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EXHIBIT 10.9

Mining Lease and Option to Purchase Agreement

Camp Douglas Project

This Mining Lease and Option to Purchase Agreement Camp Douglas Project (“Agreement”) is made and entered into by and between Diversified Inholdings, LLC, a Nevada limited liability company (“Owner”), and Gold Standard Ventures (US) Inc., a Nevada corporation (“GSV”).

 

Recitals

A.           Owner owns the CD unpatented mining claims situated in Mineral County, Nevada, more particularly described in Exhibit A attached to and by this reference incorporated in this Agreement (collectively the “Property”).

B.           Owner desires to lease the Property to GSV and to grant to GSV the option to purchase the Property on the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

Now, therefore, in consideration of their mutual promises, the parties agree as follows:

1.           Definitions.  The following defined terms, wherever used in this Agreement, shall have the meanings described below:

1.1           "Area of Interest" means the geographic area within the exterior boundaries of the Property and the lands described in Exhibit A and the map which is part of Exhibit A.

1.2           “Closing Date” means the date on which GSV’s purchase of the Property is closed in accordance with Section 5.

1.3           “Effective Date” means August 1, 2010, or the date on which the parties execute this Agreement, whichever first occurs.

 

1.4           “Governmental Regulations” means all directives, laws, orders, ordinances, regulations and statutes of any federal, state or local agency, court or office.

1.5           “GSV” means Gold Standard Venture  (US) Inc., a Nevada corporation, and its successors and assigns.

1.6           “Interest Rate” means LIBOR plus two percent (2%) per annum.

1.7           “Lease Year” means each one (1) year period beginning on August 1, 2010, and on the like date of each succeeding year.

1.8           “Minerals” means all minerals and mineral materials, including gold, silver, platinum and platinum group metals, base metals (including antimony, chromium, cobalt, copper, lead, manganese, mercury, nickel, molybdenum, titanium, tungsten, zinc), and other metals and mineral materials which are on, in or under the Property.

 

  

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1.9           "Net Smelter Returns" means the net smelter returns from the production of Minerals from the Property as calculated and determined in accordance with Exhibit 1 to the conveyance to be executed and delivered in accordance with Section 5.4.

1.10           “Option” means the Option granted by Owner to GSV to purchase the Property.

1.11           “Owner” means Diversified Inholdings, LLC, a Nevada limited liability company, and its successors and assigns.

1.12           “Payments” means the payments payable by GSV in accordance with Section 4.1.

1.13           “Property” means the CD unpatented mining claims situated in Mineral County, Nevada, plus any additional unpatented mining claims which are made subject to this Agreement in accordance with its terms.

1.14           “Purchase Price” means the purchase price for the Property described in Section 5.

1.15           “Royalty” means the production royalty payable by GSV to Owner in accordance with Section 4.2.

2.           Lease and Grant of Rights.  Owner leases the Property to GSV and grants GSV the rights and privileges described in this Section.

2.1           Lease.  Owner leases the Property to GSV for the purposes of exploration for Minerals, provided, however, that GSV shall have no right to construct, develop or operate a mine on the Property without first having exercised and closed the Option.

2.2           Water Rights.  Subject to the regulations of the State of Nevada concerning the appropriation and taking of water, GSV shall have the right to appropriate and use water, to drill wells for the water on the Property and to lay and maintain all necessary water lines as may be required by GSV in its operations on the Property.  If GSV acquires or files any application for appropriation or a permit, it shall cause each such application and permit to be taken jointly in the names of Owner and GSV.  On termination of this Agreement, except on GSV’s exercise and closing of the Option, GSV shall assign and convey to Owner all permits and water rights appurtenant to the Property which are acquired by GSV during the term of this Agreement.  If GSV exercises and closes the Option, Owner shall assign and convey to GSV all permits and water rights appurtenant to the Property.

3.           Term.  The initial term of this Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and shall expire on August 1, 2030, unless this Agreement is sooner terminated, canceled or extended.  Before expiration of the initial term or any extension term GSV shall have the right to extend this Agreement for additional one (1) year terms, provided that GSV has fully performed all of its obligations under this Agreement and is conducting exploration or pre-development activities on the Property on the expiration of the term immediately preceding the extension term.  GSV shall deliver written notice to Owner of GSV’s intent to extend this Agreement.

 

  

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4.           Payments.

4.1           Minimum Payments.  On the dates described below, GSV shall pay to Owner the sums described below:

 

	Date	Payment Amount
	Execution date of this Agreement 	$45,000.00 
	August 1, 2011	$50,000.00 
	August 1, 2012  	$55,000.00
	August 1, 2013  	$60,000.00
	August 1, 2014  	$70,000.00
	August 1, 2015  	$80,000.00
	August 1, 2016  	$90,000.00
	August 1, 2017  	$100,000.00
	
and the like day of each subsequent year

	 

 

Beginning on August 1, 2018, the amount of the Payments shall be increased (and never decreased) for inflation.  The base price index for computing the annual increase shall be the Consumer's Price Index, all items, published by the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (the "Index") for the month of July 2017 (the "Beginning Index").  The month of June preceding the Payment due date shall be the adjustment date (the "Adjustment Date").  If the Index published immediately preceding the adjustment date (the "Extension Index") is increased above the Beginning Index, then the Payment for the Lease Year shall be the product reached by multiplying the Payment by a fraction, the numerator of which is the Extension Index and the denominator of which is the Beginning Index.  If the Index is changed, the Index shall be converted in accordance with the applicable conversion factor published by the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.  If the Index is discontinued or revised during the term of this Agreement, such other government index or computation with which it is replaced shall be used in order to obtain substantially the same result as would be obtained as if the Index had not been discontinued or revised.

The cash Payments shall be credited cumulatively against GSV’s Royalty payment obligations, but shall not be credited against the Purchase Price.

GSV’s obligation to pay the Payments shall terminate on termination of this Agreement, provided that (a) GSV’s exploration and development activities on the Property have ceased in their entirety; (b) GSV has commenced final closure and reclamation of the disturbances created by GSV on the Property in accordance with applicable laws and regulations and the terms and conditions of each plan of operations or reclamation plan for the Property; and (c) GSV has posted or submitted such financial assurances as are required under applicable laws and regulations to secure GSV’s performance of its reclamation obligations.  If  GSV does not perform the condition in (c), GSV’s Payment obligation shall recommence and continue until such time as GSV performs the obligation.

 

  

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4.2           Production Royalty.  GSV shall pay to Owner a production royalty based on the Net Smelter Returns from the production or sale of Minerals from the Property, including any additions to the Property resulting from the parties’ location of unpatented mining claims in the Area of Interest.  The Royalty percentage rate shall be four percent (4%) of the Net Smelter Returns

4.3           Method of Payment.  Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, all payments by GSV to Owner shall be paid by wire transfer to an account designated by Owner.

4.4           Late Charge and Interest.  If GSV does not timely pay any Payment or any other amount payable by GSV under this Agreement within ten business (10) days after the date on which such payment is due, GSV shall pay to Owner a late charge equal to ten percent (10%) of such overdue amount.  If any Payment or other amount payable by GSV remains delinquent for a period in excess of thirty (30) days, GSV shall pay to Owner, in addition to the late charge, interest from and after the due date at the Interest Rate.

4.5           Currency.  All sums referred to in this Agreement are in United States currency.

5.           Option.  Owner grants to GSV the exclusive right to purchase the Property, subject to the Royalty reserved by Owner and subject to GSV’s obligations under the conveyance executed and delivered by Owner on the closing of the Option.  GSV may exercise the Option only after GSV commits to commence development of a mine or mining on the Property and completes a positive feasibility study for development or mining on the Property.  The Purchase Price for the Property shall be One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000.00).

5.1           Notice of Election.  If GSV elects to exercise the Option, GSV shall deliver written notice to Owner.  On Owner’s receipt of GSV’s notice of exercise of the Option, the parties shall make diligent efforts to close the conveyance of the Property, as applicable, within thirty (30) days after Owner’s delivery of the notice.

5.2           Real Property Transfer Taxes.  GSV shall pay the real property transfer taxes, if any, the costs of escrow and all recording costs incurred in closing of the Option.  The parties acknowledge that there are presently no real property transfer taxes assessed on the transfer of title to unpatented mining claims, including the unpatented mining claims which constitute the Property.

