North Shore Uranium Advances Rio Puerco Drill Programme for H1 2026

North Shore Uranium Prepares Rio Puerco for H1 2026 Drilling

North Shore Uranium has initiated preparations for its Rio Puerco uranium project in New Mexico. The H1 2026 drill programme will test multiple sections to verify and expand known uranium mineralisation. Meanwhile, the company submitted permitting applications with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and New Mexico state authorities.

The historical resource estimate for Rio Puerco totals six million tonnes grading 0.09% U3O8, or roughly 11.4 million pounds of uranium oxide. Kerr McGee conducted over 1,000 drill holes between the 1960s and 1970s, providing valuable data. North Shore’s preliminary model indicates potential expansion beyond the historical resource.

The project also shows promise for cost-effective in-situ recovery (ISR) uranium mining. North Shore’s CEO Brooke Clements emphasized the strategic importance, noting US government support for domestic uranium production. Recent partnerships between Cameco, Brookfield Asset Management, and the US government underline rising nuclear energy demand.

Rio Puerco’s Strategic Role in US Uranium Production

Rio Puerco lies at the eastern edge of the Grants uranium district, historically the largest uranium-producing region in the US. Mines in the district produced over 340 million pounds of U3O8 from 1950 to 2002.

In June 2025, North Shore signed a binding term sheet with Resurrection Mining to acquire up to an 87.5% stake in the Rio Puerco project. The deal strengthens North Shore’s position to capitalize on increasing US nuclear energy initiatives. As a result, the H1 2026 drill programme will provide critical insights into the resource’s size and commercial potential.

Historical data combined with modern exploration techniques will guide drilling, resource verification, and ISR feasibility studies. This approach positions Rio Puerco as a strategic asset in North America’s uranium supply chain.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

North Shore Uranium’s Rio Puerco project represents a significant growth opportunity amid rising US nuclear energy initiatives. Historical data supports strong expansion potential, while upcoming drilling will define commercial viability. Investors and industry stakeholders should monitor assay results and ISR feasibility outcomes closely, as Rio Puerco may become a key domestic uranium source.