Casa Minerals Receives Extensive Historic Drill Database from Congress Gold Mine Project; Desktop Technical Studies Define Three Priority Exploration Zones Ahead of 2026 Drilling Season

Core Insights - Casa Minerals Inc. has received a significant dataset of historic drill hole information from the Congress Gold Mine Project, leading to the identification of three priority exploration zones for the 2026 drilling program [1][3][9] Historic Drill Database Compilation - The dataset includes historic drill hole collars, surveys, and assay records compiled from previous operators, notably Echo Bay Mines Ltd., from the 1980s to early 1990s, expanding the geological framework of the property [3][4] - Previous exploration focused on higher-grade gold intersections due to lower gold market conditions, potentially overlooking economically significant lower-grade vein intercepts [4][11] Three-Dimensional Modelling and Validation - Rigorous 3D modelling of the drill hole data confirms the structural coherence and continuity of the gold-bearing vein systems, revealing strong northeast-southwest orientation [6][7] - The model captures drill holes from surface to depths approaching 600 meters, demonstrating extensive historic exploration coverage [8][10] Priority Exploration Zones - Three distinct exploration zones have been classified: - Echo Bay Exploration Zone (~750m x 1,000m), designated as the highest priority target due to historic drill density and potential for expanded mineralization [8][14][17] - Malartic Exploration Zone (~450m x 1,150m), characterized by multiple subparallel northwest-striking vein sets, indicating significant potential for expansion [18][23] - New Congress Niagara Exploration Zone (~800m x 1,000m), identified for its wide structural corridors and potential for bulk-tonnage mineralization [24][26] Project Status and 2026 Field Program - The Congress Gold Mine Project is fully permitted for exploration and mining activities, with mobilization of geologists and field personnel underway for initial site preparation [30][32] - Detailed parameters for the 2026 drilling program will be provided in a subsequent technical news release [30] Management Commentary - The receipt of the historic drill database is viewed as a significant development, validating the geological model and indicating that the gold system is larger than previously estimated [31][33]