In Turkey, Eldorado exploration has focused on its existing Kisladag mine, the adjacent Sayacik project, and the Efemçukuru development project, as well as regional reconnaissance and license evaluations. At Kisladag, drilling is increasing confidence in previously identified inferred resources in the deeper, western portions of the deposit and is continuing to show potential for increasing the deposit dimensions both laterally and at depth. Sayacik is a volcanic center adjacent to and overlapping the Kisladag volcanic complex. During 2008, exploration crews have extended soil sampling lines, taken rock chip samples, and done more detailed mapping over areas of interest. Four anomalies have been identified based on soil and rock chip geochemistry peripheral to the previously drilled central altered intrusive. These anomalies will be targets of a continued 2008-2009 work program that will include induced polarization geophysics and diamond drilling.

At Efemçukuru, work during 2008 has focused on mapping and geochemical sampling outside of the main ore zones and preparation for a small drilling program that targets the North Ore Shoot. The sampling has confirmed several previously known targets and identified two silver-base metal anomalies associated with flat-lying faults and replacement-style mineralization in calcareous sediments. Due to drilling access considerations, future drilling on the down-dip extensions of the South Ore Shoot and Middle Ore Shoot will take place once underground access is established.

In China, Eldorado exploration during 2008 has centered on extending the Qinlongtan and XJG deposits at its Tanjianshan mine, along with some limited drilling at Jinlonggou North and a new prospect, DSG. Approximately 10,000 m have been drilled, with the target units being sulphide mineralized phyllites associated with quartz diorite intrusives.

In Brazil, Eldorado is working under an agreement that allows it to earn a 75% interest in Brazauro Resources’ 43,000-ha Tocantinzinho project in Pará state. Under the terms of the agreement, Eldorado will spend C$9.5 million over the next 24 months to acquire an option to purchase 60% of the project for C$40 million.

In Nevada, geological mapping and rock sampling by Eldorado’s joint-venture partner AuEx is ongoing at four properties: Klondike North, Buffalo Canyon, Hays Canyon and Green Monster. A ground magnetometer survey is in progress at the Klondike North project, and a 2,500-m reverse circulation drilling program was scheduled to begin at the project in late October.

Geological mapping at Buffalo Canyon has identified a number of mesothermal quartz veins with gold values of up to 8 g/mt. Elsewhere on the property, secondary copper mineralization has been observed in small endoskarn bodies. A ground magnetometer survey is planned to better define the intrusive bodies at depth. Initial planning is under way to locate drill sites and access roads on the project in order to start the permitting process for a drilling program in 2009.
(www.eldoradogold.com)