Review of Hydrogeologic models and drainage/depressurization planning

Review of Conceptual Hydrogeologic models and Numerical Hydrogeologic modelling for the two large open pit excavations of the Escondida mine in northern Chile. The model review considered:

·   Workflows in the development of the models
·   Robustness of input information
·   Scientific validity of the models
·   Representation of hydrogeologic conceptual models in the numerical models
·   Processes used in the setting of drainage targets
·   Consistency of the mine drainage work plans and actual effectiveness in achieving drainage targets
·   Areas for improvement

*Image: Escondida Open Pit Mine reproduced with the permission of BHP

Water balance review in support of WTP decision

Operating mine to transition to a positive water balance and discharge to the environment. The discharge may need to be treated requiring a multi-million dollar water treatment plant investment. A review was required to validate the existing water balance model and approach and identify water management improvements that could potentially delay the Capital Expenditure or potentially eliminate it.

Water balance models for two mines

Operating mines in semi-arid northern Mexico are planning for expansion. Water balance models (Goldsim) were required for both operations to support understanding of the local hydrological conditions and determine water requirements for the Life-of-Mine plan. Improvements to the existing water management systems and practice were identified including upgrade of the monitoring network. Model output was designed to support corporate ESG disclosure reporting.