FEDERAL INCOME TAXES - Schedule of Components of Future Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2022	Dec. 31, 2021
FEDERAL INCOME TAXES.
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 22,584	$ 21,016
Capital loss carryforwards	22,508	22,523
Mineral properties	3,694	5,017
Capitalized joint venture costs	3,427	3,427
Fixed assets	1,921	148
Capitalized transaction costs	1,150	1,157
Share based compensation	418	405
Accrued vacation	62	25
Other	26	61
Deferred tax assets	55,790	53,779
Valuation allowance	(55,769)	(53,723)
Net deferred tax assets	21	56
Other	(21)	(56)
Deferred tax liabilities	$ (21)	$ (56)