Westhaven Gold Corp. (TSX-V: WHN) has initiated an expansive 2026 exploration program across its properties in the Spences Bridge Gold Belt, including the mobilization of a fifth drill rig to its flagship Shovelnose project. This new fleet deployment will facilitate a 15,000-metre exploration drilling program set to run through mid-December, focusing on identifying new epithermal mineralization.

"Exploration is perhaps the most important component of our 2026 field programs with prospecting, mapping and soil sampling planned as well as 15,000m of exploration drilling focused on discovery of new gold-bearing epithermal mineralization at Shovelnose." — Ken Armstrong, President and CEO

Simultaneously, the company is advancing its 35,000-metre resource infill drilling campaign, which is currently over 50% complete. This work is designed to de-risk the South Zone deposit and provide essential data for a future Pre-Feasibility Study. Recent assays from this infill program have confirmed the continuity of mineralization, with highlight intersections including 9.8 metres grading 8.3 g/t gold and 11 g/t silver. Field teams are also conducting prospecting, geological mapping, and soil sampling at the broader Shovelnose property and the Prospect Valley property to define future drill targets.

The operational surge is supported by a strategic earn-in agreement with Dundee Corporation. Under this arrangement, Dundee may earn a 60% interest in four of the company's Spences Bridge assets by contributing up to CDN$85 million in project expenditures. The current phase is specifically funded through a committed minimum of CDN$30 million, ensuring the resources are available to sustain the simultaneous infill and exploration drilling efforts.

Read the full announcement: Westhaven Announces the Start of Exploration at the Spences Bridge Gold Belt Properties, Southern British Columbia