies allow geologists and drillers to make faster, more informed decisions, improve productivity and reduce environmental impact. Tools such as digital twins, automation platforms and smart sensors are streamlining exploration workflows, while sustainability focused practices are setting higher benchmarks for environmental responsibility.
This edition of Metals and Mining Review Canada highlights the latest developments in gold exploration and diamond drilling and provides insights into how technology is redefining the future of mineral discovery. It features thought leadership articles from industry experts, including Sophie Bertrand, senior director of sustainability at New Gold, who emphasizes the financial and ecological value of making decisions through a greenhouse gas reduction lens. Ryan Ewing, operations and maintenance manager at Rio Tinto, discusses how the transition from extracting materials to also mining data is unlocking new efficiencies and business opportunities.
The magazine also spotlights Opawica Explorations, a Canadian junior exploration company with 100 percent ownership of the Arrowhead, Bazooka and McWatters properties in Québec’s prolific Abitibi Gold Belt. Strategically located near major producers such as Agnico Eagle and Yamana Gold, Opawica is at the forefront of high-potential gold exploration in Canada.
We hope this edition provides valuable insights into how innovation, digital transformation and sustainability are setting new benchmarks in gold exploration and diamond drilling.
