Response to MallgirlSome comments specific to Mallgirl's points:
Mallgirl's paragraph 2: "That's assuming that the results from this new zone will be included in the Nash Creek Deposit resource." Slam's news release from Oct. 3, 2007: "SLAM expects the results from
approximately 100 holes to be completed within the current 10,000 metre drilling program to substantially expand the estimated resource." Slam's news release from Sep. 25, 2007: "Mike Taylor, President and CEO, states, “This recent discovery of new mineralization with open pit potential validates our systematic approach at Nash Creek. SLAM expects this drilling program to advance the Nash Creek deposit to the feasibility stage for a mine and mill complex...."" Further, same press release: "The 41 holes completed in the current drilling program are not included in the resource estimate. After completion of this drilling program, the grade and tonnage will be updated in an independent 43-101 Report and used in conjunction with metallurgical test results for feasibility purposes." While the drilling is a science project, it has economic ramifications. If you look at the drill results from NC07-32 on, most of those results that are over the company's self imposed cut off values are under the averages of the high and low grade resources. It's simple math--the resource average grades will be lowered.
Mallgirl's paragraph 3: "So, I don't believe the feasibility of the Nash Creek deposit rests on the results of this new zone." That's true. However, read the comments above from the Sep. 25, 2007 from Mike Taylor. I believe that all options are on the table with management so far, because (in my opinion) the 2m mt high grade zones will probably not justify a company owned mill and processing facility at this time. Drill it all and let the engineers sort it out by cost to mine and process.
Mallgirl's paragraph 4: I emailed Acadian to clarify the strip ratio. The FS is 12mb's on Sedar, and I didn't print out that page earlier or have the patience to download it again and read it. My memory is usually pretty good, especially with a fact that is far outside the industry norm, but I am fallible.