Automata Rare Earth Corp. Applies for Exploration Permits for Newfoundland Project, Plans Initial Drill Program
August 14, 2026 — Leads & Copy — Automata Rare Earth Corp. (CSE: AREE) (FSE: 7K0) has submitted applications for exploration permits to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for its Burnt Pond Project, located in the Tally Pond volcanic massive sulphide (VMS) belt of Central Newfoundland. The applications outline a comprehensive exploration program, including an initial diamond drill program of 2,500 to 5,000 metres slated to begin in late fall 2026.
The company’s application for exploration approval covers 103 drill holes, comprising 45 Priority 1 and 58 Priority 2 targets. This provides flexibility for the planned initial drill program. Trust Drilling Inc. of Springdale, Newfoundland, has been selected as the drill contractor.
In addition to drilling, the proposed exploration program includes extensive surface geochemistry, with 750 samples planned, consisting of 250 soil, 250 rock, and 250 till samples. Ground geophysics surveys, including electromagnetic (EM), VLF, magnetic, and gravity, are also part of the plan. Furthermore, the company intends to conduct airborne geophysics, supported by helicopter or drone (UAV).
Automata has also submitted applications for timber cutting and operating permits. These are necessary for the preparation of drill pads and access trails, and to allow for continued field operations through the fire season.
Chris Huggins, Chief Executive Officer of Automata, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming drill program at Burnt Pond. He highlighted the project’s proximity to Pirate Gold’s neighbouring Moby Dick discovery, located approximately 10 kilometres away. Huggins believes this discovery, along with the 103 proposed drill targets at Burnt Pond, significantly enhances the potential of the region. With permits in process, a drill contractor secured, and an aggressive fall program planned, Huggins anticipates a significant period of discovery-focused exploration for Automata.
On July 30, 2026, Automata submitted three permit applications to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador: a Planned Exploration Work application for prospecting, geochemical sampling, and ground-based geophysical surveying; an Application for Exploration Approval covering diamond drilling and airborne geophysics; and a Temporary Commercial Cutting Permit application, along with an Operating Permit to permit work during fire season.
The company has applied for approval of all 103 proposed drill holes to ensure maximum flexibility during the program. While the initial program is planned for 2,500 to 5,000 metres, not all approved holes are expected to be drilled. All proposed drill collars are situated at least 40 metres from water bodies, rivers, and streams. The program is designed to minimize environmental impact, utilizing existing forestry road and trail networks, and incorporating sediment-control measures like sumps, settling tanks, and sediment fences. Environmentally friendly drilling additives will be used. Any non-merchantable timber will be mulched for drill pads and access trails, while merchantable timber will be avoided or stacked for inspection as per permit conditions.
The Burnt Pond Project, under option from Newfoundland Gold Retriever Corp., is prospective for copper, zinc, lead, silver, and gold mineralization within the Tally Pond VMS belt. This belt is an established mineral district with numerous precious and base-metal occurrences. The project is adjacent to Pirate Gold Corp.’s (TSXV: YARR) Crippleback area and approximately 10 kilometres from its Moby Dick copper-gold discovery. It benefits from excellent road access and proximity to active exploration projects. The company notes that results from adjacent or nearby properties, including the Moby Dick discovery, are not necessarily indicative of mineralization that may be hosted on the Burnt Pond Project.
The technical information in this news release was reviewed and approved by Derrick Strickland, an Independent Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.
Automata Rare Earth Corp. is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on exploring and developing critical mineral assets with potential applications in defence systems, autonomous technologies, advanced robotics, and next-generation infrastructure. The company holds options to acquire a 100% interest in the Oculus Rare Earth Project in Labrador and the Burnt Pond Project in Central Newfoundland.
Source: Automata Rare Earth Corp.
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