Ep 115: What Resource Geologists Need to Know About Mine Planning. Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro

In this episode, Dr Gregory Zhang (Resource Geologist) is joined by Hamish Guthrie (Mining Engineer) to explore how resource geologists can better understand and contribute to mine planning. From the importance of resource classification to the value of including waste domain data, Hamish shares insights from over 25 years of experience in mining operations and consulting.

They also discuss the benefits of adding more geological detail - even in early-stage projects - and how small decisions in modelling can have major downstream implications. Whether you're a resource geologist, mine planner, or simply curious about how modelling feeds into real-world mining strategies, this episode offers practical takeaways and fresh thinking.

Key Points Covered

00:04 – Introduction

01:05 – The typical workflow of mine planning

02:00 – Why modifying factors and mining constraints matter

03:01 – Resource classifications: how confidence impacts planning

05:00 – Adding more detail to the resource model: is it worth it?

06:00 – Should we model waste domains?

07:25 – What mine planners really want from geologists

08:30 – Including depletion, sterilised zones and geotechnical data

09:30 – ESG and the importance of understanding waste rock behaviour

10:00 – Geological inputs that influence plant performance

11:00 – Why even limited early data is valuable

11:40 – Final thoughts and podcast close

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If you would like to contact Greg and Hamish: contact(at)snowdenoptiro.com

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Snowden Optiro is a resources consulting and advisory group that provides independent advice, consulting and training to mining and exploration companies, their advisors and investors.

We help mine developers to advance their projects, mining companies to improve their operations and their professionals, and investors to de-risk their investments by the provision of quality advice, training and software in the field of Mineral Resources and Mineral/Ore Reserves.

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training(at)snowdenoptiro.com and contact(at)snowdenoptiro.com

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