UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Fiscal Year Ended February 28, 2014
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from ________________ to ________________.
Commission file number 000-54751
PASSPORT POTASH INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
British Columbia | Not Applicable |
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation of organization) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
608 1199 West Pender Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6E
2R1
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
(604) 687-0300
(Registrants telephone
number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Common Stock, without par value
(Title
of class)
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known
seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
[
] Yes [X] No
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to
file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act.
[
] Yes [X] No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) filed all
reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days.
[X] Yes
[ ] No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted
electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive
Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation
S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to submit and post such files.
[X]
Yes [ ] No
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers in response to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrants knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [ ]
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of large accelerated filer, accelerated filer and smaller reporting company in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer [ ] | Accelerated filer [ ] |
Non-accelerated filer [ ] (do not check if a smaller reporting company) |
Smaller reporting company [X] |
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Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant is a shell company
(as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes [
] No [X]
The aggregate market value of the registrants stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of August 30, 2013, computed by reference to the price at which such stock was last sold on the OTCQX ($0.10 per share) on that date, was approximately $13,274,699.
The registrant had 109,490,859 shares of common stock outstanding as of June 2, 2014.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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REFERENCES
As used in this Annual Report: (i) the terms we, us, our, Passport Potash and the Company mean Passport Potash Inc. and its subsidiaries, if any; (ii) SEC refers to the Securities and Exchange Commission; (iii) Securities Act refers to the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended; (iv) Exchange Act refers to the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and (v) all dollar amounts refer to United States dollars unless otherwise indicated.
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K constitute forward-looking statements. These statements appear in a number of places in this Annual Report and include statements regarding our intent, belief or current expectation and that of our officers and directors. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as believe, intend, may, will, should, plans, anticipates, believes, potential, intends, expects and other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the future price of commodities, the estimation of mineral resources, the realization of mineral resource estimates, the timing and amount of estimated future production, costs of production, capital expenditures, costs and timing of the development of new deposits, success of exploration activities, permitting time lines, currency fluctuations, requirements for additional capital, government regulation of mining operations, environmental risks, unanticipated reclamation expenses, title disputes or claims, the completion of financings and regulatory approvals, and the timing and possible outcome of pending litigation and the timing and magnitude of such events, which are inherently risky and uncertain. Important factors that you should also consider, include, but are not limited to, the factors discussed under Risk Factors in this Annual Report.
Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those described in forward looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results, performance or achievements to not be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. We assume no obligation to update or to publicly announce the results of any change to any of the forward-looking statements contained or included herein to reflect actual results, future events or developments, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting the forward-looking statements, other than where a duty to update such information or provide further disclosure is imposed by applicable law, including applicable United States federal securities laws.
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
Passport Potash files annual, quarterly and current reports with the SEC. You may read and copy documents referred to in this Annual Report on Form 10-K that have been filed with the SEC at the SECs Public Reference Room, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. You can also obtain copies of our SEC filings by going to the SECs website at http://www.sec.gov.
GLOSSARY OF SELECTED MINING TERMS
The following is a glossary of selected mining terms used in this Annual Report that may be technical in nature:
Potash: A generic term for potassium salts (primarily potassium chloride, but also potassium nitrate, potassium sulfate and sulfate of potash magnesia, or langbeinite) used predominantly and widely as a fertilizer in agricultural markets worldwide. Unless otherwise indicated or inferred by context, references to "potash" refer to muriate of potash.
Potassium Chloride or KCl: (muriate of potash/sylvite): a metal halide salt composed of potassium and chlorine, varying in color from white to red depending on the mining and recovery process used. The majority of potassium chloride produced is used for making fertilizer.
Potassium Oxide or K2O: a standard generally used to indicate and report ore grade.
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Tonne: (also referred to as a metric ton) a measurement of mass equal to 1000 kg or 2,204.6 pounds.
Exploration stage: a U.S. Security and Exchange Commission descriptive category applicable to public mining companies engaged in the search for mineral deposits and ore reserves and which are not either in the mineral development or the ore production stage
Grade: The concentration of each ore metal in a rock sample, usually given as weight per volume. Where extremely low concentrations are involved, the concentration may be given in grams per ton (g/t). The grade of an ore deposit is calculated, often using sophisticated statistical procedures, as an average of the grades of a very large number of samples collected from throughout the deposit.
PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
General
We were incorporated on August 11, 1987 under the laws of Québec, Canada under the name Bakertalc Inc. On January 21, 1994, we changed our name to Palace Explorations Inc. On November 11, 1996, we changed our name to X-Chequer Resources Inc. On September 29, 2004 we changed our name to International X-Chequer Resources Inc. On October 18, 2007, we changed our name to Passport Metals Inc. On November 10, 2009 we changed our name to Passport Potash Inc. Effective April 26, 2011, we continued our governing corporate jurisdiction from the Province of Québec to the Province of British Columbia under the name Passport Potash Inc.
Effective September 29, 2004, we effected a share consolidation (reverse stock split) of our issued and outstanding shares of common stock on a basis of twelve (12) old shares for one (1) new share.
Effective October 18, 2007, we effected a forward stock split of our issued and outstanding shares of common stock on a basis of one (1) old share for three (3) new shares.
Effective March 13, 2014, we effected a share consolidation (reverse stock split) of our issued and outstanding shares of common stock on a basis of two (2) old shares for one (1) new share.
We are a reporting issuer in the Canadian Provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and Québec and our common shares are listed for trading on the TSX Venture Exchange (the TSX-V) under the trading symbol PPI.
Our head and principal office is located at 608 - 1199 West Pender Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, V6E 2R1.
We are an exploration stage company engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral resource properties. We currently have an interest in or have the right to earn an interest in eight properties: Southwest Exploration Property, Twin Butte Ranch, Sweetwater/American Potash, Mesa Uranium, Ringbolt Property, Joint Exploration Agreement with the Hopi Tribe, Fitzgerald Ranch and Joint Exploration Agreement with HNZ Potash, which are all located in Arizona. We are currently in default under the option agreement to acquire the Twin Buttes Ranch and the purchase agreement to acquire the Fitzgerald Ranch, however, we are in continuing negotiations to amend these agreements. We have not established any proven or probable reserves on our mineral property interests and we are not in actual development or production of any mineral deposit at this time. We are an exploration stage enterprise, as defined in FASB ASC 915 Development Stage Entities.
Our independent auditors report accompanying our February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 financial statements contains an explanatory paragraph expressing substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. Our financial statements have been prepared assuming that we will continue as a going concern, which contemplates that we will realize our assets and satisfy our liabilities and commitments in the ordinary course of business.
Intercorporate Relationships
The chart below illustrates our corporate structure, including our subsidiaries, which are all wholly owned, and the jurisdictions of incorporation.
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JOBS Act
Recently the United States Congress passed the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012 (the JOBS Act), which provides for certain exemptions from various reporting requirements applicable to public companies that are reporting companies and are emerging growth companies. We are an emerging growth company as defined in section 3(a) of the Exchange Act (as amended by the JOBS Act, enacted on April 5, 2012), and we will continue to qualify as an emerging growth company until the earliest to occur of: (a) the last day of the fiscal year during which we have total annual gross revenues of $1,000,000,000 (as such amount is indexed for inflation every 5 years by the SEC) or more; (b) the last day of our fiscal year following the fifth anniversary of the date of the first sale of our common equity securities pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act; (c) the date on which we have, during the previous 3-year period, issued more than $1,000,000,000 in non-convertible debt; or (d) the date on which we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer, as defined in Exchange Act Rule 12b2. Therefore, we expect to continue to be an emerging growth company for the foreseeable future.
Generally, a registrant that registers any class of its securities under section 12 of the Exchange Act is required to include in the second and all subsequent annual reports filed by it under the Exchange Act, a management report on internal control over financial reporting and, subject to an exemption available to registrants that meet the definition of a smaller reporting company in Exchange Act Rule 12b-2, an auditor attestation report on managements assessment of internal control over financial reporting. However, for so long as we continue to qualify as an emerging growth company, we will be exempt from the requirement to include an auditor attestation report in our annual reports filed under the Exchange Act, even if we do not qualify as a smaller reporting company. In addition, section 103(a)(3) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 has been amended by the JOBS Act to provide that, among other things, auditors of an emerging growth company are exempt from the rules of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board requiring mandatory audit firm rotation or a supplement to the auditors report in which the auditor would be required to provide additional information about the audit and the financial statements of the registrant (auditor discussion and analysis). Furthermore, as an emerging growth company, we are able to avail ourselves to the reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements and to not present to our shareholders a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation, obtain approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved, or present the relationship between executive compensation actually paid and our financial performance. Additionally, we have irrevocably elected to comply with new or revised accounting standards even though we are an emerging growth company.
Business Overview and History
Southwest Exploration Property
On September 30, 2008 we entered into a mineral property option agreement (the Southwest Option Agreement) with Southwest Exploration Inc. (Southwest) to acquire an undivided 100% interest in 13 Arizona State Land Department exploration permits (ASLD Exploration Permits) comprising 8,413.3 acres (3,404.76 ha) of mineral exploration property located in Navajo County, in the Holbrook Basin, Arizona. Under the terms of the Southwest Option Agreement, any after acquired permits within the area of common interest may be made part of the property.
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Pursuant to this clause, 32 additional ASLD Exploration Permits were made part of the property for a total of 45 ASLD Exploration Permits.
Under the terms of the Southwest Option Agreement, as amended, we could acquire a 100% interest in the Southwest mining claims, subject to a 1% NSR retained by Southwest, in exchange for the following considerations:
(a) |
$100,000 on execution of the agreement (paid); | |
(b) |
1,000,000 options (issued) upon receipt of TSX-V approval of the agreement; | |
(c) |
$125,000 from 90 days following issuance of a drilling permit from the Arizona State Land Department. This permit was received on June 11, 2009 and $125,000 was paid July 23, 2009; | |
(d) |
250,000 shares on April 1, 2009 (issued); | |
(e) |
2,681,000 shares on October 1, 2009 (issued); | |
(f) |
5,000,000 shares on November 1, 2010 (issued); | |
(g) |
$350,000 from six months following TSX-V approval of the issuance of 5,000,000 shares (paid); | |
(h) |
Funding of $200,000 in exploration expenditures pursuant to the completion of a NI 43-101 technical report (completed); | |
(i) |
250,000 shares upon completion of a NI 43-101 technical report after drilling (issued); and | |
(j) |
Southwest shall retain a 1% NSR (purchased by the Company). |
Currently, we have a blanket bond with the Arizona State Land Department in the amount of $15,000 for the ASLD Exploration Permits. In addition, we also have a bond with the Arizona Oil and Gas Conservation Commission in the amount of $55,000 for drilling permits.
We entered into an amendment to the Southwest Option Agreement, dated September 18, 2009, whereby the parties agreed to settle the October 1, 2009 scheduled cash payment of $225,000 with the issuance of 2,681,000 shares of the Company.
We entered into a second amendment to the Southwest Option Agreement, dated April 1, 2010, whereby the parties agreed to extend the due date for the payment of $250,000 to Southwest until October 1, 2010. As we had not satisfied this payment obligation by October 1, 2010, we issued 5,000,000 shares of our common stock to Southwest on November 8, 2010 in full satisfaction of the outstanding payment.
We completed the exercise of our option to purchase the 100% interest in the Southwest claims and the purchase of the 1% net smelter royalty in an agreement dated February 13, 2012. The Southwest permits are held by PPI Holding Corporation, our wholly owned subsidiary.
Twin Buttes Ranch Property
On August 28, 2009, as amended, we entered into a four-year lease with an option to purchase (the Lease & Option Agreement) with Twin Buttes Ranch, LLC respecting the Twin Buttes Ranch located in the potash-bearing Holbrook Basin of east-central Arizona. The Twin Buttes Ranch comprises some 28,526 acres (11,544 hectares) of private deeded land with 76.7% or approximately 21,894 acres (8,860 hectares) overlying the potash horizons within the Holbrook Basin.
Under the terms of the Lease & Option Agreement, we may acquire a 100% undivided interest in the deeded land and sub-surface mineral rights comprising the Twin Buttes Ranch property by making lease payments totaling $1,250,000 over five and a half years and, upon exercising our option to purchase, by paying $20,000,000 for the entire Twin Buttes Ranch including all sub-surface mineral rights except those pertaining to oil and gas, petrified wood and geothermal resources. There are no royalties associated with the sub-surface mineral rights.
On December 4, 2009, we entered into an amendment to the Lease & Option Agreement whereby we signed a mining lease with Twin Buttes Ranch, LLC on the Twin Buttes Ranch with a term from December 4, 2009 through August 28, 2013 subject to early termination as provided in the Lease & Option Agreement. Under the mining lease, we are entitled to explore, develop, mine, remove, treat and produce all ores, minerals and metals on Twin Buttes Ranch solely for the purpose of determining the existence of potash and the economic feasibility of the purchase and development of the property. In consideration, we shall remain current in our option payments under the Lease & Option Agreement and keep all terms of the Lease & Option Agreement in good standing.
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On September 7, 2010, we amended the terms of the Lease & Option Agreement to provide for an extension of a portion of the initial cash payment until December 1, 2010.
On August 20, 2013, we further amended the Lease & Option Agreement to extend the term of the option agreement from August 28, 2013 to January 6, 2016 and provide for the payments of:
(i) |
(i) $250,000 on the earlier of (a) within 30 days of closing our next round of financing which is a minimum $5 million, or (b) December 1, 2013 (this payment obligation survives any early termination of the Lease & Option Agreement by us or a termination resulting from an uncured breach by us), | |
(ii) |
$250,000 on August 28, 2014; and | |
(iii) |
$250,000 on May 1, 2015. |
Concurrently with the amendment to the Lease & Option Agreement, we also amended the mining lease to provide that the term of the lease will end on the expiration or earlier termination of the Lease & Option Agreement, except in the event that we exercise our option pursuant to the Lease & Option Agreement in which event the term shall end on the closing date of the Lease & Option Agreement, and any subsequent amendments thereto.
Details of the payments under the Lease & Option Agreement, as amended, are as follows:
(a) |
A payment of $50,000 and $10,000 legal costs on or before November 26, 2009 (paid); | |
(b) |
A payment of $25,000 on September 17, 2010 (paid); | |
(c) |
A payment of $75,000 on December 1, 2010 (paid); | |
(d) |
A payment of $150,000 on August 28, 2011 (paid); | |
(e) |
A payment of $200,000 on August 28, 2012 (paid); | |
(f) |
A payment of $250,000 on the earlier of (a) within 30 days of closing our next round of financing which is a minimum $5 million, or (b) December 1, 2013 (not paid); | |
(g) |
A payment of $250,000 on August 28, 2014; and | |
(h) |
A payment of $250,000 on May 1, 2015. |
We have not made the required $250,000 payment that was due on December 1, 2013; therefore, the agreement is in default and we are in negotiations to further amend the Option Agreement as last amended on August 20, 2013. A default notice was issued and Twin Buttes Ranch, LLC has the right to terminate the agreement, however, we are continuing negotiations, but the risk remains that we may not be successful in completing the amendment.
Upon exercising our option to purchase the entire Twin Butte Ranch, we must deliver a payment in the amount of $1,000 on or before 5pm (Arizona time), January 6, 2016 (the option expiry date), followed by a payment of $19,999,000 within thirty days.
Sweetwater/American Potash Property
On November 12, 2010 we entered into an option of Arizona exploration leases (the Sweetwater Option Agreement) with Sweetwater River Resources, LLC (Sweetwater) and American Potash, LLC (American Potash) to acquire the right, title and interest in five mineral exploration permits within the Holbrook Basin. The five permits consist of Arizona State Land Department exploration permits that cover more than 3,200 acres.
Pursuant to the terms of the Sweetwater Option Agreement, we could acquire a 100% interest in the exploration permits for the consideration of: (i) issuing 500,000 shares of our common stock by December 15, 2010; (ii) cash payment of CAD$90,000 payable in three installments of $30,000 each at 12 months, 18 months and 24 months from the date of signing the Sweetwater Option Agreement; and (iii) meeting the exploration expenditures a required by the Arizona State Land Department. We are responsible for payment of all exploration expenditures on the permits. Pursuant to the Sweetwater Option Agreement, the property was subject to a 2% net smelter royalty in favor of American Potash which we had the option to purchase at a price of $150,000 for 1% or $300,000 for the full 2%.
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On March 27, 2012, we completed the exercise of the option under the Sweetwater Option Agreement and the repurchase of the 2% NSR royalty in respect of the Sweetwater exploration permits. The permits are held by PPI Holding Corporation, our wholly owned subsidiary.
Mesa Uranium Property
On August 31, 2010 we entered into a mineral property option agreement (the Mesa Option Agreement) with Mesa Uranium Corp. (Mesa) in respect of three Arizona State Land Department exploration permits covering approximately 1,950 acres, which are wholly owned by Mesa. Pursuant to the terms of the agreement, we had the right to acquire a 75% interest in the Mesa permits in consideration for the issuance of 500,000 shares of our common stock to Mesa, the payment of $20,000.00 cash to Mesa and meeting the minimum exploration expenditures as required by the Arizona State Land Department. Upon earning a 75% interest in the permits, we had the right to acquire the remaining 25% interest in the Mesa permits by paying $100,000 in cash, stock equivalent or work expenditures. Under the terms of the agreement, we are responsible for payment of all exploration expenditures on the leases. The property was subject to a 2% net smelter royalty which we had the option to purchase at a price of $150,000 per 1% or $300,000 for the full 2%.
On February 13, 2012, we exercised our option to acquire a 75% interest in the Mesa permits. On March 9, 2012, we announced that we had exercised our option to acquire the remaining 25% interest in the Mesa properties under the Mesa Option Agreement and to acquire the 2% NSR on those properties thereby acquiring a royalty-free, 100% interest in the Mesa properties. The permits are held by PPI Holding Corporation, our wholly owned subsidiary.
Ringbolt Property
On March 28, 2011 we entered into an option agreement (the Ringbolt Option Agreement) with Ringbolt Ventures Ltd., Potash Green, LLC, Wendy Walker Tibbetts and Joseph J. Hansen (collectively, the Optionor) pursuant to which we acquired the right to acquire a 100% interest in the Ringbolt potash property located in the Holbrook Basin of southeast Arizona. The Ringbolt property is comprised of 15,994.32 acres of mineral exploration permits on land managed by the Arizona State Land Department.
Pursuant to the terms of the Ringbolt Option Agreement, we may acquire a 90% interest in the property by: (i) making cash payments totaling $1.0 million ($50,000 upon execution of the agreement, $250,000 upon TSX Venture Exchange approval, $350,000 on or before the 1st anniversary of TSX Venture Exchange approval, and $350,000 on or before the 2nd anniversary of TSX Venture Exchange approval), (ii) incurring a total of $2.25 million in exploration expenditures on the property over three years ($500,000 within 1 year of TSX Venture Exchange approval, $750,000 within 1 year of the 1st anniversary of TSX Venture Exchange approval, and $1,000,000 within 1 year of the 2nd anniversary of TSX Venture Exchange approval), and (iii) issuing four million common shares over a three-year period (1,000,000 shares upon TSX Venture Exchange approval, 1,400,000 shares on or before the 1st anniversary of TSX Venture Exchange approval, and 1,600,000 shares on or before the 2nd anniversary of TSX Venture Exchange approval). Upon satisfaction of these terms, we will have the right to purchase the remaining 10% interest for a cash payment of $5 million, which shall remain exercisable until the Ringbolt property goes into commercial production (defined as the sale of any mineral products from the property). In addition, pursuant to the Ringbolt Option Agreement, the Ringbolt property will be subject to a 1% gross overriding royalty on production from the property.
On October 30, 2012, as part of a settlement agreement between us and the Optionor, we entered into an amendment agreement to the Ringbolt Option Agreement pursuant to which we will pay to the Optionor a total of $3,850,000, $150,000 of which was paid upon execution of the amendment agreement, $2,450,000 will be paid upon TSX Ventures Exchange approval of the amendment agreement, and the remaining $1,250,000 on or before October 31, 2014. In addition, upon TSX Venture Exchange approval of the amendment agreement, we will issue 750,000 shares of common stock to the Optionor and the Optionor will assign to us all of its right, title and interest in and to the property and will take all necessary action with the ASLD to effect such assignment. The cash payment of $2,450,000 and 750,000 shares of our common stock will be placed into escrow and will be released to the Optionor upon receipt of confirmation of the assignment of the property to us from the ASLD. There will be no royalty attached to the transferred mineral exploration permits.
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Should we sell or in any way transfer our interest in the property, the Optionor will receive 20% of the gross consideration in excess of $30 million to a maximum of $2,000,000 if the aggregate consideration received for the transfer of the interest in the property is greater than $30 million and less than $40 million; or $2,000,000 plus 10% of the gross consideration in excess of $40 million to a maximum of $1,000,000 if the aggregate consideration is greater than $40 million and less than $50 million; or $3,000,000 plus 20% of the gross consideration in excess of $50 million if the aggregate consideration is greater than $50 million.
If we sell or transfer less than a 100% interest in the property, then the aforementioned bonus payments shall be ratably reduced by multiplying the bonus payment by the percentage of interest subject to the transfer transaction. The sale or transfer of the remainder of the interest in the property held by us will continue to be subject to the aforementioned bonus payment provisions.
On December 8, 2012, we entered into a second amendment agreement with the Optionor to amend the amendment agreement to extend the deadline to make the cash payment of $2,450,000 following TSX Venture Exchange approval for a period of 30 days from the date of final approval with a payment of $100,000 to Potash Green, LLC, which payment will be deducted from the aggregate payment owed.
The amendment agreement and the second amendment agreement to the Ringbolt Option Agreement were approved by the TSX Venture Exchange on February 27, 2013, and all payments except the $1,250,000 due on October 31, 2014, have been paid. The permits are held by PPI East Block Holding Corp., our wholly owned subsidiary.
Cooperative Agreement and Joint Exploration Agreement with The Hopi Tribe
Portions of our Holbrook Basin potash project in Arizona are located adjacent to land privately owned by the Hopi Tribe. On March 8, 2011 we finalized a cooperative agreement with the Hopi Tribe which establishes a cooperative arrangement between us and the Hopi Tribe and gives us access across the privately owned Hopi lands to conduct exploration activities while allowing the Tribe to share in our study results. We are in continuing discussions with the Hopi Tribe on the project.
On November 8, 2012, but having an effective date of November 1, 2012, we and The Hopi Tribe, a federally recognized Indian Tribe, entered into a Joint Exploration Agreement (the JEA) pursuant to which the parties agree to explore the Hopi land sections (the Hopi Property) which are checker-boarded with our southern landholdings in accordance with an exploration program, which shall consist of a two-phase drilling campaign as set out in Exhibit 2 to the JEA. The first phase of the exploration program will include 8 drill sites and will cover a 25,000 acre swath of the contiguous land sections in the DoBell ranch area of the Holbrook Basin. The second phase of drilling, which will be designed by ERCOSPLAN guided from the results from phase one, will include up to 10 additional drill sites. We will be responsible for all costs, charges and expenses incurred in connection with the exploration program.
In addition, under the JEA, we shall indemnify, defend, release, and hold harmless The Hopi Tribe and its elected officials, advisors and contractors, employees, agents, lessees, insurers, successors and assigns (the Indemnities) for, against and from any claim, damage, lien, loss, cost, charge, expense (including attorneys fees and expenses) or liability resulting from, or caused by, or incurred in connection with, or alleged to have resulted from, or been caused by, or been incurred in connection with, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, the exploration program. Our payment and indemnity obligations shall survive the termination of the JEA.
Pursuant to the JEA, the Hopi Tribe grants us and our contractors, which includes any employee or contractor involved in the exploration program (as defined in the JEA), a limited license on the terms and conditions, and during the term of the JEA to (a) enter and cross existing ranch roads on Hopi Property for ingress and egress purposes related to the exploration program, (b) blade new roads to drill sites on the Hopi Property designated by ERCOSPLAN, (c) drill exploratory holes on the Hopi Property at drill sites designated by ERCOSPLAN, (d) lay cables across the Hopi Property for purposes of seismic studies that are part of the exploration program, (e) drive a vibrator truck along seismic lines, and (f) blade existing ranch roads on the Hopi Property. We and our contractors shall not use the Hopi Property for any other purpose without the prior written approval of The Hopi Tribe; provided, that with respect to use of the Hopi Property identified by ERCOSPLAN in writing as necessary or desirable for purposes of the exploration program, The Hopi Tribes approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed.
Except as otherwise expressly set forth in the JEA, us and The Hopi Tribe shall each separately have the right to possess and use all exploration program results for any purpose. In addition, The Hopi Tribe and us, and the parties respective successors and assigns, may use and freely disclose exploration program results received under this JEA without prior approval of the other for the parties or such successors or assigns internal use, and for review and use by geologists and other outside advisors engaged by it (including ERCOSPLAN) or its successors or assigns, lenders and prospective lenders, venture partners and prospective venture partners, and others who are subject to confidentiality agreements consistent with the disclosing partys obligations under the JEA; provided, no exploration program results shall be shared with venture partners or prospective venture partners by The Hopi Tribe other than us or persons approved in writing by us in our discretion prior to the earlier of (1) expiration or termination of one or more of our mineral exploration permits from the Arizona State Land Department pertaining to our property, or (2) October 15, 2014 (such earlier date, the Automatic Termination Date).
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Furthermore, the JEA contains an exclusivity provision whereby from the effective date and ending on the date the JEA terminates unless extended in accordance with the terms of the JEA until October 15, 2015, The Hopi Tribe will negotiate exclusively with us with respect to the joint exploration of the Hopi Property and our property, which are contiguous as set out in a letter of intent (the Letter of Intent) entered into between the parties on September 26, 2012, and it will not directly or indirectly, take any of the following actions with any party other than us:
(i) |
solicit or encourage inquiries or proposals with respect to, furnish any information relating to, participate in any negotiations or discussions concerning, or cooperate in any manner relating to the subject matter of the Letter of Intent (a Transaction); or | |
(ii) |
enter into any agreement or understanding with any person or entity providing for a Transaction. |
Unless the JEA is earlier terminated in accordance with the JEA or superseded by another agreement between the parties, the JEA shall terminate automatically at 5:00 PM Arizona time on the Automatic Termination Date.
Fitzgerald Ranch Property
On May 7, 2012, we entered into a purchase agreement with co-trustees of the Fitzgerald Living Trust (Fitzgerald Living Trust) to acquire real estate covering a total of 41,000 contiguous acres of royalty-free private land (the Fitzgerald Ranch) located near Holbrook and adjacent to our Twin Buttes Ranch holdings in the Holbrook Basin in exchange for a total purchase price of $15,000,000 on the following material terms: (i) $250,000 to be irrevocably released to Fitzgerald Living Trust upon execution of the agreement; (ii) an additional $250,000 to be placed into escrow and irrevocably released to Fitzgerald Living Trust on July 1, 2012; (iii) during the term of the agreement, we have the right to perform exploration activities on the property; (iv) a payment of $14,500,000 at closing to take place on December 18, 2012; and (v) the final purchase is subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval.
A provision of the agreement grants us the right to perform exploration activities on the property. We have added 8 additional drill holes to our 2012 drill program which will be drilled on the Fitzgerald Ranch. We have drilled 5 holes on the Fitzgerald Ranch as part of the drill program.
On November 8, 2012, we entered into an amendment agreement to the original property purchase agreement. In accordance with the amendment agreement, in addition to our payment of an aggregate of $500,000 made by July 1, 2012, payments of $500,000 and $4,000,000 were to be made to Fitzgerald Living Trust upon execution of the amendment agreement and on December 18, 2012, respectively, which December 18, 2012 payment has not yet been made. Additionally, a payment of $5,000,000 will be irrevocably paid to Fitzgerald Living Trust on June 30, 2013 and the balance of $5,000,000 will be paid at the time of closing of the sale which will take place on December 18, 2013.
We also agreed to reimburse Fitzgerald Living Trust for any increase in taxes to it which are attributable to closing this sale in 2013 rather than 2012 and to make this reimbursement within 120 days from the date Fitzgerald Living Trust provides documentation to us of the increased tax amount.
On May 29, 2013, we entered into an agreement to amend and restate the agreement to the original property purchase agreement (the Amended and Restated Agreement) with Fitzgerald Living Trust for the purchase of the Fitzgerald Ranch, which also supersedes the amendment agreement dated November 8, 2012, as follows:
(a) |
the purchase price has been increased to $17,000,000, of which $1,000,000 was paid and the balance is to be paid as follows: | ||
(i) |
a payment of $500,000 on the earlier of October 31, 2013, or within 30 days of closing our next financing (not paid); | ||
(ii) |
a payment of $500,000 to be paid on December 31, 2013 (not paid); |
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(iii) |
a payment of $1,000,000 to be paid on December 31, 2014; and | |
(iv) |
the balance of $14,000,000 to be paid on the closing of the sale which is on or before June 15, 2015; |
(b) |
we have provided Fitzgerald Living Trust with the option to enter into a grazing lease on the property at the rate currently being charged by the Petrified Forest National Park, with the period of the lease being 5 years, with the option to renew for an additional 5 year term. The parties agreed that any ranching use of the property is secondary, and subject to mineral exploration and development; | |
(c) |
during the term of the Amended and Restated Agreement, Fitzgerald Living Trust grants to us the right to enter into and on the property as set forth in the agreement to explore for, develop, core drill and sample ores, minerals and metals which are or may be found therein or thereon; provided however, that such ores, minerals and metals may only be removed, treated and produced in de minimus amounts from the core borings, solely for the purpose of determining the saturation and existence of such ores, minerals and metals and in no event shall we be permitted to sell any such ores, minerals or metals; and | |
(d) |
the construction of roads shall be subject to the prior written approval of Fitzgerald Living Trust, which approval shall not unreasonably be withheld and shall be given in a timely manner. |
We have not made the required $500,000 payments that were due on October 31, 2013 and December 31, 2013; therefore, the Amended and Restated Agreement is in default and $975,000 capitalized to long-term deposits has been written-off as at the year ended February 28, 2014. We are in negotiations to amend the Amended and Restated Agreement. No default notice has been issued under the Amended and Restated Agreement but the risk remains that we may not be successful in completing the amendment.
The Amended and Restated Agreement is subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval.
Joint Exploration Agreement with HNZ Potash, LLC
On July 27, 2012, we entered into a Joint Exploration Agreement (the Agreement) with HNZ Potash, LLC (HNZ) to jointly explore and potentially develop twenty-one permitted parcels in which we hold ASLD exploration permits and which are located on the southernmost area of our landholdings (the Permit Property). The Permit Property is within HNZs private landholdings and has not been previously explored by us. Under the terms of the Agreement, HNZ has agreed to pay us 50% of certain costs previously incurred by us with respect to the Permit Property, which payment was received by us during the fiscal year ended February 28, 2013 and we have assigned a 50% interest in the Permit Property to HNZ. Each of the parties will be liable for 50% of the future costs relating to the permits. Our interest in the permits are held by PPI Holding Corporation, our wholly owned subsidiary.
The purposes of the Agreement are to: (i) conduct exploration and to evaluate the potential for development and mining of the Permit Property; (ii) to acquire interests within the lands owned by the Hopi Tribe commonly referred to as the Dobell Ranch lands as more particularly described in the Agreement; (iii) if justified by the exploration activities, the parties upon mutual agreement will form an entity to seek a mining lease to jointly engage in development and mining of the Permit Property; (iv) to complete and satisfy all environmental compliance obligations and continuing obligations affecting the Permit Property; and (v) to perform any other activity necessary, appropriate, or incidental to any of the foregoing. During the term of the Agreement, the parties will equally share the costs for maintaining the Permit Property in good standing with the ASLD. The parties may, either alone or jointly, conduct exploration of any or all of the Permit Property pursuant to one or more plans of exploration.
The term of the Agreement shall begin on the effective date of the Agreement and extend to the expiration of the fifth year term of the last permit covered by the Agreement, or any permit obtained as a replacement therefor (the Term); provided, however, that, if during the Term the participants (or any entity formed by the participants) jointly apply for a mineral lease or mineral leases on any portion of the Permit Property, the Term shall be automatically extended to the date a final determination is issued by the ASLD regarding the last mineral lease application.
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Other provisions in the Agreement include the following:
Additional Exploration Permits
On May 30, 2013, we announced that we had received nine new exploration permits from the ASLD, adding 4,703.66 acres of Arizona State trust land to our land package. These additional permits are on Arizona State trust land sections that had been closed to development related to the proposed expansion of the Petrified Forest National Park. Seven of the sections lie within our private landholdings, while the other two border the Hopi Property development area and abut the south border of the Petrified Forest National Park. Almost all of these permits are held by PPI West Block Holding Corp., our wholly owned subsidiary, with a few permits being held by PPI Holding Corporation, our wholly owned subsidiary.
Business Operations
Corporate Summary
Our principal focus is our Holbrook Basin potash project (the Holbrook Basin Project) comprised of exploration permits and claims, some of which we hold directly and others which are subject to option, a lease over with an option to purchase the Twin Buttes Ranch property, and a purchase agreement for the Fitzgerald Ranch property, which the agreements for the Twin Buttes Ranch and the Fitzgerald Ranch properties are currently in default, however, we are in continuing negotiations to amend these agreements. Our interest in our Holbrook Basin Project is comprised of 87 Arizona State Land Department exploration permits, full or partial interests in 132 private land sections (which are currently in default) and 4 prospecting permits on federal land managed by the Bureau of Land Management, which are all located within the Holbrook Basin.
Potash Industry Overview
Potash
Potash is used to describe a wide variety of compounds valued primarily for their potassium content, which is commonly measured in K2O units. The most concentrated and commonly available form of potash is potassium chloride (KCl), also referred to as Muriate of Potash (MOP), which is between 60-62% K2O by weight. Secondary forms of potash include sulfate of potash magnesia, also known as langbeinite (22% K2O), potassium sulfate (50% K2O) and potassium nitrate (44% K2O).
Potash is primarily used as an agricultural fertilizer due to its high potassium content. Potassium, nitrogen and phosphate are the three primary nutrients essential for plant growth. A proper balance of these nutrients improves plant health and increases crop yields. Potash helps regulate plants physiological functions and improves plant durability, providing crops with protection from drought, disease, parasites and cold weather. Currently, no cost effective substitutes exist for these three nutrients. Less effective nutrient sources do exist, however, the relatively low nutrient content of these sources and cost of transportation reduce their attractiveness as a viable, economic alternative to potash.
Potash is primarily mined from underground mines and less frequently, from naturally occurring surface or sub-surface brines. It is mined through both conventional underground methods and surface or solution mining. Unlike nitrogen and phosphate, potash does not require additional chemical conversion to be used as a plant nutrient.
Domestically, approximately 85% of all potash produced is used as a fertilizer, most of it in the form of potassium chloride, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The chemical industry consumes the remaining 15% of potash produced.
