Flanked by local elected officials, mining supporters, and Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce members, Contango Silver and Gold CEO Rick Van Nieuwenhuyse cuts a red ribbon celebrating Contango’s ongoing exploration and recent purchase of property in Hatcher Pass associated with the Lucky Shot gold mine.
About a year and a half ahead of a final investment decision, Contango Silver and Gold celebrated progress exploring for precious metals in Hatcher Pass. Instead of tossing a shovel full of dirt for a ground-breaking ceremony, CEO Rick van Nieuwenhuyse broke a chunk of rock from the Lucky Shot mine.
On July 31, one of the warmest summer days of 2026, visitors to the man camp about four miles north of Summit Lake in Hatcher Pass enjoyed cold drinks, barbecued meat from Barbecue Babes food truck, and cookies and muffins. In true Alaska fashion, the food truck’s arrival involved being briefly stranded in a mountain pass, a helicopter scout, and a rescue by a good Samaritan who will be paid in free barbecue for a year.
Taking Ownership
After a few years leasing the roughly 8,600-acre Lucky Shot project, which includes Lucky Shot, War Baby, and Coleman mines in the Willow Mining District, Van Nieuwenhuyse says Contango purchased the leases and the associated man camp from Alaska Hardrock Inc. in June. The company reported settling payments totaling $18.75 million with $5 million and 100,000 common shares of Contango…