5.3           Payment on Closing.  On closing of the Option, GSV shall pay the Purchase Price to Owner in cash or by wire transfer in accordance with Section 4.3

 

  

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5.4           Conveyance on Closing.  If GSV exercises and closes the Option, Owner shall execute and deliver to GSV a conveyance of the Property which contains the reservation of the Royalty and obligates GSV to make the Payments in the form of Exhibit 5.4 attached to and by this reference incorporated in this Agreement.  On the closing of the Option, the parties shall complete the conveyance by inserting the description of all of the unpatented mining claims which comprise the Property on closing of the Option.  The execution, delivery and recording of the conveyance shall not constitute a merger of GSV’s obligations under this Agreement which shall survive the closing of the Option.  Owner and GSV shall execute and deliver such other written assurances and instruments as are reasonably necessary for the purpose of closing the purchase of the Property.

5.5           Effect of Closing.  On closing of the Option, GSV shall own the Property, subject to the Royalty reserved by Owner and GSV’s obligations stated in the conveyance of the Property.

6.           Compliance With The Law.  GSV shall, at GSV’s sole cost, promptly comply with all Governmental Regulations relating to the condition, use or occupancy of the Property by GSV, including but not limited to all exploration and development work performed by GSV during the term of this Agreement.  GSV shall, at its sole cost, promptly comply with all applicable Governmental Regulations regarding reclamation of the Property and GSV shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless Owner from any and all actions, assessments, claims, costs, fines, liability and penalties arising from or relating to GSV’s failure to comply with any applicable Governmental Regulations.  Owner agrees to cooperate with GSV in GSV’s application for governmental licenses, permits and approvals, the costs of which shall be borne by GSV.

7.           GSV’s Work Practices and Reporting.

7.1           Work Practices.  GSV shall work the Property in a miner-like fashion.

7.2           Inspection of Data.  During the term of this Agreement, Owner shall have the right to examine and make copies of all data, including interpretative data, regarding the Property in GSV’s possession during reasonable business hours and upon prior notice, provided, however, that the rights of Owner to examine such data shall be exercised in a manner that does not interfere with the operations of GSV.

7.3           Reports.  On or before February 1 following each calendar year during which this Agreement is effective, GSV shall deliver to Owner a comprehensive report, which includes all factual data in digital and hard copy format, of all of GSV’s activities conducted on the Property for the previous calendar year.  Within thirty (30) days following the end of each calendar quarter during the term of this Lease, GSV shall deliver to Owner a summary report of GSV’s operations, including exploration and development activities, on or relating to the Property during the preceding calendar quarter.

8.           Scope of Agreement.  This Agreement shall extend to and include the unpatented mining claims described in Exhibit A which is part of this Agreement, and in the exhibits which are part of this Agreement, and all other interests, mining claims and property rights made part of and subject to this Agreement in accordance with this Section.  All unpatented mining

 

  

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claims located by Owner or GSV which are partially or wholly in the Area of Interest shall be located in Owner’s name and shall be part of and subject to this Agreement.  If a party locates any unpatented mining claims in the Area of Interest, the locator shall promptly notify the other party.  The parties shall execute and deliver an amendment of this Agreement, in recordable form, which provides that the newly located unpatented mining claims are part of the Property and are subject to this Agreement.  If the unpatented mining claims are located by Owner, GSV shall reimburse Owner for Owner’s costs incurred to locate the new unpatented mining claims.  The amendment may be recorded by either party.  If GSV acquires any fee lands, patented mining claims, unpatented mining claims or other property interests in the area of interest by agreement with a third party and subsequently GSV intends to surrender or terminate any such third party agreement, GSV shall notify Owner of GSV’s intent to surrender or terminate the third party agreement.  Owner shall have thirty (30) days during which to request that GSV assign and transfer the third party agreement to Owner, subject to Owner’s obligation to assume the obligations of GSV under the third party agreement which accrue or arise after GSV’s assignment and subject to GSV’s obligation to defend, indemnify and hold harmless Owner from and against any and all claims, damages, liabilities or losses arising from or relating GSV’s operations on, possession of or use of the property subject to the third party agreement before GSV’s assignment of the agreement.

9.           Liens and Notices of Non-Responsibility.  GSV agrees to keep the Property at all times free and clear of all liens, charges and encumbrances of any and every nature and description done made or caused by GSV, and to pay, and defend, indemnify and hold harmless Owner from and against, all indebtedness and liabilities incurred by or for GSV which may or might become a lien, charge or encumbrance; except that GSV need not discharge or release any such lien, charge or encumbrance so long as GSV disputes or contests the lien, charge or encumbrance and posts a bond sufficient to discharge lien acceptable to Owner.  Subject to GSV’s right to post a bond in accordance with the foregoing, if GSV does not within thirty (30) days following the imposition of any such lien, charge or encumbrance, cause the same to be released of record, Owner shall have, in addition to Owner’s contractual and legal remedies, the right, but not the obligation, to cause the lien to be released by such manner as Owner deems proper, including payment of the claim giving rise to such lien, charge or encumbrance.  All sums paid by Owner for and all expenses incurred by it in connection with such purpose, including court costs and attorney’s fees, shall be payable by GSV to Owner on demand with interest at the Interest Rate.

10.           Taxes.

10.1           Real Property Taxes.  Owner shall pay any and all taxes assessed and due against the Property before execution of this Agreement.  GSV shall pay promptly before delinquency all taxes and assessments, general, special, ordinary and extraordinary, that may be levied or assessed during the term of this Agreement upon the Property.  All such taxes for the year in which this Agreement is executed and for the year in which this Agreement terminates shall be prorated between Owner and GSV, except that neither Owner nor GSV shall be responsible for the payment of any taxes which are based upon income, net proceeds, production or revenues from the Property assessed solely to the other party.  The parties acknowledge that there are presently no real property taxes assessed against unpatented mining claims, including the unpatented mining claims which constitute the Property.

 

  

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10.2           Personal Property Taxes.  Each party shall promptly when due pay all taxes assessed against such party’s personal property, improvements or structures placed or used on the Property.

10.3           Income Taxes.  Neither party shall be liable for any taxes levied on or measured by income or net proceeds of the other party, or other taxes applicable to the other party, based upon payments under this Agreement or under the conveyance executed and delivered by Owner on the Closing of the Option.

10.4           Delivery of Tax Notices.  If Owner receives tax bills or claims which are GSV’s responsibility, Owner shall promptly forward them to GSV for payment.

11.           Insurance and Indemnity.

11.1           GSV’s Liability Insurance.  GSV shall, at GSV’s sole cost, keep in force during this Agreement term a policy of commercial general liability insurance covering property damage and liability for personal injury occurring on or about the Property, with limits in the amount of at least Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000) per occurrence for injuries to or death of person, One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) per occurrence for property damage, and with a contractual liability endorsement insuring GSV’s performance of GSV’s indemnity obligations of this Agreement.  The amounts of coverage required under this Section shall be increased by one hundred percent (100%) on the tenth (10th) anniversary of the Effective Date and by two hundred percent (200%) on the fifteenth (15th) anniversary of the Effective Date.

11.2           Form and Certificates.  The policy of insurance required to be carried by GSV pursuant to this Section shall be with a company approved by Owner and shall have a Best’s Insurance Rating of at least A-VII.  Such policy shall name Owner as an additional insured and contain a cross-liability and severability endorsement.  GSV’s insurance policy shall also be primary insurance without right of contribution from any policy carried by Owner.  A certificate of insurance and a copy of GSV’s insurance policy shall be provided to Owner before any entry by GSV or its agents or employees on the Property and shall provide that such policy is not subject to cancellation, expiration or change, except upon thirty (30) days prior written notice to Owner.

11.3           Waiver of Subrogation.  GSV and Owner each waives any and all rights of recovery against the other, and against the partners, members, officers, employees, agents and representatives of the other, for loss of or damage to the Property or injury to person to the extent such damage or injury is covered by proceeds received under any insurance policy carried by Owner or GSV and in force at the time of such loss or damage.

11.4           Waiver and Indemnification.  Owner shall not be liable to GSV and GSV waives all claims against Owner for any injury to or death of any person or damage to or destruction of any personal property or equipment or theft of

 

  

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property occurring on or about the Property or arising from or relating to GSV’s business conducted on the Property.  GSV shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless Owner and its members, officers, directors, agents and employees from and against any and all claims, judgments, damage, demands, losses, expenses, costs or liability arising in connection with injury to person or property from any activity, work, or things done, permitted or suffered by GSV or GSV’s agents, partners, servants, employees, invitees or contractors on or about the Property, or from any breach or default by GSV in the performance of any obligation on the part of GSV to be performed under the terms of this Agreement (all of the foregoing collectively referred to as “General Indemnity Claims”).  GSV agrees to defend all General Indemnity Claims on behalf of Owner, with counsel reasonably acceptable to Owner.  The obligations of GSV contained in this Section shall survive the expiration of the term or other termination of this Agreement.