Demand for Potash
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Potash demand depends primarily on the demand for fertilizer, which is based on the total planted acreage, crop mix, soil characteristics, fertilizer application rates, crop yields and farm income. Each of these factors is affected by current and projected grain stocks and prices, agricultural policies, improvements in agronomic efficiency, fertilizer application rates and weather. From 2000 to 2010, global consumption of potash as a fertilizer grew at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.6% per year according to Fertecon. World potash fertilizer consumption was 23.7 million tonnes in 2010, 27.5 million tonnes in 2011, 28.9 million tonnes in 2012, 29 million tonnes in 2013 and is expected to increase from a total of 29 million tonnes in 2013 to 33.4 million tonnes in 2018 with an annual per annum growth rate of 3.0 percent according to the International Fertilizer Industry Association.
Source: Fertecon
While developed countries have traditionally been the largest consumers of potash, developing countries are the fastest growing markets for potash, including in the emerging and developing economies of India, China and Brazil. Over the next eight years, Fertecon estimates that potash fertilizer consumption will grow in India, China and Brazil at a CAGR of 8.8%, 4.8% and 3.7%, respectively. Population and income growth are two important drivers of potash demand.
According to the USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries (January 2012), approximately 15% of U.S. potash consumption is used in the production of potassium chemicals for industrial markets. Industrial applications for potassium chloride include the production of potassium hydroxide, which is used in the production of other potassium chemicals; the production of potassium carbonate, which is primarily used for specialty glasses for cathode-ray tubes and as a component in dry-chemical fire extinguishers; leavening agents; and as a pharmaceutical ingredient. Potassium chloride is also used in the oil and gas industry as a drilling fluid additive. Other industrial applications of potassium chloride include use as a flux in secondary aluminum processing, as a potassium supplement in animal feeds, and in ceramics, textiles and dyes. From 2000 to 2010, U.S. industrial consumption of potash grew at a CAGR of 1.3%, from 725 thousand tonnes to 825 thousand tonnes, according to Fertecon.
Only 12 countries produce nearly all of the worlds supply, making much of the world dependent upon imports to satisfy their potash requirements. With its highly developed agricultural economy and limited domestic production capability, the U.S. is the second largest consumer of potash globally, representing 15.9% of total estimated consumption for 2010, as reported by Fertecon. According to Fertecon, in 2010, the U.S. was the largest importer of potash in the world, importing approximately 90% of its potash. The high level of potash consumption in the U.S. is in large part due to its extensive cultivation of commodity crops such as corn, wheat, cotton and soybeans.
Supply of Potash
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The supply of potash is influenced by a broad range of factors including available capacity and achievable operating rates; mining, production and freight costs; government policies and global trade. According to Fertecon, in 2010, seven countries accounted for approximately 91% of the worlds aggregate potash production. This scarcity has resulted in a high degree of concentration among the leading producers. Canada currently accounts for approximately 29% of global potash production. The next six largest producers, Russia, Belarus, China, Germany, Israel and Jordan, account for approximately 62% of global production. The U.S. produces approximately 17% of the potash it consumes. U.S. potash reserves are concentrated in the southwestern U.S and account for approximately 3.3% of world production. The leading global providers of potash are shown in the following chart:
Source: Fertecon
Based on demand growth expectations, and assuming normal effective capacity utilization rates and timely completion of all announced capacity expansions, Fertecon projects the global potash market to grow from 34.6 million tonnes of K2O total sales in 2010 to 46.6million tonnes in 2020.
Competitive Business Conditions
We compete with numerous other companies and individuals in the search for and acquisition or control of attractive mineral properties. Our ability to acquire further properties will depend not only on our ability to operate and develop our properties but also on our ability to select and acquire suitable properties or prospects for exploration or development.
In regards to our plan to produce potash, there are a limited number of potash producers presently. If we are successful at becoming a producer of potash, our ability to be competitive with those producers will require that we establish a reliable supply of potash to the market.
Regulation
The exploration and development of a mining prospect is subject to regulation by a number of federal and state government authorities. These include the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) as well as the various state environmental protection agencies. The regulations address many environmental issues relating to air, soil and water contamination and apply to many mining related activities including exploration, mine construction, mineral extraction, ore milling, water use, waste disposal and use of toxic substances. In addition, we are subject to regulations relating to labor standards, occupational health and safety, mine safety, general land use, export of minerals and taxation. Many of the regulations require permits or licenses to be obtained and the filing of Notices of Intent and Plans of Operations, the absence of which or inability to obtain will adversely affect the ability for us to conduct our exploration, development and operation activities. The failure to comply with the regulations and terms of permits and licenses may result in fines or other penalties or in revocation of a permit or license or loss of a prospect.
If we are successful in the future at discovering a commercially viable mineral deposit on our property interests, then if and when we commence any mineral production, we will also need to comply with laws that regulate or propose to regulate our mining activities, including the management and handling of raw materials, disposal, storage and management of hazardous and solid waste, the safety of our employees and post-mining land reclamation.
We cannot predict the impact of new or changed laws, regulations or permitting requirements, or changes in the ways that such laws, regulations or permitting requirements are enforced, interpreted or administered. Health, safety and environmental laws and regulations are complex, are subject to change and have become more stringent over time. It is possible that greater than anticipated health, safety and environmental capital expenditures or reclamation and closure expenditures will be required in the future. We expect continued government and public emphasis on environmental issues will result in increased future investments for environmental controls at our operations.
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The Minerals Section of the Arizona State Land Department is responsible for mining/mineral activities on Arizona State Trust land. Exploration Permits and Mining Leases are governed by: Arizona Revised Statutes Title 27, Minerals, Oil and Gas; Title 37 Public Lands; Title 41 State Government; and Arizona Administrative Code Title 12 Natural Resources, Chapter 5. In order to explore for minerals on Arizona State Trust lands we are required to comply with the following:
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A non-refundable filing fee of $500.00 is required for each application. | |
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An environmental disclosure questionnaire must accompany each application. | |
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A maximum 640 acres or 1 whole section is permitted per application. | |
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An exploration permit is valid for one (1) year, renewable up to five (5) years. | |
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Lease boundaries, access routes, mine workings, roads, water sources, residences, utilities, etc. must be plotted separately on a USGS Topographic Map included with the application. | |
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The application must be signed by the applicant(s) or an authorized agent. If an agent is filing for the applicant, a notarized Power of Attorney must be filled with the Department. The filing fee for a Power of Attorney is $50.00. | |
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The processing of an Exploration Permit takes a minimum of sixty (60) days. | |
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The Application is reviewed by the ASLD Minerals Section and if necessary, other ASLD divisions, outside agencies and any interested parties. | |
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Rent is $2.00 per acre for first year which includes the second year and $1.00 per acre per year for years three through five. | |
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An Exploration Plan of Operation must be submitted annually and approved by the ASLD prior to startup of exploration activities. | |
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If any surface disturbance is planned as part of the exploration activities, Archaeological and Biological surveys as well as any other applicable permits must be submitted for ASLD review (three (3) copies of each and an electronic copy in pdf format). | |
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A bond is established based on the proposed exploration activities. Typically a $3,000.00 bond is required for a single permit or a blanket bond of $15,000.00 for five or more permits held by an individual or company. | |
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Minimum work expenditure requirements are: |
| $10 per acre per year for years 1-2; | |
| $20 per acre per year for years 3-5; and | |
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Proof of work expenditures must be submitted to the ASLD Minerals Section each year in the form of invoice and paid receipts. If no work was completed on-site, the applicant can pay the equal amount to the department. |
| An exploration permit is not a right to mine. |
If discovery of a valuable mineral deposit is made, the permitee must apply for a mineral lease before actual mining activities can begin.
Prospecting on Federal lands is administered by the BLM. Prospecting Permits are covered by the Public Domain Mineral Leasing Act of 1920, as amended (30 U.S.C. 181 et seq.), the Acquired Lands Mineral Leasing Act of 1947, as amended (30 U.S.C. 351-359), and the Federal Land Policy Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA), (43 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) which authorizes the management and use of the public lands. The regulations governing these minerals are found in the 43 CFR 3500 regulations.
We have applied for prospecting permits with the BLM but have not yet been granted permission to begin exploration activities. The permits are still in process.
Employees
As at February 28, 2014, we have one employee, however, we have 10 individuals working on a consulting basis. Our operations are managed by our officers with input from our directors. We engage geological and engineering consultants from time to time as required to assist in evaluating our property interests and recommending and conducting work programs.
Transfer Agent
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We have engaged Computershare Investor Services Inc. as our stock transfer agent. The Computershare Investor Services Inc. office that provides services to us is located at 510 Burrard Street, 2nd Floor, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6C 3B9. Their telephone number is (604) 661-9400 and their fax number is (604) 661-9549. The transfer agent is responsible for all record-keeping and administrative functions in connection with our issued and outstanding common stock.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
An investment in our common stock involves a number of very significant risks. You should carefully consider the following risks and uncertainties in addition to other information in this annual report in evaluating our company and its business before purchasing shares of our common stock. Our business, operating results and financial condition could be adversely affected due to any of the following risks. The risks described below may not be all of the risks facing our company. Additional risks not presently known to us or that we currently consider immaterial may also impair our business operations. You could lose all or part of your investment due to any of these risks.
Risks Associated with the Holbrook Basin Project
The Holbrook Project may be subject to unknown land title defects.
Although we believe we have exercised reasonable due diligence with respect to determining title to our properties, there is no guarantee that title to our properties and other tenure will not be challenged or impugned. No assurances can be given that there are no title defects affecting our properties. Our properties may be subject to prior unregistered liens, agreements, transfers or claims and title may be affected by, among other things, undetected defects. There may be valid challenges to the title of our properties which, if successful, could prevent us from operating our properties as planned or permitted or prevent us from enforcing our rights with respect to our properties.
We may not locate any commercially viable mineral deposits on any of our current properties within the Holbrook Basin Project, which would have an adverse effect on the value of our common stock.
Our exploration for commercially viable mineral deposits is highly speculative in nature and involves the substantial risk that no viable mineral deposits will be located on any of our properties within the Holbrook Basin Project. There is a considerable risk that any exploration program we conduct on our properties may not result in the discovery of any significant mineralization or commercially viable mineral deposits. We may encounter numerous geological features that limit our ability to locate mineralization or that interfere with our planned exploration programs, each of which could result in our exploration efforts proving unsuccessful. In such a case, we may incur the costs associated with an exploration program without realizing any benefit. This would likely result in a decrease in the value of our common stock and investors may lose their entire investment.
We may not be able to successfully negotiate amendments to the acquisition agreements relating to the Twin Buttes Ranch property or the Fitzgerald Ranch property, which may have an adverse effect on the value of our common stock.
We are currently in default under (i) the Lease & Option Agreement we entered into with Twin Buttes Ranch, LLC to purchase the Twin Buttes Ranch, and (ii) the purchase agreement with the co-trustees of the Fitzgerald Living Trust to acquire the Fitzgerald Ranch. As a result of such default on the purchase agreement for the Fitzgerlad Ranch, we have written-off $975,000 capitalized to long term deposits. If we are not able to negotiate a further amendment to such agreements, then we may lose the ability to acquire such lands, which reduce our potential landholdings in the Holbrook Basin and would likely result in a decrease in the value of our common stock.
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There is no guarantee that we will be able to finance the Holbrook Basin Project for production if we are successful at locating a commercially viable mineral deposit.
If we are successful at locating a commercially viable mineral deposit on any of our current properties within the Holbrook Basin Project, then any decision to proceed with production on the Holbrook Basin Project will require significant production financing. If we are unable to source production financing on commercially viable terms, we may not be able to proceed with the project and may have to write-off our investment in the project.
A portion of our properties is within the expanded boundaries of the Petrified Forest National Park, which may expose us to increased environmental and regulatory scrutiny.
Our Holbrook Basin Project is in close proximity to the Petrified Forest National Park (PFNP), a national park in northeastern Arizona protected by the United States National Parks Services. In December 2004, the United States government enacted legislation which expanded the authorized boundaries of the PFNP by approximately 125,000 acres to include adjacent lands. Portions of our Twin Butte Ranch property fall within the expanded boundaries of the PFNP. Although the enabling legislation for the expansion of the PFNP provides that the Secretary of the Interior may only acquire land in private ownership from willing sellers, the proximity of our properties to the PFNP may expose us to increased environmental and regulatory scrutiny.
The proximity of our properties to the PFNP could lead to the denials of approvals and permits necessary to develop portions or our Holbrook Project. Furthermore, the proposed expansion of the PFNP could limit our ability to acquire additional mineral rights, and additional acquisitions of lands or interests in land by the National Park Service would lead to further overlap with our current holdings.
Continued government and public emphasis on environmental issues can be expected to result in increased future investments in environmental controls at ongoing operations, which may lead to increased expenses. Permit renewals and compliance with present and future environmental laws and regulations applicable to our operations may require substantial capital expenditures and may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.
Risks Related to Our Business
We are an emerging growth company under the JOBS Act of 2012, and we cannot be certain if the reduced disclosure requirements applicable to emerging growth companies will make our common stock less attractive to investors.
We are an emerging growth company, as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012 (JOBS Act), and we may take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not emerging growth companies including, but not limited to, not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements, and exemptions from the requirements of holding a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation, shareholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved and presenting the relationship between executive compensation actually paid and our financial performance. We cannot predict if investors will find our common stock less attractive because we may rely on these exemptions. If some investors find our common stock less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our common stock and our stock price may be more volatile.
We will remain an emerging growth company for up to five years after our first sale of common stock pursuant to a Securities Act registration statement, although we will lose that status sooner if our revenues exceed $1 billion, if we issue more than $1 billion in non-convertible debt in a three year period, or if the market value of our common stock that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of any August 31.
Our status as an emerging growth company under the JOBS Act of 2012 may make it more difficult to raise capital as and when we need it. Because of the exemptions from various reporting requirements provided to us as an emerging growth company, we may be less attractive to investors and it may be difficult for us to raise additional capital as and when we need it. If we are unable to raise additional capital as and when we need it, our financial condition and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected..
We are an exploration stage company with no current revenue source and a history of operating losses and there is an expectation that we will generate operating losses for the foreseeable future; we may not achieve profitability for some time, if at all.
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We have a history of operating losses and there can be no assurance that we will ever be profitable. We presently have no ability to generate earnings as our properties are in the exploration stage. Significant operating losses are to be anticipated for at least the next several years before we will be able to generate any revenues. If the Holbrook Basin Project is successfully developed and operated, we anticipate that we will retain future earnings and other cash resources for the future operation and development of our business.
We will require additional financing in order to continue our exploration activities and our assessment of the commercial viability of our mineral properties, and if we raise additional financing existing securityholders may experience dilution.
We will need to raise additional financing to complete further exploration of our mineral properties. Furthermore, if the costs of our planned exploration programs are greater than anticipated, we may have to seek additional funds through public or private share offerings or arrangements with corporate partners. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in our efforts to raise these required funds, or on terms satisfactory to us. The continued exploration of our mineral properties and the development of our business will depend upon our ability to establish the commercial viability of our mineral properties and to ultimately develop cash flow from operations and reach profitable operations. We currently are in the exploration stage and we have no revenue from operations and we are experiencing significant negative cash flow from operations. Accordingly, the only other sources of funds presently available to us are through the sale of equity. We presently believe that debt financing will not be an alternative to us as all of our properties are in the exploration stage. Alternatively, we may finance our business by offering an interest in our mineral properties to be earned by another party or parties carrying out further exploration thereof or to obtain project or operating financing from financial institutions, neither of which is presently intended. If we are able to raise funds from the sale of our securities, existing securityholders may experience significant dilution of their ownership interests and possibly to the value of their existing securities. If we are unable to obtain this additional financing, we will not be able to continue our exploration activities and our assessment of the commercial viability of our mineral properties.
As our mineral properties do not contain any reserves or any known body of economic mineralization, we may not discover commercially exploitable quantities of potash on our mineral properties that would enable us to enter into commercial production, achieve revenues and recover the money we spend on exploration.
Our properties do not contain reserves in accordance with the definitions adopted by the SEC and there is no assurance that any exploration programs that we carry out will establish reserves. All of our mineral properties are in the exploration stage as opposed to the development stage and have no known body of economic mineralization. The known potash mineralization at these projects has not yet been determined to be economic, and may never be determined to be economic. We plan to conduct further exploration activities on our mineral properties, which future exploration may include the completion of feasibility studies necessary to evaluate whether a commercial mineable mineral body exists on any of our mineral properties. There is a substantial risk that these exploration activities will not result in discoveries of commercially recoverable quantities of potash. Any determination that our properties contain commercially recoverable quantities of potash may not be reached until such time that final comprehensive feasibility studies have been concluded that establish that a potential mine is likely to be economic. There is a substantial risk that any preliminary or final feasibility studies carried out by us will not result in a positive determination that our mineral properties can be commercially developed.
Our exploration activities on our mineral properties may not be successful, which could lead us to abandon our plans to develop such properties and our investments in exploration.
We are an exploration stage company and have not as yet established any reserves on our properties. Our long-term success depends on our ability to establish commercially recoverable quantities of potash on our mineral properties that can then be developed into commercially viable mining operations. Mineral exploration is highly speculative in nature, involves many risks and is frequently non-productive. These risks include unusual or unexpected geologic formations, and the inability to obtain suitable or adequate machinery, equipment or labor. The success of mineral exploration is determined in part by the following factors:
Substantial expenditures are required to establish proven and probable reserves through drilling and analysis, to develop processes to extract potash, and to develop the mining and processing facilities and infrastructure at any site chosen for mining. Whether a mineral deposit will be established or determined to be commercially viable depends on a number of factors, which include, without limitation, the particular attributes of the deposit, such as size, grade and proximity to infrastructure; potash prices, which fluctuate widely; and government regulations, including, without limitation, regulations relating to prices, taxes, royalties, land tenure, land use, importing and exporting of minerals and environmental protection. We may invest significant capital and resources in exploration activities and abandon such investments if we are unable to identify commercially exploitable mineral reserves. The decision to abandon a project may reduce the trading price of our common stock and impair our ability to raise future financing. We cannot provide any assurance to investors that we will discover any mineralized material in sufficient quantities on any of our properties to justify commercial operations. Further, we will not be able to recover the funds that we spend on exploration if we are not able to establish commercially recoverable quantities of potash on our mineral properties.
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We have a history of operating losses and there can be no assurances we will be profitable in the future.
We have a history of operating losses, expect to continue to incur losses, are considered to be in the exploration stage, and may never be profitable. Further, we have been dependent on sales of our equity securities to meet our cash requirements. We incurred a net loss totaling $8,836,184 in the year ended February 28, 2014, and incurred net loss of $9,474,700 in the year ended February 28, 2013. Further, we do not expect positive cash flow from operations in the near term. There is no assurance that actual cash requirements will not exceed our estimates. In particular, additional capital may be required in the event that: (i) the costs to acquire additional mineral exploration claims are more than we currently anticipate; (ii) exploration costs for additional claims increase beyond our expectations; or (iii) we encounter greater costs associated with general and administrative expenses or offering costs.
Our participation in mineral exploration prospects has required and will continue to require substantial capital expenditures. The uncertainty and factors described throughout this section may impede our ability to economically discover mineral prospects. As a result, we may not be able to achieve or sustain profitability or positive cash flows from operating activities in the future.
Our operations are subject to losses due to exchange rate fluctuation.
We maintain accounts in Canadian currency. Our equity financings have to-date been priced in Canadian dollars, however our material project is located in the United States and requires regular currency conversions to U.S. dollars. Our operations are accordingly subject to currency fluctuations and such fluctuations may materially affect our financial position and results. We do not engage in currency hedging activities.
Declining economic conditions could negatively impact our business.
Our operations are affected by local, national and worldwide economic conditions. Markets in the US, Canada and elsewhere have been experiencing extreme volatility and disruption for more than 12 months, due in part to the financial stresses affecting the liquidity of the banking system and the financial markets generally. The consequences of a potential or prolonged recession may include a lower level of economic activity and uncertainty regarding energy prices and the capital and commodity markets. Instability in the financial markets, as a result of recession or otherwise, also may affect the cost of capital and our ability to raise capital.
The mining industry is very competitive and our ability to attract and retain qualified contractors and staff is critical to our success. The departure of key personnel or loss of key contractors could adversely affect our ability to run our business and achieve our business objectives.
We will compete in the hiring of appropriate geological, engineering, permitting, environmental and other operational experts to assist with the location, exploration and development of our mineral property interests and implementation of our business plan. We believe we will have to offer or pay appropriate cash compensation and options to induce persons to be associated with an exploration stage company.
In addition, we depend to a great extent on principal members of our management. If we lose the services of any key personnel, in particular, Mr. Joshua Bleak, our President and CEO, who has been instrumental in the growth and expansion of our business, it could significantly impede our growth plans and corporate strategies, identifying business opportunities, recruiting new staff, and retaining existing capable staff. The recruiting and retaining qualified scientific, technical and managerial personnel is critical to our success. We do not currently have any key man life insurance policies. We may not be able to retain existing personnel or attract and retain qualified staff in the future.
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If we are unable to hire qualified contractors and staff and retain personnel in key positions because of our limited resources, we may be unable to proceed with the implementation of our business plan of exploring and possibly developing our mineral property interests. In that event, investors will have their investment impaired or it may be entirely lost.
We face competition from larger companies having access to substantially more resources than we possess.
Our competitors include other mineral exploration and mining companies and fertilizer producers in the United States and globally, including state-owned and government-subsidized entities. Many of these competitors are large, well-established companies and have substantially larger operating staffs and greater capital resources than we do. We may not be able to successfully conduct our operations, evaluate and select suitable properties and consummate transactions in this highly competitive environment. Specifically, these larger competitors may be able to pay more for exploratory prospects and productive mineral properties and may be able to define, evaluate, bid for and purchase a greater number of properties and prospects than our financial or human resources permit. In addition, such companies may be able to expend greater resources on the existing and changing technologies that we believe are and will be increasingly important to attaining success in the industry. If our competition is such that we cannot compete and generate a sufficient return on our investment and operations, we may be forced to curtail our operations, resulting in a loss to investors.
There is substantial doubt as to whether we can continue as a going concern.
Our auditors have included an explanatory paragraph in their opinion that accompanies our audited financial statements as of and for the year ended February 28, 2014, indicating that we have incurred losses since inception of the exploration stage of $43,764,748 which raises substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. The accompanying financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
Our officers and directors may be subject to conflicts of interest.
Some of our officers and directors serve only part time and may be subject to conflicts of interest. Each may devote part of his working time to other business endeavors, including consulting relationships with other corporate entities, and may have responsibilities to these other entities. Such conflicts may include deciding how much time to devote to our affairs, as well as what business opportunities should be presented to us. Because of these relationships, some of our officers and directors may be subject to conflicts of interest.
Joshua Bleak, our President CEO and a director, Michael X. Schlumpberger, our Chief Operating Officer, as well as John Eckersley, our Executive Vice President and a director, serve full time (40 hours per week). All of the other directors and officers only provide services to us on a part time basis as follows:
Bill Allred (Chief Financial Officer) - 10 hours per week;
Ali Rahimtula (director) 10 hours per week;
David Salisbury (director)
10 hours per week; and
Frank Högel (Vice Chairman and director) - 10 hours
per week.
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We are required to indemnify our directors and executive officer against liability to us and our stockholders, and such indemnification could increase our operating costs.
Our Articles require us to indemnify our directors and officers against claims associated with carrying out the duties of their offices. Our Articles also require us to reimburse them for expenses actually and reasonably incurred by such director and/or officer in respect of legal proceedings relating to carrying out the duties of their offices.
Since our directors and executive officer are aware that they may be indemnified for carrying out the duties of their offices, they may be less motivated to meet the standards required by law to properly carry out such duties, which could increase our operating costs. Further, if our directors or executive officer file a claim against us for indemnification, the associated expenses could also increase our operating costs.
Loss of Foreign Private Issuer Status under U.S. Securities Laws may lead to significantly higher costs and expenses.
Based on our analysis of the number of our shares held by persons residing in the U.S., as well as the majority of our assets being in the U.S., we do not meet the definition of a foreign private issuer under U.S. securities laws. As a result, we are subject to U.S. securities laws as applicable to a U.S. domestic company. The loss of foreign private issuer status may lead to significantly higher regulatory and compliance costs to us under U.S. securities laws. We are required to file periodic reports and registration statements on U.S. domestic issuer forms with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which are more detailed and extensive than the forms available to a foreign private issuer. We also have to mandatorily comply with U.S. federal proxy requirements, and our officers, directors and principal shareholders will become subject to the short-swing profit disclosure and recovery provisions of Section 16 of the Exchange Act. We may also be required to modify certain of our policies to comply with good governance practices associated with U.S. domestic issuers. Such conversion and modifications will involve additional costs. In addition, we may lose our ability to rely upon exemptions from certain corporate governance requirements on U.S. stock exchanges that are available to foreign private issuers.
General Risks Associated with Our Exploration Activities
Mining operations are subject to comprehensive regulation, which may cause substantial delays or require capital outlays in excess of those anticipated, causing an adverse effect on our business operations.
If economic quantities of minerals are found on any of our mineral property interests by us in sufficient quantities to warrant mining operations, such mining operations will be subject to federal, state, and local laws relating to the protection of the environment, including laws regulating removal of natural resources from the ground and the discharge of materials into the environment. Mining operations are also subject to federal, state, and local laws and regulations which seek to maintain health and safety standards by regulating the design and use of mining methods and equipment. Various permits from government bodies are required for mining operations to be conducted; no assurance can be given that such permits will be received. Environmental standards imposed by federal, provincial, or local authorities may be changed and any such changes may have material adverse effects on our activities. Moreover, compliance with such laws may cause substantial delays or require capital outlays in excess of those anticipated, thus resulting in an adverse effect on us. Additionally, we may be subject to liability for pollution or other environmental damages which we may elect not to insure against due to prohibitive premium costs and other reasons. To date we have not been required to spend material amounts on compliance with environmental regulations. However, we may be required to do so in future and this may affect our ability to expand or maintain our operations.
Mineral exploration and development and mining activities are subject to certain environmental regulations, which may prevent or delay the commencement or continuance of our operations.
Mineral exploration and development and future potential mining operations are or will be subject to stringent federal, state and local laws and regulations relating to improving or maintaining environmental quality. Environmental laws often require parties to pay for remedial action or to pay damages regardless of fault. Environmental laws also often impose liability with respect to divested or terminated operations, even if the operations were terminated or divested of many years ago.
Future potential mining operations and current exploration activities are or will be subject to extensive laws and regulations governing prospecting, development, production, exports, taxes, labor standards, occupational health, waste disposal, protection and remediation of the environment, protection of endangered and protected species, mine safety, toxic substances and other matters. Mining is also subject to risks and liabilities associated with pollution of the environment and disposal of waste products occurring as a result of mineral exploration and production. Compliance with these laws and regulations will impose substantial costs on us and will subject us to significant potential liabilities.
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Costs associated with environmental liabilities and compliance are expected to increase with the increasing scale and scope of operations and we expect these costs may increase in the future.
We believe that our operations comply, in all material respects, with all applicable environmental regulations. However, we are not fully insured at the current date against possible environmental risks.
Our operations are dependent on receiving the required permits and approvals from governmental authorities. Denial or delay by a government agency in issuing any of our permits and approvals or imposition of restrictive conditions on us with respect to these permits and approvals may impair our business and operations.
We must obtain numerous environmental and exploration permits and approvals authorizing our future operations. A decision by a government agency to deny a permit or approval could have a material adverse effect on our ability to continue operations at the affected location and may have a material adverse effect on our business operations.
In addition, if we are successful at indentifying a commercially viable potash deposit on our Holbrook Basin Project, the future potential development of such deposit into a mine is also predicated upon securing all necessary permits and approvals. A denial of or delay in obtaining any of these permits or approvals or the issuance of any of these permits with cost-prohibitive conditions could interfere with any potential development of this property and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Our business involves many operating risks, which may result in substantial losses, and insurance may be unavailable or inadequate to protect us against these risks.
Our operations are subject to hazards and risks associated with the exploration of natural resources and related fertilizer materials and products, such as: fires; explosions; inclement weather and natural disasters; mechanical failures; unscheduled downtime; and availability of needed equipment at acceptable prices. Any of these risks can cause substantial losses resulting from: damage to and destruction of property, natural resources and equipment; regulatory investigations and penalties; revocation or denial of our permits; suspension of our operations; and repair and remediation costs.
Our liability for environmental hazards may extend to those created either by the previous owners of properties that we purchase or lease or by acquired companies prior to the date we acquire them. We do not currently maintain insurance against all of the risks described above. In the future we may not be able to obtain insurance at premium levels that justify its purchase. We may also experience losses in amounts in excess of the insurance coverages carried. Either of these occurrences could harm our financial condition and results of operations.
Potash is a commodity with a selling price that is highly dependent on the business and economic conditions and governmental policies affecting the agricultural industry. These factors are outside of our control and may significantly affect our profitability.
If we are able to achieve commercial production on any of our properties, our future revenues, operating results, profitability and rate of growth will depend primarily upon business and economic conditions and governmental policies affecting the agricultural industry, which we cannot control. The agricultural products business can be affected by a number of factors. The most important of these factors, for U.S. markets, are: weather patterns and field conditions (particularly during periods of traditionally high crop nutrients consumption); quantities of crop nutrients imported to and exported from North America; current and projected grain inventories and prices, both of which are heavily influenced by U.S. exports and world-wide grain markets; and U.S. governmental policies, including farm and biofuel policies and subsidies, which may directly or indirectly influence the number of acres planted, the level of grain inventories, the mix of crops planted or crop prices.
International market conditions, which are also outside of our control, may also significantly influence our future operating results. The international market for crop nutrients is influenced by such factors as the relative value of the U.S. dollar and its impact upon the cost of importing crop nutrients, foreign agricultural policies, the existence of, or changes in, import barriers, or foreign currency fluctuations in certain foreign markets, changes in the hard currency demands of certain countries and other regulatory policies of foreign governments, as well as the laws and policies of the United States affecting foreign trade and investment.
Government regulation may adversely affect our business and results of operations.
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Projects related to mineral exploration, mining and natural resources are subject to various and numerous federal, state and local government regulations, which may be changed from time to time. There are federal, state and local laws and regulations primarily relating to protection of human health and the environment applicable to the exploration, mining, development, production, handling, storage, transportation and disposal of natural resources, including potash, or its by-products and other substances and materials produced or used in connection with mining operations. Activities subject to regulation include the use, handling, processing, storage, transportation and disposal of hazardous materials, and we could incur substantial additional costs to comply with environmental, health and safety law requirements related to these activities. We also could incur substantial costs for liabilities arising from past unknown releases of, or exposure to, hazardous substances.
Under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, we could be held jointly and severally responsible for the removal or remediation of any hazardous substance contamination at future facilities, at neighboring properties to which such contamination may have migrated and at third-party waste disposal sites to which we have sent waste. We could also be held liable for natural resource damages. Liabilities under these and other environmental health and safety laws involve inherent uncertainties. Violations of environmental, health and safety laws are subject to civil, and, in some cases, criminal sanctions. As a result of liabilities under and violations of environmental, health and safety laws and related uncertainties, we may incur unexpected interruptions to operations, fines, penalties or other reductions in income, third-party claims for property damage or personal injury or remedial or other costs that would negatively impact our financial condition and operating results. Finally, we may discover currently unknown environmental problems or conditions. The discovery of currently unknown environmental problems may subject us to material capital expenditures or liabilities in the future.
Continued government and public emphasis on environmental issues can be expected to result in increased future investments for environmental controls at ongoing operations, which may lead to increased expenses. Permit renewals and compliance with present and future environmental laws and regulations applicable to our operations may require substantial capital expenditures and may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.
Risks Related to Our Securities
We do not intend to pay dividends and there will thus be fewer ways in which you are able to make a gain on your investment.
We do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future and we may not have sufficient funds legally available to pay dividends. To the extent that we require additional funding currently not provided for in our financing plans, our funding sources may prohibit the payment of any dividends. Because we do not intend to declare dividends, any gain on your investment will need to result from an appreciation in the price of our common stock. There will therefore be fewer ways in which you are able to make a gain on your investment.
Our stock is a penny stock. Trading of our stock may be restricted by the SECs penny stock regulations which may limit a stockholders ability to buy and sell our stock.
Our stock is a penny stock. The SEC has adopted Rule 15g-9 which generally defines penny stock to be any equity security that has a market price (as defined) less than $5.00 per share or an exercise price of less than $5.00 per share, subject to certain exceptions. Our securities are covered by the penny stock rules, which impose additional sales practice requirements on broker-dealers who sell to persons other than established customers and accredited investors. The term accredited investor refers generally to institutions with assets in excess of $5,000,000 or individuals with a net worth in excess of $1,000,000, not including any equity in that persons or persons spouses primary residence, or annual income exceeding $200,000 or $300,000 jointly with their spouse. The penny stock rules require a broker-dealer, prior to a transaction in a penny stock not otherwise exempt from the rules, to deliver a standardized risk disclosure document in a form prepared by the SEC which provides information about penny stocks and the nature and level of risks in the penny stock market. The broker-dealer also must provide the customer with current bid and offer quotations for the penny stock, the compensation of the broker-dealer and its salesperson in the transaction and monthly account statements showing the market value of each penny stock held in the customers account. The bid and offer quotations, and the broker-dealer and salesperson compensation information, must be given to the customer orally or in writing prior to effecting the transaction and must be given to the customer in writing before or with the customers confirmation. In addition, the penny stock rules require that prior to a transaction in a penny stock not otherwise exempt from these rules, the broker-dealer must make a special written determination that the penny stock is a suitable investment for the purchaser and receive the purchasers written agreement to the transaction. These disclosure requirements may have the effect of reducing the level of trading activity in the secondary market for the stock that is subject to these penny stock rules. Consequently, these penny stock rules may affect the ability of broker-dealers to trade our securities. We believe that the penny stock rules discourage investor interest in and limit the marketability of our common stock.
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FINRA sales practice requirements may also limit a stockholders ability to buy and sell our stock.
In addition to the penny stock rules promulgated by the SEC, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) has adopted rules that require that in recommending an investment to a customer, a broker-dealer must have reasonable grounds for believing that the investment is suitable for that customer. Prior to recommending speculative low priced securities to their non-institutional customers, broker-dealers must make reasonable efforts to obtain information about the customers financial status, tax status, investment objectives and other information. Under interpretations of these rules, FINRA believes that there is a high probability that speculative low priced securities will not be suitable for at least some customers. The FINRA requirements make it more difficult for broker-dealers to recommend that their customers buy our common stock, which may limit your ability to buy and sell our stock.
Any future sales of our equity securities will dilute the ownership percentage of our existing stockholders and may decrease the market price for our common stock.
Given our lack of revenues and the doubtful prospect that we will earn significant revenues in the next several years, we will likely have to issue additional equity securities to obtain funds for our planned exploration operations and acquisition activities. Our efforts to fund our planned exploration and acquisition activities will therefore result in dilution to our existing stockholders. In short, our continued need to sell equity will result in reduced percentage ownership interests for all of our investors, which may decrease the market price for our common stock.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
Not applicable as we are not an accelerated or large accelerated filer.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
We lease our principal office space located at 608 1199 West Pender Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, V6E 2R1. This office space is for the conduct of our business operations and costs us approximately $1,500 in rent per month.
