James Buskard

Combining technology, capital, and an international team of partners to unlock value across the mining and exploration value chain by increasing the speed, lowering the cost, and maximizing the quality, quantity, and resolution of information to inform critical decisions.

EXPLORATION: Leveraged new technologies to complete Nevada’s largest regional-scale exploration program in decades (+4,000 boreholes). Utilized resulting database to be a first mover in Nevada’s undercover search space, building one of the largest project pipelines in the state. Systematically advanced portfolio using clear decision gates, completing geochemistry, geophysics, and drilling programs covering +1,000km2. TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION: Launched two new first-in-Nevada drilling platforms to add low-cost geochemistry in covered settings. Guided R&D to launch multiple new exploration methods, including innovative pXRF workflows to obtain near-time lithogeochemistry to inform drilling decisions. Supported application of new tools through training, developing SOPs, and rolling out custom data management systems. STAKEHOLDER RELATIONS: Produced integrated IR strategies to tell complex technical stories by guiding stakeholders along curated learning pathways using videos, infographics, and other digital assets. Fostered international network of experts to collaborate on internal and external innovation initiatives. Created permitting frameworks with regulators for industry first applications of new tools. Participated as invited speaker at major conferences to champion the application of technology to explore under cover. CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT: Led +$30M of financings to fund unconventional projects and new technology. Negotiated innovative strategic alliances to leverage IP to participate in partner-funded exploration. Diversified risk through JV and royalty agreements with junior and mid-tier mining companies. Generate non-dilutive funding by servicing partners in other commodities. CORPORATE FINANCE & GOVNERNANCE: Built and led legal, accounting, audit, and tax teams for securities, tax, and reporting. Directed all aspects of corporate governance and compliance. Guided TSX.V going-public transaction, plus secondary US OTCQX listing to increase liquidity.

Member of initial team that developed new methods for collecting and analyzing hydrogeochemistry data to explore for gold in covered areas, resulting in the first groundwater survey of Nevada for mineral exploration, which included selecting and sampling ~2,000 wells and springs. Sampled and characterized the hydrogeochemistry surrounding +30 gold deposits in Nevada. Designed and developed custom AquaSOFT software to support the unique requirements associated with collecting, managing, and interpreting hydrogeochemistry data. Spun out the company’s IP, database, and exploration projects to launch Nevada Exploration Inc.

- Sampled and monitored groundwater quality at contaminated sites - Designed catchment-based stream sediment geochemistry sampling programs - Completed pre-development baseline surveys for oil and gas pipeline corridors

- Completed camp-scale baseline hydrogeochemistry sampling program - Sampled and monitored pit-lake, tailing, and downstream water chemistry for continuous compliance - Implemented Acid Based Accounting program to manage waste rock and tailing geochemistry

THESIS: Turning Exploration (R&D) into a Sustainable Business Model

GEOMATICS CANADA SCHOLARSHIP (2003): Using airborne multispectral data and local singularity analysis to identify tree stems for automated forestry inventory.