12.           Environmental.

12.1           Definitions.  Hazardous Materials means any material, waste, chemical, mixture or byproduct which:  (a) is or is subsequently defined, listed, or designated under Applicable Environmental Laws (defined below) as a pollutant, or as a contaminant, or as toxic or hazardous; or (b) is harmful to or threatens to harm public health, safety, ecology, or the environment and which is or hereafter becomes subject to regulation by any federal, state or local governmental authority or agency.  Applicable Environmental Laws means any applicable federal, state, or local government law (including common law), statute, rule, regulation, ordinance, permit, license, requirement, agreement or approval, or any applicable determination, judgment, injunction, directive, prohibition or order of any governmental authority with jurisdiction at any level of federal, state, or local government, relating to pollution or protection of the environment, ecology, natural resources, or public health or safety.

12.2           GSV Hazardous Material Activities.  GSV shall limit any use, generation, storage, treatment, transportation, and handling of Hazardous Materials in connection with GSV’s use of the Property (collectively “GSV Hazardous Materials Activities”) to those Hazardous Materials, and to quantities of them, that are necessary to perform activities permitted under this Agreement.  GSV  Hazardous Materials Activities include, without limitation, all such activities on or about the Property by GSV’s employees, partners, agents, invitees, contractors and their subcontractors.  GSV shall not cause or permit any Hazardous Materials to be disposed or abandoned at the Property.  GSV shall cause all GSV Hazardous Materials Activities to be performed in strict conformance to Applicable Environmental Laws.  GSV shall promptly notify Owner of any actual or claimed violation of Applicable Environmental Laws in connection with GSV Hazardous Materials Activities, and GSV shall promptly and thoroughly cure any violation of Applicable Environmental Laws in connection with GSV Hazardous Materials Activities.  If any governmental approval, consent, license or permit is required under Applicable Environmental Laws for GSV to perform any portion of its work at the Property, including without limitation any air emission permits, before commencing any such work, GSV shall be solely responsible, at GSV’s expense, for obtaining and maintaining, and providing copies of, each approval, consent, license or permit. All GSV Hazardous Materials Activities shall be performed by qualified personnel who have received proper training with respect to Hazardous Materials, including compliance with applicable OSHA laws and regulations.  GSV shall cause all Hazardous Materials present at the Property in connection with GSV Hazardous Materials Activities to be safely and securely stored, using double containment.  GSV agrees that neither its use of the Property nor GSV Hazardous Materials Activities shall result in contamination of the environment.

 

  

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12.3           Spills of Hazardous Materials.  GSV shall promptly notify Owner and each governmental regulatory entity with jurisdiction of any spills, releases, or leaks of Hazardous Materials that occur in connection with GSV Hazardous Materials Activities or GSV’s use of the Property, including but not limited to any resulting contamination of the environment (collectively “GSV Contamination”).  GSV further shall promptly notify Owner of any claims of which GSV becomes aware regarding any actual or alleged GSV Contamination.  GSV shall be solely responsible at its expense for promptly, diligently and thoroughly investigating, monitoring, reporting on, responding to, and cleaning up to completion any and all such GSV Contamination, in full conformance to Applicable Environmental Laws (collectively the “GSV Environmental Response Work”).  All GSV Environmental Response Work shall be reported to each governmental regulatory entity with jurisdiction on an ongoing basis, and GSV shall diligently attempt to obtain written concurrence from each such regulatory entity that all GSV Environmental Response Work has been satisfactorily performed and completed.  GSV at its expense shall keep Owner timely informed of GSV’s progress in responding to any GSV Contamination, including but not limited to providing Owner with copies, at GSV’s expense, of all reports, work plans, and communications with governmental regulatory entities.

12.4           Removal of Stored Hazardous Materials.  Before the expiration or termination of this Agreement, and notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, and in full conformance to Applicable Environmental Laws, GSV shall:  (a) cause to be properly removed from the Property all Hazardous Materials stored at the Property in connection with GSV’s use of the Property or in connection with GSV Hazardous Materials Activities; and (b) cause to be properly dismantled, closed and removed from the Property all devices, drums, equipment and containments used for handling, storing or treating Hazardous Materials Activities.  As part of the closure and removal activities described in the preceding sentence, GSV shall cause to be performed representative environmental sampling of areas of the Property where such handling, storing or treating of Hazardous Materials occurred, to confirm that no contamination of the environment has resulted from any GSV Hazardous Materials Activities.  Such sampling shall be performed by a qualified environmental consultant acceptable to Owner, and such consultant shall promptly issue a written report which describes the consultant’s data, findings, and conclusions, a copy of which shall be provided to Owner at GSV’s expense.  If any GSV Contamination is discovered, GSV shall immediately initiate GSV Environmental Response Work as prescribed in this Agreement.

12.5           Environmental Indemnity.  GSV shall promptly reimburse, defend, indemnify (with legal counsel acceptable to Owner, whose consent shall not unreasonably be withheld) and hold harmless Owner, its employees, assigns, successors-in-interest, agents and representatives from any and all claims, liabilities, obligations, losses, causes of action, demands, governmental proceedings or directives, fines, penalties, expenses, costs (including but not limited to reasonable attorney’s fees, consultant’s fees and other expert’s fees and costs), and damages, which arise from or relate to:  (a) GSV Hazardous Materials Activities; (b) GSV Contamination; (c) any non-compliance with Applicable Environmental Laws in connection with GSV’s use of the Property; or (d) a breach of any obligation of GSV under this Section.

 

  

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12.6           Survival.  The provisions of this Section shall survive expiration or termination of this Agreement.

13.           Property Maintenance.

13.1           Claim Maintenance.

13.1.1           Annual Assessment Work.  To the extent required by law, beginning with the annual assessment work period of September 1, 2010, to September 1, 2011, and for each succeeding annual assessment work year commencing during the term of this Agreement, and not less than thirty (30) days before the applicable deadline,  GSV shall perform for the benefit of the Property work of a type customarily deemed applicable as assessment work and of sufficient value to satisfy the annual assessment work requirements of all applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances, if any, and shall prepare evidence of the same in form proper for recordation and filing, and shall timely record and/or file such evidence in the appropriate federal, state and local office as required by applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances. GSV shall deliver to Owner proof of GSV’s compliance with this Section not less than fifteen (15) days before the applicable deadline.  If GSV elects to terminate this Agreement more than three (3) months before the deadline for performance of annual assessment work for the succeeding annual assessment year, GSV shall have no obligation to perform annual assessment work nor to prepare, record and/or file evidence of the same for the following annual assessment year.  The parties acknowledge that there are presently no annual assessment work requirements for the unpatented mining claims which constitute the Property.

13.1.2           Federal Mining Claim Maintenance Fees.  If under applicable federal laws and regulations federal annual mining claim maintenance fees are required to be paid for the unpatented mining claims which constitute all or part of the Property, beginning with the annual assessment work period of September 1, 2010, to September 1, 2011, and not less than thirty (30) days before the applicable deadline, GSV shall timely and properly pay the federal annual mining claim maintenance fees, and shall execute and record or file, as applicable, proof of payment of the federal annual mining claim maintenance fees and of Owner's intention to hold the unpatented mining claims which constitute the Property.  GSV shall pay all mining claim fees and other fees imposed under Nevada law on the recording of the notice of intent to hold the unpatented mining claims which constitute the Property or otherwise required for the maintenance of the Property.  GSV shall deliver to Owner proof of GSV’s compliance with this Section not less than fifteen (15) days before the applicable deadline.  If before the parties’ execution of this Agreement Owner pays the federal annual mining claim maintenance fees for the annual assessment period September 1, 2010, to September 1, 2011, GSV shall reimburse Owner for such fees immediately following the parties’ execution of this Agreement.  If GSV elects to terminate this Agreement more than three (3) months before the deadline for payment of the federal annual mining claim maintenance fees for the succeeding annual assessment year, GSV shall have no obligation to pay the federal annual mining claim maintenance fees for the Property for the succeeding assessment year.

 

  

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13.1.3           Work Commitment.  During the periods described below, GSV shall perform exploration or pre-development work on the Property, including, without limitation, geological, geochemical and geophysical investigations and surveys, sampling and assaying, exploration drilling, engineering, metallurgical and other technical analyses, investigations and studies of the Property.  Expenditures for administrative, office operations and overhead shall not exceed fifteen percent (15%) of GSV’s actual expenditures to perform exploration or pre-development work on the Property.  Work commitment expenditures by GSV during any period in excess of the work commitment obligation for such period shall be credited against GSV’s subsequent work commitment obligations.  On Owner’s request, GSV shall provide documentary substantiation of GSV’s performance of its work commitment obligations.  GSV’s work commitment obligations are:

	
Lease Period

	
Work Commitment Amount

	
First Lease Year

	
$25,000.00

	
Second Lease Year

	
$75,000.00

	
Third Lease Year

	
$100,000.00

	
Fourth Lease Year

	
$100,000.00

	
Fifth Lease Year

	
$125,000.00

	
Sixth Lease Year

	
$125,000.00

	
Seventh Lease Year

	
$150,000.00

	
Eighth Lease Year

	
$200,000.00

	
Ninth Lease Year

and each succeeding Lease Year

	
$200,000,00

 

Beginning in the tenth Lease Year, the work commitment obligation shall be increased, but never decreased, to reflect inflation according to the Consumer Price Index.  The base index shall be the Consumer Price Index on August 1, 2019, and the adjustment index shall be the Consumer Price Index on August 1 of the Lease Year for which the work commitment obligation amount is adjusted.

