TORONTO (miningweekly.com) – A waste stripping programme at TSX-listed Atna Resources’ Briggs mine, in California, has enabled the company to lift third-quarter gold output 45% over the previous quarter.
The company on Thursday reported gold recovery for the three months ended September 30 had increased to 9 957 oz.
Gold sales rose 35% to 9 143 oz, and the cash cost per ounce dropped 13% to $986 for the quarter.
Atna said a waste-stripping programme in May had allowed it access to a strong ore supply since June, allowing for the significant increase in output to drive down costs. The lower costs was also, in part, owing to a productivity improvement programme and cost reduction at the mine.
"These results put Briggs on track to achieve its stated target of 35 000 oz to 40 000 oz of production for 2013. Our team at Briggs is demonstrating their ability to reduce costs and improve production to meet the challenges of a volatile gold market environment," president and CEO James Hesketh said.
Atna in June placed its Pinson gold mine, in Humbolt county, Nevada, on care and maintenance to cut costs and conserve developed reserves, as gold prices declined.