Western Exploration: Doby George Mine Plan Approved in Nevada

Western Exploration Advances Nevada Mining Project with USFS Approval

Western Exploration Inc. has received crucial approval from the United States Forest Service, marking a significant step forward in the development of it’s Doby George deposit at the aura project in Nevada.The acceptance of the company’s Notice of Intent (NOI) initiates the process for submitting and refining a comprehensive Mine Operations Plan (MPO).

The USFS’s acceptance of the NOI is a pivotal moment for Western Exploration, signaling the start of a detailed planning and review process. The company anticipates submitting the MPO in the second quarter of 2026.

Did you know? – The Doby george deposit is a gold and silver prospect located in Nye County, Nevada. The Aura project represents a potential economic boost for the state’s mining sector.

Environmental Studies to Begin in Early 2026

To support the MPO development, Western Exploration will launch extensive baseline studies beginning in February 2026. Thes studies will cover a broad range of environmental and cultural disciplines, including biological assessments, cultural resource surveys, paleontological investigations, and analyses of air and water quality, noise levels, hydrology, geochemistry, and aquatic ecosystems. According to a company release, the program will build upon existing data collected by Western Exploration and its partners.

The company has engaged Stantec Consulting and Kappes Cassidy & Associates (KCA) to assist in completing the MPO,wich will be based on the positive findings of the Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) announced on May 8,2025. An additional consultancy agreement with Stantec will facilitate the comprehensive baseline studies over the next 14 months.

Pro tip – Baseline studies are essential for identifying potential environmental impacts before mining begins, ensuring responsible resource development and regulatory compliance.

Project Details and Regulatory Timeline

The current development plan for the Doby George deposit envisions a 7,500 tonne per day open pit and heap leach operation. Western Exploration is committed to submitting all necessary environmental reports for review under the National Environmental policy Act (NEPA) by the second quarter of 2027.

“This is a critical milestone in bringing the Aura project closer to production,” a senior official stated.”The thorough environmental studies and collaborative approach with our partners will ensure responsible development and long-term sustainability.”

The prosperous completion of these phases will position Western exploration for potential mining operations in the coming years,contributing to Nevada’s robust mining industry.

Why: Western Exploration seeks to develop the Doby George deposit for gold and silver production.
Who: Western Exploration Inc., the US Forest service (USFS), Stantec Consulting, and Kappes Cassidy & Associates (KCA) are key players.
What: The USFS approved Western Exploration’s Notice of Intent (NOI), initiating the process for a Mine Operations Plan (MPO). The company will conduct extensive environmental studies.
How did it end?: The approval of the NOI marks the start of a multi-year process. Western Exploration anticipates submitting the MPO in 2026 and completing environmental reports for NEPA review by mid-2027, positioning the project for potential future mining operations.