If during any Lease Year GSV does not complete the full work commitment obligation, GSV shall pay to Owner the amount which is one-half (1/2) of the difference between the work commitment obligation amount and the amount actually expended by GSV during the Lease Year.  GSV shall pay such amount within thirty (30) days following the end of the Lease Year during which GSV does not perform the full amount of the work commitment obligation.

On or before the fourth (4th) anniversary of the Effective Date, GSV shall complete a Canadian National Instrument 43-101 compliant report, or equivalent, for the Property.

 

  

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13.2           Amendment of Mining Laws. The parties acknowledge that legislation for the amendment or repeal of the mining laws of the United States applicable to the Property has been, and in the future may be, considered by the United States Congress.  The parties desire to insure that any and all interests of the parties in the lands subject to the unpatented mining claims which comprise all or part of the Property, including any rights or interests acquired in such lands under the mining laws as amended, repealed or superseded, shall be part of the Property and shall be subject to the Agreement.  If the mining laws applicable to the unpatented mining claims subject to this Agreement are amended, repealed or superseded, the conversion or termination of Owner's interest in the Property pursuant to such amendment, repeal or supersession of the mining laws shall not be considered a deficiency or defect in Owner's title in the Property, and GSV shall have no right or claim against Owner resulting from the conversion, diminution, or loss of Owner's interest in and to the Property, except as expressly provided in this Agreement.

If pursuant to any amendment or supersession of the mining laws Owner is granted the right to convert its interest in the unpatented mining claims comprising the Property to a permit, license, lease, or other right or interest, all converted interests or rights shall be deemed to be part of the Property subject to this Agreement.  Upon the grant or issuance of such converted interests or rights, the parties shall execute and deliver an addendum to this Agreement, in recordable form, by which such converted interests or rights are made subject to this Agreement.

14.           Relationship of the Parties.

14.1           No Partnership.  This Agreement shall not be deemed to constitute any party, in its capacity as such, the partner, agent or legal representative of any other party, or to create any joint venture, partnership, mining partnership or other partnership relationship between the parties.

14.2           Competition.  Except as expressly provided in this Agreement, each party shall have the free and unrestricted right independently to engage in and receive the full benefits of any and all business endeavors of any sort outside the Property or outside the scope of this Agreement, whether or not competitive with the endeavors contemplated under this Agreement, without consultation with or participation of the other party.  In particular, without limiting the foregoing, neither party to this Agreement shall have any obligation to the other as to any opportunity to acquire any interest, property or right offered to it outside the scope of this Agreement.

15.           Inspection.  Owner or Owner’s duly authorized representatives shall be permitted to enter on the Property and GSV’s workings at all reasonable times for the purpose of inspection, but they shall enter on the Property at their own risk and in such a manner which does not unreasonably hinder, delay or interfere with GSV’s operations.

16.           Title.                      Owner represents in respect of the unpatented mining claims which comprise the Property that: (a) the claims were properly located in accordance with applicable federal and state laws and regulations; (b) all assessment work requirements for the claims have been performed and all filings and recordings of proof of performance have been made properly and the federal annual mining claim maintenance and rental fees have been paid properly; (c) the claims are in good

 

  

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standing; (d) subject to the paramount title of the United States, Owner has good right and full power to lease and to convey the interests described in this Agreement; and (e) the claims are free and clear of all liens, claims and encumbrances created by, through or under Owner.  Owner disclaims any representation or warranty concerning the existence or proof of a discovery of locatable minerals on or under the Property.

17.           Covenants, Warranties and Representations.  Each of the parties covenants, warrants and represents for itself as follows:

17.1           Compliance with Laws.  That it has complied with all applicable laws and regulations of any governmental body, federal, state or local, regarding the terms of and performance of its obligations under this Agreement.

17.2           No Pending Proceedings.  That there are no lawsuits or proceedings pending or threatened which affect its ability to perform the terms of this Agreement.

17.3           Costs.  That it shall pay all costs and expenses incurred or to be incurred by it in negotiating and preparing this Agreement and in closing and carrying out the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

17.4           Brokers.  That it has had no dealings with any agent, broker or finder in connection with this Agreement, and shall indemnify, defend and hold the other party harmless from and against any claims that may be asserted through such party that any agent’s broker’s or finder’s fee is due in connection with this Agreement.

18.           Termination by Owner.  Any failure by GSV to perform any of its covenants, liabilities, obligations or responsibilities under this Agreement shall be a default.  Owner may give GSV written notice of a default.  If the default is not remedied within thirty (30) days after receipt of the notice, provided the default can reasonably be cured within that time, or, if not, if GSV has not within that time commenced action to cure the same or does not after such commencement diligently prosecute such action to completion, Owner may terminate this Agreement by delivering notice to GSV of Owner’s termination of this Agreement.  In the case of GSV’s failure to pay the Payments, Owner shall be entitled to give GSV written notice of the default, and if such default is not remedied within fifteen (15) days after the receipt of the notice, then Owner may terminate this Agreement by delivering notice to GSV of Owner’s termination of this Agreement.  On termination of this Agreement based on GSV’s default, within ten (10) days after termination GSV shall execute and deliver to Owner a release and termination of this Agreement in form acceptable for recording.

19.           Termination by GSV.  GSV may at any time terminate this Agreement by giving three (3) months advance written notice to Owner.  If GSV terminates this Agreement, GSV shall perform all obligations and pay all payments which accrue or become due before the termination date.  On GSV’s termination of this Agreement, within ten (10) days after termination GSV shall execute and deliver to Owner a release and termination of this Agreement in form acceptable for recording.

 

  

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20.           Surrender of Property.  On expiration or termination of this Agreement, GSV shall surrender the Property promptly to Owner and at GSV’s sole cost shall remove from the Property all of GSV’s buildings, equipment and structures.  GSV shall reclaim the Property in accordance with all applicable Governmental Regulations.  GSV shall diligently perform reclamation and restoration of the Property such that GSV’s reclamation and restoration shall be completed before expiration of this Agreement and not later than the date required under any Governmental Regulations.

21.           Data.  Within thirty (30) days following termination of this Agreement, GSV shall deliver to Owner copies of all data regarding the Property in GSV’s possession at the time of termination which before termination have not been furnished to Owner and, at Owner’s request, GSV shall deliver to Owner all drill core, cuttings, samples and sample splits taken from the Property.  GSV shall deliver the data in digital and hard copy form.  The digital data shall be in a format which is readable and useful using commercially available software which is customarily used in the mineral exploration industry in the United States.  All digital and written data shall be in English.

22.           Confidentiality.  The data and information, including the terms of this Agreement, coming into a party’s possession by virtue of this Agreement shall be deemed confidential and shall not be disclosed to outside third parties except as may be required to publicly record or protect title to the Property or to publicly announce and disclose information under Governmental Regulations or under the rules and regulations of any stock exchange on which the stock of any party, or the parent or affiliates of any party, is listed.  Each party agrees to inform the other party of the content of the announcement or disclosure in sufficient time to permit the other party to jointly or simultaneously make a similar public announcement or disclosure.  If a party negotiates for a transfer of all or any portion of its interest in the Property or under this Agreement or negotiates to procure financing or loans relating to the Property, in order to facilitate any such negotiations such party shall have the right to furnish information to third parties, provided that each third party to whom the information is disclosed agrees to maintain its confidentiality in the manner provided in this Section.

23.           Assignment.

23.1           GSV’s Assignment.   Except as expressly provided in this Agreement, GSV shall not assign, convey, encumber, sublease, grant any concession, or license or otherwise transfer (each a “Transfer”) all or any part of its interest in this Agreement or the Property, without, in each case, Owner’s prior written consent, which shall not be withheld unreasonably.  Any Transfer of this Agreement which is prohibited under this Section shall be deemed void and shall constitute a material default under the terms of this Agreement. In its consideration of GSV’s request for consent to a Transfer, Owner may consider the financial, legal, operating and regulatory history and the market capitalization of the proposed transferee.

