Accessibility, Climate & Resources
Topography, Elevation and Vegetation
The Andavakoera area consists mainly of gently rolling grassland dotted with sparse trees at elevation
below 100m. Sandstone cliffs and high bluffs occur northwest of the project area.
Access to the Property and Proximity to Population Center(s)
Access is by the main transportation route linking Ambilobe and the northwest coast with the port of
Vohemar on the east coast. The road is a poorly maintained track that may become impassible during
periods of heavy rain. Four-wheel drive is essential in all seasons. The northern and northeastern
parts of the block may only be accessible by trail bike or all-terrain vehicle. The city of Ambilobe
is a supply center with medical services and an airport. Vohemar, on the east coast, is a larger
center and has port facilities.
Relevant Climate and Length of Operating Season
A hot, wet season extends from November to April and a cooler, drier season from May to October.
The combined effects of the moisture-bearing southeast trade and northwest monsoon winds govern the
climate. The trade winds blow year round but are strongest from May to October.
The monsoons bring rain to the northwest coast of Madagascar during the hot humid season. Storms
blow obliquely across the island such that the northwest coast receives moderate precipitation.
Tropical cyclones approach from the Indian Ocean, striking mainly the north half of the island.
These produce torrential rains and destructive floods episodically between December and March.
Availability of Surface Rights, Power, Water and Mining Personnel
The area has generally poor infrastructure with dirt and gravel roads linking the region to major cities
on the coasts. Ambilobe, located a few kilometers from the western margin of the project area, has
electrical power and provides health care services to the region. Water is available in industrial
quantities year round from several streams but electrical power to meet industrial demands is not
available. Mining personnel with artisanal experience and some technical training are locally available.
The region is rural and land-use needs of the population should not conflict with surface
requirements of a mining operation.
Potential Areas for Tailings Disposal, Heap Leach Pads and Plant Sites
Topography in the area is gently rolling and would be well suited for the construction of tailing dams,
leach pads and plant sites.
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