Lahontan Gold Corp. (TSX.V: LG) (OTCQB: LGCXF) has announced three key additions to its management team, a move that underscores the company's shift from mine developer to mine builder as it targets a 2027 production restart at its flagship Santa Fe Mine in Nevada. The appointments come at a critical juncture as the company advances permitting, mine planning, and prepares for construction and operations.
Tony Gesualdo rejoins Lahontan as vice president of exploration, a role he previously held from 2020 to 2023. During his earlier tenure, Gesualdo was instrumental in contributing to the Santa Fe Mine's initial Mineral Resource Estimate, providing continuity and deep knowledge of the project's geological potential. His return ensures that the exploration strategy remains aligned with the company's long-term development goals.
Michael Kubel joins as senior mine engineer, bringing over a decade of experience in Nevada open-pit gold mining and heap-leach operations. His background includes work at the Florida Canyon and Hycroft mines, two operations known for their complex metallurgy and large-scale production. Kubel's expertise will be vital as Lahontan refines its mine plan and evaluates the economic viability of the Santa Fe deposit.
Jen Earle steps into investor relations and business development, armed with two decades of experience in natural resources, capital markets, and investor engagement across the LSE, ASX, and TSX markets. Her role will be crucial in communicating the company's progress and securing the financial backing needed for the anticipated restart.
Founder, Executive Chair, CEO, and President Kimberly Ann stated that these additions strengthen the company's technical, operational, and business development capabilities as it advances the Santa Fe project. The timing is strategic: the company plans to update the Santa Fe Preliminary Economic Assessment and drill test its satellite West Santa Fe project during 2025, with a goal of restarting production by 2027.
The Santa Fe Mine boasts a rich history, having produced 359,202 ounces of gold and 702,067 ounces of silver between 1988 and 1995 from open-pit mines utilizing heap-leach processing. The project hosts a National Instrument 43-101 compliant Indicated Mineral Resource of 1,539,000 ounces of gold equivalent (Au Eq) (48,393,000 tonnes grading 0.92 g/t Au and 7.18 g/t Ag) and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 411,000 ounces Au Eq (16,760,000 tonnes grading 0.74 g/t Au and 3.25 g/t Ag), all pit constrained. These figures, as disclosed in the company's technical report, underscore the resource's scale and potential.
The management team expansion signals a confident step toward realizing the Santa Fe Mine's full potential. By bringing on seasoned professionals with complementary skills, Lahontan is positioning itself to navigate the complex journey from resource definition to production. The company's focus on advancing the project through a challenging permitting environment and volatile commodity markets highlights the importance of experienced leadership.
For more information on Lahontan Gold and its projects, visit the company's website at www.lahontangoldcorp.com. The latest news and updates are available in the company's newsroom at http://ibn.fm/LGCXF.