Notice to Readers
The mineral resources referred to herein have been estimated in accordance with the definition standards on mineral resources of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum referred to in NI 43-101 and are not compliant with SEC Industry Guide 7 guidelines. In addition, measured mineral resources, indicated mineral resources and inferred mineral resources, while recognized and required by Canadian regulations, are not defined terms under SEC Industry Guide 7 and are normally not permitted to be used in reports and registration statements filed with the SEC. Accordingly, we have not reported them in the United States. Investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of the mineral resources in these categories will ever be converted into mineral reserves. These terms have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence, and great uncertainty as to their economic and legal feasibility. In particular, it should be noted that mineral resources which are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of measured mineral resources, indicated mineral resources or inferred mineral resources will ever be upgraded to a higher category. In accordance with Canadian rules, estimates of inferred mineral resources cannot form the basis of feasibility or other economic studies. Investors are cautioned not to assume that any part of the measured mineral resources, indicated mineral resources or inferred mineral resources referred to herein are economically or legally mineable.
Description of Mineral Properties
Holbrook Basin
Our principal asset is the Holbrook Basin Project. The Holbrook Basin Project is comprised of 87 Arizona State Land Department exploration permits, full or partial interests in 132 private land sections and 4 prospecting permits on federal land managed by the Bureau of Land Management, which are all located within the Holbrook Basin. Our private land interests are comprised of a lease over with an option to purchase the Twin Buttes Ranch property (51 sections), and a purchase agreement for the Fitzgerald Ranch property (81 sections), which agreements are currently in default, however, we are in continuing negotiations to amend these agreements.
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Location, Access and Infrastructure
Our Holbrook Basin Project is situated in the Holbrook Basin of east-central Arizona, which spans Coconino, Navajo and Apache Counties. The Holbrook Basin Project is located approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) southeast of the town of Holbrook in the County of Navajo, Arizona. The town of Holbrook provides capacity for personnel, supplies, equipment and accommodation. The I-40 to the north of the project area is a major west-east interstate highway and intersects with eight north-south interstate highways. Therefore, there is full service truck transport and support system throughout the southwest U.S. by way of route I-40. The U.S. Routes 77 and 180 run from I-40 into the project area. The project is also accessible by way of a number of unpaved roads which cut through the project area. The entire area is accessible off-road by four-wheel drive vehicles.
The Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway (the BNSF) mainline is located to the north of the project area. This dual track is a main rail track for heavy duty service. The BNSF is part of the southwest system and runs through Fort Worth, Texas, BNSF headquarters, to the west through New Mexico, Arizona and into California. The ports of Stockton, Long Beach and the Mexican ports of Guymas and Topolabampo are easily accessible and suitable for international shipping.
A coal-fired power station, the Cholla Plant, which is located just west of Holbrook near Joseph City, provides electricity to the area. Water for drilling can also be obtained from range tanks, wells, and the Little Colorado River. The project area is covered by an electrical distribution network and a gas supply system.
We currently hold lands with a cumulative area of 122,879.08 acres within the Holbrook Basin. The landholdings are located within Township 15 to 19 North, Range 21 to 26 East, along the Gila and Salt River Meridian and Base Line. The figure below illustrates the location of our Holbrook Basin Project.
Figure 1: Location of the Holbrook Basin Project.
Property Titles
The Holbrook Basin Project consists of full/partial interests in 132 sections of private land (which are currently in default) covering a total of 70,098.19 acres, 87 Arizona State Land Department (ASLD) exploration permits covering an area of 48,768.46 acres and 4 prospecting permits on federal land managed by the Bureau of Land Management covering a total of 7,054.56 acres all within the Holbrook Basin. Our ownership interest in each of the properties and exploration permits comprising the Holbrook Basin Project are described above under Item 1. Business Recent History.
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Private Land
Through a lease purchase agreement with Twin Buttes Ranch, LLC, which is currently in default, we control five parcels of private land totaling 28,534.06 acres in Navajo County. The lease ends on January 6, 2016 unless it is terminated sooner for being in default.
Through a purchase agreement with the Fitzgerald Living Trust, which is currently in default, we control 41,564.13 acres of private land in Navajo County. The closing of the purchase agreement is expected to take place on June 15, 2015, unless terminated sooner for being in default.
Bureau of Land Management
We have submitted four prospecting permit applications with the Bureau of Land Management on federal land totaling 7,054.56 acres through the Southwest Option Agreement with Southwest Exploration, Inc., dated September 30, 2008. The land is administered by the Bureau of Land Management and our prospecting permit applications are currently being reviewed.
Arizona State Trust Land
As a Canadian corporation, we are unable to hold any ASLD exploration permits on our own behalf. Therefore, we formed three wholly owned subsidiaries, PPI Holding Corp., PPI East Block Holding Corp. and PPI West Blolck Holding Corp., all Arizona corporations, to hold all exploration permits. The ASLD permits, which we acquired through lease options with Southwest Exploration, Inc., Mesa Uranium Corp. and Sweetwater River Resources, LLC/American Potash, LLC, were acquired contractually by PPI Holding Corp. An option agreement with Ringbolt Ventures Ltd., Potash Green, LLC, and others was made to acquire another 25 mineral exploration permits on State Trust land. The permits from the Ringbolt Option Agreement are currently held by PPI East Block Holding Corp. The nature of each agreement is listed above in Item 1. Business Recent History. All ASLD fees and work expenditure requirements are current with respect to the 87 permits. We can apply for and acquire state leases on that acreage once a potential resource has been sufficiently demonstrated.
Figure 2: Location map Holbrook Basin Project landholdings
Permits
Permits necessary to carry out exploration on private, ASLD and federal lands in Arizona are as follows:
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The Arizona Oil & Gas Conservation Commission is responsible for granting the permits necessary for drilling on private, State and federal lands in the Holbrook Basin, Arizona. Furthermore, a Surface Use Plan and the posting of a bond (US$25,000) are required before starting any drilling activities.
A Mineral Exploration Permit must be obtained from the ASLD in order to drill on State trust land. Requirements to obtain this permit include:
If the permittee discovers a feasible mineral deposit, it will have to apply for a mineral lease prior to the start of any mining activities.
Permission to perform exploration drilling on federal lands has been granted by the BLM. Therefore, either a Notice of Intent (<5.0 acres/ 0.02 km² surface disturbance; obtainable within 30-60 days) or a Plan of Operations (>5.0 acres/ 0.02 km² surface disturbance) has to be submitted, depending on the amount of surface disturbance that is planned (43 CFR 3809.11 and 43 CFR 3809.21) . Depending on the nature of the intended work, the level of required reclamation bonding, the need for archeological surveys and other factors determined by the BLM, a Plan of Operations can take several months for approval.
Expiry Date of Permits
ASLD Exploration Permits
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BLM Prospecting Permits
BLM prospecting permits are effective for an initial term of two years and may be extended for an additional two year period. The Company has submitted four prospecting permit applications with the BLM but has not yet been granted permission to begin exploration activities as the applications are currently being reviewed.
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Annual Payments and Work Requirements
ASLD Exploration Permits
ASLD exploration permit expenses are our responsibility and include renewal fees, rental fees and exploration expenditure requirements. The following table sets out the aforementioned fees and expenditures on the ASLD exploration permits to which we hold or to which we have an interest in or have the right to earn an interest:
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Lessee(s) | Permit # | Effective Date |
Expiration Date |
Renewal Date |
Renewal Fee |
Rental Fee Years 1-2 [total] |
Rental Fee Years 3-5 [per year] |
Exploration Requirement Years 1-2 |
Exploration Requirement Years 3-5 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-113917 | 10/22/09 | 10/21/14 | 10/21/14 | $500.00 | $1,278.44 | $639.22 | $6,392.20 | $12,784.40 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-113918 | 10/22/09 | 10/21/14 | 10/21/14 | $500.00 | $1,283.20 | $641.60 | $6,416.00 | $12,832.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-113919 | 10/22/09 | 10/21/14 | 10/21/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-113921 | 10/22/09 | 10/21/14 | 10/21/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-113986 | 10/22/09 | 10/21/14 | 10/21/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-113987 | 10/22/09 | 10/21/14 | 10/21/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-113988 | 10/22/09 | 10/21/14 | 10/21/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-113989 | 10/22/09 | 10/21/14 | 10/21/14 | $500.00 | $1,267.16 | $633.58 | $6,335.80 | $12,671.60 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-113990 | 10/22/09 | 10/21/14 | 10/21/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-113991 | 10/22/09 | 10/21/14 | 10/21/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-113992 | 10/22/09 | 10/21/14 | 10/21/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-113993 | 10/22/09 | 10/21/14 | 10/21/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-113994 | 10/22/09 | 10/21/14 | 10/21/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-113995 | 10/22/09 | 10/21/14 | 10/21/14 | $500.00 | $80.00 | $40.00 | $400.00 | $800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-113996 | 10/22/09 | 10/21/14 | 10/21/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-114065 | 5/13/10 | 5/12/15 | 5/12/14 | $500.00 | $1,283.16 | $641.58 | $6,415.80 | $12,831.60 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-114067 | 5/13/10 | 5/12/15 | 5/12/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
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PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-114076 | 5/13/10 | 5/12/15 | 5/12/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-114252 | 11/13/09 | 11/12/14 | 11/12/14 | $500.00 | $1,276.68 | $638.34 | $6,383.40 | $12,766.80 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-114253 | 11/13/09 | 11/12/14 | 11/12/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-114254 | 11/13/09 | 11/12/14 | 11/12/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-114255 | 11/13/09 | 11/12/14 | 11/12/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-114256 | 11/13/09 | 11/12/14 | 11/12/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-114257 | 11/13/09 | 11/12/14 | 11/12/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI East Block Holding Corp. | 08-114258 | 11/13/09 | 11/12/14 | 11/12/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-114982 | 10/21/10 | 10/20/15 | 10/20/11 | $500.00 | $480.00 | $240.00 | $2,400.00 | $4,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-114983 | 10/21/10 | 10/20/15 | 10/20/11 | $500.00 | $640.00 | $320.00 | $3,200.00 | $6,400.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-114984 | 10/21/10 | 10/20/15 | 10/20/11 | $500.00 | $640.00 | $320.00 | $3,200.00 | $6,400.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-114985 | 10/21/10 | 10/20/15 | 10/20/11 | $500.00 | $640.00 | $320.00 | $3,200.00 | $6,400.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-114986 | 10/21/10 | 10/20/15 | 10/20/11 | $500.00 | $525.86 | $262.93 | $2,629.30 | $5,258.60 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-114987 | 10/21/10 | 10/20/15 | 10/20/11 | $500.00 | $120.00 | $60.00 | $600.00 | $1,200.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-114988 | 10/21/10 | 10/20/15 | 10/20/11 | $500.00 | $200.00 | $100.00 | $1,000.00 | $2,000.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-114989 | 10/21/10 | 10/20/15 | 10/20/11 | $500.00 | $480.00 | $240.00 | $2,400.00 | $4,800.00 |
29
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-115078 | 12/23/10 | 12/22/15 | 12/22/11 | $500.00 | $640.00 | $320.00 | $3,200.00 | $6,400.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-115079 | 12/23/10 | 12/22/15 | 12/22/11 | $500.00 | $686.22 | $343.11 | $3,431.10 | $6,862.20 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-115080 | 12/23/10 | 12/22/15 | 12/22/11 | $500.00 | $640.00 | $320.00 | $3,200.00 | $6,400.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-115081 | 12/23/10 | 12/22/15 | 12/22/11 | $500.00 | $640.00 | $320.00 | $3,200.00 | $6,400.00 |
PPI West Block Holding Corp. | 08-115087 | 12/30/10 | 12/29/15 | 12/29/11 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI West Block Holding Corp. | 08-115088 | 12/30/10 | 12/29/15 | 12/29/11 | $500.00 | $1,023.40 | $511.70 | $5,117.00 | $10,234.00 |
PPI West Block Holding Corp. | 08-115089 | 12/30/10 | 12/29/15 | 12/29/11 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI West Block Holding Corp. | 08-115090 | 12/30/10 | 12/29/15 | 12/29/11 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI West Block Holding Corp. | 08-115091 | 12/30/10 | 12/29/15 | 12/29/11 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI West Block Holding Corp. | 08-115092 | 12/30/10 | 12/29/15 | 12/29/11 | $500.00 | $412.72 | $206.36 | $2,063.60 | $4,127.20 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-115093 | 12/30/10 | 12/29/15 | 12/29/11 | $500.00 | $320.00 | $160.00 | $1,600.00 | $3,200.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-115094 | 12/30/10 | 12/29/15 | 12/29/11 | $500.00 | $640.00 | $320.00 | $3,200.00 | $6,400.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-115095 | 12/30/10 | 12/29/15 | 12/29/11 | $500.00 | $640.00 | $320.00 | $3,200.00 | $6,400.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-115096 | 12/30/10 | 12/29/15 | 12/29/11 | $500.00 | $200.00 | $100.00 | $1,000.00 | $2,000.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-115097 | 12/30/10 | 12/29/15 | 12/29/11 | $500.00 | $320.00 | $160.00 | $1,600.00 | $3,200.00 |
30
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-115098 | 12/30/10 | 12/29/15 | 12/29/11 | $500.00 | $640.00 | $320.00 | $3,200.00 | $6,400.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-115099 | 12/30/10 | 12/29/15 | 12/29/11 | $500.00 | $640.00 | $320.00 | $3,200.00 | $6,400.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-115100 | 12/30/10 | 12/29/15 | 12/29/11 | $500.00 | $691.78 | $345.89 | $3,458.90 | $6,917.80 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-115101 | 12/30/10 | 12/29/15 | 12/29/11 | $500.00 | $640.00 | $320.00 | $3,200.00 | $6,400.00 |
PPI West Block Holding Corp. | 08-115438 | 3/1/11 | 2/29/16 | 2/29/12 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-115439 | 3/1/11 | 2/29/16 | 2/29/12 | $500.00 | $879.58 | $439.79 | $4,397.90 | $8,795.80 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-115440 | 3/1/11 | 2/29/16 | 2/29/12 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI West Block Holding Corp. | 08-115441 | 3/1/11 | 2/29/16 | 2/29/12 | $500.00 | $867.28 | $433.64 | $4,336.40 | $8,672.80 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-115442 | 3/1/11 | 2/29/16 | 2/29/12 | $500.00 | $960.00 | $480.00 | $4,800.00 | $9,600.00 |
PPI West Block Holding Corp. | 08-117009 | 6/28/13 | 6/27/18 | 6/27/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI West Block Holding Corp. | 08-117010 | 6/28/13 | 6/27/18 | 6/27/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI West Block Holding Corp. | 08-117011 | 6/28/13 | 6/27/18 | 6/27/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117012 | 6/28/13 | 6/27/18 | 6/27/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117013 | 6/28/13 | 6/27/18 | 6/27/14 | $500.00 | $1,324.84 | $662.42 | $6,624.20 | $13,248.40 |
PPI West Block Holding Corp. | 08-117014 | 6/28/13 | 6/27/18 | 6/27/14 | $500.00 | $1,284.84 | $642.42 | $6,424.20 | $12,848.40 |
PPI West Block Holding Corp. | 08-117015 | 6/28/13 | 6/27/18 | 6/27/14 | $500.00 | $77.64 | $38.82 | $388.20 | $776.40 |
PPI West Block Holding Corp. | 08-117016 | 6/28/13 | 6/27/18 | 6/27/14 | $500.00 | $320.00 | $160.00 | $1,600.00 | $3,200.00 |
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PPI West Block Holding Corp. | 08-117017 | 6/28/13 | 6/27/18 | 6/27/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117273 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $1,454.06 | $727.03 | $7,270.30 | $14,540.60 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117274 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $909.00 | $454.50 | $4,545.00 | $9,090.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117275 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117276 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $1,450.68 | $725.34 | $7,253.40 | $14,506.80 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117277 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117278 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117279 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117280 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117281 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117285 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $1,441.88 | $720.94 | $7,209.40 | $14,418.80 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117282 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117283 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117284 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117286 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $1,343.56 | $671.78 | $6,717.80 | $13,435.60 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117287 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117288 | 12/12/13 | 12/11/18 | 12/11/14 | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-117318 | Applied for New Permit | In Process | TBD | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
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PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117315 | Applied for New Permit | In Process | TBD | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp. | 08-117314 | Applied for New Permit | In Process | TBD | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-117317 | Applied for New Permit | In Process | TBD | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
PPI Holding Corp./ HNZ Potash LLC | 08-117316 | Applied for New Permit | In Process | TBD | $500.00 | $1,280.00 | $640.00 | $6,400.00 | $12,800.00 |
The ASLD permits that are subject to the Joint Exploration Agreement with HNZ Potash , LLC only indicate our 50% portion of the exploration expenditures.
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The following table is a breakdown of the renewal fees, rental fees and exploration expenditure requirements on a yearly basis from 2008 to 2017 compared to the year in which the permits were effective:
Year | 2008 Permits | 2009 Permits | 2010 Permits | 2011 Permits | 2013 Permits |
2008 | $172,975.08 | ||||
2009 | $145,895.90 | $172,672.88 | |||
2010 | $294,831.39 | $145,727.40 | $202,206.84 | ||
2011 | $294,831.39 | $293,927.54 | $171,005.70 | $34,101.16 | |
2012 | $294,831.39 | $293,927.54 | $342,611.97 | $28,834.30 | |
2013 | $293,927.54 | $342,611.97 | $57,802.03 | $233,919.00 | |
2014 | $342,611.97 | $57,802.03 | $197,432.50 | ||
2015 | $57,802.03 | $398,108.25 | |||
2016 | $398,108.25 | ||||
2017 | $398,108.25 |
BLM Permits
We will have expenses for the BLM prospecting permits, however, those expenses have not yet been determined by the BLM as the BLM has not yet granted us such permits to begin exploration.
Climate
The climate in the Holbrook Basin Project area is semi-arid with high temperatures between 11 to 35°C (51 to 95°F) during summer and low temperatures in the winter ranging between -6 to 14°C (21 to 59°F). Temperatures in spring and fall vary between -3 and 30°C (28 to 86°F). The average annual precipitation is 224 mm (9 in) with maximum rates in July to October of 27 to 38 mm per month (1.1 to 1.5 inches per month). (U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NATIONAL OCEANIC & ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL SATELLITE, DATA AND INFORMATION SERVICE (2004): Climatography of the United States, No. 20, 1971-2000, Station: HOLBROOK, AZ http://cdo.ncdc.noaa.gov/climatenormals/clim20/az/024089.pdf, last accessed on 03/02/2012.).
Physiography
The landscape is generally flat with minor low lying, rolling hills, supporting ranching, light industry and areas of historical mining. The vegetation in the range land is limited and consists of minor salt cedar and scrub grasses. In the valley bottoms, there is some hay production and there are numerous ranches scattered throughout the Project Area. The Little Colorado, a permanent stream, and the Puerco River, an intermittent stream, run through the area. These streams merge about three miles east of Holbrook and tend to generally produce fresh water, which is reported to be brackish to saline in the surrounding areas. The area between the rivers is characterized by generally low grassland ridges, broad drainage areas and ledge form buttes and mesas. South of the Little Colorado, a similar topography is present, but with considerable pinon and cedar cover. A regional aquifer is located within the Coconino Sandstone, which is called C-aquifer. Furthermore, the Moenkopi and Chinle Formations might contain undefined/unreported aquifers. South of the Holbrook Basin Project area, there are extensive areas of sink holes reaching the land surface, which suggests major salt dissolution that likely contributes to the salinity of the water in the Coconino Sandstone. Ground level elevations across the Project Area range in average from 1,600 to 1,700 m (5,300 to 5,600 ft) Mean Sea Level.
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Geology
The sedimentary Holbrook Basin is approximately 13,000 km² in size and is located in east-central Arizona at the southern margin of the Colorado Plateau Province. It is orientated approximately NE-SW and bounded by the Mogollon Rim to the southwest and the Defiance Uplift to the northeast.
The stratigraphic succession of the Holbrook Basin (see Table 1 and Figure 3 below) starts with the coarse-grained Cambrian Tapeats Sandstone (0-101 meters thick), which is overlain by the Devonian Martin Formation consisting of limestone and dolomitic limestone (0-91 meters thick). This unit is followed by the massive Mississipian Redwall Limestone (0-18 meters thick), which is occasionally overlain by interbedded shale and thin bedded limestone (Pennsylvanian Naco Formation, 0-152 meters thick).
Above that lies the Permian Supai Formation, which can be sub-divided into four members equal five halite deposition cycles (WINTERS, S. (1963): Supai Formation (Permian) of Eastern Arizona. Geological Society of America Memoirs.):
The overlying Coconino Sandstone represents the top of the Permian deposits. According to LORENZ & COOPER (LORENZ, J. C. & COOPER, S. P. (2001). Interpreting Fracture Patterns in Sandstones Interbedded with Ductile Strata at the Salt Valley Anticline, Arches National Park, Utah. Retrieved from All U.S Government Documents (Utah Regional Depository), http://digitalcommons.usu.edu/govdocs/9, last accessed on 05/03/2012) this unit shows regional fracturing and often causes drilling issues and circulation losses. The following Triassic formations contain the Moenkopi Sandstones and the overlying redbed and lacustrine Chinle Formation. The uppermost section of the geological succession consists of scattered outcrops of the Tertiary Bidahochi Formation with thin bedded limy shales, minor thin sandstone beds and interbedded ash-fall tuff deposits.
Table 1 Regional Stratigraphy of the Holbrook Basin and Approximate Horizon Thicknesses (according to PEIRCE, H.W. & GERRARD, T.A. (1961): Evaporite deposits of the Permian Holbrook Basin, Arizona. Second Symposium on Salt, Northern Ohio Geological Society, pp. 1-10; CARR, W.E. (1966): A review of potash exploration, Holbrook drilling project. Arkla Exploration Company, Internal Correspondence; and WINTERS, S. (1963): Supai Formation (Permian) of Eastern Arizona. Geological Society of America Memoirs).
Age | Formation | Thickness | |
ft | m | ||
Tertiary | Bidahochi Formation | 0-30 | 0-9 |
Triassic |
Chinle Formation Moenkopi |
0-725 0-230 |
0-221 0-70 |
Permian |
Coconino Sandstone Supai Formation |
370-401 1297-1574 |
94-122 395-480 |
Pennsylvanian | Naco Formation | 0-500 | 0-152 |
Mississippian | Redwall Limestone | 0-60 | 0-18 |
Devonian | Martin Formation | 0-300 | 0-91 |
Cambrian | Tapeats Formation | 330 | 101 |
Precambrian |
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Figure 3 Simplified Cross-section through the Holbrook Basin (according to PEIRCE, H.W. & GERRARD, T.A. (1961): Evaporite deposits of the Permian Holbrook Basin, Arizona. Second Symposium on Salt, Northern Ohio Geological Society, pp. 1-10.).
Historical Work
The first salt was discovered in the Holbrook Basin in 1920 during petroleum exploration drilling near Holbrook (PEIRCE, W. (1981): Major Arizona Salt Deposits. Field Notes, 11(4), 4 p). Based on promising results from oil tests, potash exploration in the Holbrook basin was started in the 1960s and 1970s. Historical drilling was performed almost in the entire Holbrook basin, within and outside of our properties. In total, 142 historical drill holes with records are available, with 110 of those holes being drilled by Arkla Exploration and Duval Exploration. The following table contains all historical drill holes which are located within our properties (Coordinates in WGS 84 UTM Zone 12N):
Hole ID | Old ID | Operator | Northing | Easting | Elev ft | Elev m | TD ft | TD m |
DH01-15 | Arkla #56 State | Arkla | 3846902 | 606141 | 5383 | 1641 | 1420 | 433 |
DH01-46 | Duval #37 | Duval | 3872717 | 629670 | 5760 | 1756 | 1564 | 477 |
DH01-66 | Duval #1A | Duval | 3874722 | 634468 | 5982 | 1823 | 2005 | 611 |
Duval #59 | Duval #59 | Duval | 3839117 | 588958 | 5316 | 1620 | 742 | 226 |
Duval #64 | Duval #64 | Duval | 3855707 | 623265 | 5690 | 1734 | 1401 | 427 |
DH01-23 | KCL #7 | KCL | 3863577 | 623135 | 5800 | 1768 | 1600 | 488 |
DH01-25 | US Borax #2 (Kern County) | KCL | 3858053 | 620918 | 5710 | 1740 | 1430 | 436 |
DH01-16 | US Borax #1 | US Borax | 3845420 | 610135 | 5365 | 1635 | 1813 | 553 |
DH01-27 | US Borax #1-B | US Borax | 3854281 | 624631 | 5600 | 1707 | 1308 | 399 |
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Well logs, samples and core descriptions as well as assay reports are available from the Arizona Oil and Gas Conservation Commission at the Arizona Geological Survey (Tucson, Arizona).
The historical drill hole data already shows the depth, thickness and K2O (potassium oxide) content of the potash horizon. However, for creation of the geological model as well as any resource estimation as required by Canadian Securities Administrators NI 43-101, only historical drill holes were considered which had at least two independent methods for determination of K2O: (i) chemical assay data; and (ii) geophysical downhole logging data (i.e. Natural Gamma Ray Log). Only drill holes, which showed consistent results in assaying and Natural Gamma Log were used for the resource modelling.
In the course of the cross-check sampling of our 2012 exploration drilling samples, a mineralogical analysis was performed additional to chemical assaying. The X-ray diffractometry (XRD) allows a quantitative analysis of the mineral content of a sample and therefore provides the possibility for an independent data verification of the calculated mineralogy from the chemical assay data which is ultimately the base for the mineralized material mass calculation of the resources. For all 45 analyzed samples the discrepancy is less than 0.25 wt% for Sylvite and less than 1.0 wt% for Carnallite with coeffecients of determination for all samples of 99.99% and 99.97%, respectively.
The following steps were performed to verify the data:
Recent Drill Holes | Historical Drill Hole | Distance |
HNZ-SW-07 PPI-01-09 PPI-1211 PPI-02-09 PPI-03-09 PPI-04-09 PPI-1204 |
DH 362 DH 09-21 DH 09-13 DH 09-19 DH 09-16 DH 09-12 DH 09-25 |
44 m 138 m 159 m 183 m 160 m 223 m 250 m |
Current Exploration
We started our exploration activities in 2009, and have carried out the following activities to date:
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|
We drilled four exploration drill holes in 2009, undertook two drill holes drilled by Potash Green in 2010, completed 26 holes in 2011, completed 23 holes in 2012 (22 cored; 1 rotary drilled) | |
| ||
|
Chemical assaying of core split samples (sampling interval: 0.15 m) | |
| ||
|
Geophysical logging of four 2009 drill holes (Southwest Exploration Services, LLC, Gilbert, Arizona) and twenty-six 2011 drill holes (Geophysical Logging Services, Prescott, Arizona & Century Geophysical Corporation, Tulsa, Oklahoma) and twenty-three 2012 drill holes that ran immediately after hole completion | |
| ||
|
Conversion of historic drill logs to equivalent K2O values (eK2O8, Geophysical Logging Services, Prescott, Arizona & Century Geophysical Corporation, Tulsa, Oklahoma) | |
|
||
|
Approx. 80.5 km of 2D seismic lines conducted by Zonge International, Inc. (Tucson, Arizona; 11 profiles; January/February 2011) to the east of Holbrook town showing faults with vertical offsets of 10- 90 m (32 295 ft). |
Furthermore, two drill holes were adopted from Potash Green, LLC, which included geophysical logging and chemical assaying of core split samples.
According to the joint exploration agreement with HNZ Potash LLC (HNZ), HNZ and us are sharing all data in the possession or control and agreed to plan future exploration activities with mutual knowledge. HNZs exploration activities included:
ERCOSPLAN conducted a schematic comparison between historical gamma ray logs and chemical assays. It was found that the eK2O value cannot be used to determine the potash salt content due to partly high insoluble contents which potassium content is also included in the eK2O (equivalent K2O) value.
Recent Drill Holes
As part of our exploration program, we drilled four exploration drill holes in 2009. Two adopted drill holes were drilled by Potash Green, LLC in 2010. 23 drill holes were completed by us in 2011, an additional 23 drill holes were completed in 2012, and finally 5 drill holes have been completed to date in 2013. In 45 of the holes drilled between 2009 and April 2013, the potash section was cored, this includes the eight joint Passport Potash and Hopi Tribe drill holes completed from November 2012 through April 2013 were cored. The remaining 14 holes are rotary drill holes without any core. HNZ carried out a 23 drill hole exploration drilling program in 2011.
Drilling Procedures
We conducted vertical rotary drilling and coring, which was done by the Boart Longyear Company and K.M. Drilling, Inc. according to industrial standards. The 1st drilling stage included drilling through the overburden and through unconsolidated silts within the Chinle Formation that had a tendency to collapse and inhibit drilling. During the 2nd stage, drilling was continued down to the Marker Bed, where an 8-inch casing was set. Further drilling was conducted down below the Marker Bed with a 5 7/8- inch bit and a 6-inch casing was set down to the final depth or the section below the Marker Bed was cored and casings with sizes that gradually reduced down hole were set (8 to 3.5 inches depending on down hole conditions and total depth).
HNZ also conducted vertical rotary drilling and coring (contract: Stewart Brothers Drilling Co, Milan, New Mexico). Stand pipes were set at approximately 20 ft using a 16-in bit and a 13-3/8-in casing. The second section was normally drilled with a 12-1/4-in bit to approximately 100 feet into the Coconino Formation sandstone. If mud loss was observed, a 9-5/8-inch casing was set. The third section was drilled with an 8-3/4-inch bit until anhydrite was reached in the Supai Formation. A 7-inch casing was set and cemented. After drilling additional 30 feet with a 6-inch bit, the borehole assembly was changed to continuous coring. Continuous 4-inch cores were collected throughout the Supai Formation evaporates and 30 to 40 feet beneath the lowest potash bed.
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Drilling Results
The basic data for our drill holes are listed in Table 2. All of them were drilled vertically and intersected the potash horizon. Due to varying contents of clay (which also contains potassium and therefore also generates amplitude in natural gamma ray log) within the potash horizon, an unaltered determination of potash salts containing K2O is not possible from only the natural gamma log. Therefore the K2O grade was determined only by chemical assay data.
Table 2 Basic Data for PASSPORT Exploration Campaign Drill Holes
and HNZ Exploration
Campaign Drill Holes (Coordinates are given in UTM
Format, WGS 84 Datum).
Hole ID | Completion Date | Northing | Easting | Elev. (ft) | TD (ft) | Type |
PPI-01-09 | 27.06.2009 | 3845046 | 601389 | 5295 | 999 | Core |
PPI-02-09 | 03.07.2009 | 3847195 | 603258 | 5354 | 1060 | Core |
PPI-03-09 | 09.07.2009 | 3849814 | 596310 | 5406 | 1040 | Core |
PPI-04-09 | 15.07.2009 | 3845112 | 604656 | 5331 | 1100 | Core |
PG-1 | 09.06.2010 | 3861831 | 624612 | 5780 | 1580 | Core |
PG-2 | 21.06.2010 | 3857937 | 598383 | 5620 | 1380 | Core |
PPI-1101 | 07.01.2010 | 3856762 | 596861 | 5372 | 1330 | Rotary |
PPI-1102 | 14.03.2011 | 3856557 | 604744 | 5594 | 1675 | Rotary |
PPI-1102A | Abandoned | 3856240 | 604806 | 5580 | N/A | Rotary |
PPI-1103 | 26.03.2011 | 3857965 | 605023 | 5662 | 1725 | Rotary |
PPI-1104 | 14.04.2011 | 3859520 | 604687 | 5643 | 1672 | Core |
PPI-1105 | 02.02.2011 | 3856327 | 603195 | 5613 | 1575 | Rotary |
PPI-1106 | 21.04.2011 | 3860982 | 603190 | 5641 | 1657 | Core |
PPI-1107 | 26.04.2011 | 3861005 | 599961 | 5561 | 1434 | Core |
PPI-1108 | 12.02.2011 | 3857927 | 599934 | 5436 | 1475 | Rotary |
PPI-1109 | 05.06.2011 | 3847970 | 597751 | 5330 | 1075 | Rotary |
PPI-1110 | 21.07.2011 | 3846393 | 599457 | 5312 | 1200 | Rotary |
PPI-1111 | 17.05.2011 | 3849637 | 599432 | 5413 | 1137 | Core |
PPI-1112 | 11.07.2011 | 3848028 | 601102 | 5328 | 1175 | Core |
PPI-1113 | 03.08.2011 | 3849691 | 602713 | 5364 | 1250 | Rotary |
PPI-1114 | 14.06.2011 | 3848110 | 604604 | 5388 | 1244 | Core |
PPI-1115 | 05.06.2011 | 3846500 | 606016 | 5374 | 1268 | Core |
PPI-1116 | 05.06.2011 | 3848236 | 607707 | 5466 | 1427 | Rotary |
PPI-1117 | 20.06.2011 | 3846422 | 594892 | 5346 | 1000 | Rotary |
PPI-1118 | 18.06.2011 | 3844977 | 597900 | 5324 | 1073 | Core |
PPI-1119 | 10.05.2011 | 3855665 | 605382 | 5590 | 1533 | Core |
PPI-1120 | 26.04.2011 | 3858261 | 605558 | 5739 | 1637 | Core |
PPI-1121 | 17.05.2011 | 3862637 | 604806 | 5748 | 1530 | Core |
PPI-1122 | 21.09.2011 | 3859301 | 616108 | 5591 | 1400 | Rotary |
PPI-1131 | 15.03.2012 | 3862086 | 598754 | 5602 | 1400 | Core |
PPI-1132 | 19.08.2011 | 3859461 | 598492 | 5510 | 1450 | Rotary |
PPI-1133 | 14.09.2011 | 3862587 | 601535 | 5658 | 1600 | Rotary |
PPI-1134 | 07.03.2012 | 3859395 | 601639 | 5562 | 1695 | Rotary |
PPI-1201 | 29.03.2012 | 3858019 | 601591 | 5466 | 1400 | Core |
PPI-1202 | 30.05.2012 | 3857928 | 603122 | 5506 | 1398 | Core |
PPI-1203 | 15.05.2012 | 3859557 | 603146 | 5559 | 1478 | Core |
PPI-1204 | 10.09.2012 | 3860391 | 597499 | 5550 | 1349 | Core |
PPI-1205 | 13.06.2012 | 3857659 | 596719 | 5425 | 1220 | Core |
PPI-1206 | 07.06.2012 | 3856199 | 598487 | 5391 | 1398 | Core |
PPI-1210 | 17.09.2012 | 3853033 | 594222 | 5373 | 1017 | Core |
PPI-1211 | 21.07.2012 | 3853433 | 596281 | 5403 | 1089 | Core |
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PPI-1212 | 08.10.2012 | 3853068 | 599318 | 5512 | 1238 | Core |
PPI-1214 | 24.06.2012 | 3851387 | 595083 | 5504 | 1108 | Core |
PPI-1216 | 17.10.2012 | 3851461 | 598541 | 5462 | 1173 | Core |
PPI-1218 | 27.07.2012 | 3846576 | 596088 | 5347 | 978 | Core |
PPI-1219 | 27.07.2012 | 3847988 | 597730 | 5329 | 938 | Core |
PPI-1220 | 20.07.2012 | 3846401 | 599446 | 5337 | 1048 | Core |
PPI-1221 | 13.07.2012 | 3849652 | 602701 | 5395 | 1119 | Core |
PPI-1222 | 10.07.2012 | 3848135 | 604345 | 5394 | 1178 | Core |
PPI-1223 | 04.07.2012 | 3848193 | 607678 | 5429 | 1230 | Core |
PPI-1224 | 29.06.2012 | 3845054 | 607483 | 5454 | 1197 | Core |
Hopi-1 | 26.11.2012 | 3849870 | 604298 | 5430 | 1168 | Core |
Hopi-2 | 05.12.2012 | 3848431 | 602623 | 5312 | 1058 | Core |
Hopi-3 | 17.12.2012 | 3846571 | 604559 | 5352 | 1083 | Core |
Hopi-4 | 15.01.2013 | 3845129 | 606034 | 5342 | 1148 | Core |
Hopi-5 | 04.02.2013 | 3848299 | 599446 | 5373 | 1050 | Core |
Hopi-6 | 12.02.2013 | 3843560 | 604272 | 5312 | 1005 | Core |
Hopi-7 | 03.03.2013 | 3845399 | 602955 | 5295 | 1028 | Core |
Hopi-8 | 31.03.2013 | 3846519 | 601320 | 5312 | 998 | Core |
HNZ- MILKY- 08 | 22.06.2011 | 3851936 | 615646 | 5556 | 1268 | Core |
HNZ- MILKY- 11 | 07.01.2011 | 3852003 | 612708 | 5602 | 1311 | Core |
HNZ- MILKY- 12 | 14.07.2011 | 3849408 | 615268 | 5455 | 1260 | Core |
HNZ- MILKY- 13 | 27.07.2011 | 3849189 | 612189 | 5562 | 1368 | Core |
HNZ- MILKY- 14 | 25.08.2011 | 3846899 | 610163 | 5474 | 1291 | Core |
All rotary drill holes were drilled with fresh, unsaturated water, which affected the geophysical borehole logs. However, for most of the drill holes, a clear indication for potash mineralization is visible in the Natural Gamma Log. The exceptions are PPI-1101, PPI-1105, PPI-1109 and PPI-1110, in which stronger dissolution within the potash section probably took place.
