EXPLORATION IN YUKON: Spending beats projections

WHITEHORSE — Mineral exploration spending this year in Yukon has topped $50 million, well above the $20 million to $30 million projected in January 2009. The announcement was made by Energy, Mines and Resources Minister Archie Lang in the winter issue of "From the Trenches", the government's quarterly publication about mineral, mining and exploration news in the territory.

One reason interest is rising was the announcement of excellent drill results from Underworld Resources' White Gold property this spring. Atac Resources' Rau property and Northern Freegold's Revenue property have also attracted attention. Since April 1 over 6,000 new placer and quartz claims have been staked, according to government figures.

To aid exploration efforts, Yukon maintains online resources including geological information and a mining claims database. This information is available at www.YukonMining.com through the Maps and Data link.

(Editor's note: This new website is described in an item that will appear next Monday. It may also be reached at www.MiningYukon.com.)