Siskon Gold totters on edge of mining precipice. (Siskon Gold Corp seeks merger)

Siskon Gold Corp. has stopped work at its San Juan gold mine northeast of Nevada City and is selling off assets.

The company - hit by falling gold prices, debt and legal actions - is seeking a merger or joint venture to stay in business. Siskon admits it may have to file bankruptcy if its efforts fail.

"The declining price of gold and problems we've had with the property are what the company's primary woes are," said Timothy Callaway, president and chief executive officer. "if you know when the price of gold is going to go up, that would be handy."

So far, its attempts to find a partner for the San Juan Mine "have not been well received, primarily due to …