As for all rotary drill holes (see Table 2) no drill cores/assay data was available, and therefore, no reliable declaration of the potash horizon was possible. However, the natural gamma ray log shows, due to the high amplitudes, in most of the drill holes an indication for potash salts. Table 3 shows only drill holes for which a reliable determination by chemical assay data of top, base, thickness and K2O grade were possible.
Since the assay data for historical as well as recent holes was already provided in the common form of K2O, it was not necessary to convert or use any conversion to K2O.If the assay data had been provided in KCl (potassium chloride), then a conversion would have been necessary.
The depths of mineralized intervals as well as grades are summarized in Table 3.
Table 3 Overview of Depth, Thickness and Grade of our Drill Holes
Hole ID | Top | Base | Thickness | Thickness | Avg. Grade | GxT | ||
[ft] | [m] | [ft] | [m] | [ft] | [m] | K2O [%] | [m%] | |
PG-1 | 1502.0 | 457.81 | 1521.0 | 463.60 | 19.0 | 5.79 | 4.04 | 23.4 |
PG-2 | 1262.0 | 384.66 | 1275.0 | 388.62 | 13.0 | 3.96 | 5.74 | 22.7 |
PPI-01-09 | 895.0 | 272.80 | 904.5 | 275.69 | 9.5 | 2.90 | 10.98 | 31.8 |
40
PPI-02-09 | 987.5 | 300.99 | 1000.0 | 304.80 | 12.5 | 3.81 | 9.74 | 37.1 |
PPI-03-09 | 960.0 | 292.61 | 963.0 | 293.52 | 3.0 | 0.91 | 8.55 | 7.8 |
PPI-04-09 | 1016.5 | 309.83 | 1029.0 | 313.64 | 12.5 | 3.81 | 6.54 | 24.9 |
PPI-1104 | 1462.5 | 445.77 | 1469.5 | 447.90 | 7.0 | 2.13 | 9.45 | 20.2 |
PPI-1106 | 1439.0 | 438.61 | 1442.5 | 439.67 | 3.5 | 1.07 | 14.34 | 15.3 |
PPI-1107 | 1321.0 | 402.64 | 1326.0 | 404.16 | 5.0 | 1.52 | 5.91 | 9.0 |
PPI-1111 | 1061.0 | 323.39 | 1069.5 | 325.98 | 8.5 | 2.59 | 5.16 | 13.4 |
PPI-1112 | 969.0 | 295.35 | 983.5 | 299.77 | 14.5 | 4.42 | 8.21 | 36.3 |
PPI-1114 | 1131.5 | 344.88 | 1146.0 | 349.30 | 14.5 | 4.42 | 6.14 | 27.2 |
PPI-1115 | 1108.7 | 337.93 | 1122.2 | 342.04 | 13.5 | 4.11 | 8.63 | 35.5 |
PPI-1118 | 966.0 | 294.44 | 975.0 | 297.18 | 9.0 | 2.74 | 6.61 | 18.1 |
PPI-1119 | 1427.5 | 435.10 | 1441.5 | 439.37 | 14.0 | 4.27 | 6.23 | 26.6 |
PPI-1120 | 1590.0 | 484.63 | 1601.5 | 488.14 | 11.5 | 3.51 | 3.88 | 13.6 |
PPI-1121 | 1335.5 | 407.06 | 1347.5 | 410.72 | 12.0 | 3.66 | 5.60 | 20.5 |
PPI-1131 | 1328.0 | 404.77 | 1334.5 | 406.76 | 6.5 | 1.98 | 10.58 | 21.0 |
PPI-1201 | 1290.5 | 393.34 | 1300.5 | 396.39 | 10.0 | 3.05 | 10.79 | 32.9 |
PPI-1202 | 1335.5 | 407.06 | 1345.0 | 409.96 | 9.5 | 2.90 | 4.76 | 13.8 |
PPI-1203 | 1435.0 | 437.39 | 1437.0 | 438.00 | 2.0 | 0.61 | 4.52 | 2.8 |
PPI-1204 | 1282.0 | 390.75 | 1289.5 | 393.04 | 7.5 | 2.29 | 8.29 | 19.0 |
PPI-1205 | 1087.5 | 331.47 | 1092.5 | 332.99 | 5.0 | 1.52 | 13.60 | 20.7 |
PPI-1206 | 1109.0 | 338.02 | 1113.5 | 339.39 | 4.5 | 1.37 | 11.90 | 16.3 |
PPI-1210 | 927.0 | 282.55 | 940.0 | 286.51 | 13.0 | 3.96 | 5.36 | 21.2 |
PPI-1211 | 1021.5 | 311.35 | 1030.0 | 313.94 | 8.5 | 2.59 | 11.07 | 28.7 |
PPI-1212 | 1169.0 | 356.31 | 1173.0 | 357.53 | 4.0 | 1.22 | 6.38 | 7.8 |
PPI-1214 | 1056.0 | 321.87 | 1070.5 | 326.29 | 14.5 | 4.42 | 7.08 | 31.3 |
PPI-1216 | 1110.5 | 338.48 | 1122.5 | 342.14 | 12.0 | 3.66 | 7.22 | 26.4 |
PPI-1218 | 901.0 | 274.62 | 907.0 | 276.45 | 6.0 | 1.83 | 9.60 | 17.6 |
PPI-1219 | 889.0 | 270.97 | 894.0 | 272.49 | 5.0 | 1.52 | 8.13 | 12.4 |
PPI-1220 | 932.5 | 284.23 | 933.0 | 284.38 | 0.5 | 0.15 | 6.53 | 1.0 |
PPI-1221 | 1056.0 | 321.87 | 1078.0 | 328.57 | 22.0 | 6.71 | 7.89 | 52.9 |
PPI-1222 | 1120.0 | 341.38 | 1133.0 | 345.34 | 13.0 | 3.96 | 8.20 | 32.5 |
PPI-1223 | 1178.5 | 359.21 | 1181.5 | 360.12 | 3.0 | 0.91 | 5.76 | 5.3 |
PPI-1224 | 1143.5 | 348.54 | 1158.5 | 353.11 | 15.0 | 4.57 | 7.46 | 34.1 |
Hopi-1 | 1156.0 | 352.35 | 1165.5 | 355.24 | 9.5 | 2.90 | 8.06 | 23.4 |
Hopi-2 | 1020.5 | 311.05 | 1034.0 | 315.16 | 13.5 | 4.11 | 8.38 | 34.4 |
Hopi-3 | 1059.5 | 322.94 | 1069.5 | 325.98 | 10.0 | 3.05 | 8.54 | 26.0 |
Hopi-4 | 1055.0 | 321.56 | 1064.5 | 324.46 | 9.5 | 2.90 | 8.56 | 24.8 |
Hopi-5 | 995.0 | 303.28 | 1000.0 | 304.80 | 5.0 | 1.52 | 8.58 | 13.1 |
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Hopi-6 | 952.5 | 290.32 | 960.0 | 292.61 | 7.5 | 2.29 | 8.21 | 18.8 |
Hopi-7 | 963.0 | 293.52 | 973.0 | 296.57 | 10.0 | 3.05 | 6.29 | 19.2 |
Hopi-8 | 932.5 | 284.23 | 947.5 | 288.80 | 15.0 | 4.57 | 8.93 | 40.8 |
HNZ-MILKY-08 | 1173.5 | 357.68 | 1174.5 | 357.99 | 1.0 | 0.30 | 7.83 | 2.4 |
HNZ-MILKY-11 | 1248.5 | 380.54 | 1259.0 | 383.74 | 10.5 | 3.20 | 10.25 | 32.8 |
HNZ-MILKY-12 | 1217.0 | 370.94 | 1218.0 | 371.25 | 1.0 | 0.30 | 13.25 | 4.0 |
HNZ-MILKY-13 | 1337.5 | 407.67 | 1343.0 | 409.35 | 5.5 | 1.68 | 10.89 | 18.3 |
HNZ-MILKY-14 | 1230.5 | 375.06 | 1231.5 | 375.36 | 1.0 | 0.30 | 7.53 | 2.3 |
HNZ-MILKY-15 | 1245.0 | 379.48 | 1263.0 | 384.96 | 18.0 | 5.49 | 7.06 | 38.7 |
HNZ-MILKY-19 | barren | |||||||
HNZ-SW-02 | 908.0 | 276.76 | 909.0 | 277.06 | 1.0 | 0.30 | 22.40 | 6.8 |
HNZ-SW-03 | 862.0 | 262.74 | 865.0 | 263.65 | 3.0 | 0.91 | 14.23 | 13.0 |
HNZ-SW-04 | 733.0 | 223.42 | 735.0 | 224.03 | 2.0 | 0.61 | 19.25 | 11.7 |
HNZ-SW-05 | 629.0 | 191.72 | 638.0 | 194.46 | 9.0 | 2.74 | 7.95 | 21.8 |
HNZ-SW-06 | 683.0 | 208.18 | 687.0 | 209.40 | 4.0 | 1.22 | 13.53 | 16.5 |
HNZ-SW-07 | 903.5 | 275.39 | 916.0 | 279.20 | 12.5 | 3.81 | 7.09 | 27.0 |
HNZ-SW-08 | 1174.5 | 357.99 | 1184.0 | 360.88 | 9.5 | 2.90 | 10.86 | 31.5 |
HNZ-SW-09 | 1006.0 | 306.63 | 1019.0 | 310.59 | 13.0 | 3.96 | 9.26 | 36.7 |
HNZ-SW-10 | 867.0 | 264.26 | 871.0 | 265.48 | 4.0 | 1.22 | 6.37 | 7.8 |
HNZ-SW-12 | 956.0 | 291.39 | 964.0 | 293.83 | 8.0 | 2.44 | 8.24 | 20.1 |
HNZ-SW-13 | 733.0 | 223.42 | 739.5 | 225.40 | 6.5 | 1.98 | 5.41 | 10.7 |
HNZ-SW-14 | 1104.5 | 336.65 | 1107.0 | 337.41 | 2.5 | 0.76 | 14.42 | 11.0 |
HNZ-SW-16 | 1006.0 | 306.63 | 1012.5 | 308.61 | 6.5 | 1.98 | 9.35 | 18.5 |
HNZ-SW-17 | 837.5 | 255.27 | 844.5 | 257.40 | 7.0 | 2.13 | 4.61 | 9.8 |
HNZ-SW-18 | barren |
Sample Preparation, Analyses and Security
The standard operating and quality assurance procedures followed by our employees have been instituted to make sure that all sampling techniques and results meet international reporting standards.
During the exploration program, we took split core samples. Coring started when the first significant gypsum interval (Upper Supai Formation) was intersected. Information about the drill holes and the on-site core descriptions were given/conducted according to international standards (depth intervals, recovery-%, lithology, structure, alteration, rock type, weathered profile, sample intervals, remarks). On site, our field geologists collected the cuttings, bagged and labeled them and placed a small sub-sample into a chip tray for further treatment (not sent for chemical analysis). Rotary cuttings coming from below the anhydrite were generally logged by the on-site geologists. Directly after being retrieved, the cores were measured, cleaned, field logged, packed in plastic poly sheeting and were placed into sequentially numbered and labeled (drill hole name, land location, depth interval, core number) core boxes. The material was then temporarily stored prior to transfer to the laboratories at our core facilities. A chain of custody prepared by the well site geologist accompanied the delivery. In the laboratory, the cores were split in two halves and one half was crushed, pulverized and assayed. For all 2012 and the last 2011 core sections, the core was cut at our core storage facility. The sampling interval was 0.15 m. The laboratories commissioned for the performance of the chemical analysis of the K2O content were ALS Chemex (Reno, Nevada ISO 9001:2008 and ISO/IEC 17025:2005 certificates), Skyline (Tucson, Arizona ISO/IEC 17025 certificate), Apex Environmental Laboratory (Tempe, Arizona) and SRC Laboratories in Saskatoon, Canada (SCC accredited, ISO/IEC 17).
42
ALS analyzed the cores from the four 2009 drill holes. The cores were sent in full and, afterwards, split in half with one half being crushed and pulverized before going into 35 Element Aqua Regia ICP-AES and Whole Rock Package ICP-AES. Internal standards, blanks and duplicates were included. After a year, part of the core was sent back to us and the other part was permanently stored in Apache Junction in July 2011.
Skyline did the analysis on ten 2011 drill holes by splitting, crushing, pulverizing and assaying the cores at their laboratory. They used 34 elements Aqua Regia Digestion (ICP-OES, TE-2 program) and the Volumetric Chloride Analysis method for Total Chlorine.
Apex analyzed 89 samples of PPI-1115 via ICP-MS and Silver Nitrate Titration for Total Chlorine. Apex included internal blanks, standards and Laboratory Control Samples (LCS).
Chemical analyses for PPI-1131 and all subsequent 2012 assaying works were carried out primarily by SRC.
During the recent exploration program in 2011, HNZ took samples from cores that were cut in half. Coring started when the first significant gypsum interval (Upper Supai Formation) was intersected. Information about the drill holes and the on-site core descriptions were given/ con-ducted according to international standards (depth intervals, recovery-%, lithology, structure, alteration, rock type, weathered profile, sample intervals, remarks). Directly after being retrieved, the cores were measured, cleaned, field logged, packed in plastic poly sheeting and were placed into sequentially numbered and labeled, 2-ft long (drill hole name, land location, depth interval, core number) core boxes. The material was then shifted to the HNZ core lab facility at the Milky Ranch. There, the cores were split in two halves and placed in plastic bags. The sampling interval was 6 in (0.15 m). Sampling started approximately 2 to 4 ft above the mineralized zone and ended approximately 2 to 4 ft below the mineralized zone, based on down hole logging. After completion of core logging and sampling, the core was photographed. A chain of custody prepared by the well site geologist accompanied the delivery to the laboratory. In total, 1,151 samples were delivered to SRC.
SRC crushed the core samples to a 6 mm grain size and stored one half of each sample. Afterwards, the samples were pulverized and placed in a tray. Samples were analyzed using ICP-OES together with determinations of % Insolubles and % Moisture. The chloride ion is not measured directly, but calculated from the ion balance afterwards.
Quality Assurance/Quality Control
National Instrument 43-101 and Exploration Best Practices Guidelines state that a program of data verification should accompany an exploration program to confirm validity of exploration data. Furthermore, the guidelines require a quality assurance quality control (QA/QC) program to be in place.
Concerning chemical analysis no outside standards, duplicate samples or blanks were sent by us, which leaves only the internal standards and own checking procedures of the different laboratories as quality control of the chemical assays.
All 2011 core samples were prepared by Skyline. We then sent the unused crushed cores to SRC Geoanalytical Laboratories (SRC; Saskatoon, Canada; SCC accredited, ISO/IEC 17) for duplicate analysis. SRC was commissioned to perform duplicate chemical analysis on 434 out of a total of 1650 samples tested by Skyline, ALS and Apex. Samples from drill hole PPI-1131 and all subsequently following 2012 drill holes were analyzed by SRC. SRC includes blanks, duplicates and their internal potash 003/ 004 standards into the analysis. The purpose of duplicate measurements was to ensure that only quality geochemical datasets were generated from the sampling process by demonstrating the accuracy, precision, and repeatability of the analyzing party. Two different powdered reference materials (POT003 and POT004) of varying mineralogical composition and potash grade were systematically inserted as standard samples into the mineralized sample batches as internal standard procedure of SRC. The POT003 standard is a compositionally homogeneous lower grade (19.5% K2O) potash material while the POT004 standard has higher grade (60.4% K2O) potash values. Measurements of blank and standard sampleswere intended to verify that the instruments used for analysis at the SRC Laboratories were correctly calibrated and cleaned.
43
For the 2012 drill holes, we added one blank and one standard at either 10%, 21% or 62% K2O for approximately every 20 samples. The results are in the specific tolerance levels. HNZ collected, as part of the drill site sampling procedure, one duplicate sample, one standard, and one blank sample for approximately every 20 samples. Additional cross check analysis was carried out by Huffman Laboratories, Inc. (Golden, Colorado) on 67 samples plus their own internal blanks and standards. These results generally correlate with the results of analyses carried for HNZ by SRC.
For about 10% of all samples of our 2012 exploration phase cross-check analyses were carried out at ERCOSPLANs independent reference lab. The pulp and reject samples showed a good correlation with generally less than 2% discrepancy for the K2O value and a coefficient of determination of 99.6% .
In order to check the chemical analysis results for consistency the charge balance between positive ions (Mg2+,Ca2+, Na+, K+) and negative (Cl-, SO42-) ions is determined for each full salt analysis, recent as well as historic ones. If the absolute difference 2*(cations anions)/ (cations+anions) * 100% is larger than 5.0%, the analysis is classified as an outlier and should be considered suspect.
The mineralogical composition of the sample was calculated based on the chemical analysis, which included recalculating the elements from weight % to mol and rearranging them to the basic salts according to the following scheme:
1. |
Combine cations and anions to simple salts according to the following scheme | ||
a. |
combine with Cl, in the following order: Na, K, Mg, Ca | ||
b. |
combine with SO4 in the following order: Ca, Mg, K, Na | ||
c. |
Based on experience with potash deposits, the analyses should be either MgCl2 or K2SO4 normative, meaning if CaCl2 or Na2SO4 results from these combinations, the analysis is suspect. | ||
2. |
Combine the simple salts to salt mineralogy according to the following simplified scheme: | ||
a. |
All NaCl is Halite. | ||
b. |
If CaCl2 is present combine with MgCl2 to Tachyhydrite. | ||
c. |
The remaining MgCl2 is combined 1:1 with KCl to Carnallite. | ||
d. |
If MgCl2 > KCl, remaining MgCl2 to Bischofite. | ||
e. |
If KCl > MgCl2 and MgSO4 available, combine remaining KCl 1:1 to Kainite. | ||
f. |
If K2SO4 > MgSO4 or CaSO4/2, Arcanite, otherwise with CaSO4 and MgSO4 to Polyhalite. | ||
g. |
If remaining KCl > MgSO4, remaining KCl after Kainite to Sylvite, otherwise remaining MgSO4 to Kieserite. | ||
h. |
Remaining CaSO4 to Anhydrite. |
The mineralogy was re-calculated to masses of elements, including the crystal water content. The sum of these elements together with the insoluble content should be close to 100.
For mostly all available drill holes Natural Gamma Ray and Neutron Logs are present. In terms of a consistent database all assaying data was checked against the Natural Gamma Ray Log for every single drill hole1. In an ideal case the interval of sampling as well as the K2O-content determined by assaying should match with the natural gamma ray log concerning interval of increased values and signal strength with certain accuracy. In an example for the historical drill hole DH 624 is given, which shows a clear correlation and coverage by sampling.
________________________________________________
1
Due to the radioactive isotope 40K, which emits gamma rays
there is a correlation of the potassium content and the natural gamma log.
44
Additionally in order to achieve a higher level of confidence the Natural Gamma Ray Log and assay results of every single drill hole was compared to adjacent drill holes. In a normal case a correlation regarding the number of mineralized beds or combined thickness is visible. If there are discrepancies, the drill hole data will be considered suspect and the usage for resource estimation is evaluated individually.
Security
The core material was under supervision of a Passport/HNZ well site geologist starting from retrieval and ending with the delivery to the respective laboratory. Whenever there was no direct supervision by the well site geologist, the core was stored under lock and key. Prior to transfer to the respective laboratory, the core material was sealed in plastic liner was temporarily stored within the core boxes at our drill site.
Planned Exploration Program
Our engineering firm, ERCOSPLAN, has recommended a two phase development of the project consisting of:
45
Phase 1
Studies to confirm and verify the assumptions made for the Preliminary Economic Assessment Report and further exploration potentially in order to delineate more Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources. These studies consist of:
Upon completion of the studies, an updated resource report with the target of potentially delineating adequate resources for a 30-year 2.5 MTPA MOP production and the input data required for a Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) is expected to be issued.
This phase is expected to end with a PFS delineating the best mining option and the best processing method option and is expected to allow for an updated resource/reserve estimate using typical mining and processing recovery factors, since not all required information for that has been available for this study. The costs for the studies of Phase 1 are estimated at about $7,500,000. Upon raising the necessary capital Phase I will be completed in approximately 12 months.
Phase 2
Conditional upon a favorable outcome of Phase 1, we expect to start a Feasibility Study (FS) which will use the geological model of the updated resource estimate and the results of all investigations that are not yet available in the PFS phase to produce a detailed mining and processing design.
Based on the results of the PFS, further laboratory investigations might be necessary to optimise the chosen mining and processing methods. At this stage, the costs for this second phase are estimated at $15,000,000, but they depend on the requirements for further investigations that cannot be defined in detail at present. Upon completin of the PFS, and raising the necessary capital Phase 2 will be completed in approximately 12 months.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Management is not aware of any legal proceedings contemplated by any governmental authority or any other party involving us or our properties. As of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, no director, officer or affiliate is a party adverse to us in any legal proceeding, or has an adverse interest to us in any legal proceedings.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
46
PART II
ITEM 5. |
MARKET FOR REGISTRANTS COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES |
Market Information
Shares of our common stock have been quoted on the OTCQX since March 1, 2011, under the symbol PPRTF. The market for our common stock is limited, and can be volatile. The following table sets forth the high and low bid prices relating to our common stock on a quarterly basis for the periods indicated as quoted by the OTCQX. These quotations reflect inter-dealer prices without retail mark-up, mark-down, or commissions, and may not reflect actual transactions.
Quarter Ended | High Bid | Low Bid |
February 28, 2014 | $0.07 | $0.04 |
November 30, 2013 | $0.11 | $0.05 |
August 31, 2013 | $0.19 | $0.09 |
May 31, 2013 | $0.25 | $0.15 |
February 28, 2013 | $0.23 | $0.18 |
November 30, 2012 | $0.24 | $0.16 |
August 31, 2012 | $0.24 | $0.17 |
May 31, 2012 | $0.35 | $0.18 |
On June 9, 2014, the high and low prices of our common stock as reported on the OTCQX were $0.05 and $0.05, respectively.
In addition, shares of our common stock have been listed on the TSX-V since October 3, 2001, and trade under the symbol PPI. The following table sets forth the high and low sales prices of our common stock on a quarterly basis for the periods indicated as quoted by the TSX-V.
Quarter Ended | High | Low |
February 28, 2014 | CDN$0.07 | CDN$0.05 |
November 30, 2013 | CDN$0.11 | CDN$0.06 |
August 31, 2013 | CDN$0.19 | CDN$0.10 |
May 31, 2013 | CDN$0.26 | CDN$0.16 |
February 28, 2013 | CDN$0.24 | CDN$0.19 |
November 30, 2012 | CDN$0.24 | CDN$0.16 |
August 31, 2012 | CDN$0.25 | CDN$0.17 |
May 31, 2012 | CDN$0.35 | CDN$0.18 |
On June 9, 2014, the high and low trading prices of our common stock on the TSX-V were CAD$0.06 and CAD$0.06, respectively.
Holders
As of February 28, 2014, we had 643 shareholders of record.
Options
As of June 1, 2014, we have 9,166,812 stock options outstanding which are exercisable into 9,166,812 shares of our common stock.
Warrants
As of June 1, 2014, we have 15,037,363 common share purchase warrants outstanding which are exercisable into 15,037,363 shares of common stock.
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Convertible Debentures
As of June 1, 2014, we have convertible debentures in the amount of $6,192,896.59 which are convertible into 51,607,471 shares of common stock without giving effect to accrued interest. In addition, one convertible debenture is convertible into units, which would result in an additional 4,166,667 shares of common stock and 4,166,667 warrants which are exercisable into 4,166,667 shares of common stock.
Dividend Policy
We have not paid any cash dividends on our common shares since our inception and do not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. We plan to retain our earnings, if any, to provide funds for the expansion of our business.
Securities Authorized For Issuance Under Compensation Plans
The following table shows our equity securities that are authorized for issuance pursuant to equity compensation plans for our most recently completed fiscal year ended February 28, 2014.
Plan Category |
Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights (a) |
Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights (b) |
Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in column (a)) (c) |
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders | 9,166,812 | CAD$0.50 | Nil* |
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders | Nil | Nil | Nil |
Total | 9,166,812 | CAD$0.50 | Nil* |
Notes:
* At our last annual general meeting held on September 12, 2013, our shareholders voted against the continuation of our 2011 rolling share option plan. Therefore, we do not currently have a stock option plan in place pursuant to which we are allowed to grant any further stock options.
2011 Rolling Share Option Plan
On July 20, 2011, our Board of Directors approved the adoption of a new share option plan (the 2011 Plan) to comply with the current policies of the TSXV and the amendments to the Income Tax Act (Canada) which impose withholding obligations on taxable benefits arising at the time options are exercised. The 2011 Plan was subject to approval of the TSXV and our shareholders. On August 25, 2011, our shareholders approved the 2011 Plan. On November 24, 2011, the TSXV approved the 2011 Plan. However, on September 12, 2013, our shareholder voted against the continuation of the 2011 Plan, and therefore, as of September 12, 2013 we no longer have a stock option plan in place pursuant to which we are able to grant any stock options. For greater certainty, the stock option commitments that were granted by us and which were outstanding at the time of the September 12, 2013 annual general meeting continue to remain as an obligation of us and such stock option commitments incorporate the terms and conditions of the 2011 Plan as they were in effect immediately before such annual general meeting.
Shareholder Rights Plan
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On July 20, 2011, our Board of Directors approved the adoption of a shareholder rights plan (the Rights Plan) between us and Computershare Trust Company of Canada (Computershare Trust), as Rights Agent. The Boards objective in adopting the Rights Plan is to ensure the fair treatment of shareholders in connection with any take-over bid for our common shares. The Rights Plan was not adopted by the Board in response to any proposal to acquire control of us.
In accordance with TSXV policies, the Rights Plan must be ratified by a majority of the votes cast at a meeting of shareholders within six months of the adoption of the Rights Plan by the Board. At our annual and special general meeting held on August 25, 2011, our shareholders ratified and confirmed the Rights Plan.
The Rights Plan is subject to TSXV approval, which approval was received from the TSXV on September 6, 2012.
Purpose of Rights Plan
The primary objective of the Rights Plan is to ensure that all of our shareholders are treated fairly in connection with any take-over bid for us by (a) providing shareholders with adequate time to properly assess a take-over bid without undue pressure and (b) providing the Board with more time to fully consider an unsolicited take-over bid, and, if applicable, to explore other alternatives to maximize shareholder value.
Summary of Rights Plan
The following description of the Rights Plan is a summary only.
Issue of Rights
We will issue one right (a Right) in respect of each common share outstanding at the close of business on the adoption of the Rights Plan. We will also issue Rights on the same basis for each common share issued after the Record Time but prior to the earlier of the Separation Time and the Expiration Time (both defined below).
The Rights
Each Right will entitle the holder, subject to the terms and conditions of the Rights Plan, to purchase additional shares of our common stock after the Separation Time.
Rights Certificates and Transferability
Before the Separation Time, the Rights will be evidenced by certificates for the common shares, and are not transferable separately from the common shares. From and after the Separation Time, the Rights will be evidenced by separate Rights Certificates, which will be transferable separately from and independent of the common shares.
Exercise of Rights
The Rights are not exercisable before the Separation Time. After the Separation Time and before the Expiration Time, each Right entitles the holder to acquire one share for the exercise price of $50.00 (subject to certain anti-dilution adjustments). This exercise price is expected to be in excess of the estimated maximum value of the common shares during the term of the Rights Plan. Upon the occurrence of a Flip-In Event (defined below) prior to the Expiration Time, each Right (other than any Right held by an Acquiring Person, which will become null and void as a result of such Flip-In Event) may be exercised to purchase that number of common shares which have an aggregate market price equal to twice the exercise price of the Rights for a price equal to the exercise price (subject to adjustment). Effectively, this means our shareholder (other than the Acquiring Person) can acquire additional common shares from treasury at half their market price.
Definition of Acquiring Person
Subject to certain exceptions, an Acquiring Person is a person who becomes the Beneficial Owner (defined below) of 20% or more of our outstanding common shares.
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Definition of Beneficial Ownership
A person is a Beneficial Owner of securities if such person or its affiliates or associates or any other person acting jointly or in concert with such person, owns the securities in law or equity, and has the right to acquire (immediately or within 60 days) the securities upon the exercise of any convertible securities or pursuant to any agreement, arrangement or understanding.
However, a person is not a Beneficial Owner under the Rights Plan where:
(a) |
the securities have been deposited with or tendered to such person pursuant to a tender or exchange offer or take-over bid by such person, unless those securities have been taken up or paid for; | ||
(b) |
the securities have been deposited with such person under a take-over bid pursuant to a permitted lock- up agreement; | ||
(c) |
such person (including a mutual fund or investment fund manager, trust company, pension fund administrator, trustee or non-discretionary client accounts of registered brokers or dealers) is engaged in the management of mutual funds, investment funds or public assets for others, as long as that person: | ||
(i) |
holds those shares in the ordinary course of its business for the account of others; | ||
(ii) |
is not making a take-over bid or acting jointly or in concert with a person who is making a take- over bid; or | ||
(iii) |
such person is a registered holder of securities as a result of carrying on the business of or acting as a nominee of a securities depository. |
Definition of Separation Time
Separation Time occurs on the tenth trading day after the earlier of:
(a) |
the first date of public announcement that a person has become an Acquiring Person; | |
(b) |
the date of the commencement or announcement of the intent of a person to commence a take-over bid (other than a Permitted Bid or Competing Permitted Bid); and | |
(c) |
the date on which a Permitted Bid or Competing Permitted Bid ceases to qualify as such, |
or such later date as determined by the Board.
Definition of Expiration Time
Expiration Time occurs on the date being the earlier of:
(a) |
the time at which the right to exercise Rights is terminated under the terms of the Rights Plan; and | |
(b) |
immediately after our annual general meeting of shareholders to be held in 2014 unless at such meeting the duration of the Rights Plan is extended. |
Definition of a Flip-In Event
A Flip-In Event occurs when a person becomes an Acquiring Person. Upon the occurrence of a Flip-In Event, any Rights that are beneficially owned by an Acquiring Person, or any of its related parties to whom the Acquiring Person has transferred its Rights, will become null and void and, as a result, the Acquiring Persons investment in us will be greatly diluted if a substantial portion of the Rights are exercised after a Flip-In Event occurs.
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Definition of Permitted Bid
A Permitted Bid is a take-over bid made by a person (the Offeror) pursuant to a take-over bid circular that complies with the following conditions:
(a) |
the bid is made to all registered holders of voting common shares, wherever resident (other than the Offeror); | |
(b) |
the Offeror agrees that no common shares will be taken up or paid for under the bid for at least 60 days following the commencement of the bid; and that no common shares will be taken up or paid for unless, at such date, more than 50% of the outstanding common shares held by shareholders, other than the Offeror and certain related parties, have been deposited pursuant to the bid and not withdrawn; | |
(c) |
the Offeror agrees that the common shares may be deposited to and withdrawn from the take-over bid at any time before such common shares are taken up and paid for; and | |
(d) |
if, on the date specified for take-up and payment, the condition in paragraph (b) above is satisfied, the Offeror will make a public announcement of that fact and the bid will remain open for an additional period of at least 10 business days to permit the remaining shareholders to tender their common shares. |
Definition of Competing Permitted Bid
A Competing Permitted Bid is a take-over bid that:
(a) |
is made while another Permitted Bid or Competing Permitted Bid has been made and prior to the expiry of that Permitted Bid or Competing Permitted Bid; | |
(b) |
satisfies all the requirements of a Permitted Bid other than the requirement that the Offeror agrees that: (1) no common shares will be taken up or paid for under the bid: (i) for at least 60 days following the commencement of the bid; (ii) after such date, more than 50% of the outstanding common shares held by shareholders, other than the Offeror and certain related parties, have been deposited pursuant to the bid and not withdrawn; and (2) common shares may be deposited pursuant to such take-over bid at any time during the 60 day period described in (1)(i) of this paragraph, that any common shares deposited pursuant to such take-over bid may be withdrawn until taken up and paid for; and (3) upon deposit of more than 50% of the outstanding common shares as described under (1)(ii) in this paragraph, the Offeror will make a public announcement of such 50% deposit and such take-over bid is to remain open for deposits and tenders of common shares for a minimum of 10 business days from the date of such public announcement; and | |
(c) |
contains the conditions that no common shares be taken up or paid for pursuant to the Competing Permitted Bid (x) prior to the close of business on a date that is not earlier than the later of (1) the earliest date on which common shares may be taken up and paid for under any prior bid in existence at the date of such Competing Permitted Bid, and (2) 35 days after the date of such Competing Permitted Bid, and (y) unless, at the time that such common shares are first taken up or paid for, more than 50% of the then outstanding common shares held by shareholders, other than the Offeror and certain related parties, have been deposited pursuant to the Competing Permitted Bid and not withdrawn. |
Redemption of Rights
Subject to prior consent of the holders of common shares, all (but not less than all) of the Rights may be redeemed by the Board at any time before a Flip-In Event occurs at a redemption price of $0.0001 per Right (subject to adjustment). In addition, in the event of a successful Permitted Bid, Competing Permitted Bid or a bid for which the Board has waived the operation of the Rights Plan, we will immediately upon such acquisition and without further formality, redeem the Rights at the redemption price. If the Rights are redeemed pursuant to the Rights Plan, the right to exercise the Rights will, without further action and without notice, terminate and the only right thereafter of the Rights holders is to receive the redemption price.
