Noted in the next post formerTN was quoting Sandra... that just like us ZEN is also waiting, but it must depend on the outside source to get the job done.

One possible explanation for the delay is perhaps it would take a bit longer to balance the pros and cons between various mining techniques, open-pit versus underground. It is understood that the resource estimate was based on a pit-constrained model hence it is expected that open-pit operation would be a given. However, normally miners would not want to operate too deep a pit (dewatering issues). Hence, underground mining might be in the running as well. A few advantages:

- cost may be less due to the well defined geometry of the deposit, 2 columns (East pipe and West pipe) going straight down and open at depth. A single shaft could be sunk between the two pipes (they are not too far apart) and digging could start with the East pipe and later the West pipe using the common shaft.

- underground would be more amenable for going after the additional deposit at depth (just extend the shaft). To go after the stuff at depth with open pit would require a huge hole in the ground, costly due to more waste and people, especially environmentally sensitive people, don't like the look of a big hole. Note: I don't think resource would be an issue at Albany. In my opinion, ZEN has enough tonnage for mining the deposit for many many years. Additional resource at depth would be good "for show" to potential suitors, but it may not really be required.

- One good example of underground mining would be the proposed Ni extraction by NOT at the RoF, almost everything is underground, hence NOT proposal would have an easier interaction with the FNs and the Regulator (EA people). The footprint is minimal, and they would keep the waste rock underground as well. Another example would be the Cigar Lake mine (uranium). "Everything" there is also underground (the deposit is at some depth, below 400m).

Just my speculation for this (slight) delay in order to paint a more complete and robust picture of the economic viability of the project for potential suitors. ZEN is being prepared for her marriage, and AE is not destined to be a miner.

Perhaps, we should pass along this underground idea to AE and his consultant.

goldhunter (no miner either)