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2017 Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resource Update
On February 20, 2018 the Company released Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resource estimates for December 31, 2017 (see news release dated February 20, 2018). Included in the results, were an increase in Mineral Reserves at Fosterville to 1,700,000 ounces at an average grade of 23.1 grams per tonne, with the Mineral Reserve estimate for the Swan Zone more than doubling from the June 30, 2017 mid-year estimate to 1,160,000 ounces at an average grade of 61.2 grams per tonne. In addition to Mineral Reserves, Mineral Resources at Fosterville at December 31, 2017 included Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources of 2,150,000 ounces at an average grade of 4.8 grams per tonne (exclusive of Mineral Reserves) and Inferred Mineral Resources of 1,900,000 ounces at an average grade of 7.1 grams per tonne. Based on the significant growth in depreciable Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources at Fosterville, the Company expects a reduction in depreciation and depletion expenses related to the Fosterville mine in 2018.
At Macassa, after identifying a significant eastern extension of the South Mine Complex (“SMC”) in mid-2017, the Company focused drilling activities on establishing Mineral Resources in this new area. Significant success was achieved growing Mineral Resources in 2017, with Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources increasing 58%, to 2,090,000 ounces at an average grade of 17.1 grams per tonne, and Inferred Mineral Resources increasing 48%, to 1,370,000 ounces at an average grade of 22.2 grams per tonne. The increase in Mineral Resources highlights the potential that exists for future growth in Mineral Reserves at the Macassa mine. Total Mineral Reserves at Macassa at December 31, 2017, totaled 2,030,000 ounces at an average grade of 21.0 grams per tonne.