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Waiver
Before a Flip-In Event occurs, the Board may waive the application of the Flip-In provisions of the Rights Plan to any prospective Flip-In Event which would occur by reason of a take-over bid made by a take-over bid circular to all registered holders of common shares. However, if the Board waives the Rights Plan with respect to a particular bid, it will be deemed to have waived the Rights Plan with respect to any other take-over bid made by take-over bid circular to all registered holders of common shares before the expiry of that first bid. The Board may also waive the Flip-In provisions of the Rights Plan in respect of any Flip-In Event provided that the Board has determined that the Acquiring Person became an Acquiring Person through inadvertence and has reduced its ownership to such a level that it is no longer an Acquiring Person.
Term of the Rights Plan
Unless otherwise terminated, the Rights Plan will expire at the Expiration Time.
Amending Power
Except for amendments to correct clerical or typographical errors, shareholder (other than the Offeror and certain related parties) or Rights holder majority approval is required for supplements or amendments to the Rights Plan. In addition, any supplement or amendment to the Rights Plan will require the written concurrence of the Rights Agent and prior written consent of the TSXV.
Rights Agent
The Rights Agent under the Rights Plan is Computershare Trust Company of Canada.
Rights Holder not a Shareholder
Until a Right is exercised, the holders thereof as such will have no rights as our shareholder.
Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
On May 29, 2014, we issued convertible debenture in the amount of US$500,000 having a term until May 29, 2018 and an interest rate of 9.5% per annum payable annually as to 50% in cash and 50% in shares of our common stock, subject to the right of the holder to elect to have an interest payment satisfied entirely in shares of our common stock. The issuance price of shares to pay accrued interest will be determined by the Market Price of our shares, as defined by the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange. The principal amount of the debenture is convertible at any time prior to the maturity date, in whole or in part, at the option of the holder into either: (a) units (the Units) at a conversion price of US$0.12 per Unit, with each Unit being comprised of one share of our common stock and one share purchase warrant (a Warrant), with each Warrant exercisable into one share of our common stock (each, a Warrant Share) at a price of US$0.12 per Warrant Share until May 29, 2018; or (b) into 10% of the shares we hold in PPI East Block Holding Corp., or pro rata portion thereof for any partial conversion. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the debenture shall not be convertible if, after giving effect to such conversion, the holder, together with any person or company acting jointly or in concert with such holder, would in the aggregate beneficially own, or exercise control or direction over that number of our voting securities which is 20% or greater of our total issued and outstanding voting securities, immediately after giving effect to such conversion. We relied on the exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Regulation S, based on representations and warranties provided by the investor in the subscription agreement for the debenture.
On May 8, 2014, we issued 182,083 shares to one individual pursuant to the conversion of $21,850 of principal of a convertible debenture issued to such individual on February 19, 2013 at a conversion price of $0.12 per share. We relied on the exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Section 3(a)(9) thereof, with respect to the issuance of the shares pursuant to the conversion of principal of the such convertible debenture.
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On April 28, 2014, we issued 1,000 shares to one individual pursuant to the conversion on April 23, 2014 of $41,400 of principal of a convertible debenture issued to such individual on February 19, 2013 at a conversion price of $0.12 per share as there was a shortfall on the issuance on April 23, 2014 of 1,000 shares due to a clerical error. We relied on the exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Section 3(a)(9) thereof, with respect to the issuance of the shares pursuant to the conversion of principal of the such convertible debenture.
On April 23, 2014, we issued 344,000 shares to one individual pursuant to the conversion of $41,400 of principal of a convertible debenture issued to such individual on February 19, 2013 at a conversion price of $0.12 per share. We relied on the exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Section 3(a)(9) thereof, with respect to the issuance of the shares pursuant to the conversion of principal of the such convertible debenture.
On April 16, 2014, we issued 191,647 common shares to one individual pursuant to the conversion of $22,997.70 of principal of a convertible debenture issued to such individual on February 19, 2013 at a conversion price of $0.12 per share. We relied on the exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Section 3(a)(9) thereof, with respect to the issuance of the shares pursuant to the conversion of principal of the such convertible debenture.
On March 28, 2014 we issued 500,000 common shares to one entity pursuant to the conversion of $60,000 of principal of a convertible debenture issued to such entity on February 19, 2013 at a conversion price of $0.12 per share. We relied on the exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Section 3(a)(9) thereof, with respect to the issuance of the shares pursuant to the conversion of principal of the such convertible debenture.
On March 21, 2014, we issued 2,204,166 common shares to one entity pursuant to the conversion of $264,500 of principal of a convertible debenture issued to such entity on February 19, 2013 at a conversion price of $0.12 per share. We relied on the exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Section 3(a)(9) thereof, with respect to the issuance of the shares pursuant to the conversion of principal of the such convertible debenture.
On March 19, 2014, we issued 416,666 common shares to one entity pursuant to the conversion of $50,000 of principal of a convertible debenture issued to such entity on February 19, 2013 at a conversion price of $0.12 per share. We relied on the exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Section 3(a)(9) thereof, with respect to the issuance of the shares pursuant to the conversion of principal of the such convertible debenture.
On March 12, 2014, we announced that the TSX Venture Exchange consented to amendments to certain previously issued convertible debentures and warrants (the "Original Debentures" and the "Original Warrants", respectively), which amendments were agreed to by and between us and the holders of such Original Debentures and Original Warrants. The Original Debentures and Original Warrants were issued in three tranches on February 19, 2013, March 14, 2013, and April 4, 2013 (as disclosed in our Current Reports on Form 8-K as filed with the SEC on February 25, 2013, March 20, 2013, and April 5, 2013, respectively). The Original Debentures and Original Warrants, as amended, are referred to as the "Amended Debentures" and "Amended Warrants" herein.
Principal Amount of Original Debentures: | US$5,790,540 |
Principal Amount of Amended Debentures: |
US$5,790,540 plus interest due on the Original Debentures as of February 19, 2014 |
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Conversion Price of Original Debentures: |
Convertible into common shares at US$0.19 per share (on a pre-consolidated basis)* for a one-year period |
Conversion Price of Amended Debentures: |
Convertible into common shares at US$0.12 per share (on a post-consolidated basis)* until maturity |
Maturity Date of Original Debentures: |
Each tranche had a separate maturity date that was one year from the date of issuance, as follows: |
i) February 19, 2014; | |
ii) March 14, 2014; and | |
iii) April 4, 2014 | |
Maturity Date of Amended Debentures: |
All Amended Debentures now have a single maturity date of August 19, 2016 |
Interest Rate of Original Debentures: |
15% per annum |
Interest Rate of Amended Debentures: |
9.5% per annum |
Original Warrant Terms: |
Each warrant will have a term of one year from the date of issuance of the debentures and entitle the holder to purchase one common share at a price of US$0.19 per share (on a pre- consolidated basis)* |
Amended Warrant Terms: |
Each warrant will have a term of 42 months from the date of issuance and entitle the holder to purchase one common share (on a post-consolidated basis)* at a price of US$0.12 per share. |
We relied on exemptions from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Section 3(a)(9) thereof, with respect to the deemed issuance of the Amended Debentures and Amended Warrants in exchange for the Original Debentures and Original Warrants, respectively.
On February 24, 2014, we completed a shares-for-debt private placement involving the sale of an aggregate of 27,682,926 shares of our common stock at a deemed subscription price of CAD$0.055 per share, in settlement of an aggregate of CAD$1,522,560.90 owed by us to certain shares-for-debt purchasers. We relied on exemptions from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Rule 506 of Regulation D and by Regulation S, based on representations and warranties provided by the shares-for-debt purchasers in the subscription agreements entered into between the shares-for-debt purchasers and us.
On April 4, 2013, we sold an aggregate of $200,000 of our convertible debentures due on April 4, 2014 with an interest rate of 15% per annum which shall accrue and be payable on the earlier of the maturity date or the date the entire principal amount of each debenture is converted. The principal amount of the debentures is convertible into shares of our common stock at the option of the holder, in whole or in part, at a price of $0.19 per share until the maturity date. The conversion price is subject to adjustment upon a reclassification or other change in our outstanding common stock and certain distributions to all holders of our common stock. In addition, each holder of a debenture received a one year warrant to purchase five shares of our common stock for each $1.00 of principal amount of debenture purchased at an exercise price of $0.19 per share. The debentures are secured by a first ranking floating charge security on all of our assets. We relied on exemptions from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Rule 506 of Regulation D and/or Section 4(a)(2) for the US investors, based on representations and warranties provided by the investors in the Debentures in their respective subscription agreements entered into between us and each investor.
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On March 14, 2013, we sold an aggregate of $285,000 of our convertible debentures due on March 14, 2014 with an interest rate of 15% per annum which shall accrue and be payable on the earlier of the maturity date or the date the entire principal amount of each debenture is converted. The principal amount of the debentures is convertible into shares of our common stock at the option of the holder, in whole or in part, at a price of $0.19 per share until the maturity date. The conversion price is subject to adjustment upon a reclassification or other change in our outstanding common stock and certain distributions to all holders of our common stock. In addition, each holder of a debenture received a one-year warrant to purchase five shares of our common stock for each $1.00 of principal amount of debenture purchased at an exercise price of $0.19 per share. The debentures are secured by a first ranking floating charge security on all of our assets. We relied on exemptions from registration under the U.S. Securities Act provided by Regulation S for the offshore investors, based on representations and warranties provided by the investors in their respective subscription agreements entered into between us and each investor.
No Repurchases
Neither we nor any affiliated purchaser has made any purchases of our equity securities during the fourth quarter of our fiscal year ended February 28, 2014.
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
We are a smaller reporting company as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act and are not required to provide the information required under this item.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis of our results of operations and financial condition should be read in conjunction with (i) our audited financial statements for the fiscal years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 and the notes thereto and (ii) the section entitled Business, included elsewhere in this annual report. Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. All references to dollar amounts in this section are in U.S. dollars unless expressly stated otherwise.
The matters discussed in these sections that are not historical or current facts deal with potential future circumstances and developments. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the development plans for the Companys growth, trends in the results of the Companys development, anticipated development plans, operating expenses and the Companys anticipated capital requirements and capital resources. As such, these forward-looking statements may include words such as plans, intends, anticipates, should, estimates, expects, believes, indicates, targeting, suggests and similar expressions. Our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of many factors, including, but not limited to, those set forth under Risk Factors and elsewhere in this annual report.
Overview
We are an exploration stage company engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral resource properties. We currently have an interest in or have the right to earn an interest in eight properties: Southwest Exploration Property, Twin Butte Ranch, Sweetwater/American Potash, Mesa Uranium, Ringbolt Property, JEA with the Hopi Tribe, Fitzgerald Ranch and JEA with HNZ Potash, which are all located in Arizona. We are currently in default under the option agreement to acquire the Twin Buttes Ranch and the purchase agreement to acquire the Fitzgerald Ranch, however, no default notice has been issued and we are currently in negotiations to amend such agreements.
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Results of Operations Years Ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013
The following table sets forth our results of operations from inception of exploration stage on May 22, 2007 to February 28, 2014 as well as for the fiscal years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013.
Year ended | For the period May | ||||||||
22, 2007 (Inception | |||||||||
of Exploration | |||||||||
February 28, | February 28, | Stage) to February | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | 28, 2014 | |||||||
Operating Expenses | |||||||||
Administration | $ | 114,097 | $ | 61,355 | $ | 1,016,956 | |||
Advertising | 95,700 | 577,105 | 1,837,185 | ||||||
Business development | 310,937 | 605,170 | 1,327,474 | ||||||
Consulting fees | 594,708 | 961,108 | 8,816,422 | ||||||
Depreciation | 164 | 220 | 2,381 | ||||||
Foreign exchange loss | 9,134 | 175,791 | 142,637 | ||||||
Investor relations | 257,015 | 279,045 | 1,514,812 | ||||||
Management fees | 736,995 | 667,963 | 4,018,295 | ||||||
Mineral property impairment | 975,000 | - | 1,627,784 | ||||||
Mineral property option payments and | |||||||||
exploration costs | 1,924,268 | 9,411,342 | 22,593,879 | ||||||
Office and miscellaneous | 68,958 | 90,558 | 347,061 | ||||||
Professional fees | 452,808 | 717,311 | 1,727,529 | ||||||
Property investigation costs | - | - | 24,483 | ||||||
Transfer agent and filing fees | 98,204 | 61,751 | 443,157 | ||||||
(5,637,988 | ) | (13,608,719 | ) | (45,440,055 | ) | ||||
Other items | |||||||||
Accretion expense | (4,049,613 | ) | (93,566 | ) | (4,143,179 | ) | |||
Change in fair value of derivative liability | 1,574,966 | 4,219,489 | 6,355,805 | ||||||
Interest income | - | 27,719 | 90,216 | ||||||
Interest expense on convertible debentures | (858,243 | ) | (19,623 | ) | (877,866 | ) | |||
Loss on debt settlement | 27,636 | - | (9,852 | ) | |||||
Other income | - | - | 153,125 | ||||||
(3,305,254 | ) | 4,134,019 | 1,568,249 | ||||||
Net profit (loss) | $ | (8,943,242 | ) | $ | (9,474,700 | ) | $ | (43,871,806 | ) |
Earnings (loss) per share basic and diluted | $ | (0.10 | ) | $ | (0.11 | ) | |||
Weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year basic and diluted | 92,133,127 | 87,169,504 |
Revenues
During fiscal years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013, respectively, we did not generate any revenue.
Operating Expenses
Operating expenses incurred during the fiscal year ended February 28, 2014 were $5,637,988 as compared to $13,608,719 during the fiscal year ended February 28, 2013. Significant changes and expenditures are outlined as follows:
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Other Items
During the fiscal year ended February 28, 2014, our other items accounted for $3,305,254 in expenses as compared to $4,134,019 in income for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2013. The significant changes in other items income (expenses) are outlined as follows:
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Net Income (Loss)
The net income (loss) was ($8,943,242) and ($9,474,700) for the fiscal years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013, respectively. The decrease in net loss of $531,458 resulted primarily from the decrease in operating expenses and increase in mineral property impairment expenses and the increase in expenses in other items in the fiscal year ended February 28, 2013 from $9,474,700 to $8,943,242 in the fiscal year ended February 28, 2014.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our financial statements have been prepared assuming that we will continue as a going concern and, accordingly, do not include adjustments relating to the recoverability and realization of assets and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should we be unable to continue in operation.
The following table sets out our cash and working capital as of February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013:
As of February 28, 2014 | As of February 28, 2013 | |||||
(audited) | (audited) | |||||
Cash reserves | $ | 49,062 | $ | 1,643,771 | ||
Working capital (deficit) | ($2,046,398 | ) | ($2,286,657 | ) |
As at February 28, 2014, our current assets were $171,067 and our current liabilities were $2,217,465 resulting in a working capital deficit of $2,046,398. Our current assets as at February 28, 2014 consisted of cash and cash equivalents of $49,062, receivables of $4,853, prepaid expenses of $113,554 and deferred issuance costs of $3,598. Our current liabilities as at February 28, 2014 consisted of trade payables and accrued liabilities of $980,983, convertible debentures of $553,233 convertible debentures subscriptions received of $95,000, derivative liability of $42,007 and loans of $546,242.
As at February 28, 2013, our current assets were $2,360,427 and our current liabilities were $4,647,084 resulting in a working capital deficit of $2,286,657. Our current assets as at February 28, 2013 consisted of cash and cash equivalents of $1,643,771, receivables of $56,526, injunction bond of $350,000, prepaid expenses of $272,750 and deferred issuance costs of $37,380. Our current liabilities as at February 28, 2013 consisted of trade payables and accrued liabilities of $1,053,170, convertible debentures of $1,624,128, convertible debentures subscriptions received of $350,000 and derivative liability of $1,619,786.
As at February 28, 2014 we also had non-current liabilities of $5,000,889 compared to February 28, 2013 $Nil. Our non-current liabilities at February 28, 2014 consisted of Convertible debentures.
During the fiscal year ended February 28, 2014, we received cash of $128,126 (2013: $5,180,054) for Debentures issued net of issue costs, paid $1,762 to issue shares for debt (2013: received $1,353,647 for stock issuances), $546,242 (2013: $Nil) for loans and received $95,000 (2013: received $350,000) for subscriptions. At February 28, 2013, we had an aggregate of 15,037,363 (2013:24,292,406) share purchase warrants exercisable, for CAD$0.50 (2013: between CAD$0.40 and CAD$0.50) and between US$0.12 and US$0.38 per share (2013:US$0.38), which have the potential upon exercise to convert to approximately CAD$280,506 (2013:CAD$4,447,147) plus US$2,052,412 (2013:US$5,059,620) in cash over the next year. Further, as at February 28, 2014, a total of 9,166,812 (2013:9,139,946) stock options exercisable between $0.20 and $1.18 (CAD$0.20 and CAD$1.18) per share which have the potential upon exercise to generate a total of approximately CAD$5,227,542 (2013:CAD$$5,638,609) in cash over the next five years. There is no assurance that these securities will be exercised.
Deficit accumulated since inception of exploration stage increased from ($34,928,564) as at February 28, 2013 to ($43,871,806) as at February 28, 2014.
59
Our plan of operations over the next twelve months is to focus on the following:
Therefore, based on the above, we anticipate that we will require a total of approximately $9,500,000 for our plan of operations over the next twelve months. At February 28, 2014, we had cash of $49,062 and a working capital deficit of $2,046,398. During the next twelve months, we anticipate that we will not generate any revenue. Accordingly, we will be required to obtain additional equity financing in order to pursue our plan of operations for and beyond the next twelve months. We cannot provide investors with any assurance that we will be able to raise sufficient funding from the sale of our common stock to fund our exploration programs, property acquisitions and repayment of debt going forward. In the absence of such financing, we will not be able to continue our planned property acquisitions and possibly our anticipated exploration programs and our business plan may fail. Even if we are successful in obtaining financing to fund our exploration program, there is no assurance that we will obtain the funding necessary to complete our planned property acquisitions.
Statement of Cash Flows
During the fiscal year ended February 28, 2014, our net cash decreased by $1,594,709, which included net cash used in operating activities of ($2,362,315), net cash used in investing activities of $NIL and net cash provided by financing activities of $767,606.
Cash Flow used in Operating Activities
Operating activities in the fiscal year ended February 28, 2014 used cash of ($2,362,315) compared to ($12,788,940) in the fiscal year ended February 28, 2013. Significant changes in cash used in operating activities are outlined as follows:
The following non-cash items further adjusted the profit (loss) for the fiscal years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013:
60
The following changes in working capital items further adjusted the cash flow usage for the fiscal years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013:
Cash Flow used in Investing Activities
During the fiscal year ended February 28, 2014, investing activities used cash of $Nil as compared to $1,050,000 for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2013. Investing activities during the fiscal year ended February 28, 2013 consisted of (i) long term deposits of $750,000 and (ii) mineral property acquisition costs of $300,000.
Cash Flow provided by Financing Activities
During the fiscal year ended February 28, 2014, cash provided by financing activities consisted of (i) proceeds from debentures net of issue costs of $128,126, (ii) mainly issuance costs in shares for debt of $1,762, (iii) proceeds from loans of $546,242 and (iv) Proceeds from subscriptions received of $95,000. In the period from inception (May 22, 2007) to February 28, 2014, financing activities provided net cash of $31,435,670, primarily from the sale of our equity securities.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
There are no off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that is material to investors.
Subsequent Events
61
Outstanding share data
At February 28, 2014, we had on a post-consolidation basis 105,651,157 issued and outstanding common shares, 9,166,812 outstanding stock options at a weighted average exercise price of $0.50 (CAD$0.50) per share, and 15,037,363 outstanding warrants at an exercise price of $0.12 to $0.38 and CAD$0.50 per share.
Critical Accounting Policies
Our financial statements and accompanying notes have been prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent basis. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods.
We regularly evaluate the accounting policies and estimates that we use to prepare our financial statements. In general, managements estimates are based on historical experience, on information from third party professionals, and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the facts and circumstances. Actual results could differ from those estimates made by management.
We believe the following critical accounting policies require us to make significant judgments and estimates in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.
Mineral Property Expenditures
We are primarily engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral properties.
Mineral property acquisition costs are capitalized in accordance with FASB ASC 930-805, Extractive Activities-Mining, when management has determined that probable future benefits consisting of a contribution to future cash inflows have been identified and adequate financial resources are available or are expected to be available as required to meet the terms of property acquisition and budgeted exploration and development expenditures. Mineral property acquisition costs are expensed as incurred if the criteria for capitalization are not met. In the event that mineral property acquisition costs are paid with Company shares, those shares are recorded at the estimated fair value at the time the shares are due in accordance with the terms of the property agreements.
62
Mineral property exploration costs are expensed as incurred.
When it has been determined that a mineral property can be economically developed as a result of establishing proven and probable reserves and pre-feasibility, the costs incurred to develop such property are capitalized.
Estimated future removal and site restoration costs, when determinable are provided over the life of proven reserves on a units-of-production basis. Costs, which include production equipment removal and environmental remediation, are estimated each period by management based on current regulations, actual expenses incurred, and technology and industry standards. Any charge is included in exploration expense or the provision for depletion and depreciation during the period and the actual restoration expenditures are charged to the accumulated provision amounts as incurred.
As of the date of these financial statements, we have incurred property acquisition costs that have been capitalized and property option payments and exploration costs which have been expensed.
To date we have not established any proven or probable reserves on our mineral properties.
Stock-based Compensation
We account for Stock-Based Compensation under ASC 718 Compensation Stock Compensation, which addresses the accounting for transactions in which an entity exchanges its equity instruments for goods or services, with a primary focus on transactions in which an entity obtains employee services in share-based payment transactions. ASC 718-10 requires measurement of the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award (with limited exceptions). Incremental compensation costs arising from subsequent modifications of awards after the grant date must be recognized.
We account for stock-based compensation awards to non-employees in accordance with ASC 505-50, Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees. Under ASC 505-50, we determine the fair value of the warrants or stock-based compensation awards granted as either the fair value of the consideration received or the fair value of the equity instruments issued, whichever is more reliably measurable. Any stock options or warrants issued to non-employees are recorded in expense and additional paid-in capital in shareholders equity/(deficit) over the applicable service periods using variable accounting through the vesting dates based on the fair value of the options or warrants at the end of each period.
The value of the common stock is measured at the earlier of (i) the date at which a firm commitment for performance by the counterparty to earn the equity instruments is reached or (ii) the date at which the counterpartys performance is complete. We recognized consulting expense and a corresponding increase to additional paid-in-capital related to stock issued for services.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
We have reviewed recently issued accounting pronouncements and we plan to adopt those that are applicable to us. We do not expect the adoption of these pronouncements to have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Financial instruments and other risks
We are exposed in varying degrees to a variety of financial instrument related risks. The Board of Directors approves and monitors the risk management processes, Inclusive of documented investment policies, counterparty limits, and controlling and reporting structures. The type of risk exposure and the way in which such exposure is managed is provided as follows:
Credit risk
63
Credit risk is the risk that one party to a financial instrument will fail to discharge an obligation and cause the other party to incur a financial loss. Our primary exposure to credit risk is on our cash and cash equivalents. As most of our cash and cash equivalents are held by the same bank there is a concentration of credit risk. This risk is managed by using a major Canadian banks that are high credit quality financial institutions as determined by rating agencies. Our secondary exposure to risk is on our other receivables. This risk is minimal as receivables consist primarily of refundable government goods and services taxes.
Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that we will not be able to meet our financial obligations as they become due. Our objective in managing liquidity risk is to maintain sufficient readily available capital in order to meet our liquidity requirements at any point in time. We achieve this by maintaining sufficient cash and cash equivalents and raising capital through debt and/or equity financing.
Historically, our sole source of funding has been the issuance of equity securities for cash, primarily through private placements. Our access to financing is always uncertain. There can be no assurance of continued access to significant equity funding.
Foreign exchange risk
Foreign exchange risk is the risk that we will be subject to foreign currency fluctuations in satisfying obligations related to our foreign activities. We operate primarily in Canada and the United States and are consequently exposed to foreign exchange risk arising from transactions denominated in foreign currency. Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates may affect our results of operations. We manage foreign exchange risk by closely monitoring relevant exchange rates and when possible, executes currency exchange transactions at times when exchange rates are most advantageous for us. We do not use hedging to manage its foreign exchange risk.
Interest rate risk
Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value of future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates. We are exposed to interest rate risk on our cash equivalents as these instruments have original maturities of three months or less and are therefore exposed to interest rate fluctuations on renewal.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
We are a smaller reporting company as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act and are not required to provide the information required under this item.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
64
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Stockholders and Board of Directors of Passport Potash Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Passport Potash Inc. (the Company) (an exploration stage company) as at February 28, 2014 and 2013 and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders equity (deficiency) and cash flows for the years then ended and the period from May 22, 2007 (inception of exploration stage) to February 28, 2014. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform an audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Companys internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, based on our audits, these consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as at February 28, 2014 and 2013 and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended and for the period from May 22, 2007 (inception of exploration stage) to February 28, 2014, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 1 to the financial statements, the Company has not generated revenues, has incurred losses in developing its business, and further losses are anticipated. The Company requires additional funds to meet its obligations and the costs of its operations. These factors raise substantial doubt about the Companys ability to continue as a going concern. Managements plans in this regard are described in Note 1. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
/s/ Dale Matheson Carr-Hilton Labonte LLP
DALE MATHESON CARR-HILTON LABONTE LLP
|CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS
Vancouver, Canada
June 13, 2014
F-1
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Consolidated Balance Sheets |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
Notes | February 28, | February 28, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | ||||||||
ASSETS | |||||||||
Current assets | |||||||||
Cash | $ | 49,062 | $ | 1,643,771 | |||||
Receivables | 4,853 | 56,526 | |||||||
Injunction bond | 4 | - | 350,000 | ||||||
Prepaid expenses | 113,554 | 272,750 | |||||||
Deferred issuance costs | 3,598 | 37,380 | |||||||
Total current assets | 171,067 | 2,360,427 | |||||||
Equipment | 3 | 660 | 824 | ||||||
Unproven mineral properties | 4 | 1,600,000 | 1,600,000 | ||||||
Long term deposit | 4 | - | 975,000 | ||||||
Reclamation deposits | 4 | 15,000 | 15,000 | ||||||
Total non-current assets | 1,615,660 | 2,590,824 | |||||||
TOTAL ASSETS | $ | 1,786,727 | $ | 4,951,251 | |||||
LIABILITIES | |||||||||
Current liabilities | |||||||||
Trade payables and accrued liabilities | 7 | $ | 980,983 | $ | 1,053,170 | ||||
Convertible debentures | 5 | 553,233 | 1,624,128 | ||||||
Convertible debentures subscriptions received | 5 | 95,000 | 350,000 | ||||||
Derivative liability | 10 | 42,007 | 1,619,786 | ||||||
Loans | 6 | 546,242 | - | ||||||
Total current liabilities | 2,217,465 | 4,647,084 | |||||||
Convertible debentures | 5 | 5,000,889 | - | ||||||
Total non-current liabilities | 5,000,889 | - | |||||||
TOTAL LIABILITIES | 7,218,354 | 4,647,084 | |||||||
STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY (DEFICIENCY) | |||||||||
Common stock Unlimited authorized without par value | 8 | 35,032,933 | 33,659,380 | ||||||
Additional paid-in capital | 16,922,064 | 15,088,169 | |||||||
Accumulated deficit | (13,514,818 | ) | (13,514,818 | ) | |||||
Deficit accumulated during exploration stage | (43,871,806 | ) | (34,928,564 | ) | |||||
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY (DEFICIENCY) | (5,431,627 | ) | 304,167 | ||||||
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY (DEFICIENCY) | $ | 1,786,727 | $ | 4,951,251 | |||||
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 1 and 4) | |||||||||
Subsequent events (Note 11) |
On behalf of the Board of Directors:
Joshua Bleak | John Eckersley | |
Director | Director |
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
F-2
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Consolidated statement of operations |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
Year ended | ||||||||||||
For the period May | ||||||||||||
22, 2007(Inception | ||||||||||||
of Exploration | ||||||||||||
Note | February 28, | February 28, | Stage) to February | |||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 28, 2014 | ||||||||||
Operating Expenses | ||||||||||||
Administration | 7 | $ | 114,097 | $ | 61,355 | $ | 1,016,956 | |||||
Advertising | 95,700 | 577,105 | 1,837,185 | |||||||||
Business development | 310,937 | 605,170 | 1,327,474 | |||||||||
Consulting fees | 7 | 594,708 | 961,108 | 8,816,422 | ||||||||
Depreciation | 3 | 164 | 220 | 2,381 | ||||||||
Foreign exchange loss | 9,134 | 175,791 | 142,637 | |||||||||
Investor relations | 257,015 | 279,045 | 1,514,812 | |||||||||
Management fees | 7 | 736,995 | 667,963 | 4,018,295 | ||||||||
Mineral property impairment | 4 | 975,000 | - | 1,627,784 | ||||||||
Mineral property option payments and | ||||||||||||
exploration costs | 4,7 | 1,924,268 | 9,411,342 | 22,593,879 | ||||||||
Office and miscellaneous | 68,958 | 90,558 | 347,061 | |||||||||
Professional fees | 452,808 | 717,311 | 1,727,529 | |||||||||
Property investigation costs | - | - | 24,483 | |||||||||
Transfer agent and filing fees | 98,204 | 61,751 | 443,157 | |||||||||
(5,637,988 | ) | (13,608,719 | ) | (45,440,055 | ) | |||||||
Other items | ||||||||||||
Accretion expense | 5 | (4,049,613 | ) | (93,566 | ) | (4,143,179 | ) | |||||
Change in fair value of derivative liability | 10 | 1,574,966 | 4,219,489 | 6,355,805 | ||||||||
Interest income | - | 27,719 | 90,216 | |||||||||
Interest expense on convertible debentures | 5 | (858,243 | ) | (19,623 | ) | (877,866 | ) | |||||
Gain(Loss) on debt settlement | 27,636 | - | (9,852 | ) | ||||||||
Other income | - | - | 153,125 | |||||||||
(3,305,254 | ) | 4,134,019 | 1,568,249 | |||||||||
Net loss | $ | (8,943,242 | ) | $ | (9,474,700 | ) | $ | (43,871,806 | ) | |||
Loss per share basic and diluted | $ | (0.10 | ) | $ | (0.11 | ) | ||||||
Weighted average number of shares outstanding basic and diluted | 92,133,127 | 87,169,504 |
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
F-3
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Consolidated statement of stockholders equity (deficiency) |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
Common Stock | ||||||||||||||||||
Accumulated | ||||||||||||||||||
Deficit During | ||||||||||||||||||
Number of | Additional | Accumulated | Exploration | |||||||||||||||
shares | Amount | Paid-in Capital | Deficit | Stage | Total | |||||||||||||
Balance at May 22, 2007 (Inception of exploration stage) | 5,514,695 | $ | 12,909,530 | $ | 28,190 | $ | (13,514,818 | ) | $ | - | $ | (577,098 | ) | |||||
Net loss | - | - | - | - | (639,925 | ) | (639,925 | ) | ||||||||||
Shares issued for cash private placement | 5,123,199 | 982,322 | - | - | - | 982,322 | ||||||||||||
Shares issued for cash warrant exercise | 1,400,000 | 294,325 | - | - | - | 294,325 | ||||||||||||
Shares issued to acquire unproven mineral properties | 150,000 | 34,402 | - | - | - | 34,402 | ||||||||||||
Shares issued for cash option exercise | 310,500 | 47,474 | - | - | - | 47,474 | ||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | - | - | 267,286 | - | - | 267,286 | ||||||||||||
Balance at February 28, 2008 | 12,498,394 | 14,268,053 | 295,476 | (13,514,818 | ) | (639,925 | ) | 408,786 | ||||||||||
Net loss | - | - | - | - | (1,114,326 | ) | (1,114,326 | ) | ||||||||||
Shares issued to acquire unproven mineral properties | 112,500 | 81,504 | - | - | - | 81,504 | ||||||||||||
Shares issued for cash warrant exercise | 2,778,869 | 670,195 | - | - | - | 670,195 | ||||||||||||
Share issue costs | 50,000 | (48,680 | ) | 61,578 | - | - | 12,898 | |||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | - | - | 174,784 | - | - | 174,784 | ||||||||||||
Balance at February 28, 2009 | 15,439,763 | 14,971,072 | 531,838 | (13,514,818 | ) | (1,754,251 | ) | 233,841 | ||||||||||
Net loss | - | - | - | - | (996,441 | ) | (996,441 | ) | ||||||||||
Shares issued for cash private placement | 2,485,568 | 491,933 | - | - | - | 491,933 | ||||||||||||
Transfer to derivative liability warrants issued | - | (359,669 | ) | - | - | - | (359,669 | ) | ||||||||||
Share issue costs cash | - | (37,654 | ) | - | - | - | (37,654 | ) | ||||||||||
Share issue costs - warrants issued to finders | - | (26,505 | ) | 26,505 | - | - | - | |||||||||||
Cancelled shares | (53 | ) | - | - | - | - | - | |||||||||||
Shares issued to acquire unproven mineral properties | 4,465,500 | 244,142 | - | - | - | 244,142 | ||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | - | - | 170,281 | - | - | 170,281 | ||||||||||||
Balance at February 28, 2010 | 19,390,778 | $ | 15,283,319 | $ | 728,624 | $ | (13,514,818 | ) | $ | (2,750,692 | ) | $ | (253,567 | ) |
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
F-4
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Consolidated statement of stockholders equity (deficiency) |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
Common Stock | ||||||||||||||||||
Accumulated | ||||||||||||||||||
Deficit During | ||||||||||||||||||
Number of | Additional | Accumulated | Exploration | |||||||||||||||
shares | Amount | Paid-in Capital | Deficit | Stage | Total | |||||||||||||
Balance at February 28, 2010 | 19,390,778 | $ | 15,283,319 | $ | 728,624 | $ | (13,514,818 | ) | $ | (2,750,692 | ) | $ | (253,567 | ) | ||||
Net loss | - | - | - | - | (31,208,831 | ) | (31,208,831 | ) | ||||||||||
Shares issued for cash private placement | 25,705,920 | 8,389,473 | - | - | - | 8,389,473 | ||||||||||||
Transfer to derivative liability warrants issued | - | (9,688,049 | ) | - | - | - | (9,688,049 | ) | ||||||||||
Share issue costs - cash | - | (121,888 | ) | - | - | - | (121,888 | ) | ||||||||||
Share issue costs warrants issued to finders | - | (9,853 | ) | 9,853 | - | - | - | |||||||||||
Shares issued to acquire unproven mineral properties | 3,000,000 | 433,343 | - | - | - | 433,343 | ||||||||||||
Shares issued for cash option exercise | 2,843,000 | 752,110 | - | - | - | 752,110 | ||||||||||||
Shares issued for cash warrant exercise | 9,787,068 | 3,988,062 | - | - | - | 3,988,062 | ||||||||||||
Transfer from derivative liability warrants exercised | - | 5,288,864 | - | - | - | 5,288,864 | ||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | - | - | 6,217,121 | - | - | 6,217,121 | ||||||||||||
Balance at February 28, 2011 | 60,726,766 | 24,315,381 | 6,955,598 | $ | (13,514,818 | ) | (33,959,523 | ) | (16,203,362 | ) | ||||||||
Net profit | - | - | - | - | 8,505,659 | 8,505,659 | ||||||||||||
Shares issued for cash private placement | 20,833,213 | 7,537,877 | - | - | - | 7,537,877 | ||||||||||||
Transfer to derivative liability warrants issued | - | (3,668,077 | ) | - | - | - | (3,668,077 | ) | ||||||||||
Share issue costs - cash | - | (67,336 | ) | - | - | - | (67,336 | ) | ||||||||||
Share issue costs warrants issued to finders | - | (32,700 | ) | 32,700 | - | - | - | |||||||||||
Shares issued to acquire unproven mineral properties | 500,000 | 669,384 | - | - | - | 669,384 | ||||||||||||
Shares issued for cash option exercise | 1,464,375 | 538,365 | - | - | - | 538,365 | ||||||||||||
Shares issued for cash warrant exercise | 1,137,500 | 319,105 | - | - | - | 319,105 | ||||||||||||
Transfer from derivative liability warrants exercised | - | 1,674,607 | - | - | - | 1,674,607 | ||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | - | - | 4,063,925 | - | - | 4,063,925 | ||||||||||||
Balance at February 29, 2012 | 84,664,854 | $ | 31,286,606 | $ | 11,052,223 | $ | (13,514,818 | ) | $ | (25,453,864 | ) | $ | 3,370,147 |
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
F-5
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Consolidated statement of stockholders equity (deficiency) |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
Common Stock | ||||||||||||||||||
Accumulated | ||||||||||||||||||
Deficit During | ||||||||||||||||||
Number of | Additional | Accumulated | Exploration | |||||||||||||||
shares | Amount | Paid-in Capital | Deficit | Stage | Total | |||||||||||||
Balance at February 29, 2012 | 84,664,854 | $ | 31,286,606 | $ | 11,052,223 | $ | (13,514,818 | ) | $ | (25,453,864 | ) | $ | 3,370,147 | |||||
Net loss | - | - | - | - | (9,474,700 | ) | (9,474,700 | ) | ||||||||||
Shares issued for cash private placement | 1,112,500 | 402,632 | - | - | - | 402,632 | ||||||||||||
Share issue costs - cash | - | (11,598 | ) | - | - | - | (11,598 | ) | ||||||||||
Share issue costs warrants issued to finders | - | (1,590 | ) | 1,590 | - | - | - | |||||||||||
Shares issued for cash warrant exercise | 4,801,350 | 962,613 | - | - | - | 962,613 | ||||||||||||
Shares issued to acquire unproven mineral properties | 1,200,000 | 485,822 | - | - | - | 485,822 | ||||||||||||
Transfer to derivative liability warrants issued | - | (216,796 | ) | - | - | - | (216,796 | ) | ||||||||||
Amount allocated to share purchase warrants on issuance of Debenture | - | - | 1,478,442 | - | - | 1,478,442 | ||||||||||||
Amount allocated to beneficial conversion feature on issuance of Debenture | - | - | 2,316,159 | - | - | 2,316,159 | ||||||||||||
Issuance costs allocated to share purchase warrants and | ||||||||||||||||||
beneficial conversion feature on issuance of Debenture | - | - | (93,876 | ) | - | - | (93,876 | ) | ||||||||||
Warrants issued to finders on issuance of Debenture | - | - | 5,770 | - | - | 5,770 | ||||||||||||
Transfer from derivative liability warrants exercised | - | 751,691 | - | - | - | 751,691 | ||||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | - | - | 327,861 | - | - | 327,861 | ||||||||||||
Balance at February 28, 2013 | 91,775,704 | 33,659,380 | 15,088,169 | $ | (13,514,818 | ) | (34,928,564 | ) | 304,167 | |||||||||
Net loss | - | - | - | - | (8,943,242 | ) | (8,943,242 | ) | ||||||||||
Shares issued for cash warrant exercised | 20,833 | 8,157 | - | - | - | 8,157 | ||||||||||||
Shares issued for convertible debentures exercised | 13,158 | 5,000 | - | - | - | 5,000 | ||||||||||||
Shares issued for debt | 13,841,463 | 1,367,499 | - | - | - | 1,367,499 | ||||||||||||
Transfer from derivative liability warrants exercised | - | 2,813 | - | - | - | 2,813 | ||||||||||||
Share issue costs - cash | - | (9,916 | ) | - | - | - | (9,916 | ) | ||||||||||
Amount allocated to share purchase warrants on issuance of Debenture | - | - | 974,504 | - | - | 974,504 | ||||||||||||
Amount allocated to beneficial conversion feature on issuance of Debenture | - | - | 483,358 | - | - | 483,358 | ||||||||||||
Issuance costs allocated to share purchase warrants and beneficial conversion feature on issuance of Debenture | - | - | (2,638 | ) | - | - | (2,638 | ) | ||||||||||
Stock-based compensation | - | - | 378,671 | - | - | 378,671 | ||||||||||||
Balance at February 28, 2014 | 105,651,157 | $ | 35,032,933 | $ | 16,922,064 | $ | (13,514,818 | ) | $ | (43,871,806 | ) | $ | (5,431,627 | ) |
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
F-6
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Consolidated statements of cash flows |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
Year ended | |||||||||
Cumulative from | |||||||||
May 22, 2007 | |||||||||
(Inception of | |||||||||
Exploration Stage) | |||||||||
February 28, | February 28, | to February 28, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | |||||||
Operating activities | |||||||||
Net loss | $ | (8,943,242 | ) | $ | (9,474,700 | ) | $ | (43,871,806 | ) |
Adjustments for: | |||||||||
Accretion | 4,049,613 | 93,566 | 4,143,179 | ||||||
Amortization of deferred issuance costs | 38,018 | - | 38,018 | ||||||
Depreciation | 164 | 220 | 2,381 | ||||||
Interest expense on convertible debentures | 858,243 | 19,623 | 877,866 | ||||||
Fair value adjustment on warrants | (1,574,966 | ) | (4,219,489 | ) | (6,355,805 | ) | |||
Foreign exchange | - | - | (256,260 | ) | |||||
Loss on debt settlement | (27,636 | ) | - | 9,852 | |||||
Mineral property impairment | 975,000 | - | 975,000 | ||||||
Mineral property option payments - shares | - | 485,822 | 1,948,597 | ||||||
Other income | - | - | (138,474 | ) | |||||
Stock-based compensation | 378,671 | 327,861 | 11,599,929 | ||||||
Changes in non-cash working capital items: | |||||||||
Receivables | 51,673 | (9,451 | ) | (4,853 | ) | ||||
Injunction bond | 350,000 | (350,000 | ) | - | |||||
Prepaid expenses | 159,196 | (192,913 | ) | (111,452 | ) | ||||
Trade payables and accrued liabilities | 1,322,951 | 530,521 | 2,347,220 | ||||||
Net cash flows used in operating activities | (2,362,315 | ) | (12,788,940 | ) | (28,796,608 | ) | |||
Investing activities | |||||||||
Reclamation deposits | - | - | (15,000 | ) | |||||
Long term deposits | - | (750,000 | ) | (975,000 | ) | ||||
Mineral property acquisition costs | - | (300,000 | ) | (1,600,000 | ) | ||||
Net cash flows used in investing activities | - | (1,050,000 | ) | (2,590,000 | ) | ||||
Financing activities | |||||||||
Debentures - net of issue costs | 128,126 | 5,180,054 | 5,308,180 | ||||||
Proceeds on issuance of common shares - net of issue costs | (1,762 | ) | 1,353,647 | 25,136,248 | |||||
Proceeds from Loans | 546,242 | - | 546,242 | ||||||
Subscriptions received | 95,000 | 350,000 | 445,000 | ||||||
Net cash flows from financing activities | 767,606 | 6,883,701 | 31,435,670 | ||||||
Decrease in cash | (1,594,709 | ) | (6,955,239 | ) | 49,062 | ||||
Cash, beginning | 1,643,771 | 8,599,010 | - | ||||||
Cash, ending | $ | 49,062 | $ | 1,643,771 | $ | 49,062 | |||
Supplemental disclosures: | |||||||||
Cash paid for: | |||||||||
Income tax | $ | - | $ | - | |||||
Interest | $ | - | $ | - |
See Note 11 for non-cash transactions.
