Revitalising Gold and Silver Exploration at the Galena Complex in Idaho
Americas Gold and Silver Corporation has embarked on a transformative journey to unlock the full potential of its flagship Galena Complex.
The Galena Complex is located in Shoshone County, Idaho, USA, within the historic Silver Valley mining district. This region is renowned for its rich silver deposits and has been a major hub for silver mining in North America for over a century. The Galena Mine, which is part of the complex, has historically been one of the most prolific silver producers in the region.
Following the successful consolidation and recapitalisation of the mine in December 2024, the company is driving strategic improvements in production capacity, resource expansion, and metallurgical efficiency.
These initiatives reflect a firm commitment to safety, operational excellence, and sustainable growth.
Strengthening Infrastructure for Increased Production
#3 Shaft Hoist Upgrade: Unlocking New Potential
The Galena Complex’s primary constraint—hoisting capacity—has been targeted for a comprehensive overhaul. The multi-phase upgrade plan for the #3 Hoist is expected to significantly increase efficiency, allowing for higher material throughput. The improvements include:
- Motor Upgrade: Replacing the existing 1,750HP motor with a refurbished 2,250HP motor to enhance lifting power.
- Structural Modifications: Adjustments to the motor base to support the increased power capacity.
- Brake and Control System Enhancements: Fine-tuning hoisting speeds for optimised cycle times.
- Down-Rope Shaft Communication System: Installing real-time load monitoring to improve hoisting efficiency and safety.
Completion of this project is scheduled for Q4 2025, paving the way for increased production output.
Expanding Equipment Fleet for Operational Efficiency
Recognising the need for modern, high-performance machinery, Americas Gold and Silver has procured five new underground vehicles, set to be operational by mid-2025:
- One 4-yard LHD (Load Haul Dump vehicle)
- Two 2-yard LHDs
- Two 20-ton haul trucks
This investment aims to enhance safety, reduce downtime, and boost productivity underground, supporting the company’s long-term growth strategy.
Maximising Metallurgical Efficiency
Uncovering New Revenue Streams with Metallurgical Sampling
A key focus of the company’s optimisation efforts is improving metal recoveries, particularly for copper, antimony, and gold, which have been historically underutilised. A rigorous metallurgical testing programme is currently underway, including:
- Multi-element analysis of 1,000 drill hole pulps from past Ag-Cu vein intersections.
- Flotation testing at SGS Laboratories in Lakefield, Canada, aimed at optimising recoveries and refining concentrate sales strategies.
By refining its processing techniques, Americas Gold and Silver is poised to maximise by-product revenues, creating additional value from existing resources.
Exploration Breakthroughs
Discovery of the High-Grade 049 Vein
One of the most exciting exploration developments at the Galena Complex is the discovery of the 049 Vein, a rich silver-copper deposit that could significantly enhance near-term production. Key intercepts include:
- 1,731 opt Ag (53,839 g/t) and 16.3% Cu over 0.15m true width
- 7,853 g/t (252.5 opt) silver and 2.3% copper over 0.27m true width
- 6,246 g/t (200.8 opt) silver and 1.7% copper over 0.49m true width
With three additional drill holes currently in progress, the company is working to integrate this new discovery into upcoming mining plans.
368 Vein Infill Drilling
Recent infill drilling on the 368 Vein has reaffirmed the continuity of economic mineralisation, with high-grade deposits shifting into a parallel shear structure. Highlighted drill results include:
- 353 g/t (10.3 opt) silver, 9.8% lead over 2.65m true width
- 302 g/t (8.8 opt) silver, 9.2% lead over 2.04m true width
The results provide strong justification for continued mining in this area, reinforcing the Galena Complex’s long-term viability.
Newly Discovered 181 & 182 Veins
Exploration drilling has also uncovered the 181 & 182 Veins, two parallel silver-lead structures near the existing 4900 Ramp system. Development access has been completed, and initial mining operations have commenced.
With both veins remaining open at depth, further extensional and infill drilling is scheduled later this year to expand their resource base.
A Vision for Long-Term Growth
Paul Huet, CEO of Americas Gold and Silver, expressed confidence in the progress made so far: “The first two months of review and optimisation work undertaken at the Galena Complex have been remarkably productive. I have been very impressed by the energised workforce and the tremendous potential of our primary silver asset. The discovery of the 049 Vein, alongside the 181 & 182 Veins and continued infill drilling at the 368 Vein, reaffirms our confidence in the long-term sustainability of this asset.”
Beyond operational improvements, the company has also strengthened its leadership team, ensuring experienced oversight to drive efficiency, safety, and resource growth.
A Stronger Future for Galena
Americas Gold and Silver has positioned the Galena Complex for a robust revival, with infrastructure upgrades, advanced metallurgical processes, and a flourishing exploration pipeline setting the stage for sustained success. As the company continues to enhance efficiency and expand its resource base, the future looks increasingly promising for one of North America’s leading silver producers.
