Eagle Mapping

Mining

May 20, 2014



Accurate aerial topographical and orthophoto maps are a basic necessity for exploration geologists and mining and environmental engineers in order to find an ore deposit and develop a mine.
 
Mine locations are usually in remote areas that do not offer good survey control points or base maps. Lack of access roads and rough terrain often make ground surveys, time consuming, costly and impractical. Precision aerial mapping allows for quick and complete acquisition of an entire property while eliminating the on the ground logistics and dangers.
 
The location of streams, rivers and lakes is important to any mine development. These natural waterways must be taken into consideration when planning access roads to ensure that the waterway is not damaged or blocked or allowed to wash out the road. It is vital that during road construction and harvesting every effort is made to avoid polluting or diverting natural waterways.
 
Annual aerial photography and LiDAR flyovers of mines are used to produce up to date digital topographical and orthophoto maps that show the volume of material removed from the pits and the development changes of the mine. This allows for a continuous record of mine activity and can be used during the reclamation planning.
 
In summary, accurate topographic mapping using LiDAR is used in all phases of a mine’s life. It is first used by geologists to locate a viable ore deposit, then to precisely locate the positions for sampling core, drill holes. It becomes a part of the approval process required from regulatory bodies in many countries, provinces or states. Once a mine has been approved the engineers use this same data to plan infra structure, roads, electrical corridors, tailings ponds and supporting services. Throughout the operating life of a mine Aerial topographic mapping from LiDAR and photography, is created to provide an ongoing record and a base map for expansion. Once a mine has been exhausted of its ore these maps are used to create a reclamation/rehabilitation plan to return the land as close to its original state as possible.

Source: http://www.eaglemapping.com/industry/mining