Forge Resources Completes Key Milestone with Successful Pilot Hole Drilling at Colombian Coal Project
Progress Accelerates at Forge Resources' Fully Permitted La Estrella Coal Project in Colombia

Forge Resources Corp. (CSE: FRG) (OTCQB: FRGGF) (FSE: 5YZ) has marked a significant milestone in its Colombian coal project with the successful completion of pilot hole drilling for the underground decline development. This achievement, alongside other critical advancements, underscores the company’s commitment to advancing its fully permitted coal project in Santander, Colombia.
Successful Completion of Pilot Hole Drilling
The pilot hole drilling, a crucial phase in the development of the 170-meter decline, has been successfully completed by Logan Drilling. This process reached a total depth of 175 meters, providing vital geological and geotechnical data essential for the project’s progression. GFD Negocios Mineros meticulously logged and sampled this data, sending a total of 19 samples to a certified laboratory for further analysis.
Topographer Sebastian Areiza played a pivotal role in ensuring the precise georeferencing during the drilling process. This precision is critical for guiding the direction and incline of the tunnels, factors that are essential for the success of the underground development.
Engineering and Site Preparation
The completion of the pilot hole drilling is just one part of the broader engineering and site preparation efforts. Civil Engineer Luis Carlos Herrera has been instrumental in designing and implementing drainage systems, as well as selecting vegetation that will mitigate the effects of seasonal weather on the newly established works yard plateau. His efforts are vital in ensuring the stability and sustainability of the project site.
Similarly, Civil Engineer Luis Alfredo Marquez has conducted thorough ground studies at the slope and portal area, ensuring that the area surrounding the portal and decline remains stable. These studies are crucial for the safe and effective continuation of the project.
Luis Carlos Herrera’s expertise in civil engineering and water management has been a cornerstone of the project’s success. His design and implementation of drainage systems are particularly noteworthy, as they help to manage water flow and prevent erosion, which is vital in the challenging terrains of Colombia.
Luis Alfredo Marquez has focused on the stability of the slope and portal area, a critical aspect of the project. His ground studies have provided valuable insights into the geological conditions, ensuring that the decline development proceeds without unforeseen complications.
Water Management Enhancements
Water management is a crucial component of any mining project, and Forge Resources has taken significant steps to enhance this aspect. The installation of geotextile and energy dissipators across 445 linear meters of constructed ditches is a key part of this strategy. These measures are designed to control water flow and prevent erosion, protecting both the environment and the project infrastructure.
In addition, the planting of 2,400 stolons of Vetiver grass, a species known for its soil stabilization properties, has further reinforced the terrace slope. This vegetation, combined with trenching and hydroseeding efforts, ensures that the slope remains stable and resilient against weather-induced challenges.
Source: Forge Resources: News Release 28th August 2024
Camp Construction Advancements
Forge Resources has also made substantial progress in the construction of on-site facilities, which are essential for the well-being of the project’s workforce. The completion of the cafeteria kitchen and communal areas marks a significant step forward in preparing for the next phase of development. Additionally, land has been cleared and leveled in anticipation of further crew accommodations, ensuring that the project can scale up as needed.
Source: Forge Resources: News Release 28th August 2024
Strategic Expansion of the Technical Team
Recognizing the complexity and scale of the La Estrella coal project, Forge Resources has strategically expanded its technical team by bringing on board two highly experienced professionals.
Enrique Estrada, a Senior Mining and Metallurgical Engineer with over 35 years of experience, has joined the team to lend his expertise in underground coal mining. Estrada’s extensive background in production engineering, quality control, and operations management will be invaluable as Forge Resources moves forward with the development of the coal project. His leadership and technical skills will guide the project through its next critical phases.
Alongside Estrada, Luis Carlos Herrera, a Senior Civil Engineer with over 25 years of experience, has been brought on to oversee the surface works required for the bulk sampling program. His deep understanding of civil engineering and water management will ensure that the surface infrastructure supports the overall success of the project.
Project Development Map
To provide a comprehensive overview of the project’s progress, Forge Resources has released detailed project development maps. These maps offer a visual representation of the current site orientations, infrastructure placement, and future development plans. They serve as a valuable tool for stakeholders to understand the scope and direction of the project.
Source: Forge Resources: News Release 28th August 2024
Source: Forge Resources: News Release 28th August 2024
About Forge Resources Corp.
Forge Resources Corp. is a Canadian-listed junior exploration company with a focus on exploring and advancing the Alotta project, a prospective porphyry copper-gold-molybdenum project located in the Yukon Territory of Canada. In addition to its Canadian ventures, the company holds a 40% interest in Aion Mining Corp., which is developing the fully permitted La Estrella coal project in Colombia. This project, with its eight known seams of metallurgical and thermal coal, represents a significant opportunity for Forge Resources to expand its portfolio and strengthen its position in the global mining industry.
Conclusion
The successful completion of the pilot hole drilling and the subsequent advancements at the La Estrella coal project highlight Forge Resources’ commitment to operational excellence and strategic growth. With a strong team, robust infrastructure, and a clear focus on environmental and technical best practices, Forge Resources is well-positioned to capitalize on the opportunities presented by its Colombian coal project. As the company moves forward, stakeholders can expect continued progress and value creation.