 

  

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23.2           Owner’s Assignment.  Subject to GSV’s rights under this Agreement, Owner shall have the right to assign, convey, encumber, or sell all or any part of its interest in this Agreement or the Property.  No change in ownership of Owner's interest in the Property shall affect GSV's obligations under this Agreement unless and until Owner delivers and GSV receives copies of the documents which demonstrate the change in ownership of Owner's interest.  Until GSV receives Owner's notice and the documents required to be delivered under this Section, GSV may continue to make all payments under this Agreement as if the transfer of Owner's ownership interest had not occurred.  No division of Owner's ownership as to all or any part of the Property shall enlarge GSV's obligations or diminish GSV's rights under this Agreement.

24.           Memorandum Agreement.  The parties shall execute and deliver a memorandum of this Agreement.  The execution of the memorandum shall not limit, increase or in any manner affect any of the terms of this Agreement or any rights, interests or obligations of the parties.

25.           Notices.  Any notices required or authorized to be given by this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be sent either by commercial courier, facsimile, or by certified U.S. mail, postage prepaid and return receipt requested, addressed to the proper party at the address stated below or such address as the party shall have designated to the other parties in accordance with this Section.  Such notice shall be effective on the date of receipt by the addressee party, except that any facsimiles received after 5:00 p.m. of the addressee’s local time shall be deemed delivered the next day.

If to Owner:                           Diversified Inholdings, LLC

PO Box 34089

Reno, Nevada 89533-4089

If to GSV :                              Gold Standard Ventures (US) Inc.

 

26.           Binding Effect of Obligations.  This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the respective parties and their successors or assigns.

27.           Entire Agreement.  The parties agree that the entire agreement between them is written in this Agreement and in a memorandum of agreement of even date.  There are no terms or conditions, express or implied, other than expressly stated in this Agreement.  This Agreement may be amended or modified only by a written instrument signed by the parties with the same formality as this Agreement.

28.           Governing Law and Forum Selection.  This Agreement shall be construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Nevada.  Any action or proceeding concerning the construction, or interpretation of the terms of this Agreement or any claim or dispute between the parties shall be commenced and heard in the Second Judicial District Court of the State of Nevada, in and for the County of Washoe, Reno, Nevada.

29.           Multiple Counterparts.  This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which shall constitute the same Agreement.

 

  

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30.            Severability.  If any part, term or provision of this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be illegal or in conflict with any Governmental Regulations, the validity of the remaining portions or provisions shall not be affected, and the rights and obligations of the parties shall be construed and enforced as if the Agreement did not contain the particular part, term or provision held to be invalid.

31.           Time of Essence.  Time is of the essence in the performance of the parties’ obligations under this Agreement.

The parties have executed this Agreement effective as of the Effective Date.

	 	
Diversified Inholdings, LLC

	 
	 	 	 	 
	
 

	
By: 

	/s/ Greg Ekins 	 
	 	 	
Greg Ekins, Manager

	 
	 	 	 	 

	 	 	 	 
	
 

	
By: 

	/s/ Peter Dilles	 
	 	 	
Peter Dilles, Manager

	 
	 	 	 	 

	 	 	 
	 	
Gold Standard Ventures (US) Inc.

	 
	 	 	 	 
	
 

	
By: 

	/s/ Richard Silas	 
	 	 	Name:  Richard Silas 	 
	 	 	Title: Corporate Secretary 	 

 

 

  

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Mining Lease and Option to Purchase Agreement

Exhibit A

Description of CD Property and Area of Interest

Property.

See attached list of unpatented mining claims.

Area of Interest.

The Area of Interest encompasses the following lands in Mineral County, Nevada defined by subdivisions of the public survey as T5N, R34E Sections:

T5N R34E MDB&M

Section 1 All, 2 All, 3 All, 10 East Half, 11 All, 12 All.

T5N R35E MDB&M

Section 6 West Half, 7 West Half.

T6N R34E MDB&M

Section 21 All, 22 All, 26 All, 27 All, 28 All, 33East Half, 34 All, 35 All, 36 All.

T5N R33E MDB&M 80 Acre Fee Land

Section 12 SE4/NE4 & NE4/SE4

Not shown on Map, the parcel is 5 miles west of the project area.

The Area of Interest is illustrated in the attached map.

 

  

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Exhibit A

Description of Property

Part 1 Unpatented Mining Claims

 

	 CLAIM NAME	BLM NMC	MINERAL COUNTY RECORDATION 	COUNT 
	 CD 26	 634390	 144 759	 1
	 CD 27	 827059	 190 854	 2
	 CD 28	 827060	 190 855	 3
	 CD 30	 827062	 190 857	 4
	 CD 31	 827063	 190 858	 5
	 CD 32	 827064	 190 859	 6
	 CD 33	 827065	 190 860	 7
	 Kernick 1 R	 828925	 191 968	 8
	 Kernick R	 828926	 191 969	 9
	 CD 57	 828927	 191 970	 10
	 CD 58	 832615	 194 170	 11
	 CD 59	 832616	 194 171	 12
	 CD 60	 844819	 127857	 13
	 CD 61	 844820	 127858	 14
	 CD 62	 842788	 127733	 15
	 CD 63	 844821	 127859	 16
	 CD 64	 844822	 127860	 17
	 CD 65	 844823	 127861	 18
	 CD 66	 827061	 190 856	 19
	 CD 67	 844824	 127862	 20
	 CD 68	 844825	 127863	 21
	 CD 69	 844826	 127864	 22
	 CD 70	 844827	 127865	 23
	 CD 71	 844828	 127866	 24
	 CD 72	 844829	 127867	 25
	 CD 73	 844830	 127868	 26
	 CD 74	 848287	 128266	 27
	 CD 75	 848288	 128267	 28
	 CD 76	 848289	 128268	 29
	 CD 77	 848290	 128269	 30
	 CD 78	 848291	 128270	 31
	 CD 79	 848292	 128271	 32

 

Mining Lease Exhibit A Description of Property

 

  

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	 CD 80	 848293 	 128272	 33
	 CD 81	848294	 128273	 34
	 CD 82	 848295	 128274	 35
	 CD 83	 848296 	 128275	 36
	 CD 84	 848297	 128276	 37
	 CD 85	 848298	 128277	 38
	 CD 86	 848299	 128278	 39
	 CD 87	 848300	 128279	 40
	 CD 88	 848301	 128280	 41
	 CD 89	 848302	 128281	 42
	 CD 90	 848303	 128282	 43
	 CD 91	 848304	 128283	 44
	 CD 92	 848305	 128284	 45
	 CD 93	 912144	 136558	 46
	 CD 94	 912145	 136559	 47
	 CD 95	 912146	 136560	 48
	 CD 96	 912147	 136561	 49
	 CD 97	 912148	 136562	 50
	 CD 98	 912149	 136563	 51
	 CD 99	 912150	 136564	 52
	 CD 100	 912151	 136565	 53
	 CD 101	 912152	 136566	 54
	 CD 102	 912153	 136567	 55
	 CD 103	 912154	 136568	 56
	 CD 104	 912155	 136569	 57
	 CD 105	 912156	 136570	 58
	 CD 106	 912157	 136571	 59
	 CD 107	 912158	 136572	 60
	 CD 108	 912159	 136573	 61
	 CD 109	 912160	 136574	 62
	 CD 110	 912161	 136575	 63
	 CD 111	 912162	 136576	 64
	 CD 112	 912163	 136577	 65
	 CD 113	 912164	 136578	 66
	 CD 114	 912165	 136579	 67
	 CD 115	 912166	 136580	 68
	 CD 116	 912167	 136581	 69
	 CD 117	 912168	 136582	 70

 

Mining Lease Exhibit A Description of Property

 

  

19

  

 

	 CD 118	 912169	 136583	 71
	 CD 119	 912170	 136584	 72
	 CD 120	 912171	 136585	 73
	 CD 121	 912172	 136586	 74
	 CD 122	 912173	 136587	 75
	 CD 123	 912174	 136588	 76
	 CD 124	 912175	 136589	 77
	 CD 125	 912176	 136590	 78
	 CD 126	 912177	 136591	 79
	 CD 127	 912178	 136592	 80
	 CD 128	 912179	 136593	 81
	 CD 129	 912180	 136594	 82
	 CD 130	 912181	 136595	 83
	 CD 131	 912182	 136596	 84
	 CD 132	 912183	 136597	 85
	 CD 133	 912184	 136598	 86
	 CD 134	 912185	 136599	 87
	 CD 135	 912186	 136600	 88
	 CD 136	 912187	 136601	 89
	 CD 164	 1007208	 148172	 90
	 CD 166	 1007209	 148173	 91
	 CD 168	 1007210	 148174	 92
	 CD 170	 1007211	 148175	 93
	 CD 172	 1011701	 148943	 94
	 CD 174	 1011702	 148944	 95
	 CD 176	 1011703	 148945	 96
	 CD 178	 1011704	 148946	 97
	 CD 180	 1005636	 147853	 98
	 CD 181	 1005637	 147854	 99
	 CD 182	 1005638	 147855	 100

