![Schematic of a polymetallic nodule mining operation. From top to bottom, the three zoom-in panels illustrate the surface operation vessel, the midwater sediment plume, and the nodule collector operating on the seabed. The midwater plume comprises two stages: (i) the dynamic plume, in which the sediment-laden discharge water rapidly descends and dilutes to a neutral buoyancy depth, and (ii) the subsequent ambient plume that is advected by the ocean current and subject to background turbulence and settling.[1] Image: Wikipedia Commons, Kredit: Carlos Muñoz-Royo.](https://www.miningmetalnews.com/sites/default/files/styles/article_header_slider/public/media-cover-images/schematic-of-a-polymetallic-nodule-mining-operation-from-top-to-bottom-the-three_2_0.jpg?h=3df05eba&itok=Jb7SdvhM&u=1776673036)
Vizsla Silver Corp. announced that it has awarded the Engineering, Procurement and Construction Management contract to M3 Engineering & Technology Corp. and has entered into a Mine Design contract with Mining Plus. Both contractors will support the advancement of its flagship Panuco silver-gold project.
“The appointment of key engineering and mine design partners represents an important step in advancing our Panuco Project,” said Michael Konnert, President and CEO.“We are pleased to partner with M3 and Mining Plus as we move towards mobilization.
With its partners, the Company will work off-site to advance detailed design, construction planning and equipment procurement, while continuing to advance go-forward, long-term security plans for the Panuco Project. Vizsla Silver advises that key development activities continue to progress in line with previously disclosed timelines.
EPCM Contract Selection
M3 Engineering is an experienced engineering firm specializing in mineral processing and infrastructure projects. The firm has participated in the design and construction of several mining projects in Mexico, including Mercedes, Los Gatos, Peñasquito, Camino Rojo and Terronera.
Since finalizing the Panuco Feasibility Study (published in November 2025), Vizsla Silver has worked with M3 Engineering to support the planning and development of the Project. The EPCM scope of work covers the process plant and surface infrastructure, valued at approximately US$170 million. The Company and M3 Engineering are currently finalizing the terms and conditions of the definitive EPCM agreement.
“M3 Engineering & Technology Corp. is proud to contribute our technical expertise to support Vizsla Silver in advancing the development of the Panuco Silver-Gold Project,” said Alberto Bennett, President and CEO of M3 Engineering. “We look forward to continuing working closely with Vizsla Silver’s team to deliver another successful project in Mexico, on time and on budget.”
Mining Design Contract
Mining Plus, part of The Byrnecut Group, is a global mining services firm. Vizsla Silver and Mining Plus have worked together since finalizing the Panuco Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA), published in July 2024.
Mining Plus has supported mine design, planning, scheduling and geotechnical work, including contributions to the development of the Company’s Morgan Test Mine at Panuco. The mining design scope of work covers approximately US$50 million in development capital, and approximately US$40 million in ore development over the next two years of pre-production.
Key mining schedule items include:
- Award mining contract in Q2 2026
- Begin mining operations upon receipt of the MIA permit
- Implement an infill drilling program over an initial two-year period to support ramp-up and stockpiling ahead of process plant commissioning
“Mining Plus is pleased to continue its partnership with Vizsla Silver as the Panuco Project advances toward production,” said Vahid Haydari, Chief Executive Officer of Mining Plus. “Since our initial involvement following the Preliminary Economic Assessment, we have worked closely with the team on mine design and planning. This next phase focuses on detailed planning and disciplined execution as this high grade, technically compelling project advances toward commercial production.”
Vizsla Silver is a Canadian mineral exploration and development company headquartered in Vancouver, BC, focused on advancing its flagship, 100%-owned Panuco silver-gold project located in Sinaloa, Mexico.
![Schematic of a polymetallic nodule mining operation. From top to bottom, the three zoom-in panels illustrate the surface operation vessel, the midwater sediment plume, and the nodule collector operating on the seabed. The midwater plume comprises two stages: (i) the dynamic plume, in which the sediment-laden discharge water rapidly descends and dilutes to a neutral buoyancy depth, and (ii) the subsequent ambient plume that is advected by the ocean current and subject to background turbulence and settling.[1] Image: Wikipedia Commons, Kredit: Carlos Muñoz-Royo.](https://www.miningmetalnews.com/sites/default/files/styles/article_frontpage_small/public/media-cover-images/schematic-of-a-polymetallic-nodule-mining-operation-from-top-to-bottom-the-three_2_0.jpg?h=3df05eba&itok=fdvTZ2tH&u=1776673036)
