McFarlane Lake Mining Secures Exploration Permit for Juby Gold Project, Paving Way for Largest Drilling Campaign Since $22 Million Acquisition
McFarlane Lake Mining Limited (CSE: MLM, OTC: MLMLF) has achieved a major regulatory milestone at its Juby Gold Project in Ontario, securing the necessary exploration permit that clears the path for an ambitious 2026 drill program. This development follows the company's acquisition of the project from Aris Mining in July 2025 for a total consideration of $22 million (C$30.29 million).
Exploration Drilling Commences Following Key Permit Approval
The permit approval, announced in early December 2025, marks a significant step in advancing the company’s planned 2025-2026 drill campaign. The Juby Gold Project is strategically located west of Gowganda, Ontario, within the southern part of the “Prolific Abitibi Greenstone Belt,” a region renowned for its gold deposits.
With the exploration permit now secured and new long-term drilling partnerships established, McFarlane is positioned to execute a substantial exploration program. Exploration drilling officially commenced at the site on December 18, 2025.
Receiving the exploration permit is a key milestone for McFarlane as we advance toward the largest drilling campaign seen on the property. We welcome the participation of First Nations and their partners in the exploration programme at the Juby gold project.
— Mark Trevisiol, CEO of McFarlane Lake Mining.
Ambitious 2026 Campaign Targets Resource Expansion
The upcoming 2026 drill program is anticipated to be one of the most significant exploration campaigns in the project’s history. The company’s focus is on resource expansion, leveraging the newly secured access to fully explore the potential of the 100%-owned asset.
The successful permitting process underscores McFarlane’s commitment to advancing the project rapidly following the July 2025 acquisition. The company is simultaneously focused on laying the groundwork for future development stages, including:
- Advancing environmental baseline studies at the Juby Project.
- Gathering background data required for future bulk sample applications.
- Preparing documentation to support future mining permits.
Collaboration with First Nation Communities
A critical component of the permit approval process involved collaboration and consultation with local Indigenous groups. Three First Nation communities—Matachewan, Temagami, and Atikameksheng Anishnawbek—hold territorial rights within the Juby gold project area.
McFarlane CEO Mark Trevisiol emphasized the importance of this collaborative approach, noting the company’s commitment to integrating First Nations participation into the exploration program. This engagement is crucial for maintaining social license and ensuring the long-term viability of the project.