	 CD 183	 1005639	 147856	 101
	 CD 184	 1005640	 147857	 102
	 CD 185	 1005641	 147858	 103
	 CD 186	 1005642	 147859	 104
	 CD 187	 1005635	 147860	 105
	 CD 202	 1011705	 148947	 106
	 CD 203	 1011706	 148948	 107
	 CD 204	 1011707	 148949	 108

 

Mining Lease Exhibit A Description of Property

 

  

20

  

 

	 CD 205	 1011708	 148950	 109
	 CD 206	 1011709	 148951	 110
	 CD 207	 1011710	 148952	 111
	 CD 208	 1011711	 148953	 112
	 CD 209	 1011712	 148954	 113
	 CD 210	 1011713	 148955	 114
	 CD 211	 1011714	 148956	 115
	 CD 211B	 1011715	 148957	 116
	 CD 212	 1011716	 148958	 117
	 CD 137	 1021899	 148959	 118
	 CD 138	 1021900	 149690	 119
	 CD 139	 1021901	 149691	 120
	 CD 140	 1021902	 149692	 121
	 CD 155	 1021903	 149693	 122
	 CD 156	 1021904	 149694	 123
	 CD 213	 1021905	 149695	 124
	 CD 214	 1021906	 149696	 125
	 CD 215	 1021907	 149697	 126
	 CD 216	 1021908	 149698	 127
	 CD 217	 1021909	 149699	 128
	 CD 218	 1021910	 149700	 129
	 CD 219	 1021911	 149701	 130
	 CD 220	 1021912	 149702	 131
	 CD 221	 1021913	 149703	 132
	 CD 222	 1021914	 149704	 133
	 CD 223	 1021915	 149705	 134
	 CD 224	 1021916	 149706	 135
	 CD 225	 1021917	 149707	 136
	 CD 226	 1021918	 149708	 137
	 CD 229	 1021919	 149709	 138
	 CD 230	 1021920	 149710	 139
	 CD 141	 1026884	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 140
	 CD 142	 1026885	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 141
	 CD 143	 1026886	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 142
	 CD 144	 1026887	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 143
	 CD 145	 1026888	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 144
	 CD 146	 1026889	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 145
	 CD 147	 1026890	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 146

 

Mining Lease Exhibit A Description of Property

 

  

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	 CD 148	 1026891	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 147
	 CD 149	 1026892	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 148
	 CD 150	 1026893	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 149
	 CD 157	 1026894	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 150
	 CD 158	 1026895	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 151
	 CD 159	 1026896	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 152
	 CD 160	 1026897	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 153
	 CD 161	 1026898	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 154
	 CD 227	 1026902	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 155
	 CD 228	 1026903	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 156
	 CD 231	 1026904	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 157
	 CD 232	 1026905	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 158
	 CD 233	 1026906	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 159
	 CD 234	 1026907	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 160
	 CD 235	 1026908	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 161
	 CD 238	 1026909	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 162
	 CD 239	 1026910	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 163
	 CD 240	 1026911	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 164
	 CD 241	 1023127	 150091	 165
	 CD 246	 1023128	 150092	 166
	 CD 247	 1023129	 150093	 167
	 CD 248	 1023130	 150094	 168
	 CD 249	 1023131	 150095	 169
	 CD 250	 1026912	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 170
	 CD 251	 1026913	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 171
	 CD 252	 1026914	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 172
	 CD 253	 1026915	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 173
	 CD 254	 1026916	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 174
	 CD 165	 1026899	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 175
	 CD 167	 1026900	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 176
	 CD 169	 1026901	 Certified Mailed August 24, 2010	 177

      

Fee Land 80 acres

T5N R33E Section 12, NE4/SE4 and the SE4/NE4

Not shown on map

 

Mining Lease Exhibit A Description of Property

 

  

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Exhibit A Part 2

Area of Interest and Property Map

T5N R34E MDB&M

Section 1 All, 2 All, 3 All, 10 East Half, 11 All, 12 All.

T5N R35E MDB&M

Section 6 West Half, 7 West Half.

T6N R34E MDB&M

Section 21 All, 22 All, 26 All, 27 All, 28 All, 33 East Half, 34 All, 35 All, 36 All.

T5N R33E MDB&M 80 Acre Fee Land

Section 12 SE4/NE4 & NE4/SE4

Parcel is 5 miles west of the project area. Not shown on Map.

Mining Lease Exhibit A Description of Property

 

  

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  24Unassociated Document

EXHIBIT 10.10

 

SURFACE USE AGREEMENTWITH CONDITIONAL PURCHASE OPTION

This SURFACE ACCESS AND USE AGREEMENT (the “Agreement"), made and entered into as of this day 27th day of September, 2010 (“Effective Date"), by and between Julian Tomera Ranches, Inc., Stone House Division, a Nevada corporation ("Tomera"), and GOLD STANDARD VENTURES (US) INC., a Nevada Corporation (“GOLD STANDARD”).

 

RECITALS

A.           Tomera, to the best of its knowledge, is the owner of the entire and undivided fee interest in the surface estate of certain lands in Townships 31 North, Range 53 East, and Township 30 North, Range 53 East, M.D.M., Elko County, Nevada as listed in Exhibit A ("Surface Tracts"), attached hereto, and by this reference made a part hereof.

B.           GOLD STANDARD currently controls or owns certain rights in and to the mineral estate in and under portions of the Surface Tracts. GOLD STANDARD may from time to time acquire additional mineral rights in and under a portion, or portions of the Surface Tracts.

C.           Tomera and GOLD STANDARD now wish to enter into this agreement (i) to grant GOLD STANDARD a general right of ingress and egress over, upon, and across Surface Tracts, (ii) to grant GOLD STANDARD the right to use the Surface Tracts in conduct of its mineral exploration, development and mining operations thereon, {iii} to further grant to GOLD STANDARD the conditional option to purchase portions of the Surface Tracts, all as further provided hereunder, so long as this Agreement shall remain in effect and (iv) to set forth the compensation to be paid to Tomera in consideration for the rights granted to GOLD STANDARD hereunder.

D.           This Agreement is not intended to, and does not in any way alter, amend or supersede any prior existing surface agreements, easements, or other agreements, as may relate to the Surface Tracts. This agreement relates only to GOLD STANDARD's access to, and use of the Surface Tracts, and does not define, alter or otherwise affect mineral ownership or royalty interests within or related to the Surface Tracts.

E.           GOLD STANDARD shall pay all attorney fees associated with the changing and signing of this lease.

 

  

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SECTION ONE

AGREEMENT

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual promises contained herein, Tomera and GOLD STANDARD hereby agree as follows:

1.1           Tomera owns the Surface Tracts, and warrants that, except for existing encumbrances of record, the Surface Tracts are not subject to any other agreement, encumbrance, adverse claim by third party, burden or restriction created by any act or instrument of Tomera that will affect in any material adverse manner the ability of Tomera to fully comply with the provisions of this Agreement.

1.2           The term of this Agreement shall begin with the date hereof and shall continue for TEN (10) years, and so long thereafter as GOLD STANDARD owns or controls other properties within a two mile radius of the Surface Tracts, unless sooner terminated as provided for herein.

1.3           As consideration for the continuance of this Agreement, GOLD STANDARD shall pay to Tomera an annual rental of FOUR DOLLARS AND FIFTY CENTS ($4.50) PER ACRE for each acre of land included in the Surface Tracts that are subject to this Agreement. At the Effective Date the parties estimate the number of acres that are subject to the Agreement to be approximately (1,790.00 acres). Annual rental shall be due on or before the annual anniversary of the Effective Date ("Anniversary Date"). Upon execution of the Agreement GOLD STANDARD shall make an initial payment to Tomera in the amount of EIGHT THOUSAND FIFTY FIVE DOLLARS ($8,055.00), which calculation is based on the estimated acreage at the Effective Date. If it is determined that acreage owned by Tomera is less than, or more than, the estimated acreage above, any overpayment or under payment shall be adjusted for in the payment due on the first Anniversary Date. GOLD STANDARD may from time to time, release portions of the Surface Tracts from this Agreement, and the next annual rental payment shall be adjusted accordingly.

