Resolution Minerals Ltd (ASX:RML) announced plans to advance the historical Golden Gate Tungsten Mine located in Idaho, USA. The company aims to develop tungsten resources at the site following a detailed evaluation of historical data and recent drilling results. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the company’s tungsten exploration and development activities at its Horse Heaven Gold-Antimony-Tungsten-Silver Project.
The update, released on January 23, 2026, follows earlier announcements regarding the mine’s development and the acquisition of the Johnson Creek Mill. The recent findings highlight significant potential for expanding tungsten mineralization in the area, particularly along the Golden Gate Fault, where historical operations have taken place.
Engagement of Expert Geologist
To facilitate these advancements, Resolution Minerals has enlisted the expertise of David R. Hembree, a seasoned geologist with deep knowledge of the Golden Gate Tungsten Mine. Hembree previously worked as a Mine Geologist at the site in the early 1980s and brings 45 years of geological experience in the western United States. His role will involve analyzing historical tungsten exploration data and leading exploration efforts that include a planned drilling program set to commence in June 2026.
Hembree’s insights are expected to significantly impact the exploration strategy at the Horse Heaven Project. “I am very excited to be back working at the Horse Heaven Project and am eager to put my knowledge on the project’s tungsten potential to work,” Hembree stated. He emphasized the clear potential for resource growth at the historic mine and highlighted other unexplored targets in the vicinity.
Acquisition of Johnson Creek Mill
In tandem with its development plans, Resolution is finalizing the acquisition of the Johnson Creek Mill, which includes approximately 2,000 tonnes of tungsten ore stockpiled from the Golden Gate Tungsten Mine. The mill is situated on 15 acres of land adjacent to the Horse Heaven Project. This acquisition not only provides a processing facility but also secures strategic advantages for the company’s operational capabilities.
The Johnson Creek Mill, which once processed tungsten and antimony, will enhance Resolution’s ability to meet the increasing demand for critical metals in the United States. The company believes the mill’s location will facilitate future exploration and processing activities, positioning Horse Heaven as a potential hub for critical metal production.
The background of the Golden Gate Tungsten Mine traces back to the late 1940s when scheelite-bearing veins were discovered. Tungsten mining at the site began in the early 1950s, with ore being processed initially at the Stibnite Mine. Intermittent production continued until 1980, with significant amounts of tungsten ore mined during this period.
Tungsten’s strategic importance has increased, driven by its applications in military defense and advanced manufacturing. The current market for tungsten (APT) has seen prices peak at approximately $900/mtu, with projections indicating further increases in the coming years due to rising global demand and geopolitical factors.
Resolution’s initiatives at the Golden Gate Tungsten Mine and the Horse Heaven Project align with broader trends in the critical metals market. The company aims to leverage its historical data, expert insights, and strategic acquisitions to enhance its resource base and operational capabilities in a sector poised for growth.
As Resolution Minerals moves forward, further exploration activities and metallurgical tests on existing stockpiles will be critical as they work to uncover the untapped potential of the Golden Gate Tungsten Mine.
