The Concepcion del Oro district has a long mining history with mining in thisarea primarily focused on precious metals. In 1889, the Mazapil Copper Company Ltd. (“Mazapil Copper”) of England, acquired the old mines, and mining and processing expanded to include production of copper and zinc. In1962, Mazapil Copper ceased operations on the property. Various companies have explored and operated the Aranzazu mine since then.
The Company declared commercial production for the Aranzazu mine effective February 1, 2011, upon the mine and mill having substantially passed mechanical completion and commissioning. The mine plan for 2011 includes a combination of open pit and underground mining. This will continue into 2012 and 2013, transitioning into full underground operations thereafter.