VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Jan. 30, 2013) - The Yukon government congratulates geologists Rob Carne, Bill Wengzynowski and Doug Eaton for winning the H.H. "Spud" Huestis Award for excellence in prospecting and mineral exploration.

This evening at the 2013 Mineral Exploration Roundup in Vancouver, the Association for Mineral Exploration British Columbia will present its award to the geologists who discovered what is now known as the Rackla Gold Belt.

"The dedicated work of these three geologists enabled them to uncover an area with remarkable gold potential," Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources Brad Cathers said. "The Yukon government is proud of their efforts and dedication, which has contributed significantly to Yukon's economy and worldwide reputation."

Carne, Wengzynowski and Eaton made the discovery in 2006. ATAC Resources, an exploration company that originally contracted the geologists and owns the Rackla Gold belt, collected data from the Yukon government's Geological Survey and from exploration consultant Archer Cathro and Associates to assess the area for an extensive exploration program.

In 2007, ATAC Resources did additional soil and geochemistry work and followed up with drilling in 2008 and 2009. The results were similar to the Carlin discovery in Nevada, which was discovered 40 years ago and is still producing gold. The area is the only drill-confirmed Carlin-type gold discovery made in Canada to date.

"The mining industry is an important part of Yukon's economy. In 2012 exploration spending was the third highest level in years," Cathers added. "Companies are now working hard to further explore and develop their properties within the constraints of a challenging global economy. The potential in Yukon remains strong."

The Association for Mineral Exploration British Columbia (AME BC) represents mineral exploration and development in British Columbia. Established in 1912, AME BC represents almost 5,000 members including geoscientists, prospectors, engineers, students, exploration and mining companies and suppliers who are engaged in mineral exploration and development in B.C. and throughout the world.

ATAC Resources' Rackla Gold Project is a 1,600-square-kilometre area about 55 kilometres northeast of Keno City in central Yukon.

For more information about the H.H. "Spud" Huestis Award visit: www.amebc.ca.