Over 58,000m Drilled: Critical Resources Targets Major Lithium Growth in 2026
Critical Resources Limited launches a comprehensive 2026 exploration program targeting significant lithium resource growth across the Northern Prospects of its Mavis Lake Project in Ontario, Canada.
- Over 58,000m of drilling confirms large-scale lithium mineralisation beyond current resources
- 2026 program targets multiple spodumene-bearing pegmatites including Gullwing and Tot
- Metallurgical tests show high spodumene recovery suitable for North American supply chains
- Strategic infrastructure and government support underpin a lower-cost development pathway
- Permitting and community engagement strategies aim to accelerate project approvals
Exploration Momentum Builds
Critical Resources Limited (ASX, CRR) has announced an ambitious 2026 exploration program at its Mavis Lake Lithium Project in Ontario, Canada. This initiative aims to unlock substantial resource growth across the Northern Prospects, a corridor of spodumene-bearing pegmatites that lie beyond the current Mineral Resource envelope. Since 2023, the company has completed over 58,000 metres of drilling, revealing consistent lithium mineralisation with impressive intercepts such as 74.4 metres at 1.18% lithium oxide and 50.2 metres at 1.28% lithium oxide.
Targeting District-Scale Growth
The 2026 program focuses on high-priority targets including Gullwing, Tot, Little Wing, and others, which collectively offer the potential for satellite development hubs or even standalone operations. Gullwing, in particular, stands out with pegmatite widths up to 80 metres and a strike length of approximately 500 metres, supported by integrated geological and geophysical data. The company’s approach combines systematic drilling with advanced modelling to convert exploration targets into defined resources.
Strategic Advantages and Development Pathways
Mavis Lake benefits from a suite of strategic advantages, immediate access to major highways and rail, clean hydroelectric power, and a supportive regulatory environment in Ontario. Metallurgical test work has demonstrated exceptional spodumene recovery, producing a high-grade concentrate well-suited for downstream processing within North America’s growing lithium supply chain. This positions Critical Resources to capitalise on the anticipated lithium market rebound starting in 2026.
Permitting and Community Engagement
Recognising the importance of timely approvals and social licence, Critical Resources has engaged specialist consultants SLR Consulting and Pathway Group to streamline permitting and government advocacy. The company is also committed to ongoing collaboration with First Nations partners and local communities, ensuring that exploration and development activities align with environmental and social expectations.
Looking Ahead
With a robust exploration pipeline, strong infrastructure, and a clear regulatory roadmap, Critical Resources is positioning Mavis Lake as a cornerstone asset in North America’s critical minerals landscape. The 2026 exploration program will be pivotal in defining the scale and quality of lithium resources, setting the stage for future development decisions and potential market opportunities.
Bottom Line?
Critical Resources’ 2026 exploration push at Mavis Lake could redefine its lithium footprint and influence North American supply dynamics.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the Northern Prospects deliver a resource scale sufficient to support multiple development hubs?
- How quickly can permitting and community engagement translate into operational approvals?
- What impact will metallurgical results have on downstream processing partnerships and offtake agreements?
