Western Star Resources Inc. (CSE: WSR) has announced the results of a high-resolution UAV magnetic geophysical survey at its Rowland Tungsten Property in Elko County, Nevada. The survey, the first modern geophysical dataset acquired over the property, aims to improve understanding of structural controls on tungsten mineralization and refine exploration targets.
The survey identified several northeast-southwest trending magnetic lineaments, interpreted as possible fault or fracture zones that may have acted as pathways for hydrothermal fluids associated with tungsten-bearing skarn mineralization. Historical workings and Phase 1 target areas appear to be spatially associated with these lineaments and with interpreted intrusive-carbonate contacts, which are key for skarn formation.
A magnetic-high domain and an adjacent magnetic-low domain south of the historical Rowland zone were identified as untested features. These could represent extensions of the prospective skarn horizon or additional mineralized zones, warranting further investigation in the Phase 2 exploration program.
Blake Morgan, CEO and President of Western Star, stated, "The results of the high-resolution magnetic survey represent an important step in building the first modern exploration dataset at Rowland. The survey has highlighted multiple structural features and magnetic domains that appear to be associated with historical workings and interpreted skarn horizons. We look forward to integrating these results with the Phase 1 soil geochemistry, which is expected imminently, as we advance toward Phase 2 exploration and the definition of priority targets for a maiden drilling campaign."
The UAV magnetic survey was designed to fill a gap in high-resolution geophysical coverage for the area. Previously, geological maps were relatively broad and lacked detail on structural architecture. By using a drone-borne platform, Western Star acquired a cost-effective dataset that significantly improves the ability to interpret the geological setting.
Preliminary interpretation suggests the mapped intrusive system may be more extensive than previously recognized, potentially extending the prospective intrusive-carbonate contact zone beyond historically worked areas. This could open up new exploration opportunities.
Results will be integrated with pending Phase 1 soil geochemistry assays to support the design of a Phase 2 exploration program and define priority drill targets. The company expects to receive those results in the coming weeks.
The survey data were processed using Geosoft Oasis Montaj, and derivative products including Total Magnetic Intensity, First Vertical Derivative, Second Vertical Derivative, and Analytical Signal were computed. All maps are presented in the NAD 1984 UTM Zone 11N coordinate system.
Jasper Mowatt, MIMMM and MAusIMM, a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this release.
The implications for the industry are significant: tungsten is a critical mineral for many high-tech and defense applications, and the U.S. currently relies heavily on imports. Western Star's work at Rowland could contribute to re-establishing a domestic supply source. For investors and industry leaders, the identification of new, untested targets suggests potential for resource expansion, which could enhance the property's value and attract further investment.
