Forage Fusion Drilling
Safety, Innovation, and Precision in Every Drill

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.

“By engaging with local communities and involving these communities in the industry, we have been welcomed with open arms, and we are committed to carrying that momentum forward,” says MacTavish.

Innovation and Adaptability in Action

The company’s in-house manufacturing capabilities enhance its adaptability. A dedicated machine shop staffed by skilled welders and engineers allows Forage Fusion Drilling to fabricate custom equipment on demand. This agility ensures it remains ahead of operational challenges, whether working in subzero temperatures or designing segmental barge systems to enable lake drilling in difficult territories.

One of the company's most ambitious projects involved addressing the significant challenge of conducting drilling operations on a lake. Upon evaluating the site, Forage Fusion Drilling realized that it was located 30 to 35 kilometres from the nearest road and had no access route.

The company collaborated with Warkentin Fabricating to develop a segmented, heli-portable barge system. Each segment weighed approximately 1,800 pounds. The segments were flown in by helicopter and assembled on the lake, with some crew members working in the water to put them all together.

After gaining access to the lake, Forage Fusion Drilling introduced a second barge, but the original was a one-of-a-kind creation. Despite initial challenges, the team’s ingenuity and collaboration made it a success. The company drilled at depths ranging from 45 to 90 degrees vertical, with only one hole lost due to a broken casing. This setup has supported successful operations for the past three years.

Despite the operation’s inherent challenges, Forage Fusion Drilling achieved remarkable results, reinforcing its ability to perform under the toughest circumstances.

A Workforce Built for Resilience and Safety

Forage Fusion Drilling’s strength lies in its workforce, which consists of experienced drillers, field supervisors, and specialized personnel drawn from demanding industries such as agriculture, forestry, and oil and gas. By recruiting individuals experienced in extreme working conditions, the company ensures its crews possess the physical endurance and mental resilience crucial for high-intensity drilling operations. In addition, a disciplined, safety-first culture is reinforced through competitive pay, comprehensive health benefits, and a strict zero-tolerance policy on drugs and alcohol.

Safety at Forage Fusion Drilling goes beyond standard training and protocols—it's embedded in the company’s operational infrastructure. Every site is equipped with comprehensive emergency response systems, including helicopter and aircraft evacuation agreements with Hydro-Québec and Air Medic, ensuring that personnel in remote areas have rapid access to medical assistance. All drill sites are constructed with designated emergency landing zones.

Forage Fusion Drilling, EcoLogo UL 2724 certified, is strategically positioned for geographic and service expansion. This initiative highlights the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship by using biodegradable oils, greases, and drilling fluids. The transition supports a broader industry shift toward more sustainable and responsible resource extraction.

In addition, Forage Fusion Drilling is preparing to re-enter the water well drilling market, leveraging its expertise to deliver sustainable water access solutions to local communities. Backed by newly acquired equipment, ongoing investments in advanced drilling technology, and a leadership team committed to continuous growth, the company is well-positioned to strengthen its role as a key player in the industry.

“Our goal is simple—to grow bigger and better every day. We aim to make everything the best it can be and to compete alongside some of the world’s largest drilling companies," adds MacTavish.

Forage Fusion Drilling’s legacy is rooted in continuous improvement and a firm commitment to reinvestment—a core philosophy established by its founder. Every dollar earned is strategically reinvested to enhance operations and expand capabilities. The company has grown beyond its family-run origins to become a global force in drilling and meeting the industry’s evolving demands with the same ingenuity and determination that have defined it for over four decades.