ISSN:
1573-8981
Keywords:
Mineral resource assessment
;
British Columbia
;
Monte Carlo simulation
;
Historical compilation
;
Mineral deposit models
;
Mineral Assessment Tracts
;
Expert estimation
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Geosciences
Notes:
Abstract Within a few years, approximately 12 percent of the land base of British Columbia will be placed under protected status to preserve a wide range of natural habitats. The Mineral Potential Project assesses the potential resources of the province based on a systematic evaluation and estimation of its mineral endowment. Our assessment process deals with both discovered and undiscovered resources at a working scale of 1:250,000. Assessment of undiscovered resources follows a similar scheme used by the U.S. Geological Survey, with some distinct differences. Mineral deposit type models are necessary to estimate endowment. Descriptive and grade/tonnage data were compiled for the mineral deposit types being used In British Columbia. The assessment process is two phased. Phase 1, based on historical information, involves the compilation of regional geology and subdivision of the study area into conveniently sized Mineral Assessment Tracts. Each tract is ranked based on known reserves, number of occurrences, exploration expenditure history, and past production. In Phase 2, based on predicted method, tracts are ranked based on the value of undiscovered and discovered resources. Experts estimate the number of deposits for a number of deposit types that are likely to be present within each tract; a confidence value is attached to each estimate. The deposit estimates and associated confidence values are used to compute metal tonnage with the MARK3 simulator, using probability estimates applied to mineral deposit grade and tonnage data. The distribution of known grades and tonnages is characteristic for the particular model being evaluated. The metal tonnage estimates can be used to evaluate potential economic benefit to areas in which competing interests may occur. This methodology was used to assess the mineral potential of Vancouver Island. The results were integrated into a land use plan for Vancouver Island.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF02256886
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