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
F-7
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 1 ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
Passport Potash Inc. (the Company) was incorporated on August 11, 1987. The Companys corporate jurisdiction is the province of British Columbia, Canada. The Company is engaged in the acquisition and exploration of mineral properties. The Companys shares are listed on the TSX-Venture Exchange (TSX-V).
The Companys consolidated financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis in accordance with US generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) which contemplates the realization of assets and discharge of liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business. The Company is in the exploration stage. It has not generated operating revenues to date, and has accumulated losses of $57,386,624 since inception. The Company has funded its operations through the issuance of capital stock and debt. In the longer term, the Company will also need to repay outstanding convertible debentures if these are not converted which have a maturity date of August 19, 2016. At February 28, 2014, the Company had cash of $49,062 and a working capital deficit of $2,046,398. Management plans to raise additional funds through equity and/or debt financings. There is no certainty that further funding will be available as needed. These factors raise substantial doubt about the ability of the Company to continue operating as a going concern. The Companys ability to continue its operations as a going concern, realize the carrying value of its assets, and discharge its liabilities in the normal course of business is dependent upon its ability to raise new capital sufficient to fund its commitments and ongoing losses, and ultimately on generating profitable operations.
NOTE 2 SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation
These consolidated financial statements and related notes are presented in accordance with US GAAP, and are expressed in United States dollars (USD). The Company has not produced revenues from its principal business and is an exploration stage company as defined by Accounting and Reporting by Development Stage Enterprises. These financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiary, PPI Holding Corporation. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.
Accounting Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect certain of the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the year. The Company regularly evaluates estimates and assumptions. The Company bases its estimates and assumptions on current facts, historical experience and various other factors it believes to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities and the accrual of costs and expenses that are not readily apparent from other sources. The actual results experienced by the Company may differ materially and adversely from the Companys estimates. To the extent there are material differences between the estimates and the actual results, future results of operations will be affected. The most significant estimates with regard to these financial statements relate to carrying values of unproven mineral properties, determination of fair values of stock based transactions and derivative liability, estimates made on initial recognition of convertible debentures and deferred income tax rates.
Long Lived Assets
The carrying value of long-lived assets is reviewed on a regular basis for the existence of facts or circumstances that may suggest impairment. The Company recognizes impairment when the sum of the expected undiscounted future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of the asset. Impairment losses, if any, are measured as the excess of the carrying amount of the asset over its estimated fair value.
F-8
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 2 SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (contd)
Asset Retirement Obligations
The Company records the fair value of an asset retirement obligation as a liability in the period in which it incurs an obligation associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets that result from the acquisition, construction, development and/or normal use of the assets. The estimated fair value of the asset retirement obligation is based on the current cost escalated at an inflation rate and discounted at a credit adjusted risk-free rate. This liability is capitalized as part of the cost of the related asset and amortized over its useful life. The liability accretes until the Company settles the obligation. To date the Company has not incurred any measurable asset retirement obligations.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The estimated fair values for financial instruments are determined at discrete points in time based on relevant market information. These estimates involve uncertainties and cannot be determined with precision. The estimated fair value of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, injunction bond, trade payable approximates their carrying value due to their short-term nature. The estimated fair value of the convertible debenture is the face value of the instrument. The carrying value of the derivative liability is determined by its fair value.
Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions
The functional currency for the Company is USD. The Company translates assets and liabilities to USD using year-end exchange rates, translates unproved mineral properties and equipment using historical exchange rates, and translates expenses using average exchange rates during the period. Exchange gains and losses arising from the translation of foreign entity financial statements are included in net loss.
Income Taxes
Income taxes are determined using the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using the enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes that date of enactment. In addition, a valuation allowance is established to reduce any deferred tax asset for which it is determined that it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.
The Company accounts for uncertainty in income taxes by applying a two-step method. First, it evaluates whether a tax position has met a more likely than not recognition threshold, and second, it measures that tax position to determine the amount of benefit, if any, to be recognized in the financial statements. The application of this method did not have a material effect on the Company's financial statements.
Income / Loss per Share
The Company presents both basic and diluted income / loss per share (EPS) on the face of the statements of operations. Basic EPS is computed by dividing net loss available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year. Diluted EPS gives effect to all dilutive potential common shares outstanding during the period including convertible debt, stock options, and warrants, using the treasury stock method. Diluted EPS excludes all dilutive potential shares if their effect is anti-dilutive.
F-9
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 2 SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (contd)
Unproven Mineral Properties
Realization of the Company's investment in and expenditures on unproven mineral properties is dependent upon the establishment of legal ownership, the attainment of successful production from the properties or from the proceeds of their disposal.
Title to mineral properties involves certain inherent risks due to the difficulties of determining the validity of certain claims as well as the potential for problems arising from the frequently ambiguous conveyancing history characteristics of many mineral properties. To the best of its knowledge the Company believes all of its unproved mineral interests are in good standing and that it has title to all of these mineral interests.
The Company classifies its mineral rights as tangible assets and accordingly acquisition costs are capitalized as mineral property costs. Mineral exploration costs are expensed as incurred until commercially mineable deposits are determined to exist within a particular property.
Stock Options and Other Share-Based Compensation
The Company accounts for Stock-Based Compensation under ASC 718 Compensation Stock Compensation, which addresses the accounting for transactions in which an entity exchanges its equity instruments for goods or services, with a primary focus on transactions in which an entity obtains employee services in share-based payment transactions. ASC 718-10 requires measurement of the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award (with limited exceptions). Incremental compensation costs arising from subsequent modifications of awards after the grant date must be recognized.
The Company accounts for stock-based compensation awards to non-employees in accordance with ASC 505-50, Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees. Under ASC 505-50, the Company determines the fair value of the warrants or stock-based compensation awards granted as either the fair value of the consideration received or the fair value of the equity instruments issued, whichever is more reliably measurable. Any stock options or warrants issued to non-employees are recorded in expense and additional paid-in capital in shareholders' equity/(deficit) over the applicable service periods using variable accounting through the vesting dates based on the fair value of the options or warrants at the end of each period.
The value of the common stock is measured at the earlier of (i) the date at which a firm commitment for performance by the counterparty to earn the equity instruments is reached or (ii) the date at which the counterparty's performance is complete.
Recently Adopted Accounting Guidance
The Company has reviewed recently issued accounting pronouncements and plans to adopt those that are applicable to it. It does not expect the adoption of these pronouncements to have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
F-10
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 3 EQUIPMENT
Equipment | |||
Cost: | |||
At February 28, 2014, February 28, 2013 and February 29, 2012 | $ | 34,527 | |
Depreciation: | |||
At February 29, 2012 | $ | 33,483 | |
Charge for the year | 220 | ||
At February 28, 2013 | 33,703 | ||
Charge for the year | 164 | ||
At February 28, 2014 | $ | 33,867 | |
Net book value: | |||
At February 28, 2013 | $ | 824 | |
At February 28, 2014 | $ | 660 |
F-11
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 4 UNPROVEN MINERAL PROPERTIES |
Holbrook Basin Project |
February 28, 2014 | Additions | February 28, 2013 | Additions | February 29, 2012 | |||||||||||
Property acquisition costs | |||||||||||||||
Cash paid for property | $ | 1,600,000 | $ | - | $ | 1,600,000 | $ | 300,000 | $ | 1,300,000 | |||||
$ | 1,600,000 | $ | - | $ | 1,600,000 | $ | 300,000 | $ | 1,300,000 | ||||||
Option payments and exploration costs | |||||||||||||||
Assay | $ | 309,680 | $ | 26,603 | $ | 283,077 | $ | 209,758 | $ | 73,319 | |||||
Drilling and related costs | 8,979,834 | 456,640 | 8,523,194 | 3,308,785 | 5,214,409 | ||||||||||
Geological consulting | 3,248,707 | 757,676 | 2,491,031 | 1,177,932 | 1,313,099 | ||||||||||
License and filing | 644,650 | 200,974 | 443,676 | 344,273 | 99,403 | ||||||||||
Option payments | 6,362,855 | - | 6,362,855 | 3,699,792 | 2,663,063 | ||||||||||
Project administration | 3,160,821 | 482,375 | 2,678,446 | 783,470 | 1,894,976 | ||||||||||
Recovery | (112,668 | ) | - | (112,668 | ) | (112,668 | ) | - | |||||||
$ | 22,593,879 | $ | 1,924,268 | $ | 20,669,611 | $ | 9,411,342 | $ | 11,258,269 |
F-12
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 4 UNPROVEN MINERAL PROPERTIES
The Company acquired mineral claims in the Holbrook Basin Project through the following agreements:
South West Exploration Property, Arizona
On September 30, 2008, as amended, the Company entered into an option agreement to purchase 100% of certain mining claims located in the Holbrook Basin region of Arizona, USA. In terms of the Southwest Option Agreement, the Company:
During the year ended February 29, 2012, the Company purchased the 1% Net Smelter Royalty (NSR) for $1 million.
The Company now owns a 100% interest, with no NSR, in the South West Exploration Property.
At February 28, 2014, the Company had a reclamation bond of $15,000 (February 28, 2013: $15,000) for work done on the South West Exploration Property.
Twin Butte Ranch Property, Arizona
On August 28, 2009, as amended, the Company entered into a four year lease with an option to purchase private deeded land within the Holbrook Basin. Under the terms of the agreement the Company can earn a 100% undivided interest in the deeded land and sub-surface mineral rights by making lease payments totaling $1,250,000 over five and a half years and, upon exercising its option to purchase, by paying $20,000,000 for the entire Twin Butte Ranch including all sub-surface mineral rights except those pertaining to oil and gas, petrified wood and geothermal resources. There are no royalties associated with the sub-surface mineral rights.
Details of the payments under the agreement are as follows:
a) |
A payment of $50,000 and $10,000 legal costs on or before November 26, 2009 (paid); |
b) |
A payment of $25,000 on September 17, 2010 (paid); |
c) |
A payment of $75,000 on December 1, 2010 (paid); |
d) |
A payment of $150,000 on August 28, 2011 (paid); |
e) |
A payment of $200,000 on August 28, 2012 (paid); |
f) |
A payment of $250,000 on earlier December 1, 2013 or within thirty days of closing a financing of at least $5,000,000; |
g) |
A payment of $250,000 on August 28, 2014; and |
h) |
A payment of $250,000 on May 1, 2015. |
The Company has not made the required $250,000 payment that was due on December 1, 2013; therefore, the agreement is in default and the Company is in negotiations to amend the agreement.
Upon exercising its option to purchase the entire Twin Butte Ranch, the Company must deliver a certified cheque in the amount of $2,000,000 on or before January 6, 2016.
The lease agreement and purchase option will expire on January 6, 2016 or such other time as is mutually acceptable and agreed to in writing by both parties.
F-13
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 4 UNPROVEN MINERAL PROPERTIES (Contd)
Sweetwater/American Potash Property, Arizona
On November 12, 2010, the Company entered into an option agreement to acquire 100% of the right, title and interest in exploration permits within the Holbrook basin region of Arizona, USA. In terms of the Sweetwater/American Potash option agreement, the Company:
During the year ended February 28, 2013, the Company purchased the 2% NSR for $300,000.
The Company now has a 100% interest, with no NSR, in the Sweetwater/American Potash Property.
Mesa Uranium, Arizona
On August 31, 2010, the Company entered into an agreement to acquire 100% undivided interest in exploration permits within the Holbrook basin region of Arizona, USA. In terms of the Mesa Uranium option agreement, the Company:
During the year ended February 29, 2012, the Company purchased the 2% NSR for $300,000.
The Company now has a 100% interest, with no NSR, in the Mesa Property.
Ringbolt Property, Arizona
On March 28, 2011 the Company entered into an option agreement to acquire 90% undivided legal and beneficial interest in and to the Ringbolt Property free and clear of all encumbrances in exploration leases for the following consideration:
a) |
$50,000 upon execution of the agreement (paid); |
b) |
$250,000 upon TSX-V approval on May 17, 2011 (paid) and 1,000,000 common shares (issued with a fair value of $669,384); |
c) |
Minimum exploration expenditures within 1 year of TSX-V approval of $500,000 (completed); |
d) |
On or before the first anniversary of TSX-V approval $350,000 and 1,400,000 common shares (see below); |
e) |
Minimum exploration expenditures within first year of first anniversary of TSX-V approval of $750,000; |
f) |
$350,000 upon second anniversary of TSX-V approval and 1,600,000 common shares; and |
g) |
Minimum exploration expenditures within 1 year of second anniversary of TSX-V approval of $1,000,000. |
On completion of all terms above, the Company shall have earned a 90% interest and title of the permits shall be transferred to the Company. Upon exercise of the option agreement, the Company shall be deemed to be granted an option to purchase the remaining 10% interest in the Property for the payment of $5,000,000.
F-14
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 4 UNPROVEN MINERAL PROPERTIES (Contd)
Ringbolt Property, Arizona (contd)
The Company paid a finders fee of $25,825 to a third party in connection with this option agreement.
During the year ended February 28, 2013, the Company became the subject to a civil action in the Third Judicial District court, Salt Lake County, State of Utah in connection with the Ringbolt Property option agreement. The optionors were seeking payment of $350,000, 1,400,000 of the Companys shares and $20,716 in expenses related to the property, alternatively damages of $644,000. The Company did not make the required payment and did not issue the shares to the optionors as it contended that the optionors were in default of the option agreement. The Company counter claimed for specific performance under the option agreement and paid the $350,000 and issued the 1,400,000 shares into the Utah court.
The court ruled that tender to the court was not sufficient; therefore, the cash and shares were released to the optionors on July 10, 2012. The fair value of the 1,400,000 shares was $271,936. The Company deposited a bond in the amount of $350,000 with the Court as security for the preliminary injunction, which was disclosed on the balance sheet as an injunction bond. During the year ended February 28, 2014, the injunction bond was returned to the Company. On September 10, 2012, the court granted the motion for a preliminary injunction, which enjoined the optionors from terminating the Ringbolt option agreement based upon the grounds alleged by the optionors.
On October 30, 2012 the Company entered into an amended option agreement (the Amendment Agreement) to acquire 100% undivided legal and beneficial interest in and to the Ringbolt Property, free and clear of all encumbrances in exploration leases, according to the following terms:
1. |
The Company will pay to the optionors a total of $3,850,000 according to the following schedule: |
a) |
$150,000 upon execution of the Amendment Agreement (paid); |
b) |
$2,450,000 upon TSX-V approval (paid); and |
c) |
$1,250,000 on or before October 31, 2014. |
2. |
The Company will issue 750,000 common shares to the optionors upon TSX-V approval (issued with a fair value of $168,291). |
3. |
Upon written notice from the TSX-V that the Amendment Agreement has been approved, the parties shall simultaneously do the following: |
a) |
The optionors shall assign all of their right, title, and interest in and to the Ringbolt Property and will take all necessary action with the Arizona State Land Department to effect such assignment (completed); and |
b) |
The Company will place into escrow on behalf of the optionors the $2,450,000 cash payment and the 750,000 common shares (issued with a fair value of $168,291) of the Company. The cash payment and shares will be released to the optionors upon receipt of confirmation of the assignment of the Ringbolt Property to the Company (completed). |
4. |
There will be no royalty attached to the transferred permits. |
F-15
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 4 UNPROVEN MINERAL PROPERTIES (Contd)
Ringbolt Property, Arizona (Contd)
5. |
Should the Company sell or in any way transfer its interest in the Ringbolt Property, the optionors will receive a bonus payment in accordance with the following schedule: |
a) |
If the Company receives less than $30 million for the transaction, then no bonus payment shall be payable; |
b) |
If the Company receives greater than $30 million but less than $40 million the optionors would receive 20% of the gross consideration in excess of $30 million; |
c) |
If the Company receives greater than $40 million but less than $50 million the optionors would receive $2,000,000 plus 10% of the gross consideration in excess of $40 million, to a maximum of $1,000,000; or |
d) |
If the Company receives greater than $50 million the optionors would receive $3,000,000 plus 20% of the gross consideration received in excess of $50 million. |
Based upon the foregoing, the parties have agreed to a mutual release and settlement of any claims and causes of action between the parties as of the date of the Amended Agreement.
On December 8, 2012, the Company entered into a second amendment to the option agreement to acquire 100% of the Ringbolt Property. The amendment stipulates that in the event that the cash payment of $2,450,000 following TSX-V approval of the Amendment Agreement is delayed, the parties agree to extend the payment deadline for a period of 30 days from the date of final approval from the TSX-V with the payment of $100,000 to one of the optionors with this extension payment to be deducted from the $2,450,000 payment due following TSX-V approval. A payment of $100,000 was made to the optionor on December 20, 2012 and the balance of $2,350,000 on 28 February 2013.
Cooperative Agreement and Joint Exploration Agreement (JEA) with the Hopi Tribe
Effective November 1, 2012, the Company and The Hopi Tribe, a federally recognized Indian Tribe, entered into a Joint Exploration Agreement (the JEA) pursuant to which the parties agree to explore the Hopi land sections (the Hopi Property) which are checker-boarded with the Companys southern landholdings in accordance with an exploration program.
The Company will be responsible for all costs, charges and expenses incurred in connection with the exploration program.
Joint Exploration Agreement HNZ Potash, LLC (HNZ)
On July 27, 2012 the Company entered into a Joint Exploration Agreement in which the Company assigned 50% of their interest in twenty-one permitted parcels within the Holbrook Basin Project (from Holbrook Basin Property and Twin Buttes Ranch above) to HNZ. In return, HNZ reimbursed the Company for 50% of mineral exploration costs previously incurred on the permits, ($112,668 received during the year ended February 28, 2013), and the Company will be liable for 50% of the future costs relating to the permits.
F-16
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 4 UNPROVEN MINERAL PROPERTIES (Contd)
Fitzgerald Ranch, Arizona
On May 7, 2012, as amended, the Company entered into an agreement to acquire the Fitzgerald Ranch for $17,000,000 as follows:
a) |
A down payment of $500,000 (paid) ($25,000 was expensed in the year ended February 29,2012, and the remainder is included in long-term deposits); |
b) |
A payment of $500,000 (paid) upon execution of an amendment to the agreement in November 2012 (included in long-term deposits); |
c) |
A payment of $500,000 to be paid on the earlier of either October 31, 2013, or within 30 days of closing the Companys next financing; |
d) |
A payment of $500,000 to be paid on or before December 31, 2013; |
e) |
A payment of $1,000,000 to be paid on or before December 31, 2014; and |
f) |
The balance of $14,000,000 to be paid on the closing of the sale which is on or before June 30, 2015. |
The Company has not made the required $500,000 payments that were due on October 31, 2013 and December 31, 2013; therefore, the agreement is in default and $975,000 capitalized to long-term deposits has been written-off as at the year ended February 28, 2014. The Company is currently in negotiations to amend the agreement.
NOTE 5 CONVERTIBLE PROMISORY NOTES PAYABLE
Tranche I
On February 19, 2013, the Company issued $5,305,540 of convertible debentures which mature on February 19, 2014 (the Maturity Date) and bear interest at 15% per annum which shall accrue and be payable on the earlier of the Maturity Date, or the date the entire principal amount of the convertible debentures is converted (the Tranche I Debentures). The principal amount of the Tranche I Debentures is convertible into shares of common stock of the Company at the option of the holder, in whole or in part, at a price of US$0.38 per share until the Maturity Date. The Tranches I Debentures are secured by a first ranking floating charge security on all of the Companys assets.
In addition, 2.5 common share purchase warrants were issued for each US$1.00 of principal amount of the Tranche I Debentures, entitling the holder to acquire one share of common stock of the Company for each warrant at an exercise price of US$0.38 per share for a period of one year from the date of issuance. 13,263,850 warrants were issued. The Company determined the fair value of the warrants to be $2,049,578 using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model with the following assumptions: Expected dividend yield 0; Expected stock price volatility 76%; Risk-free interest rate 1.07%; Expected life 1 year.
The proceeds were allocated to the Tranche I Debentures and the warrants based on their relative fair values and accordingly, $3,827,098 was allocated to the debentures and $1,478,442 was allocated to the warrants and recorded as a reduction in the liability and an increase in additional paid-in capital.
In accordance with ASC 470-20 Debt with Conversion and Other Options, the Company recognized the value of the embedded beneficial conversion feature of $2,316,159. This value was recorded as a reduction of the liability and an increase in additional paid-in capital.
In connection with the issuance of the Tranche I Debentures, the Company paid $73,958 in finders fees and issued 101,882 finders warrants. Each finders warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share for US$0.19 per share for one year from the date of issuance. The fair value of the finders warrant portion calculated using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model was $5,770, recorded as a debenture issuance cost. The Company also incurred legal and filing fee costs of $51,528, of which $37,380 was recorded as deferred debt issuance costs and $93,876 was charged to additional paid-in capital.
F-17
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 5 CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES (Contd)
Tranche II
On March 14, 2013, the Company issued $285,000 of convertible debentures which mature on March 14, 2014 (the Maturity Date), and bear interest at 15% per annum which shall accrue and be payable on the earlier of the Maturity Date, or the date the entire principal amount of each debenture is converted. The principal amount of the debentures is convertible into shares of common stock of the Company at the option of the holder, in whole or in part, at a price of US$0.38 per share until the Maturity Date. The debentures are secured by a first ranking floating charge security on all of the Companys assets.
In addition, 2.5 common share purchase warrants were issued for each US$1.00 of principal amount of the debentures, entitling the holder to acquire one share of common stock of the Company for each warrant at an exercise price of US$0.38 per share for a period of one year from the date of issuance. 712,500 warrants were issued. The Company determined the fair value of the warrants to be $130,826 using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model with the following assumptions: Expected dividend yield 0; Expected stock price volatility 75%; Risk-free interest rate 0.97%; Expected life 1 year.
The proceeds were allocated to the debentures and the warrants based on their relative fair values and accordingly, $195,334 was allocated to the debentures and $89,666 was allocated to the warrants and recorded as a reduction in the liability and an increase in additional paid-in capital.
In accordance with ASC 470-20 Debt with Conversion and Other Options, the Company recognized the value of the embedded beneficial conversion feature of $164,666. This value was recorded as a reduction of the liability and an increase in additional paid-in capital.
In connection with this private placement of debentures, the Company also incurred filing fee costs of $1,425, of which $353 was recorded as deferred debt issuance costs and $1,272 was charged to additional paid-in capital.
Tranche III
On April 4, 2013, the Company issued $200,000 of convertible debentures which will mature on April 4, 2014 (the Maturity Date) and bear interest at 15% per annum which shall accrue and be payable on the earlier of the Maturity Date, or the date the entire principal amount of each debenture is converted. The principal amount of the debentures is convertible into shares of common stock of the Company at the option of the holder, in whole or in part, at a price of US$0.38 per share until the Maturity Date. The Debentures are secured by a first ranking floating charge security on all of the Companys assets.
In addition, 2.5 common share purchase warrants were issued for each US$1.00 of principal amount of the debentures, entitling the holder to acquire one share of common stock of the Company for each warrant at an exercise price of US$0.38 per share for a period of one year from the date of issuance. 500,000 warrants were issued. The Company determined the fair value of the warrants to be $62,896 using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model with the following assumptions: Expected dividend yield 0; Expected stock price volatility 75%; Risk-free interest rate 0.97%; Expected life 1 year.
The proceeds were allocated to the debentures and the warrants based on their relative fair values and accordingly, $152,151 was allocated to the debentures and $47,849 was allocated to the warrants and recorded as a reduction in the liability and an increase in additional paid-in capital.
The Company recognized the value of the embedded beneficial conversion feature of $58,375. This value was recorded as a reduction of the liability and an increase in additional paid-in capital.
In connection with this issuance of debentures, the Company also incurred filing fee costs of $1,070, of which $502 was recorded as deferred debt issuance costs and $568 was charged to additional paid-in capital.
F-18
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 5 CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES (Contd)
Amendment to Convertible Debentures
On February 6, 2014, the Company entered into agreements with all the debenture holders to modify the terms of the convertible debentures as follows (the Amended Debentures):
|
The maturity date is extended to August 19, 2016; |
|
All interest due on the original maturity date is added to the principal of the convertible debentures; |
|
The debt is now convertible to into common shares of the Company at $0.12 per share; and |
|
The warrants will have a term of 42 months from the date of issuance and are exercisable to purchase one common share of the Company at $0.12 per share. |
All the amendments will come into effect on the original maturity dates.
On February 19, 2014, the amendments came into effect for the Tranche 1 Debentures. As a result, the principal of the Tranche 1 Debentures increased to $6,095,894.
The Company determined the incremental fair value of the warrants issued with the Tranche 1 Debentures due to the modifications to be $866,295 using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model with the following assumptions: Expected dividend yield 0; Expected stock price volatility 93%; Risk-free interest rate 1.16%; Expected life 2.5 years.
The proceeds were allocated to the Debenture and the warrants based on their relative fair values and accordingly, $5,258,905 was allocated to the Debenture and $836,989 was allocated to the warrants and recorded as a reduction in the liability and an increase in additional paid-in capital.
In accordance with ASC 470-20 Debt with Conversion and Other Options, the Company recognized the value of the embedded beneficial conversion feature of $260,317. This value was recorded as a reduction of the liability and an increase in additional paid-in capital.
In connection with this private placement of debentures, the Company paid $4,379 issuance costs, of which $3,591 was recorded as deferred debt issuance costs and $788 was charged to additional paid-in capital.
February 28, | February 28, | |||||
Convertible Debenture Tranche I to III | 2014 | 2013 | ||||
Opening balance | $ | 1,624,128 | $ | - | ||
Subscriptions received | 485,000 | 5,305,540 | ||||
Subscriptions allocated to detachable share purchase warrants | (974,504 | ) | (1,478,442 | ) | ||
Intrinsic beneficial conversion feature | (483,358 | ) | (2,316,159 | ) | ||
Exercised Transfer to Share Capital | (5,000 | ) | - | |||
Accretion | 4,049,613 | 93,566 | ||||
Interest | 858,243 | 19,623 | ||||
Closing balance | $ | 5,554,122 | $ | 1,624,128 |
The difference between the amount recorded to the convertible debentures on initial recognition and the value at Maturity will be accreted using the effective interest rate method. During the year ended February 28, 2014, $4,049,613 (2013 - $93,566) was expensed as a non-cash interest charge.
Subscriptions Received
During the year ended February 28, 2014 the Company received subscriptions of $95,000 (2013 - $350,000) towards convertible debenture offerings.
NOTE 6 LOANS
Loans comprise certain advances from third parties and related parties (Note 7). As at February 28, 2014, the loans have no fixed repayment terms, are unsecured and do not bear interest.
