"We are thankful that we are partnered with a company like Major Drilling that can provide newer, innovative drills," said Stephen Redak, exploration manager Mexico, Hecla Mining.

Hecla's San Sebastian property is a silver and gold mine, where exploration work is underway in two main veins. Using the innovative drills at the San Sebastian project enhances Major Drilling's 12-year history with Hecla in Mexico. The new drills are the next step in a long-standing relationship that has seen more than 354,000m drilled since 2009.

Major Drilling's EF-75 core drill is new equipment for the Mexico branch. It combines safety with a high level of productivity. With the rod manipulator, operators benefit from rod handling, horizontal stacking and a safety screen to protect them while lifting and lowering rods. The rig is capable of depths of up to 2,700m.

Workers are protected by rod handling innovation, and they improve results using a unique mast designed for accurate core orientation.

"Hecla has been a long-time client of ours in Mexico, and we are very excited to bring these new drills out in Durango to really see what they can do at San Sebastian," said David Boucher, Major Drilling Mexico general manager. "We are very happy to have this equipment turning in Mexico."

Major Drilling's USA Division previously partnered with Hecla at the Fire Creek Mine in Nevada (now under care and maintenance). Major Drilling exploration teams have drilled at Hecla surface exploration projects in other locations in the western USA.

For Hecla that is a relationship that should continue, especially as the next mining upcycle seems right around the corner.

"Having a partner in Major Drilling helps us get results for our exploration projects' success," Redak said.

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