Kutcho Copper Corp. (TSXV: KC) (OTCQX: KCCFF) is making significant strides in developing its high-grade copper-zinc project in northwestern British Columbia. The company recently announced several key advancements that could enhance the project’s potential.
One of the most notable developments is the reassessment of oxide ore within the deposit. Initial estimates in the 2021 Feasibility Study suggested an average oxide thickness of 20 meters. However, detailed core logging has revealed that the massive sulphide mineralization is largely protected from weathering, with oxidation primarily limited to late faults and fractures. This finding could lead to a reclassification of a significant portion of the 0.44 million tonnes of probable oxide ore as sulphide ore in future mineral reserve statements, potentially improving the project’s economics.
The company is also making progress in optimizing its flotation process. In collaboration with PMC Laboratory in Maple Ridge, BC, Kutcho Copper is developing a flowsheet that produces two distinct rougher copper concentrates. This approach, along with the evaluation of various cleaner strategies, aims to enhance overall metallurgical performance. Additionally, the switch from lime to soda ash as a pH control reagent has eliminated gypsum production while maintaining projected copper and zinc recoveries.
In 2025, Kutcho is prioritizing several strategic initiatives to advance its high-grade copper-zinc development project in British Columbia. The company plans to focus on advancing exploration targets, both near existing resources and in greenfield areas, leveraging advanced geophysical data to refine potential discoveries. It is also evaluating strategic growth opportunities while continuing detailed engineering work to optimize the project, including improvements in metallurgical processes and flotation flowsheets. Additionally, Kutcho Copper aims to further de-risk the project by addressing recommendations from its feasibility study and refining its understanding of ore characteristics. These efforts are part of the company’s broader strategy to progress toward a production decision and unlock the project’s full economic and operational potential.
Vince Sorace, President & CEO of Kutcho Copper, expressed optimism about the company’s progress: “Kutcho Copper finished 2024 with several fundamental accomplishments, and we anticipate that 2025 will be another year of progress for the Company. We are positioned with a feasibility-stage, high-grade, low-cost copper-zinc development project in a Tier 1 jurisdiction that has potential for significant exploration upside and continued engineering optimization.”
As the global demand for copper continues to grow, driven by renewable energy and electric vehicle adoption, projects like Kutcho’s are gaining increased attention. The company’s focus on high environmental standards and social responsibility aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable mining practices, but while the project shows promise, the company’s ability to advance the project to production will depend on various factors, including metal prices, regulatory approvals, and financing.