F-19
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 7 RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Related party balances
The following amounts due to related parties are included in trade payables and accrued liabilities:
February 28, | February 28, | |||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||
Directors, officers and companies controlled by directors and officers of the Company | $ | 434,838 | $ | 173,025 |
The following amounts due to related parties are included in loans:
February 28, | February 28, | ||||||||
Note | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||
Director | 6 | $ | 200,000 | $ | - | ||||
Companies controlled by directors and officers of the Company | 6 | 46,264 | - | ||||||
$ | 246,264 | $ | - |
Related party transactions
The following amounts due from related parties are included in amounts receivable:
February 28, | February 28, | |||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||
Companies controlled by directors of the Company | $ | - | $ | 10,890 |
The advance have no repayment date, is unsecured and do not bear any interest.
The Company incurred the following transactions with directors, officers and companies that are controlled by directors and officers of the Company.
Year ended | ||||||
February 28, | February 28, | |||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||
Administration | $ | 54,266 | $ | 18,460 | ||
Consulting fees | 441,024 | 564,066 | ||||
Management fees | 736,995 | 667,964 | ||||
Mineral exploration costs | 791,034 | 433,591 | ||||
$ | 2,023,319 | $ | 1,684,081 |
F-20
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 8 COMMON STOCK
Share Issuances:
During the year ended February 28, 2014, the Company issued the following shares:
(a) |
On February 24, 2014 the Company issued 13,841,463 common shares of the company at a deemed price of CDN$0.11 to settle indebtedness with creditors in the aggregate amount of $1,367,499 (CDN$1,522,561). Share issue costs of $9,916 were incurred. |
(b) |
On July 2, 2013 13,158 shares were issued pursuant to $5,000 Convertible Debentures being converted to shares. |
(c) |
On March 18, 2013 20,833 warrants were exercised at CDN$0.40 per share for proceeds of US$8,157. |
During the year ended February 28, 2013, the Company issued the following shares:
(a) |
During the year ended February 28, 2013, 4,804,351 warrants were exercised at CDN$0.10 per share for proceeds of $962,613. |
(b) |
The Company issued 1,200,000 shares pursuant to mineral property option agreements at fair values ranging from CDN$0.38 to CDN$0.46 per share for a total fair value of $485,822. (Note 4). |
(c) |
On February 19, 2013 the Company issued 112,500 units through a non-brokered private placement at a price of CDN$0.36 per unit for total proceeds of $402,632. Each unit consists of one common share and one-half of one common share purchase warrant with one share purchase warrant exercisable at a price of CDN$0.50 per share for five years. $216,796 of the proceeds were allocated to the warrants and recorded as a derivative liability which was determined using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model with the following assumptions: Expected dividend yield 0; Expected stock price volatility 147%; Risk-free interest rate 1.42%; Expected life 5 years. Share issuance costs of $13,188 were incurred in connection with this transaction, being $11,598 cash and 4,764 warrants with the same terms as the unit warrants which were valued at $1,590. |
Stock options
Prior to September 12, 2013, the Company had an incentive stock option plan, which provided that the Board of Directors of the Company may from time to time, in its discretion, and in accordance with the TSX-V requirements, grant to directors, officers, employees and technical consultants to the Company, non-transferable stock options to purchase common shares, provided that the number of common shares reserved for issuance will not exceed 10% of the Companys issued and outstanding common shares. Such options are exercisable for a period of up to 10 years from the date of grant. In connection with the foregoing, the number of common shares reserved for issuance to any one optionee does not exceed five percent (5%) of the issued and outstanding common shares and the number of common shares reserved for issuance to all technical consultants does not exceed two percent (2%) of the issued and outstanding common shares. Options may be exercised no later than 90 days following cessation of the optionees position with the Company or 30 days following cessation of an optionee conducting investor relations activities position.
F-21
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 8 COMMON STOCK (Contd)
Stock options (Contd):
The changes in options during the years ended February 28, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
Year ended | Year ended | |||||||||||
February 28, 2014 | February 28, 2013 | |||||||||||
Weighted | ||||||||||||
Weighted | ||||||||||||
average | average | |||||||||||
exercise | exercise | |||||||||||
Number of | price | Number of | price | |||||||||
options | (CDN$) | options | (CDN$) | |||||||||
Options outstanding, beginning of year | 9,139,946 | $ | 0.62 | 8,405,946 | $ | 0.64 | ||||||
Options granted | 1,265,000 | 0.36 | 734,000 | 0.42 | ||||||||
Options cancelled | (1,238,134 | ) | 0.58 | - | - | |||||||
Options outstanding, end of year | 9,166,812 | $ | 0.50 | 9,139,946 | $ | 0.62 | ||||||
Options exercisable, end of year | 9,166,812 | $ | 0.50 | 9,139,946 | $ | 0.62 |
At February 28, 2014 the following stock options were outstanding:
Number of | Exercise price | |
Options | CDN$ | Expiry date |
72,812 | 0.20 | November 16, 2015 |
725,000 | 0.64 | January 10, 2016 |
2,513,500 | 0.40 | February 11, 2016 |
460,750 | 0.40 | March 03, 2016 |
750,500 | 1.18 | June 21, 2016 |
745,250 | 0.84 | September 12, 2016 |
1,900,000 | 0.76 | January 20, 2017 |
234,000 | 0.42 | February 19, 2018 |
500,000 | 0.1 | February 19, 2018 |
1,265,000 | 0.36 | July 02, 2018 |
9,166,812 |
The weighted average remaining contractual life of the outstanding stock options is 2.71 years.
Stock Option Re-pricing
On January 14, 2014, the Company re-priced the exercise price of 500,000 incentive stock options from $0.42 to $0.10 per share. The following assumptions were used for the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model valuation of these stock options granted: Expected dividend yield 0%; Expected stock price volatility 121%; Risk-free interest rate 1.52%; Expected life of options 4.1 years. The incremental fair value was determined to be $9,766 and was charged to stock based compensation expense and recorded in the additional paid-in capital in fiscal 2014.
F-22
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 8 COMMON STOCK (Contd)
Stock options (Contd)
On July 3, 2013, the Company granted 1,265,000 incentive stock options to directors, officers and consultants at a price of CDN$0.36 for a 5 year term. The following assumptions were used in the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model valuation of these stock options granted: Expected dividend yield 0%; Expected stock price volatility 148%; Risk-free interest rate 1.54%; Expected life of options 5 years. The fair value was determined to be $368,905 which was charged to stock based compensation expense and recorded in the additional paid-in capital during fiscal 2014.
2013 Stock Option Grants
On February 20, 2013, the Company granted 734,000 incentive stock options to consultants at a price of CDN$0.42 for a 5 year term. The following assumptions were used in the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model valuation of these stock options granted: Expected dividend yield 0%; Expected stock price volatility 147%; Risk-free interest rate 1.42%; Expected life of options 5 years. The fair value was determined to be $289,258 which was charged to stock based compensation expense and recorded in the additional paid-in capital during fiscal 2013.
Share purchase warrants
The following table summarizes the continuity of the Companys share purchase warrants:
Number of warrants | |||
Balance, February 29, 2012 | 25,400,167 | ||
Issued with private placements | 13,875,804 | ||
Exercised | (4,801,351 | ) | |
Expired | (10,182,214 | ) | |
Balance, February 28, 2013 | 24,292,406 | ||
Issued with debentures | 1,212,500 | ||
Exercised | (20,833 | ) | |
Expired | (10,446,710 | ) | |
Balance, February 28, 2014 | 15,037,363 |
At February 28, 2013 the following share purchase warrants were outstanding:
Number of | Exercise price | Expiry date | ||
Warrants | CDN$ | USD$ | ||
561,013 | 0.50 | February 19, 2018 | ||
13,263,850 | 0.12 | August 19, 2016 | ||
712,500 | 0.38 | March 14, 2014 | ||
500,000 | 0.38 | April 04, 2014 | ||
15,037,363 |
F-23
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 9 INCOME TAXES
A reconciliation of the expected income tax recovery to the actual income tax recovery is as follows:
Year ended | Year ended | |||||
February 28, 2014 | February 28, 2013 | |||||
Net loss | $ | (8,943,242 | ) | $ | (9,474,700 | ) |
Statutory tax rate | 25.00% | 25.00% | ||||
Expected income tax recovery at the statutory tax rate | (2,235,811 | ) | (2,368,675 | ) | ||
Non-deductible items and other | 358,170 | (792,407 | ) | |||
Change in valuation allowance | 1,877,641 | 3,161,082 | ||||
Income tax recovery | $ | - | $ | - |
Temporary differences that give rise to the following deferred income tax assets are:
February 28, | February 28, | |||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||
Non-capital loss carry-forwards | $ | 4,072,699 | $ | 2,147,215 | ||
Mineral properties | 5,154,965 | 5,186,354 | ||||
Share issuance costs | 30,075 | 43,554 | ||||
Equipment | 39,104 | 42,082 | ||||
9,296,843 | 7,419,204 | |||||
Valuation allowance | (9,296,843 | ) | (7,419,204 | ) | ||
$ | - | $ | - |
The tax pools relating to these deductible temporary differences expire as follows:
Canadian | ||||||||||||
non-capital | ||||||||||||
losses | Resource pools | Equipment | Share issue costs | |||||||||
2015 | $ | 408 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | ||||
2026 | 59,367 | - | - | - | ||||||||
2027 | 50,889 | - | - | - | ||||||||
2028 | 294,887 | - | - | - | ||||||||
2029 | 379,166 | - | - | - | ||||||||
2030 | 355,833 | - | - | - | ||||||||
2031 | 638,451 | - | - | - | ||||||||
2032 | 2,457,052 | - | - | - | ||||||||
2033 | 3,745,770 | - | - | - | ||||||||
2034 | 8,308,974 | - | - | - | ||||||||
No expiry | - | 22,219,860 | 157,078 | 120,301 | ||||||||
$ | 16,290,797 | $ | 22,219,860 | $ | 157,078 | $ | 120,301 |
F-24
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 10 DERIVATIVE LIABILITY
February 28, | February 28, | |||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||
Balance, beginning | $ | 1,619,786 | $ | 6,374,170 | ||
Fair value of warrants issued | - | 216,796 | ||||
Fair value of warrants exercised | (2,813 | ) | (751,691 | ) | ||
Fair value change of warrants | (1,574,966 | ) | (4,219,489 | ) | ||
Balance, ending | $ | 42,007 | $ | 1,619,786 |
The derivative liability consists of the fair value of share purchase warrants that were issued in unit private placements that have an exercise price in a currency (Canadian dollars) other than the functional currency of the Company. The derivative liability is a non-cash liability and the Company is not required to expend any cash to settle this liability.
Details of these warrants and their fair values are as follows:
February 28, 2014 | February 28, 2013 | ||||||||||||||
Exercise | |||||||||||||||
Price | Number | Number | |||||||||||||
($CDN) | Outstanding | Fair Value | Outstanding | Fair Value | |||||||||||
January 11, 2012 | $ | 0.40 | - | $ | - | 10,416,602 | $ | 1,406,500 | |||||||
February 19, 2013 | $ | 0.50 | 556,250 | 42,007 | 556,250 | 213,286 | |||||||||
556,250 | $ | 42,007 | 10,972,852 | $ | 1,619,786 |
The fair value of the share purchase warrants were calculated using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model using the following assumptions: Expected dividend yield 0 (2013:0%); Expected stock price volatility 119% (2013:76%-147%) Risk-free interest rate 1.52% (2013:1.06% -1.42%); Expected life of share purchase warrants 3.97 years (2013:0.87 -4.97 years).
NOTE 11 NON CASH TRANSACTIONS
The Company incurred the following non-cash transactions that are not reflected in the statements of cash flows:
Year ended | ||||||
February 28, | February 28, | |||||
20143 | 2013 | |||||
Fair value of shares issued on acquisition of unproven mineral properties | $ | - | $ | 485,822 | ||
Fair value of shares issued for debt | 1,367,499 | - | ||||
Shares issued for convertible debentures exercised | 5,000 | - | ||||
$ | 1,375,312 | $ | 485,822 |
NOTE 12 SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
(a) |
Effective March 13, 2014 the Company consolidated its share capital on a 2 for 1 one basis. Accordingly, all share and per share information in these financial statements have been retroactively restated to reflect the consolidation. |
F-25
Passport Potash Inc. |
(An Exploration Stage Company) |
Notes to the consolidated financial statements |
(Expressed in United States dollars) |
For the years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013 |
NOTE 12 SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (contd)
(b) |
The Company is in the process of raising up to US$5,500,000 in a private placement, by issuing 9.5%, 30 month convertible debentures convertible into shares at $0.12 per share with warrants attached to purchase up to 40,000,000 common shares at a price of US$0.12 for a 42 month period. As at the date of the approval of these financial statements, $95,000 has been received. |
(c) |
On March 14, 2014 the Company amended outstanding convertible debentures dated March 14, 2013 to include an aggregate of $327,750 of interest owing as principal to such convertible debentures, with the same terms as the Amended Debentures (Note 5). |
(d) |
On April 4, 2014 the Company amended outstanding convertible debentures dated April 4, 2013 to include an aggregate of $230,000 of interest owing as principal to such convertible debentures, with the same terms as the Amended Debentures (Note 5). |
(e) |
On May 29, 2014 the Company completed a non-brokered private placement by issuing a convertible debenture to one entity in the amount of US$500,000 having an interest rate of 9.5% per annum payable annually as to 50% in cash and 50% in shares of the Companys common stock and having a maturity date of May 29, 2018. The convertible debenture is convertible into either: (a) units at a conversion price of US$0.12 per unit, with each unit being comprised of one common share and one share purchase warrant, with each warrant exercisable into one common share at a price of US$0.12 per share until May 29, 2018; or (b) into 10% of the shares the Company holds in PPI East Block Holding Corp., or pro rata portion thereof for any partial conversion. |
(f) |
Subsequent to February 28, 2014, 3,839,562 post-consolidation shares were issued pursuant to the conversion of $460,747.70 of principal of convertible debentures at $0.12 per share. |
F-26
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining a system of disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that is designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time specified in the Commissions rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the issuers management, including its principal executive officer or officers and principal financial officer or officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
As required by Rule 13a-15 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as of the end of the period covered by this report, we have carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our companys disclosure controls and procedures. Under the direction of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we evaluated our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting and concluded that (i) there continue to be material weaknesses in the Companys internal controls over financial reporting, that the weaknesses constitute a deficiency and that this deficiency could result in misstatements of the foregoing accounts and disclosures that could result in a material misstatement to the financial statements for the period covered by this report that would not be detected, and (ii) accordingly, our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of February 28, 2014.
Managements Annual Report On Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:
(i) |
pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company; | |
(ii) |
provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and | |
(iii) |
provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the assets of the Company that could have a material effect on the financial statements. |
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluations of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Accordingly, even an effective system of internal control over financial reporting will provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation.
61
As of February 28, 2014 management, with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting established in Internal ControlIntegrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) and SEC guidance on conducting such assessments. Based on that evaluation, our management concluded that, during the period covered by this report, such internal controls and procedures were not effective to detect the inappropriate application of US GAAP rules as more fully described below. This was due to deficiencies that existed in the design or operation of our internal controls over financial reporting that adversely affected our internal controls and that may be considered to be material weaknesses.
The matters involving internal controls and procedures that our management considered to be material weaknesses under the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board were: (1) lack of a functioning audit committee due to a lack of a majority of independent members and a lack of a majority of outside directors on our Board of Directors, resulting in ineffective oversight in the establishment and monitoring of required internal controls and procedures; (2) inadequate segregation of duties consistent with control objectives; and (3) ineffective controls over period end financial disclosure and reporting processes. The aforementioned material weaknesses were identified by our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer in connection with the review of our financial statements as of February 28, 2014.
Management believes that the material weaknesses set forth in items (2) and (3) above did not have an effect on our financial results. However, management believes that the lack of a functioning audit committee due to a lack of a majority of independent members and a lack of majority outside directors on our Board of Directors results in ineffective oversight in the establishment and monitoring of required internal controls and procedures, which could result in a material misstatement in our financial statements in future periods.
This Annual Report does not include an attestation report of our registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Managements report was not subject to attestation by our registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission that permit the company to provide only managements report.
Changes in Internal Controls
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during our fourth fiscal quarter of our fiscal year ended February 28, 2014 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
On May 8, 2014, we issued 182,083 shares to one individual pursuant to the conversion of $21,850 of principal of a convertible debenture issued to such individual on February 19, 2013 at a conversion price of $0.12 per share. We relied on the exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Section 3(a)(9) thereof, with respect to the issuance of the shares pursuant to the conversion of principal of the such convertible debenture.
On April 28, 2014, we issued 1,000 shares to one individual pursuant to the conversion on April 23, 2014 of $41,400 of principal of a convertible debenture issued to such individual on February 19, 2013 at a conversion price of $0.12 per share as there was a shortfall on the issuance on April 23, 2014 of 1,000 shares due to a clerical error. We relied on the exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Section 3(a)(9) thereof, with respect to the issuance of the shares pursuant to the conversion of principal of the such convertible debenture.
On April 23, 2014, we issued 344,000 shares to one individual pursuant to the conversion of $41,400 of principal of a convertible debenture issued to such individual on February 19, 2013 at a conversion price of $0.12 per share. We relied on the exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Section 3(a)(9) thereof, with respect to the issuance of the shares pursuant to the conversion of principal of the such convertible debenture.
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On April 16, 2014, we issued 191,647 common shares to one individual pursuant to the conversion of $22,997.70 of principal of a convertible debenture issued to such individual on February 19, 2013 at a conversion price of $0.12 per share. We relied on the exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Section 3(a)(9) thereof, with respect to the issuance of the shares pursuant to the conversion of principal of the such convertible debenture.
On March 28, 2014 we issued 500,000 common shares to one entity pursuant to the conversion of $60,000 of principal of a convertible debenture issued to such entity on February 19, 2013 at a conversion price of $0.12 per share. We relied on the exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Section 3(a)(9) thereof, with respect to the issuance of the shares pursuant to the conversion of principal of the such convertible debenture.
On March 21, 2014, we issued 2,204,166 common shares to one entity pursuant to the conversion of $264,500 of principal of a convertible debenture issued to such entity on February 19, 2013 at a conversion price of $0.12 per share. We relied on the exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Section 3(a)(9) thereof, with respect to the issuance of the shares pursuant to the conversion of principal of the such convertible debenture.
On March 19, 2014, we issued 416,666 common shares to one entity pursuant to the conversion of $50,000 of principal of a convertible debenture issued to such entity on February 19, 2013 at a conversion price of $0.12 per share. We relied on the exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Section 3(a)(9) thereof, with respect to the issuance of the shares pursuant to the conversion of principal of the such convertible debenture.
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
All of our directors hold office until the next annual general meeting of the shareholders unless his office is earlier vacated in accordance with out Articles or he becomes disqualified to act as a director. Our officers are appointed by our board of directors and hold office until their earlier death, retirement, resignation or removal.
Our executive officers and directors and their respective ages as of the date of this Registration Statement are as follows:
Name | Age | Position Held |
Joshua Bleak | 33 | President, Chief Executive Officer and Director |
Bill Allred | 77 | Chief Financial Officer |
Ali Rahimtula | 67 | Director |
Michael X. Schlumpberger | 50 | Chief Operating Officer |
David J. Salisbury | 61 | Chairman of the Board and Director |
John Eckersley | 54 | Executive Vice President and Director |
Frank Högel | 41 | Vice Chairman and a Director |
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The following is a brief account of the education and business experience of each director, executive officer and key employee during at least the past five years, indicating each persons principal occupation during the period, and the name and principal business of the organization by which he or she was employed, and including other directorships held in reporting companies.
Joshua Bleak. Mr. Bleak has been our President, Chief Executive Officer since January 11, 2011 and a director of our Company since April 12, 2010. Mr. Bleak is experienced in the mining and exploration industry as well as being fourth generation in a family with a rich mining and exploration background. From December 24, 2009 to current, Mr. Bleak serves as President, CEO, Treasurer and a director of Continental Resources Group, Inc. (OTCBB: CRGC) which is involved in exploring and developing uranium prospects. Since January 26, 2012, Mr. Bleak has served as a director of American Strategic Minerals Corporation (OTCBB: ASMC) which is engaged in the acquisition and exploration of properties that may contain uranium mineralization. Since October 2008, Mr. Bleak has served as the President and a director of North American Environmental Corp., a consulting company specializing in mining project management, permitting, lobbying and land tenure. From February 2007 to September 2008, he served as Manager of NPX Metals, Inc., an exploration and mining company. Since January 2005 he has served as Secretary and a director of Pinal Realty Investments Inc., a real estate development company. Mr. Bleaks qualification to serve on our Board of Directors is based on his experience in the mining industry in general.
Bill Allred. Mr. Allred has been our Chief Financial Officer since March 1, 2014. Mr. Allred has worked as a certified public account with his own private accounting practice, Billie J. Allred, CPA, from 1979 to the present. Mr. Allred has served as the Deputy Auditor general for the State of Arizona from 1976 to 1979 and was an audit manager in the Los Angeles and Phoenix offices of Ernst & Young from 1958 to 1968. Mr. Allred received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from Brigham Young University in 1958 and his A.A. Degree in Business from Eastern Arizona College in 1956. Based on the foregoing. Mr. Allred was a director of American Energy Fields, Inc. from October 2010, which merged with and into Continental Resources Group, Inc. where Mr. Allred continued as a director of Continental Resources Group, Inc. until its dissolution on February 27, 2013.
Ali Rahimtula. Mr. Rahimtula has served as a director of our Company since October 28, 2011. Since 1979, Mr. Rahimtula has served as the President and founder of Transnational Enterprises LTD., d/b/a Transfert America. Transnational Enterprises LTD. is a member of the Rahimtula Group. The Rahimtula Group was a pioneer of the fertilizer business in India, and has been a domestic industry leader since the 1960s. They are a global company, recognized for their extensive business networks to supply international fertilizer manufacturers for their critical raw materials such as sulphur, rock phosphate, ammonia, phosphoric acid and potash. The Rahimtula group has operated in the traditional markets of India and Pakistan but has also expanded its area of operations into other countries such as Brazil, Vietnam, China, Thailand, Philippines, and South Africa. They are also experienced in executing joint-venture fertilizer production and marketing contracts in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa as well as in Europe and the CIS. Mr. Rahimtulas qualifications to serve on our Board of Directors is based on his experience and expertise in the fertilizer industry. He has and can contribute by securing large customers of international repute for the Company as joint venture partners who can buy potash on long term off take agreements. Also, Mr. Rahimtula brings to the Company his experience in logistics, such as port infrastructure developments and organizing export shipping in containers and bulk vessel chartering.
Michael X. Schlumpberger, Mr. Schlumpberger has served as the Chief Operating Officer of our Company since June 3, 2013. Mr. Michael Schlumpberger is a mining engineer with 27 years of experience in the mining industry, with over 21 years with The Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan Inc. ("PotashCorp"). From January 2011 to June 2013, Mr. Schlumpberger was the Operations Manager for PotashCorp (TSX and NYSE: POT) where he lead a team responsible for the production of ammonia and all downstream products, which included not only manufacturing, but also packaging and loading (rail and truck) as well as safety and environmental compliance. From 2005 to 2008, Mr. Schlumpberger was the Mine General Superintendent of PotashCorp where he was responsible for all aspects of the underground mining and hoisting for +8 million tonne per year potash mine and oversaw an expansion and upgrade to increase production by approximately 50%, including hoisting, while in normal production. As the Mine General Superintendent, he was also accountable for productivity, process and reliability improvements, budgeting, capital replacement program, environmental compliance and safety. Mr. Schlumpberger received his Bachelors of Science (Mining Engineering) in December of 1985 from the University of Missouri - Rolla (Missouri School of Mines), and received a Masters of Business Administration from East Carolina University. Mr. Schlumpberger is a professional engineer and a founding registered member of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration.
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David J. Salisbury. Mr. Salisbury has served as our Chairman of the board and a director of our Company since January 16, 2012. Mr. Salisbury has had an extensive career in the mining industry, spanning four decades, including seventeen years with Rio Tinto PLC. During his career he has had experience in almost all phases of mine development and operation, including: operating and capital budget development, operating cost control, product quality, profit/loss analysis, engineering, safety, field operations and maintenance, strategic planning, environmental compliance, market development, merger and acquisition analysis, employee relations, community relations, public relations and government relations at both the state and federal levels.
Mr. Salisbury was President and CEO of Resolution Copper Mining (Resolution Copper) (Resolution Copper Mining is a joint venture between Rio Tinto and BHP and is not publicly traded), from 2008 to his retirement on January 31, 2011. At Resolution Copper he was responsible for the development of a deep underground copper mine in Superior, Arizona. One of his primary responsibilities was a legislative land exchange involving 3,025 acres of federal land in exchange for 5,500 acres of ecologically important private land. His role at Resolution Copper required significant interaction and engagement with members of the U.S. Congress, federal agencies, the Governor of the State of Arizona and State legislators. He was also responsible for leading the activities of integrating all engineering studies and design with environmental permitting, progressive development of the future operations culture and working environment, health and safety, project budget controls and community relations.
From 2006 through 2008, Mr. Salisbury was President and CEO of Kennecott Minerals Company (Kennecott Minerals is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rio Tinto and is not publicly traded), where he was responsible for the comprehensive management of underground operations in Juneau, Alaska; open cut/heap leach gold in Nevada; and the development and construction of an underground nickel operation in Michigan.
Mr. Salisbury was a leader for the Rio Tinto global improvement program, Improving Performance Together, from 2004 through 2006. He led one of four major streams of work aimed at bringing about radical change in the way Rio Tinto conducts business. This responsibility covered the engineering and operation of processing operations at all Rio Tinto operations and involved leading a team of eight general managers and managers in diagnosing current state, formulating solutions, implementing pilot trials and ultimately rolling out change across the global group.
Mr. Salisbury was Managing Director and CEO of Rössing Uranium Ltd. (Rossing Uranium is majority owned by Rio Tinto and is not publicly traded) from 2001 through 2004. The Rössing mine employed 1,200 people and produces U3O8 for the global nuclear fuel industry, representing 8% of the global primary supply. During his tenure the mine achieved its historical best safety performance while increasing production and decreasing staff by 33%.
While with Rio Tinto, Mr. Salisbury also held Senior Executive positions with Kennecott Ridgeway Mining Company and Kennecott Energy Company.
Prior to joining Rio Tinto Mr. Salisbury was the President of Cordero Mining Company/Sun Coal Company (1992 to 1993) and responsible for the operation of the Cordero Mine, the seventh largest coal mine in the United States. At Cordero he completed a major organizational restructuring to reduce cost and improve efficiency, dropping operating costs by 10%.
Mr. Salisbury served as President and COO of the Al Hamilton Operating Company/Bradford Coal Company (1990 to 1992) where he was responsible for the operation of 9 active mines in a 30 mile radius of Clearfield, PA. During his tenure he improved the financial performance of this operation and was able to bring it into profitability.
From 1989 to 1990, Mr. Salisbury served as President of The Coteau Properties Company/North American Coal Corporation where he was responsible for the construction, management and operation of a 12 million tons per year surface lignite mine near Beulah, North Dakota. The Coteau Properties Company/North American Coal Corporation had annual sales of $86 million US dollars to the only commercial coal gasification plant in the United States. Mr. Salisbury administered a 20 year contract with the sole coal customer, and negotiated a new contract extension adding a new coal field and additional production up to 16 million tons per year.
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Mr. Salisbury served in various management positions with The Coteau Properties Company/North American Coal Corporation from 1978 through 1989. He was the project manager responsible for the oversight of design, contract administration and construction management of the Freedom Mine, a greenfield mine facility valued at $186 million. The project was completed on time and under budget.
Mr. Salisburys qualification to serve on our Board of Directors is based on his extensive experience in the mining industry in general.
John Eckersley. Mr. Eckersley has served as our Vice President, Legal and Corporate Affairs since December 2010 and has served as a director of our Company since July 15, 2011. Mr. Eckersley has practiced law as a solo practitioner since 1999. His practice focuses on securities compliance, corporate governance and estate planning. Mr. Eckersley served as the Executive Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer of Digital Business Resource, Inc., a telecommunications company, from 1996 to 1999, where he was a founder, and was responsible for developing systems for office management, accounting, client services, vendor coordination and marketing. Mr. Eckersley served as the General Counsel of TIMI, a public finance advisory company, where he advised the company on corporate strategy and was responsible for the companys compliance filings. Mr. Eckersley has served as a director of Silver Horn Mining Ltd. (OTCBB: SILV) since July 21, 2011, which is involved in the acquisition and exploration of properties that may contain mineral resources, principally silver. Mr. Eckersley received his Bachelor of Science, cum laude, and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Utah. Mr. Eckersleys qualifications to serve on our Board of Directors is based on his corporate experience and knowledge of the resources industry.
Frank Högel. Mr. Högel has served as Executive Chairman and as a director of our Company since February 19, 2014. Mr. Högel currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of Peter Beck Performance Fonds and Peter Beck and Partner Asset Management Company Limited and has been in such positions since January 2002. In addition, from September 2007 to present, Mr. Högel has been a director of Concept Capital Management, an asset management company focused on evaluating Canadian resource companies for convertible debenture financings as well as structuring gold and silver loans. Mr. Högel has a Master of Business Administration (FH) degree from the University of Nürtingen, Germany, which he received in June 1999, with a focus on financial management, banking and international business & management. Mr. Högels qualifications to serve on our Board of Directors is based on his corporate experience, financial experience and knowledge of the resources industry.
Significant Employees
We have no significant employees and our officers and directors provide their services on a consulting basis.
Family Relationships
There are currently no family relationships between any of the members of our board of directors or our executive officers.
Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings
To the best of our knowledge and belief, none of our directors or executive officers has been involved in any of the following events during the past ten years that is material to an evaluation of the ability of such person to serve as an executive officer or director of our Company:
1. |
a petition under the Federal bankruptcy laws or any state insolvency law was filed by or against, or a receiver, fiscal agent or similar officer was appointed by a court for the business or property of such person, or any partnership in which he was a general partner at or within two years before the time of such filing, or any corporation or business association of which he was an executive officer at or within two years before the time of such filing; |
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2. |
such person was convicted in a criminal proceeding or is a named subject of a pending criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses); | ||
3. |
such person was the subject of any order, judgment, or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any court of competent jurisdiction, permanently or temporarily enjoining him from, or otherwise limiting, the following activities: | ||
(i) |
acting as a futures commission merchant, introducing broker, commodity trading advisor, commodity pool operator, floor broker, leverage transaction merchant, any other person regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, or an associated person of any of the foregoing, or as an investment adviser, underwriter, broker or dealer in securities, or as an affiliated person, director or employee of any investment company, bank, savings and loan association or insurance company, or engaging in or continuing any conduct or practice in connection with such activity; | ||
(ii) |
engaging in any type of business practice; or | ||
(iii) |
engaging in any activity in connection with the purchase or sale of any security or commodity or in connection with any violation of Federal or State securities laws or Federal commodities laws; |
4. |
such person was the subject of any order, judgment or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any Federal or State authority barring, suspending or otherwise limiting for more than 60 days the right of such person to engage in any activity described in paragraph 3(i) above, or to be associated with persons engaged in any such activity; | ||
5. |
such person was found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action or by the Commission to have violated any Federal or State securities law, and the judgment in such civil action or finding by the Commission has not been subsequently reversed, suspended, or vacated; | ||
6. |
such person was found by a court of competent jurisdiction in a civil action or by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to have violated any Federal commodities law, and the judgment in such civil action or finding by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission has not been subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated; | ||
7. |
such person was the subject of, or a party to, any Federal or State judicial or administrative order, judgment, decree, or finding, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, relating to an alleged violation of: | ||
(i) |
any Federal or State securities or commodities law or regulation; | ||
(ii) |
any law or regulation respecting financial institutions or insurance companies including, but not limited to, a temporary or permanent injunction, order of disgorgement or restitution, civil money penalty or temporary or permanent cease-and-desist order, or removal or prohibition order; or | ||
(iii) |
any law or regulation prohibiting mail or wire fraud or fraud in connection with any business entity; or |
8. |
such person was the subject of, or a party to, any sanction or order, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, of any self-regulatory organization (as defined in Section 3(a)(26) of the Exchange Act), any registered entity (as defined in Section 1(a)(29) of the United States Commodity Exchange Act), or any equivalent exchange, association, entity or organization that has disciplinary authority over its members or persons associated with a member. |
We are not aware of any material legal proceedings in which any of the following persons is a party adverse to our Company or has a material interest adverse to our Company: (a) any current director, officer, or affiliate of the Company, or any owner of record or beneficial owner of more than five percent of any class of voting securities of the Company; (b) any person proposed for appointment or election as a director or officer of our Company; or (c) any associate of any such person.
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Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act
Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires our directors and officers, and the persons who beneficially own more than ten percent of our common stock, to file reports of ownership and changes in ownership with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Copies of all filed reports are required to be furnished to us pursuant to Rule 16a-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act. Based solely on the reports received by us and on the representations of the reporting persons, we believe that these persons have complied with all applicable filing requirements during the fiscal year ended February 28, 2014, except as follows:
Name | Position Held | Late or Unfiled Report |
Joshua Bleak | President, CEO and Director | Two Form 4s filed late |
John Eckersley | Executive Vice President and Director | Two Form 4s filed late |
David Salisbury | Director | Two Form 4s filed late |
Ali Rahimtula | Director | Two Form 4s filed late |
Bill Allred | Chief Financial Officer | Form 3 filed late |
Michael X. Schlumpberger | Chief Operating Officer | Form 4 filed late |
Frank Högel | Vice Chairman and Director | Form 3 unfiled |
Laara Shaffer | Former CFO, Secretary and Director | Form 4 filed late |
Dennis Ickes | Former Director | Form 4 filed late |
Jerry Aiken | Former Director | Form 4 filed late |
Concept Capital Management | Beneficial owner of more than 10% | Form 3 unfiled and two Form 4s unfiled |
Corporate Governance
Meetings and Committees of the Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors held 4 meetings during the fiscal year ended February 28, 2014. Each director attended at least 75% of the aggregate of: (i) the total number of board meetings held while he was a director; and (ii) the total number of meetings held by committees on which he served during the periods that he served.
We do not have a formal policy with respect to director attendance at annual stockholders meetings, however, all directors are encouraged to attend. A total of two directors from the Board of Directors as it was comprised at the time attended the annual stockholders meeting last year.
Committees of the Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors currently only has an Audit Committee. The Audit Committee was established in August, 2007. The following provides information regarding our Audit Committee and summarizes the functions of such committee.
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Audit Committee
National Instrument 52-110 of the Canadian Securities Administrators (NI 52-110) requires us, as a venture issuer, to disclose annually in our information circular (proxy statement) certain information concerning the constitution of our audit committee and its relationship with our independent auditor, as set forth in the following.
Our Audit Committee is governed by an audit committee charter, the text of which is attached as Schedule A to the management information circular for the annual and special general meeting held on August 9, 2007 and filed on www.Sedar.com on July 17, 2007.
