Anglo and Rio are among those companies cutting back on exploration activities, and it's not just in Alaska where they are doing so. Rio, too, via it's interest in Resolution Copper at Superior, AZ, has it's hands full.

HDI, where JB has good relations, would be an option, but they don't seem to buy into early stage exploration projects. Besides, some of their partners are re-evaluating their participations in selected projects. This means that HDI may be less inclined to branch out at this time.

VP