Kootenay Commissions a Preliminary Economic Assessment on La Cigarra Silver Deposit and Continues to Aggressively Drill Columba
Kootenay shifts to development mode with La Cigarra PEA while aggressive drilling targets 100-million-ounce silver milestone.
The most recent news (January 20, 2026) announces the commissioning of a Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) for the La Cigarra silver deposit in Chihuahua, Mexico, with delivery expected in Q2 2026. Simultaneously, the company is executing a massive 50,000-meter drilling program at its Columba project. The strategic goal is to expand the Columba maiden resource from 54 million ounces of silver to over 100 million ounces, followed by a separate PEA for that project. Management cites current silver prices and a supply deficit as catalysts for accelerating these "pipeline" assets into the development stage.
- Transition to Developer Status: The move to commission a PEA for La Cigarra is a material step in transitioning from a pure exploration company to a developer. This provides a formal quantification of economic viability.
- Resource Growth Potential: Doubling the target resource at Columba to 100 million ounces would significantly re-rate the company's valuation if achieved at the current high grades (284 gpt Ag).
- Market Sentiment vs. Scrutiny: While project advancement is positive, the company recently (December 2025) had to respond to OTC Markets regarding "promotional activity." This indicates high marketing expenditures (US$500,000 to Sideways Frequency LLC), which risk-averse investors should monitor as a potential source of artificial price inflation.
- Financial Health: The company is exceptionally well-funded following a $20 million financing in mid-2025, allowing for "aggressive" drilling without immediate dilution needs.
Kootenay Silver is a Canadian-listed explorer/developer focused on silver in Mexico. - Flagship Project (Columba): A high-grade epithermal vein system in Chihuahua. Maiden Resource (June 2025) of 54.1 million ounces Ag at 284 gpt (Inferred). - Secondary Asset (La Cigarra): Currently hosts a Measured and Indicated resource of 51.57 million ounces Ag and an Inferred resource of 11 million ounces. This project is the subject of the newly commissioned PEA. - Portfolio: Includes the Promontorio and La Negra deposits, providing a significant multi-project pipeline.