Our Audit Committee is currently comprised of three directors, David Salisbury, Frank Högel and John Eckersley. All of the Audit Committee members are financially literate. We are relying upon the exemption in section 6.1 of NI 52-110 in respect of the composition of our Audit Committee and in respect of our reporting obligations under NI 52-110 for the year ended February 28, 2014. This exemption exempts a venture issuer from the requirement to have 100% of the members of its audit committee independent, as would otherwise be required by NI 52-110. Our Board has determined that David Salisbury qualifies as an audit committee financial expert as defined under applicable SEC rules and also meets the additional criteria for independence of audit committee members set forth in Rule 10A-3(b)(l) under the Exchange Act.
See heading Directors and Executive Officers for disclosure on relevant experience for each member of the Audit Committee. Each member of the Audit Committee has
Since the commencement of our most recently completed fiscal year, our Board has not failed to adopt a recommendation of the Audit Committee to nominate or compensate an external auditor.
We have not relied on the exemptions contained in sections 2.4 or 8 of NI 52-110. Section 2.4 which provides an exemption from the requirement that the audit committee must pre-approve all non-audit services to be provided by the auditor, where the total amount of fees related to the non-audit services are not expected to exceed 5% of the total fees payable to the auditor in the fiscal year in which the non-audit services were provided. Section 8 permits a company to apply to a securities regulatory authority for an exemption from the requirements of NI 52-110, in whole or in part.
The Audit Committee has not adopted specific policies and procedures for the engagement of non-audit services. Subject to the requirements of NI 52-110, the engagement of non-audit services is considered by our Board of Directors, and where applicable the Audit Committee, on a case-by-case basis.
The Audit Committee discharged its mandate in respect of the fiscal year ended February 28, 2014, including the review and recommendation to the Board in respect of all financial disclosure contained in our public documents.
The Audit Committee held 1 meeting during the year ended February 28, 2014, and also acted through the adoption of written consent resolutions.
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Nomination of Directors
The Board considers its size each year when it considers the number of directors to recommend to the shareholders for election at the annual meeting of shareholders, taking into account the number required to carry out the Boards duties effectively and to maintain a diversity of views and experience.
The Board does not have a nominating committee, and these functions are currently performed by the Board as a whole. However, if there is a change in the number of directors required by us, this policy will be reviewed.
Compensation
The Board, as a whole, determines compensation for the directors and executive officers.
Director Independence
Our common shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (the TSXV). Under the Policy 3.1 Section 5.7 of the TSXV, each issuer must have at least two independent directors on its board. Under the TSXV policies, a director is independent if he or she has no direct or indirect material relationship with the issuer. A material relationship is defined as a relationship which could, in the view of the issuers board of directors, be reasonably expected to interfere with the exercise of a members independent judgment. Our Board has determined that the following directors are independent as required by TSXV listing standards: David J. Salisbury and Frank Högel. Our Board also determined that Mr. Salisbury and Mr. Högel meet the criteria of independence under the SEC rules. Our non-independent directors are: Joshua Bleak (President and CEO), John Eckersley (Executive Vice-President) and Ali Rahimtula (consultant).
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Compensation Discussion
The Board has not appointed a compensation committee and the responsibilities relating to executive and director compensation, including reviewing and recommending director compensation, overseeing our base compensation structure and equity-based compensation program, which we do not currently have any equity-based compensation program, recommending compensation of our officers and employees, and evaluating the performance of officers generally and in light of annual goals and objectives, is performed by the Board as a whole.
The Board also assumes responsibility for reviewing and monitoring the long-range compensation strategy for our senior management. The Board reviews the compensation of senior management on a semi-annual basis taking into account compensation paid by other issuers of similar size and activity.
Compensation Philosophy and Objectives
We are a smaller reporting company with limited resources. The compensation program for our senior management is designed within this context with a view that the level and form of compensation achieves certain objectives, including:
(a) |
attracting and retaining qualified executives; | |
(b) |
motivating the short and long-term performance of these executives; and | |
(c) |
better aligning their interests with those of our shareholders. |
Bonus Incentive Compensation
Our objective is to achieve certain strategic objectives and milestones. The Board will consider executive bonus compensation dependent on us meeting those strategic objectives and milestones and sufficient cash resources being available for the granting of bonuses. The Board approves executive bonus compensation dependent upon compensation levels based on recommendations of the Chief Executive Officer. Such recommendations are generally based on information provided by issuers that are similar in size and scope to our operations.
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Equity Participation Option-Based Awards
We believe that encouraging our executives and employees to become shareholders is the best way of aligning their interests with those of our shareholders. However, at our September 12, 2013 annual general and special meeting, our shareholders voted against the continuation of our 2011 rolling share option plan. Therefore, we do not currently have a stock option plan in place pursuant to which we are allowed to grant any stock options.
Summary Compensation Table
The following table sets forth the compensation paid to any of the following individuals during our fiscal years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013: (i) any person serving as our principal executive officer during our fiscal year ended February 28, 2014; (ii) our two most highly compensated executive officers other than our principal executive officer who were serving as executive officers as of February 28, 2013; and (iii) if applicable, up to two additional individuals for whom disclosure would have been provided pursuant to (ii) above but for the fact that the individual was not serving as an executive officer of the Company as of February 28, 2014 (collectively, the Named Executive Officers):
Name and Principal Position |
Year Ended February 28, |
Salary ($) |
Bonus ($) |
Stock Awards ($) |
Option Awards (1) ($) |
Non- Equity Incentive Plan Compensation ($) |
Non- Qualified Deferred Compensation Earnings ($) |
All Other Compensation ($) |
Total ($) |
Joshua Bleak, President and CEO(2) |
2014 | 180,000 | Nil | Nil | 42,286 | Nil | Nil | Nil | 222,286 |
2013 | 180,000 | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | 180,000 | |
John Eckersley, Executive Vice President (3) |
2014 |
150,000 |
Nil |
Nil |
42,286 |
Nil |
Nil |
Nil |
192,286 |
2013 | 150,000 | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | 150,000 | |
Bill Allred, Chief Financial Officer and Secretary(4) |
2014 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Michael X. Schlumpberger Chief Operating Officer (5) |
2014 |
135,000 |
Nil |
Nil |
72,906 |
Nil |
Nil |
Nil |
207,906 |
Laara Shaffer, Former Chief Financial Officer and Secretary(6) |
2014 | 11,980 | Nil | Nil | 42,286 | Nil | Nil | Nil | 54,266 |
2013 | 18,460 | Nil | Nil | 41,182 | Nil | Nil | Nil | 59,642 |
(1) |
This amount represents the fair value of these stock options at the date of grant which was estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. |
(2) |
Mr. Bleak has served as our President and CEO since April 26, 2011. |
(3) |
Mr. Eckersley has served as our Executive Vice-President since December 2010. |
(4) |
Mr. Allred has served as our Chief Financial Officer since March 1, 2014. |
(5) |
Mr. Schlumpberger has served as our Chief Operating Officer since June 3, 2013. |
(6) |
Ms. Shaffer resigned as our Chief Financial Officer and Secretary on February 19, 2014. |
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Employment Agreements
We have not entered into any employment contracts with our executive officers. There is no contract, agreement, plan or arrangement, whether written or unwritten, that provides for payment to a Named Executive Officer at, following, or in connection with the resignation, retirement or other termination of a Named Executive Officer, or a change in control of the Company or a change in the Named Executive Officers responsibilities following a change in control, with respect to each Named Executive Officer.
Outstanding Equity Awards as of February 28, 2014
The following table sets forth outstanding equity awards as of February 28, 2014 with respect to each of the Named Executive Officers listed in the table above:
Outstanding Equity Awards as of February 28, 2014 | |||||||||
Option Awards | Stock Awards | ||||||||
Name |
Number of secur- ities under- lying unexer- cised options exercise- able (#) |
Number of secur- ities under- lying unexer- cised options unexer- cisable (#) |
Equity incentive plan awards: number of securi- ties under- lying unexer- cised un- earned options (#) |
Option exercise price ($) |
Option expira- tion date |
Number of shares or units of stock that have not vested (#) |
Market value of shares or units of stock that have not vested ($) |
Equity incen- tive plan awards: number of un- earned shares, units or other rights that have not vested (#) |
Equity incen- tive plan awards: market or payout value of un- earned shares, units or other rights that have not vested ($) |
145,000 | Nil | Nil | $0.36 | July 2/18 | |||||
420,250 | Nil | Nil | $0.84 | Sep. 12/16 | |||||
Joshua Bleak | 167,875 | Nil | Nil | $0.40 | Mar. 3/16 | ||||
300,000 | Nil | Nil | $0.64 | Jan. 10/16 | |||||
530,000 | Nil | Nil | $0.40 | Feb. 10/16 | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | |
145,000 | Nil | Nil | $0.36 | July 2/18 | |||||
John Eckersley | 350,000 | Nil | Nil | $0.76 | Jan. 20/17 | ||||
135,500 | Nil | Nil | $1.18 | Jun. 21/16 | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | |
145,000 | Nil | Nil | $0.36 | July 2/18 | |||||
104,500 | Nil | Nil | $0.42 | Feb. 19/18 | |||||
Laara Shaffer | 100,000 | Nil | Nil | $0.76 | Jan. 20/17 | ||||
32,500 | Nil | Nil | $1.18 | Jun. 21/16 | |||||
131,750 | Nil | Nil | $0.40 | Feb. 10/16 | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil |
Notes: Represents post 2:1 share consolidation figures.
Compensation of Directors
The following table sets forth information relating to compensation paid to our directors during our fiscal year ended February 28, 2014. Our directors who are also Named Executive Officers do not receive any additional compensation beyond what is disclosed above in relation to their service as directors. Therefore, such Named Executive Officers are not listed in the below table.
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Director Compensation During Our Year Ended February 28, 2014 | |||||||
Name |
Fees earned or paid in cash ($) |
Stock awards ($) |
Option awards ($) |
Non- equity incentive plan compen- sation ($) |
Non- qualified deferred compen- sation earnings ($) |
All other compen- sation ($) |
Total ($) |
Ali Rahimtula(1) | 49,074 | Nil | 42,286 | Nil | Nil | Nil | 91,360 |
Dennis Ickes(2) | 60,000 | Nil | 42,286 | Nil | Nil | Nil | 102,286 |
David Salisbury(3) | 60,000 | Nil | 42,286 | Nil | Nil | Nil | 102,286 |
Jerry Aiken (4) | 110,000 | Nil | 42,286 | Nil | Nil | Nil | 152,286 |
Bill Allred | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil | Nil |
(1) |
Mr. Rahimtula was appointed as a director on October 28, 2011. | |
(2) |
Mr. Ickes was appointed as a director on December 14, 2011 and he resigned on February 19, 2014. | |
(3) |
Mr. Salisbury was appointed as a director on Jan. 16, 2012. | |
(4) |
Mr. Aiken was appointed as a director on May 15, 2012 and he resigned on February 19, 2014. | |
(5) |
Mr. Allred was appointed as a director on September 12, 2013 and resigned on February 19, 2014. |
Our directors do not have specific compensation arrangements based on attendance at board or committee meetings or serving as a committee chair. From time to time directors may receive bonus payments or options, which are granted on a discretionary basis. The amount of any bonus payments or the number of options granted is based on the experience of the director, time spent on Company matters and the compensation paid to other directors of companies in the industry.
Employment Contracts, Termination of Employment, Change-in-Control Arrangements
We have not entered into any employment contracts with our executive officers. There is no contract, agreement, plan or arrangement, whether written or unwritten, that provides for payment to a named executive officer at, following, or in connection with the resignation, retirement or other termination of a named executive officer, or a change in control of the Company or a change in the named executive officers responsibilities following a change in control, with respect to each named executive officer.
Management Contracts
During the year ended February 28, 2014, we paid aggregate fees of $172,424 (2013 -$187,963 ) to Tarmac Management Ltd. (Tarmac), a private British Columbia company. Of these fees, $10,000 (2013 - $8,000) was paid for administration services rendered by Tarmac and its employees, and the balance represented reimbursements for rent and other expenses incurred by Tarmac on behalf of us. Payment of these fees to Tarmac has been reflected in the notes to our audited financial statements for the year ended February 28, 2014 as Related Party Transactions, as Tarmac provides a high level of involvement in the daily management of our affairs.
During the year ended February 28, 2014, we paid aggregate fees of $624,000 (2013 -$560,200 ) to MJI Resource Management Corp. (MJI), a private Arizona company. Of these fees, $300,000 (2013 - $300,000) was paid for management fees and the balance represented Geological consulting expenses incurred by MJI on behalf of us. Payment of these fees to MJI has been reflected in the notes to our audited financial statements for the year ended February 28, 2014 as Related Party Transactions, as MJI provides a high level of involvement in the daily management of our affairs.
ITEM 12. |
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS |
The following table sets forth certain information concerning the number of shares of our common stock owned beneficially as of June 1, 2014 by (i) each person (including any group) known to us to own more than 5% of any class of our voting securities, (ii) each of our officers and directors and (iii) our officers and directors as a group. Unless otherwise indicated, it is our understanding and belief that the shareholders listed possess sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares shown.
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Title of class |
Name and address of beneficial owner(1) |
Amount and nature of beneficial owner(2) |
Percentage of
class(3) |
Persons owing more than 5% of voting securities | |||
Common Stock | Phillip Frost
c/o 4400 Biscayne Blvd., #850 Miami, FL 33137 |
18,340,638(4) | 16.3% |
Common Stock | Barry Honig c/o 4400 Biscayne Blvd., #850 Miami, FL 33137 |
9,603,0479(5) | 8.6% |
Common Stock | Michael Brauser
c/o 4400 Biscayne Blvd., #850 Miami, FL 33137 |
9,133,431 (6) | 8.2% |
Common Stock | Concept Capital
Management Trust Company Complex, Ajeltake Road, Ajeltake Islands, Majuro MH 96960, Marshall Islands |
45,250,000 (7) | 19.9% (8) |
Officers and Directors | |||
Common Stock | Joshua Bleak | 5,245,864 (9) | 4.7% |
Common Stock | Bill Allred | Nil | Nil |
Common Stock | Ali Rahimtula | 845,000 (10) | (*) |
Common Stock | Michael X. Schlumpberger | 287,500 (11) | (*) |
Common Stock | David J. Salisbury | 1,534,859 (12) | 1.4% |
Common Stock | John Eckersley | 5,298,939 (13) | 4.8% |
Common Stock | Frank Högel | Nil | Nil |
Common Stock | All executive officers and directors as a group (seven persons) | 13,212,162 (14) | 11.7% |
(*) |
Less than 1%. |
(1) |
The address of our officers and directors is our Companys address, which is 608 1199 W. Pender St., Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6E 2R1. |
(2) |
Under Rule 13d-3 of the Exchange Act a beneficial owner of a security includes any person who, directly or indirectly, through any contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship or otherwise has or shares: (i) voting power, which includes the power to vote or to direct the voting of shares; and (ii) investment power, which includes the power to dispose or direct the disposition of shares. Certain shares may be deemed to be beneficially owned by more than one person (if, for example, persons share the power to vote or the power to dispose of the shares). In addition, shares are deemed to be beneficially owned by a person if the person has the right to acquire the shares (for example, upon exercise of an option) within 60 days of the date as of which the information is provided. In computing the percentage ownership of any person, the amount of shares outstanding is deemed to include the amount of shares beneficially owned by such person (and only such person) by reason of these acquisition rights. |
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(3) |
Based on 109,490,859 shares of our common stock issued and outstanding as of June 1, 2014. |
(4) |
This figure includes: (i) 15,069,805 shares of common stock held by Frost Gamma Investments Trust, which are deemed to be indirectly owned and controlled by Phillip Frost; (ii) 250,000 stock options held of record by Phillip Frost which are vested and are exercisable into 250,000 shares of common stock at CAD$1.18 per share expiring on June 21, 2016; (iii) 625,000 warrants held of record by Frost Gama Investments Trust, which are deemed to be indirectly owned and controlled by Phillip Frost, and which are exercisable into 625,000 shares of common stock at $0.12 per share expiring on August 19, 2016; and (v) 9.5% convertible debenture of $287,500 held of record by Frost Gama Investments Trust, which are deemed to be indirectly owned and controlled by Phillip Frost, and which are convertible into 2,395,833 shares of common stock at $0.12 per share before August 19, 2016 without giving effect to accrued interest. |
(5) |
This figure includes: (i) 3,301,773 shares of common stock held by Barry Honig; (ii) 1,287,386 shares of common stock held by GRQ Consultants, Inc. 401K, which are deemed to be indirectly owned and controlled by Barry Honig; (iii) 3,055,555 shares of common stock held by GRQ Consultants, Inc. Roth 401K FBO Barry Honig, which are deemed to be indirectly owned and controlled by Barry Honig; (iv) 300,000 stock options held of record by Barry Honig which are vested and are exercisable into 300,000 shares of common stock at CAD$0.64 per share expiring on January 10, 2016; (v) 450,000 stock options held of record by Barry Honig which are vested and are exercisable into 450,000 shares of common stock at CAD$0.40 per share expiring on February 10, 2016; (vi) 250,000 warrants held of record by Barry Honig which are vested and exercisable into 250,000 shares of common stock at $0.12 per share expiring on August 19, 2016; and (vii) 9.5% convertible debenture of $115,000 held of record by Barry Honig convertible into 958,333 shares of common stock at $0.12 per shares before August 19, 2016 without giving effect to accrued interest. |
(6) |
This figure includes (i) 5,107,048 shares of common stock held by Michael Brauser; (ii) 96,250 shares of common stock jointly held with wife; (iii) 2,102,800 shares of common stock held by Birchtree Capital, LLC, which are deemed to be indirectly owned and controlled by Michael Brauser; (iv) 69,000 shares of common stock held by Grander Holdings, Inc. 401K Profit Sharing Plan, which are deemed to be indirectly owned and controlled by Michael Brauser; (v) 550,000 stock options held of record by Michael Brauser which are vested and are exercisable into 550,000 shares of common stock at CAD$0.40 per share expiring on February 10, 2016; (vi) 250,000 warrants held of record by Michael Brauser which are vested and exercisable into 250,000 shares of common stock at $0.12 per share expiring on August 19, 2016; and (vii) 9.5% convertible debenture of $115,000 held of record by Michael Brauser convertible into 958,333 shares of common stock at $0.12 per shares before August 19, 2016 without giving effect to accrued interest. |
(7) |
This figure includes (1) 9.5% convertible debenture of $3,910,000 held of record by Concept Capital Management, which is deemed to be indirectly owned and controlled by Bernd Hogel, convertible into 32,583,333 shares of common stock at $0.12 per share before August 19, 2016 without giving effect to accrued interest; (ii) 8,500,000 warrants held of record by Concept Capital Management, which are deemed to be indirectly owned and controlled by Bernd Hogel, which are vested and exercisable into 8,500,000 shares of common stock at $0.12 per share expiring on August 19, 2016; (iii) 9.5% convertible debenture of $500,000 held of record by Concept Capital Management, which is deemed to be indirectly owned and controlled by Bernd Hogel, convertible into 4,166,667 units at $0.12 per unit, with each unit comprised of one share of common stock and one warrant, which warrants are exercisable into 4,166,667 shares of common stock at $0.12 per share before May 29, 2018, without giving effect to accrued interest. |
(8) |
Concept Capital Management is restricted pursuant to a contractual obligation in each of the $3,910,000 and the $500,000 convertible debentures from converting such debentures if, after giving effect to such conversion, the holder together with any person or company acting jointly or in concert with Concept Capital Management, would in the aggregate beneficially own, or exercise control or direction over that number of our voting securities which is 20% or greater of our total issued and outstanding voting securities, immediately after giving effect to such conversion. |
(9) |
This figure includes: (i) 2,466,594 shares of common stock held by Joshua Bleak; (ii) 1,216,145 shares of common stock held of record by Joshua Bleak Corp., which are deemed to be indirectly owned and controlled by Joshua Bleak; (iii) 300,000 stock options held of record by Joshua Bleak which are vested and are exercisable into 300,000 shares of common stock at CAD$0.64 per share expiring on January 10, 2016; (iv) 530,000 stock options held of record by Joshua Bleak which are vested and are exercisable into 530,000 shares of common stock at CAD$0.40 per share expiring on February 10, 2016; (v) 167,875 stock options held of record by Joshua Bleak which are vested and are exercisable into 167,875 shares of common stock at CAD$0.40 per share expiring on March 3, 2016; (vi) 420,250 stock options held of record by Joshua Bleak which are vested and are exercisable into 420,250 shares of common stock at CAD$0.84 per share expiring on September 12, 2016; and (vii) 145,000 stock options held of record by Joshua Bleak which are vested and are exercisable into 145,000 shares of common stock at CAD$0.36 per share expiring on July 2, 2018. |
(10) |
This figure includes:(i) 500,000 shares of common stock held of record by Transnational Enterprises ltd., which are deemed to be indirectly owned and controlled by Ali Rahimtula; (ii) 75,000 stock options held of record by Ali Rahimtula which are vested and are exercisable into 75,000 shares of common stock at CAD$1.18 per share expiring on June 21, 2016; (iii) 125,000 stock options held of record by Ali Rahimtula which are vested and are exercisable into 125,000 shares of common stock at CAD$0.76 per share expiring on January 20, 2017; and (iv) 145,000 stock options held of record by Ali Rahimtula which are vested and are exercisable into 145,000 shares of common stock at CAD$0.36 per share expiring on July 2, 2018. |
(11) |
This figure includes: (i) 37,500 shares of common stock held by Michael Schlumpberger; (ii) 250,000 stock options held of record by Michael Schlumpberger which are vested and are exercisable into 250,000 shares of common stock at CAD$0.36 per share expiring on July 2, 2018. |
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(12) |
This figure includes: (i) 102,750 shares of common stock held by David Salisbury; (ii) 912,109 shares of common stock held of record by Double Jointed Solutions LLC, which are deemed to be indirectly owned and controlled by David Salisbury; (iii) 375,000 stock options held of record by David Salisbury which are vested and are exercisable into 375,000 shares of common stock at CAD$0.76 per share expiring on January 20, 2017; and (iv) 145,000 stock options held of record by David Salisbury which are vested and are exercisable into 145,000 shares of common stock at CAD$0.36 per share expiring on July 2, 2018. |
(13) |
This figure includes: (i) 69,450 shares of common stock held by John Eckersley; (ii) 2,026,909 shares of common stock held of record by John H. Eckersley Corp., which are deemed to be indirectly owned and controlled by John Eckersley; (iii) 2,572,080 shares of common stock held of record by MJI Resource Management Inc., which are deemed to be indirectly owned and controlled by John Eckersley; (iv) 135,500 stock options held of record by John Eckersley which are vested and are exercisable into 135,500 shares of common stock at CAD$1.18 per share expiring on June 21, 2016; and (v) 350,000 stock options held of record by John Eckersley which are vested and are exercisable into 350,000 shares of common stock at CAD$0.76 per share expiring on January 20, 2017; and (vi) 145,000 stock options held of record by John Eckersley which are vested and are exercisable into 145,000 shares of common stock at CAD$0.36 per share expiring on July 2, 2018. |
(14) |
This figure includes: (i) 9,903,537 shares of common stock and (ii) stock options to purchase 3,308,625 shares of our common stock. |
Changes in Control
We are unaware of any contract, or other arrangement or provision, the operation of which may at any subsequent date result in a change in control of our Company.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions
Except as described herein, none of the following parties (each a Related Party) has, in our fiscal years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013, had any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction with us or in any presently proposed transaction that has or will materially affect us:
During the year ended February 28, 2014, we paid $60,000 to David Salisbury, our director, for consulting fees. Mr. Salisbury receives $10,000 per month for consulting services pursuant to a Consulting Agreement, dated January 16, 2012. We owed Mr. Salisbury $4,046 as at February 28, 2014.
During the year ended February 28, 2014, we paid $180,000 to Joshua Bleak, our director and officer, for management fees. In addition, during the year ended February 28, 2014, we paid $Nil to North American Environmental Corp. (NAEC), a company controlled by Joshua Bleak, for exploration services (site preparation, drilling, site reclamation and materials transportation) and owed this company $382 as at February 28, 2014. During the year ended February 28, 2013, we paid a total of $49,500 to NAEC and owed this company CAD$382 as at February 28, 2013. There is no written contract between us and NAEC, and NAEC issues invoices when work is performed based on the activity and/or the equipment used to perform the work.
During the year ended February 28, 2014, we paid $60,000 to Dennis Ickes, our director, for professional services. Mr. Ickes currently receives $5,000 per month pursuant to a Professional Services Agreement, dated December 14, 2011. We owed Mr. Ickes $Nil as at February 28, 2014.
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During the year ended February 28, 2014, we paid $150,000 to John Eckersley, our director and officer, for consulting fees.
During the year ended February 28, 2014, we paid $300,000 to MJI Resource Management Corp., a company of which Mr. Eckersley is a director, for management fees as well as $324,000 for mineral exploration expenses. As of February 28, 2014, we owed MJI Resource Management Corp. $275,518.
During the year ended February 28, 2014, we paid $135,000 to Michael X. Schlumpberger, our officer, for consulting fees. We owed Mr. Schlumpberger $103,665.46 as at February 28, 2014. Mr. Schlumpberger receives $11,250 per month through a consulting agreement between Schlumpberger Inc. and us dated June 3, 2013.
During the year ended February 28, 2014, we paid $11,980 to Laara Shaffer, our director and officer, for administration fees.
During the year ended February 28, 2014, we paid $49,074 to Transnational Enterprises Ltd., a company controlled by Ali Rahimtula, for consulting fees, and we owed Transnational Enterprises Ltd. $0 as at February 28, 2014. Mr. Rahimtula receives CAD$5,000 per month through a Consulting Agreement between Transnational Enterprises Ltd. and us, dated January 1, 2012.
During the year ended February 28, 2014, we paid $67,379 to Joan Purdy for consulting fees.
During the year ended February 28, 2014, we accrued $60,000 to Jerry Aiken, our director, for consulting fees and we owed Mr. Aiken $2,500 as at February 28, 2014.
Our Board of Directors reviews any proposed transactions involving Related Parties and considerers whether such transactions are fair and reasonable and in our best interests.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
Dale Matheson Carr-Hilton LaBonte LLP served as our independent registered public accounting firm and audited our financial statements for the fiscal years ended February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013. Aggregate fees for professional services rendered to us by our auditor are set forth below:
Year Ended | Year Ended | |
February 28, 2014 | February 28,2013 | |
Audit Fees | $40,000 estimated | $40,000 |
Audit-Related Fees | $23,100 | $26,500 |
Tax Fees | $3,500 | $6,000 |
All Other Fees | Nil | Nil |
Total | $66,600 | $72,500 |
Audit Fees
Audit fees are the aggregate fees billed for professional services rendered by our independent auditors for the audit of our annual financial statements, the review of the financial statements included in each of our quarterly reports and services provided in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements.
Audit Related Fees
Audit related fees are the aggregate fees billed by our independent auditors for assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of our financial statements and are not described in the preceding category.
Tax Fees
Tax fees are billed by our independent auditors for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning.
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All Other Fees
All other fees include fees billed by our independent auditors for products or services other than as described in the immediately preceding three categories.
Policy on Pre-Approval of Services Performed by Independent Auditors
It is our audit committees policy to pre-approve all audit and permissible non-audit services performed by the independent auditors. We approved all services that our independent accountants provided to us in the past two fiscal years.
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS
The following exhibits are filed with this Annual Report on Form 10-K:
Exhibit No. |
Document |
3.1.1 |
Certificate of Registration (2) |
3.1.2 |
Certificate of Modification, dated January 21, 1994 (2) |
3.1.3 |
Certificate of Modification, dated November 11, 1996 (2) |
3.1.4 |
Certificate of Modification, dated June 16, 2004 (2) |
3.1.5 |
Certificate of Modification, dated October 17, 2007 (2) |
3.1.6 |
Certificate of Modification, dated November 10, 2009 (2) |
3.1.7 |
Certificate of Continuation, dated April 26, 2011 (3) |
3.1.8 |
Notice of Articles, dated May 31, 2012 (3) |
3.2 |
Articles (1) |
4.1 |
Share Option Plan (1) |
4.2 |
Share Rights Plan (1) |
10.1 |
Mineral Property Option Agreement between Southwest Exploration, Inc. and Passport Potash Inc., dated September 30, 2008 (2) |
10.2 |
Amendment No. 1 to Mineral Property Option Agreement between Southwest Exploration, Inc. and Passport Potash Inc., dated September 18, 2009 (1) |
10.3 |
Lease and Option Agreement between Twin Buttes Ranch, LLC and Passport Potash Inc., dated August 28, 2009 (3) |
10.4 |
Amendment Agreement to Lease and Option Agreement between Twin Buttes Ranch, LLC and Passport Potash Inc., dated September 7, 2010 (1) |
10.5 |
Amendment No. 2 to Mineral Property Option Agreement between Southwest Exploration, Inc. and Passport Potash Inc., dated October 1, 2010 (1) |
10.6 |
Mineral Property Option Agreement between Mesa Uranium Corp. and Passport Potash Inc., dated August 31, 2010 (3) |
10.7 |
Option of Arizona Exploration Leases Agreement between Sweetwater River Resources, LLC, American Potash, LLC and Passport Potash Inc., dated November 12, 2010 (3) |
10.8 |
Option Agreement between Ringbolt Ventures Ltd., Potash Green, LLC, Wendy Walker Tibbetts, Joseph J. Hansen and Passport Potash Inc., dated March 28, 2011 (3) |
10.9 |
Cooperative Agreement between Hopi Tribe and Passport Potash Inc., dated March 8, 2011 (3) |
10.10 |
Agreement between Southwest Exploration, Inc. and Passport Potash Inc., dated February 13, 2012 (3) |
10.11 |
Property Purchase Agreement between Fitzgerald Living Trust and Passport Potash Inc., dated May 7, 2012 (2) |
10.12 |
Joint Exploration Agreement between HNZ Potash, LLC and Passport Potash Inc., dated July 27, 2012 (2) |
10.13 |
Amendment Agreement between Passport Potash Inc., North American Potash Developments Inc., Potash Green, LLC, Wendy Walker Tibbetts and Joseph J. Hansen, dated October 30, 2012 (4) |
10.14 |
Joint Exploration Agreement between Passport Potash Inc. and The Hopi Tribe, dated effective November 1, 2012 (5) |
10.15 |
Amendment to Agreement to Purchase Real Estate between Passport Potash Inc. and the Fitzgerald Living Trust, dated November 8, 2012 (5) |
10.16 |
Second Amendment Agreement between Passport Potash Inc., North American Potash Developments Inc., Potash Green, LLC, Wendy Walker Tibbetts and Joseph J. Hansen, dated December 8, 2012 (6) |
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10.17 |
Agreement to Amend and Restate Agreement to Purchase Real Estate between Fitzgerald Living Trust and Passport Potash Inc., dated May 29, 2013 * |
10.18 |
Form of Placement Agent Agreement (12) |
10.19 |
Amendment to Option Agreement between Passport Potash Inc. and Twin Buttes Ranch, LLC, dated December 4, 2009(12) |
10.20 |
Amendment to Option Agreement between Passport Potash Inc. and Twin Buttes Ranch, LLC, dated August 20, 2013(11) |
10.21 |
Mining Lease between Passport Potash Inc. and Twin Buttes Ranch, LLC, dated December 4, 2009 (included in Exhibit 10.19)(12) |
10.22 |
Amendment to Mining Lease between Passport Potash Inc. and Twin Buttes Ranch, LLC, dated August 20, 2013(11) |
20.1 |
Advance Notice Policy, dated July 22, 2013(10) |
99.1 |
Consulting Agreement between Upstream Consulting and Passport Potash Inc., dated effective December 1, 2011 (3) |
99.2 |
Form of Professional Services Agreement between R. Dennis Ickes and Passport Potash Inc., dated December 14, 2011 (2) |
99.3 |
Consulting Agreement between Transnational Enterprises Ltd. and Passport Potash Inc., dated January 1, 2012 (3) |
99.4 |
Consulting Agreement between Double Jointed Solutions, LLC and Passport Potash Inc., dated January 16, 2012 (2) |
99.5 |
Consulting Agreement between Jerry Aiken and Passport Potash Inc., dated January 25, 2012 (2) |
99.6 |
Form of Convertible Debenture (7) |
99.7 |
Consulting Agreement between Schlumpberger Inc. and Passport Potash Inc., dated June 3, 2013(9) |
Notes:
(*) | Filed herewith. |
(1) |
Filed as an exhibit to our Registration Statement on Form 10 as filed with the SEC on June 29, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference. |
(2) |
Filed as an exhibit to our Registration Statement on Form 10 (Amendment No. 1) as filed with the SEC on September 21, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference. |
(3) |
Filed as an exhibit to our Registration Statement on Form 10 (Amendment No. 2) as filed with the SEC on October 12, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference. |
(4) |
Filed as an exhibit to our Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the SEC on November 8, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference. |
(5) |
Filed as an exhibit to our Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the SEC on November 23, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference. |
(6) |
Filed as an exhibit to our Periodic Report on Form 10-Q as filed with the SEC on January 14, 2013 and incorporated herein by reference. |
(7) |
Filed as an exhibit to our Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the SEC on February 25, 2013 and incorporated herein by reference. |
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(8) |
Filed as an exhibit to our Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the SEC on May 31, 2013 and incorporated herein by reference. |
(9) |
Filed as an exhibit to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed with the SEC on July 15, 2013 and incorporated herein by reference. |
(10) |
Filed as an exhibit to our Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the SEC on July 24, 2013 and incorporated herein by reference. |
(11) |
Filed as an exhibit to our Current Report on Form 8-K as filed with the SEC on August 23, 2013 and incorporated herein by reference. |
(12) |
Filed as an exhibit to our Registration Statement on Form S-1/A (Amendment No. 4) as filed with the SEC on August 26, 2013 and incorporated herein by reference. |
(13) |
Field as an exhibit to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed with the SEC on October 15, 2013 and incorporated herein by reference. |
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 and 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
PASSPORT POTASH INC. | |
Dated: June 13, 2014 | By: /s/ Joshua Bleak |
Joshua Bleak, President and Chief Executive Officer | |
(Principal Executive Officer) | |
Dated: June 13, 2014 | By: /s/ Bill Allred |
Bill Allred, Chief Financial Officer | |
(Principal Financial Officer and | |
Principal Accounting Officer) |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, this report has been signed below by the following persons no behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Dated: June 13, 2014 | By: /s/ Joshua Bleak |
Joshua Bleak, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director | |
Dated: June 13, 2014 | By: /s/ Bill Allred |
Bill Allred, Chief Financial Officer | |
Dated: June 13, 2014 | By: /s/ John Eckersley |
John Eckersley, Executive Vice President and Director | |
Dated: June 13, 2014 | By: /s/ David Salisbury |
David Salisbury, Chairman of the Board and Director | |
Dated: June 13, 2014 | By: /s/ Michael Schlumpberger |
Michael Schlumpberger, Chief Operating Officer | |
Dated: June 13, 2014 | By: /s/ Ali Rahimtula |
Ali Rahimtula, Director | |
Dated: June 13, 2014 | By: /s/ Frank Högel |
Frank Högel, Director |
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