1.4a.           All private roads located on property outside the Surface Tracts subject to this lease, owned by Lessor JULIAN TOMERA RANCHES, INC., STONEHOUSE DIVISION, which GOLD STANDARD shall desire to use to access the Surface Tracts, for transportation purposes only, whether the roads are determined to be located on property owned by Lessor, or on easements which Lessor shall control, shall be subject to the following provisions:  all users authorized by GOLD STANDARD, whether contractors, drillers, exploratory personnel, or employees of GOLD STANDARD shall be obligated to maintain the roadways in good condition, including blading and hauling in materials to fix washouts, sinks, dust pits, and other such road hazards, and shall apply such quantities of water or other substances (such as magnesium-chloride) to the surface of the road as shall be necessary to maintain the dust level to a reasonable standard.  Vehicles shall travel at a reasonable rate of speed in order to reduce the dust hazard from travel on the roadways.  GOLD STANDARD shall maintain all cattleguards, culverts and fences, and in the event of damage to any infrastructure, shall repair all such damage within FIFTEEN (15) days after the damage shall be reported to GOLD STANDARD.

 

  

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b.           Specifically, with respect to the approximately 2 2 miles of private roadway through Webb Canyon, GOLD STANDARD is advised that the dust hangs in the canyon, and causes dust pneumonia in Lessor=s livestock grazing in that area.  GOLD STANDARD shall be required to repay to JULIAN TOMERA RANCHES, INC., STONEHOUSE DIVISION, the fair market value for each calf, yearling, and mature cow or bull that shall die because of dust pneumonia contracted while the animal was grazing in Webb Canyon.

 

c.           GOLD STANDARD shall pay to JULIAN TOMERA RANCHES, INC., STONEHOUSE DIVISION, an annual fee in the amount of FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($5,000.00) for use those sections of the Webb Canyon roadway, owned and controlled by JULIAN TOMERA RANCHES, INC., STONEHOUSE DIVISION, and any other roadways owned or controlled by JULIAN TOMERA RANCHES, INC., STONEHOUSE DIVISION, and located outside the Surface Tracts.  In the event GOLD STANDARD shall desire to install infrastructure to the Surface Tracts, and shall desire to use the roadway areas, such as utilities, GOLD STANDARD shall be required to renegotiate the terms of this access provision.

 

SECTION TWO

PAYMENT

2.1       In addition to the annual payment provided under Section 1.3 above, GOLD STANDARD shall compensate Tomera for surface disturbance directly resulting from GOLD STANDARD's operations conducted on the Surface Tracts as follows:

a.           A one time payment of FIFTEEN HUNDRED ($1,500.00) dollars for each drill site, including its associated access, as may be constructed by GOLD STANDARD on the Surface Tracts. A drill site may be up to 400 feet by 400 feet in dimension, and access 20 feet in width. Multiple holes may be drilled from any drill site without further compensation. If a drill site is abandoned, the drill site shall be reclaimed and all drill holes properly plugged.

 

  

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b.           For other surface disturbance that is directly attributable to GOLD STANDARD's activities, to the extent that the affected surface is taken out of productive ranching and grazing use, GOLD STANDARD shall compensate Tomera at the rate of $100.00 per acre, per year. GOLD STANDARD is further obligated to reclaim and to reseed all disturbed areas after appropriate contouring measures have been taken to prevent erosion. Such payments shall also be paid (as to the disturbed acreage) until vegetation is reasonably reestablished, not to exceed THREE (3) years after the aforesaid reseeding has been accomplished. These payments ­shall not apply to any acreage that becomes subject to ­purchase by GOLD STANDARD pursuant to Section 3 below.

 

SECTION THREE

USE AND PURCHASE

3.1       Subject to following, Tomera agrees to make available for GOLD STANDARD use and purchase:

a.           Subject to available capacity and water rights, and within Tomera's discretion, Tomera will make water available for GOLD STANDARD's use for exploration drilling. If such capacity is available and if (i) GOLD STANDARD elects to purchase water from Tomera and (ii) Tomera elects to make such water available, GOLD STANDARD shall pay Tomera at the rate of FIVE CENTS ($0.05) per gallon so purchased. Tomera shall cooperate with GOLD STANDARD in obtaining any necessary permits, waivers, or authorizations, as may be required by the Nevada State Engineer's Office to properly permit GOLD STANDARD's use of water supplied by Tomera. GOLD STANDARD shall be responsible for the cost of obtaining any necessary permits.

b.           For common variety construction materials as GOLD STANDARD may elect to purchase from Tomera, GOLD STANDARD shall pay Tomera at the rate of TWO AND A HALF ($2.50) dollars per ton of shale or rock, sand and gravel aggregate; and ONE ($1.00) dollar per ton for other surface non-mineral materials, such as soil, clay or other fill materials, used anytime in its operations. These payments shall not apply to materials obtained from acreage purchased by GOLD STANDARD.

 

  

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SECTION FOUR

SURFACE TRACTS

4.1            Prior to commencement of any development and mining operations, GOLD STANDARD shall be obligated to purchase from Tomera, and Tomera agrees to sell to GOLD STANDARD, so much of the Surface Tracts identified by a Mine Plan of Operations submitted to the appropriate regulatory agency, as is reasonably expected to be affected by GOLD STANDARD's development and mining operations. In connection with purchase of lands to be affected by development and mining operations, GOLD STANDARD shall have the right to use easements in which Tomera has rights and shall be granted easements by Tomera for a reasonable fee which are necessary for GOLD STANDARD to cross any Surface Tracts not otherwise affected by development or mining operations to access or provide utility service to the purchased lands. Surface Tracts or portions thereof required only for access and utility easements shall not be subject to purchase under this Section. GOLD STANDARD shall give Tomera written notice of the purchase and the portion of the Surface Tracts to be purchased shall be described to the nearest land parcel or legal subdivision as reasonably practicable. The purchase price shall be TWO THOUSAND ($2, OOO.OO) dollars per acre for each acre to be purchased.

4.2           The parties shall select a mutually acceptable escrow agent to close the purchase and sale transaction. Closing shall occur within NINETY (90) days after the notice given by GOLD STANDARD to Tomera, subject to any extension necessitated in order to obtain a title insurance policy, or any regulatory approvals. As conditions precedent to closing: (i) a commitment to insure title shall execute and deliver a good and sufficient Grant, Bargain, and Sale Deed conveying the purchased portion of the Surface Tracts to GOLD STANDARD. Concurrent with closing of the purchase and sale, the purchased lands shall no longer be subject to any payments under Sections 1 and 2 above.

4.3           Upon cessation of mining operations, regulatory agency approval of reclamation, closure, and final bond release, or at such other time as GOLD STANDARD may determine that some or all of the purchased Surface Tracts are no longer required for its mining operations, GOLD STANDARD shall offer to reconvey such portion(s) of the purchased Surface Tracts to Tomera, or its successors and assigns, at no cost to Tomera. Tomera shall have the right, but not the obligation, to accept reconveyance. Any reconveyance shall be made in its “AS-IS” condition, without any warranties of any nature whatsoever with respect to the quality or condition of the reconveyed land or its fitness for a particular purpose. However, GOLD STANDARD shall retain all liability for environmental conditions created by GOLD STANDARD on such Surface Tracts.

If Tomera owns a lesser interest in the Surface Tracts than the entire surface estate, then any payment made as herein provided as to any such land affected by such lesser interest shall be proportionately reduced.

 

  

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4.4           All use and occupancy of the Surface Tracts shall be at the sole risk of GOLD STANDARD. GOLD STANDARD covenants and agrees to indemnify and save harmless Tomera, its officers, directors, employees, shareholders and affiliates, from and against any and all losses, costs, damages, expenses, liability, claims, awards, demands, causes of action, and judgments for injury to, or death of, persons, and damage to or loss or destruction of, property caused by or resulting from the use or occupancy of the Surface Tracts, the route of the access roads, or the operations hereunder of GOLD STANDARD, its employees and agents.

4.5           GOLD STANDARD shall not allow the Surface Tracts to become subject to any mechanics of mining liens or other third party claims by reason of its activities hereunder, and GOLD STANDARD agrees to indemnify and save Tomera harmless from any liability or loss arising out of the same, including attorney's fees.

4.6           Surface Tracts may be released from or added to this Agreement as follows:

By giving written notice to Tomera, GOLD STANDARD may, at any time, release portions of the Surface Tracts from the provisions of this Agreement and release to Tomera all rights granted to GOLD STANDARD in such portions of the Surface Tracts so released. In the event of a partial release, then the annual rental payment due on the next Anniversary Date shall be calculated based on the number of acres remaining subject to the Agreement on that Anniversary Date. In the case of a partial release, this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect as to any portion or portions of the Surface Tracts no so released. GOLD STANDARD may terminate this Agreement in its entirety at any time in accordance with Section 9 below. GOLD STANDARD shall quitclaim to Tomera, within 60 days after notice of termination, all such Surface Tracts as to which this Agreement is so terminated.

