news article.....
Chance of finding diamond deposits higher
than ever
New geological information released Monday afternoon points to a greater possibility of finding
diamond-bearing kimberlite and base metal deposits in the Kapuskasing area.
According to the mines ministry, important mineral indicators were found by the Ontario Geological
Survey (OGS) during a regional mapping and stream sediment sampling survey. A stream sediment
sampling project completed in the Roche Lake-Opasatika Lake area southwest of Kapuskasing reveals
the mineral potential is higher than previously thought.
The OGS has confirmed the presence of kimberlite indicator minerals in the Kap area. Making this
finding even more important is the presence of other base metals.
The survey investigations have focused on evaluating the mineral potential of the Kapuskasing
Structural Zone, a bedrock feature that extends from Wawa through Kap to the James Bay Lowland.
"Stream sediment sampling surveys for kimberlite indicator minerals are essential investigative
techniques used by geoscientists to identify geological terrain which may contain potential diamond
bearing bodies," said Tom Morris, of the OGS, based in Sudbury. "The findings from these studies
clearly indicate that this structure is a world-class exploration target as it has the potential to host
diamond-bearing kimberlite along its length."
In addition to the kimberlite indicator minerals, several minerals associated with base metal
mineralization were recovered. The presence and distribution of these minerals suggest several
potential targets for base metal exploration in this area.
"These promising results will encourage new and exciting mineral exploration activity in the
northeastern Ontario," said Chris Hodgson, Minister of Northern Development and Mines. "Discoveries
such as these by OGS scientists help ensure the long-term viability of the province's $5 billion as year
mining industry."
The report containing the data and interpretations pertaining to mineral exploration in the Kapuskasing
area was released Monday morning. The release coincides with the annual convention of the
Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada, meeting March 14-17 in Toronto. A poster display
highlighting and explaining the survey results will be featured at the Ontario pavilion in the Toronto
Convention Centre.
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Original file name: story1 - converted on Wednesday, 17 March 1999, 10:00
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