30 JANUARY 2024 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Exploration Plans Approved Adapted from Information by Twin Metals The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) approved Twin Metals’ plan for exploration on a limited number of their existing state and private mineral holdings. The goal of the exploration activity is to better understand the mineral resources and the potential to contribute critical minerals to support Minnesota and the nation in the transition to a clean energy future. The state and private mineral leases targeted for the exploration work are held under Twin Metals’ subsidiary company, Franconia Minerals; the exploration plan encompasses up to nine drill holes for the purpose of collecting core samples. Before the plan was submitted, the company conducted a number of wetland, botanical, cultural, and archaeological field surveys to ensure the activities associated with drilling would take place in the least impactful manner possible. A number of proactive mitigation measures, such as requiring contractors to utilize exhaust mufflers and spark arrestors and shield any light sources, were also factored in. All activities taking place as part of the exploration work will comply with applicable state and federal regulations, as will closure and reclamation activities. Targeted areas for the drilling program are not under Birch Lake, and all drill sites are located on private land. After core samples are collected, they will be thoroughly studied to determine mineral content, ore grade, and other unique characteristics, then logged in a detailed database and housed in the company’s core storage facility in Ely, Minnesota. Additionally, a portion of the core samples will be sent to MDNR’s Drill Core Library in Hibbing. Twin Metals has developed more than 650 drill holes for exploration purposes, in addition to over 120 wells for hydrogeological data collection in the area. “I’m proud to be leading this upcoming exploration program for Twin Metals, particularly because of the culture of safety and respect we have established as a company. All the work that we do as an organization is grounded in safety and respect for the surrounding environment, our communities, and our employees and contractors,” said Dean DeBeltz, Twin Metals’ vice president of external affairs and project operations. EXB
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