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Last updated on 2024年10月19日

What are the best practices for defining exploration targets and objectives?

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Defining exploration targets and objectives is a crucial step in any mining project. It helps to focus the exploration efforts, optimize the resources, and evaluate the potential of the deposit. However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to this process. Different factors, such as the geological setting, the exploration stage, the available data, and the project goals, may influence the methods and criteria used to define exploration targets and objectives. In this article, we will discuss some of the best practices for this task, based on the experience and recommendations of experts in the field.

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Cesar A. F. Esmas, P. Geo. ????

Senior Tunnel Inspector at GHD

1 Understand the context

The first step in defining exploration targets and objectives is to understand the context of the project. This includes the regional and local geology, the mineralization model, the previous exploration history, and the current exploration stage. These factors will help to narrow down the search area, identify the key geological features and indicators, and determine the appropriate exploration methods and techniques. For example, if the project is in a greenfield area with limited data, the exploration target may be a broad region with favorable geology and geochemistry, and the objective may be to generate anomalies for further testing. On the other hand, if the project is in a brownfield area with abundant data, the exploration target may be a specific zone or structure with known mineralization, and the objective may be to delineate the resource or increase the grade.

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Cesar A. F. Esmas, P. Geo. ????

Senior Tunnel Inspector at GHD
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The success of exploration projects resulting in a discovery, is premised on the following; a substantial capital, experienced geologists and management and both are understanding strategic and tactical objectives of the company geared for its longevity and realization of a discovery. Veteran and smart geologists (in geochemistry, geophysics and generalists) determine mineral districts wherein they are very experienced and understood the tectonic framework wherein extensions of known deposits could probably be found. The managers should be smart in making acquisitions and joint ventures to leverage risk and shed off unnecessary tenements.

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2 Define SMART objectives

The second step in defining exploration targets and objectives is to make them SMART: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. SMART objectives help to clarify the purpose and scope of the exploration program, set realistic and attainable goals, monitor the progress and performance, and communicate the results and expectations. For example, a SMART objective may be to drill 10,000 meters in 20 holes to test the continuity and grade of the mineralization in the target area within six months. SMART objectives should be aligned with the project strategy and vision, and should be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect the changing conditions and outcomes.

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Cesar A. F. Esmas, P. Geo. ????

Senior Tunnel Inspector at GHD
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The more specific the objective is with more qualifiers the more defined is the objective making them SMART. Perhaps you can add for example "without" exceeding the drilling budget by 5%. In so doing you are making your budgets more precise which will help upper management to be more efficient in raising capital or stretching the company's dollars. The key is using precise language for the objectives to adequately reflect the project strategy and vision and be sufficiently nimble to meet challenges.

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3 Use multiple sources of information

The third step in defining exploration targets and objectives is to use multiple sources of information to support the decision-making process. These sources may include geological maps, geophysical surveys, geochemical analyses, drill logs, assays, mineralogical studies, geostatistical models, and geological interpretations. Using multiple sources of information helps to reduce the uncertainty and risk, increase the confidence and reliability, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of the exploration target and objective. It also allows to compare and integrate different types of data, and to detect any anomalies or discrepancies that may indicate a new opportunity or a potential problem.

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4 Apply a systematic approach

The fourth step in defining exploration targets and objectives is to apply a systematic approach to the process. This means following a logical and consistent sequence of steps, from the initial concept to the final evaluation, and documenting each step with clear and transparent criteria, assumptions, and methods. A systematic approach helps to ensure the quality and validity of the exploration target and objective, and to facilitate the communication and reporting of the results and findings. It also enables to track and review the performance and achievements, and to learn from the successes and failures. A systematic approach may vary depending on the project context and goals, but it usually involves four main phases: target generation, target testing, target evaluation, and target ranking.

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5 Seek feedback and collaboration

The fifth step in defining exploration targets and objectives is to seek feedback and collaboration from different stakeholders and experts. These may include geologists, engineers, managers, investors, regulators, communities, and consultants. Seeking feedback and collaboration helps to gain different perspectives and insights, validate and challenge the assumptions and methods, and identify and resolve any issues or conflicts. It also fosters a culture of learning and innovation, and creates a sense of ownership and commitment among the participants. Seeking feedback and collaboration should be done throughout the process, and should be based on mutual respect and trust.

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Cesar A. F. Esmas, P. Geo. ????

Senior Tunnel Inspector at GHD
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A good exploration geologist is a generalist and knows his limitations. He has to defer to opinions of other specialists such as geochemists, geophysicists and structural geologists to optimize targets. Veteran geologists are typically experts in certain deposits such as epithermal gold mineralization and porphyry copper. With this collaboration and feedback the chances of success is greatly increased. In large tenements we sometimes send an anthropologist to gain insights of the local and indigenous population in order to gain the "prior and informed consent" which is a stipulation for a mining permit. With a record of infamous mining incidents, social acceptability is as important as technical competence.

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6 Be flexible and adaptable

The sixth and final step in defining exploration targets and objectives is to be flexible and adaptable to the changing circumstances and results. Exploration is an iterative and dynamic process, and new information and discoveries may require revising or modifying the exploration target and objective. Being flexible and adaptable helps to cope with the uncertainty and complexity, and to seize the opportunities and overcome the challenges. It also allows to adjust the strategy and tactics, and to optimize the resources and efficiency. Being flexible and adaptable does not mean abandoning the original plan or compromising the quality, but rather being open and responsive to the feedback and evidence.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Cesar A. F. Esmas, P. Geo. ????

Senior Tunnel Inspector at GHD
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Perhaps to best way to set up your exploration strategy is frame your resources with optimal targets. Targets can be set up where the area is known as a mineral province associated with tectonic zones such as orogenies, subduction zones and magmatic arcs. Likewise potential extension of vein structure. Resources are typically limited so joint ventures are a best to hedge your bets. You have to insure that your team has key veterans that are experienced in key mineralization styles such as porphyry copper and epithermal gold systems. Hire smart juniors that can be mentored and are equipped with the latest softwares. Then you can prioritize your targets vis a vis your budget.

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What are the best practices for defining exploration targets and objectives?

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3

4

5

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7

1 Understand the context

2 Define SMART objectives

3 Use multiple sources of information

4 Apply a systematic approach

5 Seek feedback and collaboration

6 Be flexible and adaptable

7 Here’s what else to consider

Mining Engineering

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What are the best practices for defining exploration targets and objectives?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Understand the context

2 Define SMART objectives

3 Use multiple sources of information

4 Apply a systematic approach

5 Seek feedback and collaboration

6 Be flexible and adaptable

7 Here’s what else to consider

Mining Engineering

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