SECTION FIVE

WATER

5.1           GOLD STANDARD shall notify Tomera if it encounters appreciable amounts of water in any of its exploration drill holes.  If GOLD STANDARD does not require or intend to develop and use such water for its operations, and intends to abandon such hole(s), GOLD STANDARD shall advise Tomera, and Tomera shall have the right to case the hole as a well and make application for appropriation of the water, at Tomera's expense, and Tomera shall thereafter, in all respects, be responsible for the well.

5.2           In conducting its drilling activities hereunder, GOLD STANDARD shall comply with all requirements of Nevada Revised Statutes regarding completion, plugging, and abandonment of drill holes. GOLD STANDARD shall cooperate with Tomera to undertake reasonable and necessary measures to minimize, as reasonably practicable, any potential effects of its exploration activities on Tomera's water supply(s), including proper hydrological supervision of drill operations.

 

  

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SECTION SIX

OPERATIONS

6.1           GOLD STANDARD shall conduct all operations in a professional and workmanlike manner, in accordance with industry standards, and comply with all applicable regulatory requirements. GOLD STANDARD shall conduct its operations as to minimize impact on Tomera's ranching operations to the extent reasonably practicable, and shall consult with Tomera before constructing access roads or drill sites, or performing other activities that would result in appreciable surface disturbance, or that would take surface lands out of productive use for purposes of Tomera's ranching operations. GOLD STANDARD shall take all reasonable precautions, in consultation with Tomera, to minimize potential for livestock loss, or any damage to Tomera's other personal or real property, including without limitation using due care to close all gate or to install cattle guards if heavy traffic persists, through which GOLD STANDARD passes. GOLD STANDARD shall repair, replace or otherwise remedy all damages to any Tomera personal or real property caused by GOLD STANDARD's exploration operations conducted hereunder on the Surface Tracts. In the event that GOLD STANDARD fails to adequately repair, replace or remedy any such damage, it shall pay Tomera reasonable compensation for such damage. GOLD STANDARD shall cooperate with all reasonable security measures of Tomera, including the closing and locking of gates, and shall exercise its best efforts in the prompt reporting to Tomera of any observed damage to fences and other improvements. GOLD STANDARD shall reclaim any disturbed areas not required for continued operations, as soon as reasonable practicable in accordance with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and in consultation with Tomera, as to Tomera's desire to keep any of the constructed access open, and as to the type of seed mixture, and manner of seeding.

SECTION SEVEN

LICENSE

7.1           Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, and during the term of this Agreement, Tomera grants to GOLD STANDARD a nonexclusive license to use, in common with Tomera and any other licensee authorized by Tomera, the existing roads within the Surface Tracts.

 

  

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SECTION EIGHT

FORCE MAJEURE

8.1           The term of this Agreement shall be extended by the duration of any event of force majeure, and the obligations of GOLD STANDARD under this Agreement, other than the payment of money, shall be suspended and GOLD STANDARD shall not be deemed in default or liable for damages or other remedies while GOLD STANDARD is prevented from complying therewith by force of majeure. For purposes of this Agreement, force majeure shall include, but not be limited to, acts of God, the elements, riots, acts or failure to act on the part of federal or state agencies or courts, inability to obtain necessary permits, inability to secure materials or to obtain access to the Surface Tracts, strikes, lockouts, damage to, destruction or unavoidable shutdown of necessary facilities, or any other matters (whether or not similar to those above mentioned) beyond GOLD STANDARD's reasonable control, provided, however, that settlement of strikes or lockouts shall be entirely within the discretion of GOLD STANDARD; and provided, further, that GOLD STANDARD shall promptly notify Tomera thereof and shall exercise diligence in an effort to remove or overcome the cause of such event of force majeure. The obligation to make any and all payments required by this Agreement shall continue in full force, and shall not be suspended by any event of force majeure.

SECTION NINE

TERMINATION

9.1           GOLD STANDARD may terminate this Agreement at any time upon 30 days written notice to Tomera to that effect. Upon such notice given, this Agreement shall terminate without any further force or effect, except for those rights and obligations that survive termination, as expressly provided for herein, including without limitation the obligation to reclaim disturbed areas in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, and all obligations with respect to environmental conditions cause by GOLD STANDARD's operations on the Surface Tracts.

SECTION TEN

DEFAULT

10.1           If GOLD STANDARD defaults in any of its obligations hereunder, Tomera may give GOLD STANDARD written notice thereof and specify the default or defaults relied on. If GOLD STANDARD has not cured such default within 30 days, Tomera may terminate this Agreement by written notice to GOLD STANDARD; provided that if GOLD STANDARD shall dispute that any default has occurred, the matter shall be determined by litigation in a court of competent jurisdiction, and if the court shall find GOLD STANDARD in default hereunder, GOLD STANDARD shall have 30 days from receipt of notice of such award to cure such default, and if so cured, Tomera shall have no right to terminate this Agreement by reason of such default. Provided, however, that nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to prevent Tomera from exercising any rights or remedies at law or in equity for the breach of this Agreement, including without limitation specific performance, injunction or damages. The prevailing party in any lawsuit shall recover from the other party costs of the suit and reasonable attorney's fees incurred.

 

  

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10.2           Upon termination of this Agreement, whether by expiration of the term hereof, or by act of either party, GOLD STANDARD shall have a period of 180 days from and after the effective date of termination in which to remove from the Surface Tracts all of its machinery, facilities, equipment, and other property of every nature and description erected or situated thereon and to substantially complete reclamation. If GOLD STANDARD fails to remove any of its machinery, facilities, equipment, or other property of every nature and description within the allotted time, then any machinery, facilities, equipment, or other property shall belong to Tomera, unless a prior agreement has been made by the parties in writing to alter the effect of this Section 10. GOLD STANDARD shall restore and reclaim any surface disturbed hereunder in compliance with all applicable permits and permit requirements issued to GOLD STANDARD by governmental agencies. GOLD STANDARD shall be granted such access as is necessary and for so long as is necessary to inspect, maintain, repair, reseed or otherwise wholly complete reclamation sufficient to obtain closure of its permits and release of any reclamation bond posted with any governmental agency.

SECTION ELEVEN

NOTICES

11.1           All notices hereunder shall be in writing and may be delivered by certified mail, and such mailing thereof shall be deemed the act of giving of notice. Such mailed notices and any payments hereunder shall be addressed to Tomera as follows:

JULIAN TOMERA RANCHES, INC., STONE HOUSE DIVISION

HC 65, Box 11

Carlin, NV 89822

And to GOLD STANDARD, in duplicate, as follows:

GOLD STANDARD VENTURES (US) INC.

P. O. Box 1897

Elko, NV 89803

SECTION TWELVE

ASSIGNMENT

12.1.           This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their respective permitted successors and assigns.

 

  

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a.           GOVERNING LAW.  This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Nevada.

 

 

b.           U.S. DOLLARS.  All currency is in US dollars.

c.           RECORDING.  Neither party shall record this Agreement. Upon request, Tomera will execute a short form of this Agreement for purposes of recording.

d.           ENTIRE AGREEMENT.  This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties relative to the subject matter hereof, and there is no other express or implied understanding, oral or written, relating to the subject matter of this Agreement.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the above parties have caused this Agreement to be properly executed] all as of the day and year first above written.

 

	 	
JULIAN TOMERA RANCHES, INC.

STONE HOUSE DIVISION

	 
	 	 	 	 
	 	
By: 

	/s/ Thomas J. Tomera	 
	 	 	THOMAS J. TOMERA, President	 
	 	 	 	 
	 	 	 	 
	 	
GOLD STANDARD VENTURES (US) INC.

	 
	 	 	 	 
	 	
By: 

	/s/ David C. Matthewson	 
	 	 	DAVID C. MATTHEWSON	 

 

  

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EXHIBIT A – Surface Rights

 

Julian Tomera Ranches

 

 

	Township 31 North, Range 53 East 	Elko County, Nevada

 

Section 15:  All, containing 640 surface acres

 

Section 22:  NE1⁄4, containing 160 surface acres

 

 

	Township 30 North, Range 53 East	Elko County, Nevada

 

Section 9:  SW1⁄4, containing 160 surface acres;

 

Section 9:  W1⁄2SE1⁄4, containing 80 surface acres;

 

Section 9:  That part of the NE1⁄4 lying westerly of BLM allotment fence "ridge line", containing 110 surface acres, more or less

 

Section 17:All, containing 640 surface acres

 

Total Surface Acres:  1,790.00 acres

Source: [{"source": "alea-institute/alea-institute/kl3m-data-edgar-agreements/train-00195-of-00352.parquet"}, [{"source": "alea-institute/alea-institute/kl3m-data-edgar-agreements/train-00195-of-00352.parquet"}]]