Western Ridge Resources has received regulatory approval to commence drilling at its historic Keystone Project, marking the first major exploration in over eight decades. The fully funded program aims to unlock new high-grade silver extensions and test multiple promising targets.
- Nevada Bureau of Land Management grants drilling approval
- Maiden drilling program set for Q2 2026 with 19 RC holes planned
- First significant exploration at Keystone Mine since 1943
- Initial drilling targets high-grade silver vein extensions
- Additional high-priority targets identified from recent geophysical surveys
Historic Keystone Project Awakens
Western Ridge Resources Limited (ASX:WRX) has taken a significant step forward in its exploration ambitions with the Nevada Bureau of Land Management’s approval of its Notice of Intent for drilling at the Keystone Project. This milestone clears the way for the company’s maiden drilling campaign, scheduled to commence in the second quarter of 2026.
The Keystone Project, situated in Northern Nevada, is notable for its historic silver mine which last saw commercial operations cease in 1943. Western Ridge’s upcoming exploration marks the first substantial activity at the site in over 80 years, reviving interest in a region with a rich mining heritage and untapped potential.
Fully Funded Drilling Program Targets High-Grade Veins
The initial drilling program is fully funded and involves 19 reverse circulation (RC) drill holes totalling 1,380 metres. The campaign aims to test extensions of the known high-grade silver veins that historically produced approximately 36,000 ounces of silver between 1937 and 1943. Western Ridge’s geological team has developed a detailed three-dimensional model of the mine’s workings, which will guide the drilling to better understand the spatial positioning and continuity of the mineralised veins.
Two main vein orientations will be the focus: the primary Keystone vein, which was the original discovery outcrop, and the horizontal veins uncovered during the mine’s second production phase. Both vein systems remain open in all directions, suggesting significant upside potential if extensions are confirmed.
Pipeline of Additional Targets Promises Further Exploration
Beyond the initial drilling, Western Ridge’s recent aeromagnetic survey has identified at least ten additional high-priority targets within the Keystone Project area. Many of these targets are associated with historic workings, mirroring the geological setting of the Keystone Mine. The company plans to advance these targets through further drilling during the 2026 field season, potentially expanding the scope and scale of its exploration footprint.
Managing Director Dr Matthew Cobb expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming campaign, highlighting the program as a pivotal moment for Western Ridge. He emphasised the importance of the drilling results in refining the understanding of the Keystone mineral system and guiding future exploration efforts.
Strategic Focus on Critical Minerals
Western Ridge Resources is positioning itself as a key player in the critical minerals sector, with a portfolio that includes battery and precious metals projects across the US and Brazil. The Keystone Project’s polymetallic silver dominance fits well within this strategic framework, offering exposure to a commodity with enduring industrial and investment demand.
As the company embarks on this new chapter, investors and analysts will be watching closely for drilling results that could validate the historic data and unlock new resource potential. The coming months promise to be a defining period for Western Ridge’s growth trajectory.
Bottom Line?
Western Ridge’s drilling approval at Keystone sets the stage for a potentially transformative exploration season in 2026.
Questions in the middle?
- What initial assay results will reveal about the continuity and grade of the silver veins?
- How will the additional high-priority targets identified influence the company’s exploration strategy?
- What impact might successful drilling have on Western Ridge’s resource estimates and market valuation?