Morien Resources Begins Drilling Operations at Lazy Head Project
HALIFAX, Nova Scotia - Morien Resources Corp. (“Morien” or the “Company”) (TSX-V: MOX) is thrilled to announce that it has officially commenced its maiden drill program at the Lazy Head Aggregate Project. This exciting phase is pivotal for transforming Lazy Head from a greenfield venture into a well-defined, community-supported, export-oriented aggregate operation.
Details of the Maiden Drill Program
The drill program involves a series of core drilling operations supported by helicopters, which are designed to assess the quality, continuity, and volume of granite resources available at the project site. Additionally, this operation aims to gather representative sample material to conduct a comprehensive range of physical, chemical, and durability tests that are essential for both permitting and subsequent engineering assessments.
This strategic program is being carried out by a knowledgeable drilling contractor from Atlantic Canada, all under the geological oversight of Morien's experts. The findings from this drill program are crucial as they will directly influence quarry design, mine planning, and the environmental baseline studies that follow.
Understanding the Lazy Head Aggregate Project
The Lazy Head project is designed to develop a long-lasting, multi-generational quarry that produces high-quality construction aggregates along with a deep-water marine terminal positioned perfectly at Chedabucto Bay. This strategic location enables efficient service to the rapidly growing infrastructure and construction markets along the U.S. East Coast.
Lazy Head stands out as the first project borne of Morien’s strategic partnership with Carver Companies, LLC, a respected U.S.-based operator of quarries and other logistics. Formed in 2024, this partnership aims to identify, permit, and develop export-oriented aggregate assets across Atlantic Canada, effectively merging Morien’s regional expertise with Carver’s extensive marine logistics and market strength in the U.S.
The development of Lazy Head is set to generate approximately 75 high-paying, full-time jobs within the local community, fostering sustained economic activity over countless generations. Both Morien and Carver are diligently working on frameworks to share the economic benefits with local communities, ensuring the value created flows back to those in the project area.
Current Permitting and Field Programs
Focused permitting efforts are currently being conducted by GHD Group, with added support for community engagement from Strum Consulting. The field programs now underway include:
- Conducting environmental baseline studies (both marine and terrestrial)
- Facilitating engagement with local fisheries organizations and the municipality’s leadership
- Performing fisheries and habitat fieldwork
- Executing multi-beam bathymetry and geotechnical surveys
- Continuing door-to-door outreach efforts targeting residents, business owners, and community organizations
Recent community outreach activities have proven successful, including a well-attended open house session and direct discussions with local residents, with plans for additional sessions as studies continue to evolve.
Carver is dedicated to implementing advanced systems to mitigate noise, dust, and light, adopting a modern, environmentally-conscious approach that resonates with community needs and expectations.
Details of the Morien-Carver Partnership
Under the established partnership with Carver, Morien is positioned to benefit significantly:
- Morien will receive a payment upon successful permitting of Lazy Head.
- The partnership ensures an industry-competitive production royalty on future aggregate sales, lasting throughout the project's operational lifetime.
Notably, all of Morien’s time and expenses related to the advancement of Lazy Head are fully compensated by Carver, aligning with Morien’s efficient, partner-oriented royalty model.
About Carver Companies
Carver, founded in 1988, is a privately owned logistics and materials group based in the U.S., employing over 1,000 individuals across its wide-ranging operations in both the U.S. and Canada. The company effectively manages a granite quarry in Bayside, New Brunswick, alongside multiple deep-water marine terminals, tug and barge services, and stevedoring operations. Carver plays a vital role in the movement of bulk and breakbulk materials, supporting crucial public and private sector customers across various industries such as construction and energy.
About Morien
Morien is a mining development firm based in Nova Scotia, established in 2012 as a catalyst for direct economic prosperity for Nova Scotians. Under the guidance of a management team composed mainly of local industry experts, Morien’s assets predominantly consist of royalties from the Donkin Mine and the Black Point Project in Guysborough County. The management and Board of Directors are committed to ensuring shareholder returns are prioritized, focusing on value over expansion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Morien's goal with the Lazy Head Project?
Morien aims to transition the Lazy Head Project into a well-defined export-oriented aggregate operation that serves infrastructure and construction markets.
How many jobs are projected to be created by the Lazy Head Project?
Approximately 75 high-paying, local, full-time jobs are expected to be generated through the development of the Lazy Head Project.
What kind of partnership does Morien have with Carver Companies?
Morien has formed a strategic partnership with Carver to develop aggregate assets across Atlantic Canada, benefiting from each other's expertise and resources.
What are the environmental considerations for the Lazy Head Project?
Carver has committed to advanced noise, dust, and light mitigation strategies, alongside environmental baseline studies to ensure minimal impact.
What types of studies are currently being conducted at Lazy Head?
Current studies include environmental baseline assessments, fisheries fieldwork, and engagement with local communities and fisheries organizations.
