High-Priority IOCG Target in Nova Scotia.

The Cobequid-Chedabucto Fault Zone (CCFZ) is a significant crustal fault system within Nova Scotia's Cobequid Highlands. In 2007, Minotaur Exploration Limited (Minotaur) identified the CCFZ and its associated iron oxide deposits as part of an Iron Oxide Copper Gold (IOCG) system. Minotaur conducted extensive exploration, including regional gravity, VTEM, magnetic, and geochemical surveys, which identified priority drill targets along the 250 km Cobequid-Chedabucto suture.

Initially, 78 potential targets were identified and ranked by priority (Low, Medium, High, and Very High). After further analysis of geology, geophysics, geotectonic settings, and alteration evidence, 12 Very High priority targets were selected for drilling. Among these, 21Alpha Resources’ Economy Properties ranked #1 and #2 in priority and have yet to be drilled.

Priority #1 - Gravity Target NS13-West:

Target NS13-West is a prominent North-South gravity anomaly located along the faulted western margin of the oxidized Late Devonian-Early Carboniferous Pleasant Hills Pluton. The anomaly is 4.0 milligal in amplitude, a length of 2 km, and a width of 0.5 km. It is associated with a late-stage brittle fault that intersects the main Cobequid Fault.

The southern portion of the anomaly coincides with the western end of the intense Bass River magnetic linear but is entirely non-magnetic, distinguishing it from the dense and highly magnetic Target NS13-East. Field investigations have revealed limited outcrops of reddish-brown, hematite-altered granite containing up to 2% pyrite around the anomaly margins, with no significant outcrop directly over the target.

Hydrothermal magnetite breccia occurrences with elevated levels of pyrite and cobalt have been discovered along the Bass River magnetic linear. These breccias contain clasts of pink granite resembling the Pleasant Hills Pluton, suggesting a genetic link (O’Reilly, 2002). Inversion modelling of the NS13-West gravity data indicates a dense, linear body near the surface in the south, plunging toward the north. A 400m drillhole at the southern end of the anomaly is recommended.

Priority #2 - Gravity Target NS13-East:

Target NS13-East is a distinct elongate gravity anomaly situated on the Cobequid Fault. It has a 4.0 milligal amplitude, a length of 2 km, and a width of 0.75 km. This anomaly coincides with the intense Bass River magnetic linear, a 23 km long feature associated with sporadic outcrops of magnetite-sulfide breccia. Breccia clasts contain pink granite fragments identical to the Pleasant Hills Pluton, again suggesting a genetic connection (O’Reilly, 2002).

The anomaly is located near the southern, faulted, and mylonitized margin of the oxidized Pleasant Hills granite pluton. While outcrops are absent in the immediate vicinity, hematite-rich granite with 1-2% chalcopyrite and pyrite is present 5 km to the west. Strongly foliated granite along this section of the Cobequid Fault indicates syn- and post-intrusive movement. The target also with the convergence of the Londonderry, Rockland Brook, and Cobequid Faults. Inversion modelling suggests a dense source extending from the near surface to 1,000m depth. A 400m drillhole into the center of the anomaly is recommended.

Exploration Potential:

Both targets are located on private land with exploration friendly landowners. This project is an ideal candidate for funding through the Nova Scotia Mineral Resources Development Fund.