Regulatory Approval Clears Path for Bayan’s Desert Star Drilling—But What Risks Lie Ahead?
Bayan Mining has secured US Bureau of Land Management approval for its Desert Star Project in California, paving the way for field activities and a planned drilling program in 2026. The project’s proximity to major rare earth and gold mines underscores its strategic potential.
- US Bureau of Land Management approves Plan of Operations for Desert Star Project
- Comprehensive geophysical surveys identify multiple compelling drill targets
- Drilling program scheduled to commence in 2026 after geochemical sampling and modelling
- Project located near Mountain Pass Rare Earth Mine and Colosseum Gold Mine
- Contractor engagement and environmental planning underway
Regulatory Milestone Achieved
Bayan Mining and Minerals Limited (ASX, BMM) has reached a significant operational milestone with the US Bureau of Land Management's approval of its Plan of Operations for the Desert Star Project in California. This approval, granted under customary conditions, authorises the company to begin field activities essential for advancing towards drilling. Achieved within months of acquiring the project in July 2025, the swift regulatory clearance highlights Bayan’s operational efficiency and strategic focus.
Target Identification and Pre-Drilling Preparations
Following the approval, Bayan has completed extensive ground gravity, magnetic, and radiometric surveys that have delineated multiple promising targets across the Desert Star area. These geophysical results will direct forthcoming geochemical sampling and modelling efforts, refining drill targets ahead of the planned 2026 drilling campaign. The company is also progressing with 3D inversion modelling to better understand the depth and geometry of anomalies, which will inform drill hole orientations and prioritisation.
Strategic Location and Infrastructure Advantages
The Desert Star Project’s location is a notable advantage. Situated just 4.5 kilometres northeast of MP Materials’ Mountain Pass Rare Earth Mine; one of the world’s largest and highest-grade rare earth operations; and only 3 kilometres north of the Colosseum Gold Mine, the project lies within a proven mineralised corridor. The area benefits from strong infrastructure, including proximity to Interstate 15, a nearby Pacific rail line, and renewable power sources in the Ivanpah Valley, all of which could support future development and logistics.
Operational and Environmental Readiness
Bayan is actively engaging with drilling contractors to secure rig availability and align scheduling with the approved Plan of Operations. Concurrently, the company is undertaking environmental and water management planning, track and pad reconnaissance, and other logistical preparations to ensure field readiness. These steps underscore a disciplined approach to exploration, balancing technical rigour with regulatory compliance.
Looking Ahead
Drilling is targeted to commence in 2026, contingent on the completion of soil and surface sampling, assay validation, and finalisation of drill pad locations. Executive Director Fadi Diab emphasised the company’s methodical progression, integrating geochemical and geophysical data to optimise drilling outcomes and reduce risk. Additionally, Bayan has launched an evaluation program aimed at securing a position within the US critical minerals supply chain, reflecting broader strategic ambitions beyond exploration.
Bottom Line?
With regulatory hurdles cleared and a clear operational roadmap, Bayan’s Desert Star Project is poised to deliver critical insights in 2026 that could reshape its value trajectory.
Questions in the middle?
- What initial assay results will reveal about the mineralisation quality and extent?
- How will Bayan’s downstream supply chain evaluation influence project development?
- What are the potential timelines and costs associated with advancing from drilling to resource definition?
