Skeena Resources (TSX: SKE) has released the preliminary feasibility report (PFS) for its 100%-owned Eskay Creek gold project with an after-tax net present value of C$1.4 billion ($1.1bn) and internal rate of return of 56%. The payback period is estimated at 1.4 years. A gold price of $1,550 per oz. and silver price of $22 per oz. were used.
The project encompasses a former producing mine north of Stewart in British Columbia’s Golden Triangle.
Pre-production capital expenditures are estimated at C$488 million, followed by sustaining capital of C$47 million and reclamation costs of C$92 million.
The mine is designed to provide 2.9 million tonnes of ore per year to the mill in the first four years and 2.7 million tonnes annually for the remainder of the mine life
The PFS covers a high-grade conventional truck and shovel open pit. Proven and probable reserves are 26.4 million tonnes with a diluted grade of 3.37 g/t gold and 94 g/t silver. The mine is designed to provide 2.9 million tonnes of ore per year to the mill in the first four years and 2.7 million tonnes annually for the remainder of the mine life, which will total 9.8 years.
A 7,045 t/d million with gravity and flotation capabilities will produce a saleable precious metals concentrate.
With life-of-mine gold recovery at 84%, total gold production will be over 2.4 million oz. Silver recovery is estimated at 87%, and total production will be 70.9 million oz. of silver. All-in sustaining costs are estimated to be $548 per oz. gold equivalent. Over the life of the Eskay Creek project, Skeena is looking at an after-tax free cash flow of C$2.1 billion.
(This article first appeared in the Canadian Mining Journal)
