Barksdale Resources Corp. (TSXV: BRO) (OTCQX: BRKCF) has announced significant findings from its ongoing diamond core drilling program at the Sunnyside Project in Arizona, revealing high-grade copper-silver and lead-zinc-silver veins. The latest assay results from drill hole SUN24-002 have generated excitement among investors and industry experts alike, showcasing the potential of this mineral-rich area.
The drilling at the Sunnyside Project has produced impressive assay results from samples collected between the surface and 639 feet (195 meters), with notable findings including up to 4.33% copper, 2.45% zinc, and 99.7 g/t silver. These results indicate not only the presence of high-grade mineralization but also suggest broad zones of hypogene chalcocite mineralization, further enhancing the project’s attractiveness for future exploration.
Alan Roberts, Vice President of Exploration at Barksdale, emphasized the significance of these results, stating that they reflect the hard work of their geological team and technical advisors. The findings suggest a complex system of fluid pathways, or “feeders,” that may lead to additional mineral deposits associated with the Sunnyside porphyry and surrounding rocks. This aligns with Dr. Quinton Hennigh’s “hub and spoke” concept for identifying new mineral deposits in the area.
Rick Trotman, President and CEO of Barksdale, added that the consistency of the shallow Chalcocite Zone observed across multiple drill holes highlights the vast potential of the mineral system at Sunnyside. While the focus remains on deeper carbonate targets, these shallow results underscore the quality and scale of the overall mineral system.
Barksdale employs rigorous quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) measures in its sampling process. QA/QC samples are added to the sample stream by Barksdale geologists and include blank material, Certified Reference Materials (CRM), and core sample duplicates, with each type added at a 2% ratio to the total cut-core sample count, resulting in a total of 6%. Core duplicates are obtained by quarter-cutting the drill core; half-cut core is cut again to produce the quarter-cut duplicate, with both portions sent to the laboratory for analysis. The remaining half core is photographed for reference and securely stored on-site in locked shipping containers or transported to the company’s secure core storage facility in Patagonia, Arizona.
The Chalcocite Zone, known for its copper-silver dominated mineralization, has a history dating back to previous drilling efforts in the 1980s. Historical documents referenced a potential resource of over 230 million tons based on earlier exploratory work. Recent drilling programs have consistently indicated a near-surface copper-silver Chalcocite Zone extending across significant portions of the property.
A recent study confirmed the presence of hypogene copper within this zone, reinforcing Barksdale’s belief in the area’s rich mineral potential. The current drill hole, SUN24-002, is progressing toward a depth target of approximately 4,100 feet (1,250 meters), where deeper lead-zinc mineralization is anticipated.
Scientific and technical information was reviewed and approved by Alan Roberts, Vice President of Exploration at Barksdale and a “Qualified Person” as defined in National Instrument 43-101.
In addition to SUN24-002, Barksdale is advancing other exploratory efforts. Drill hole SUN24-002B, a continuation of SUN24-002, aims to reach deeper targets despite encountering challenges due to fault zones. Furthermore, two reverse-circulation holes—SUN24-001 and SUN24-003—have been submitted for analysis to explore potential feeder structures indicated by historical mining activity.
The company plans to continue its exploration efforts at Sunnyside while also addressing logistical challenges that have impacted its reverse-circulation drilling program.
Barksdale Resources Corp.’s recent drilling results from SUN24-002 signify a promising step forward in understanding and developing the Sunnyside Project’s mineral potential. With high-grade copper-silver and lead-zinc-silver veins identified, Barksdale is positioned to capitalize on these findings as it advances its projects in Arizona and beyond.
