Hecla Mining reported a 15% year-over-year increase in silver production during the third quarter, delivering a combined 4.2 million ounces from its Greens Creek, Lucky Friday and Keno Hill operations. Greens Creek led the charge with a 12% output gain, while Lucky Friday ramped up block-cave development to contribute an additional 300,000 ounces. Keno Hill’s high-grade zones outperformed expectations, adding 200,000 ounces above plan. These results drove consolidated site operating margins to a four-quarter high, underscoring Hecla’s efficiency initiatives and operational discipline.

On track to meet year-end targets, Hecla’s expansion at Greens Creek is now 85% complete, with installation of a new mill circuit expected to boost throughput by 20% in early 2027. At Lucky Friday, development of an upper‐level decline has advanced by 1,200 meters this quarter, positioning the mine to add 400 tonnes per day by mid-2026. Meanwhile, Keno Hill’s sulfide processing plant is undergoing commissioning tests, with full capacity slated for Q2 next year. Management reiterates that capital spending on these projects remains within the previously disclosed $180 million envelope.

Hecla has allocated $25 million for 2025 exploration across its portfolio, concentrating on grassroots targets near the Jualin deposit at Greens Creek and the Midnight trend at Keno Hill. Initial drilling has intercepted multiple high-grade intercepts over 10 meters at Jualin North, with assays pending. At Lucky Friday, underground drilling has extended the No. 4 vein by 150 meters along strike, opening potential for a new production panel. These programs aim to convert inferred resources into measured and indicated categories, which management projects could add up to 50 million ounces of silver equivalent over the next five years.