Canadian company Targa Exploration Corp. has announced the launch of a new gold and silver exploration project in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina, with plans to conduct work at the El Zanjon and Venidero mining concessions. The company stated that these exploration activities are fully funded and will advance through initial field campaigns combined with a diamond drilling program.
At the Venidero project, the company has initiated detailed geological mapping in the northern part of the area, aiming to identify new vein structures and sample previously unevaluated zones within the Deseado Massif. Previously, the Gorganzola vein was discovered at this site, extending approximately 2.5 kilometers with surface gold grades reaching 4.45 grams per tonne. The new program aims to expand geological understanding, define structural controls, and generate specific drilling targets.
Simultaneously, Targa is advancing initial drilling at the El Zanjon project, with depths planned between 2,000 and 2,500 meters, focusing on the search for low-sulfidation epithermal systems. This type of deposit is characteristic of the Patagonian region and hosts several major precious metal occurrences. The El Zanjon concession covers approximately 57,276 hectares, located about 30 kilometers south of the Cerro Vanguardia mine operated by AngloGold Ashanti. Proximity to producing operations is considered a positive indicator for favorable geology and infrastructure.
The Venidero project is situated approximately 60 kilometers south of the Cerro Negro mine operated by Newmont Corporation, enhancing the exploration appeal of the area. As preliminary work, the company collected 333 soil samples in 2025, which are currently undergoing ionic leach geochemical analysis. The results will be used to optimize drill site selection.
Regarding environmental permits, Targa has secured the Environmental Impact Declaration for the Venidero project and expects approval for the El Zanjon project in the short term, a critical step for the drilling campaign planned to commence by the end of March. The company indicated that project funding comes from recent private placement capital, ensuring exploration activities can proceed without the need for immediate financing.
Through this initiative, Targa Exploration joins the ranks of junior companies intensifying exploration activities in Santa Cruz Province. The performance of the upcoming drilling will be a key factor in assessing project potential and advancing to more advanced development stages.
