Yamana aims for 200 000 oz/y at Wasamac, construction decision expected soon

Canadian bullion miner Yamana Gold would soon make a formal construction decision for the Wasamac project, the TSX-listed company said on Monday, while also announcing the acquisition of gold properties adjoining the project. Yamana, which acquired the Wasamac property, in Quebec, from Monarch Gold earlier this year, said its vision for the mine was to produce between 170 000 oz/y and 200 000 oz/y at an all-in sustaining cost “well below” the company’s average. Since the acquisition of the project, Yamana has identified opportunities to optimise the processing plant design, incorporate increased levels of automation in the underground mine and optimise the materials handling system that could increase the planned throughput rate to 7 000 t/d. The processing plant, designed at 7 500 t/d, presents further production upside.