Rift Rare Earth Project exploration permit secured by Apex in Nebraska

Rift Rare Earth Project exploration permit marks major milestone

Apex Critical Metals secured a key regulatory approval in the United States.
The company received a Rift Rare Earth Project exploration permit from Nebraska authorities.
This approval allows Apex to advance drilling at the Elk Creek Carbonatite Complex.

The Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment issued the permit.
As a result, Apex can launch its first drilling campaign in south-eastern Nebraska.
The Rift Rare Earth Project currently covers about 3,500 acres within the complex.

The site holds a long exploration history under previous operators.
Molycorp drilled the project extensively between 1973 and 1986.
Quantum Rare Earth Developments later conducted work from 2010 to 2011.

Rift Rare Earth Project exploration permit supports drilling plans

Historical drilling results highlight the project’s rare earth potential.
Previous programs identified wide and high-grade rare earth element intercepts.
Reported results included 155.5 metres grading 2.7 percent rare earth oxides.

Other intercepts showed even stronger mineralisation.
These included 54.9 metres grading 3.30 percent rare earth oxides.
Another hole returned 236.2 metres at 2.10 percent rare earth oxides.

With the Rift Rare Earth Project exploration permit secured, preparations continue.
Apex has started pre-drilling work across the project area.
The company targets drilling commencement in the first quarter of 2026.

Apex continues contractor negotiations and finalises drill mobilisation timelines.
Meanwhile, teams confirm access routes and proposed drill pad locations.
The company also updates drill targets using historical data and geological analysis.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

The Rift Rare Earth Project exploration permit strengthens Apex’s North American strategy.
Rare earth supply security remains critical for EVs, defense, and clean technologies.
As a result, advanced projects in stable jurisdictions gain strategic value.
Apex now holds a stronger position as it moves toward execution and resource growth.