Structural and geological models underpin advanced-stage projects from the pre-feasibly, through feasibility and construction and design phases. As such, theses model are key factors in the determining success or failure of a mineral extraction project.   

The Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum’s (CIM) Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Committee (CIM MRMR Committee) prepared the CIM Estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Best Practice Guidelines. These guidelines provide best practices for estimating Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves but also offers valuable insights into data collection and management (primary observed, measured, and interpreted data), and geological and mineralization modelling, including the Mineral Resource estimation domains. The geological and mineralization models, including the Mineral Resource estimation domains, should integrate as much information as possible and must fit the current understanding of the geology, structure, and mineralization. These models should honour the primary observed and measured data, to include but not be limited to lithology, structure, mineralogy, degree of weathering, alteration, and timing of mineralization (cross-cutting features). 

For the geotechnical mine-design perspective, key-inputs include the Major Structure Model (generally deposit-scale faults and/or shear zones) and the Fabric or Minor Structure Model (Discontinuities).  The geotechnical model must be “fit-for-purpose” and will often extend beyond the boundaries of the resource 3D model and into waste rock domains.  

The short course will review best practices for developing and critically evaluating models for both resource estimation and geotechnical design. Input data quality, database structure, QA/QC, model confidence will be discussed. Various case studies will be presented.  

*This short course qualifies as PEGNL PD hours.