Yukon Mine Training Association

The Mine Cycle

Finding it hard to imagine the possibilities? There are many stages in the life cycle of a mine, with many types of activities and career opportunities within each. For example, a geologist or expediter may be active throughout the life of a mine, while prospectors and construction contractors are involved only for specific periods of time.

While the course of each mine’s development is unique, the general steps taken are similar. Have a look at the mine cycle.

1) Mine Exploration (7-10 years)

Exploration, or searching for minerals, is the first step in the mine cycle. In the Preliminary stage of exploration, large areas are evaluated by airborne surveys or geological surveys of the Earth’s surface. From large maps and data, specific areas are singled out for more detailed study on the ground. Studies may involve land clearing and mineral sampling by prospectors and geologists. If valuable mineral potential is anticipated, a “claim” is staked, which is often then sold (or optioned) to a larger mining company for further evaluation and exploration.

The second stage of exploration is Detailed Analysis of a specific area. This often involves detailed mineral sampling, ground and geological surveys, mapping to determine the size and shape of the mineral deposit, diamond drilling (often at great depths) for more samples, and environmental studies. Field camps can be established at either stage of exploration, but tend to become larger and involve more people and equipment as exploration progresses.

2) Mine Development (5–10 years) 

Mine development starts with advanced exploration and the Evaluation of the mine’s potential by geologists, mining engineers and metallurgists. This stage involves even more detailed drilling and the removal of bulk samples, which requires heavy equipment and access roads. Processing tests are conducted to evaluate mineral quality and quantity. Financial and mineral market studies are conducted to determine the mine’s economic potential. Environmental assessments are undertaken and “pre-feasibility” studies completed. The final step in the Evaluation phase is a decision on whether or not a mining company will go ahead with full-scale mine development.

If the answer is yes, Mine Planning begins. In order to proceed, a mining company must ensure sufficient resources are available to develop the mine. Securing sufficient capital is essential as mine development is a very expensive proposition. At this time, the necessary permits and agreements with governments are negotiated as well as sales deals with prospective clients. The mine and associated buildings are designed and further feasibility studies are completed. Mine closure and reclamation plans are prepared.

The Construction of the mine and its associated buildings is undertaken next, as well as infrastructure construction including roads, bridges, airports etc.

3) Mine Operation (2–20 years) 

Mine Operation is the third phase of the Mine Cycle and involves the recruitment, hiring and training of a wide range of personnel. Marketing and sales activities include client establishment and servicing. In the mine itself, Production involves the extraction of ore, separation of minerals, disposal of waste and shipment of ore/minerals. If a mine expands during its life, additional sampling, drilling, planning and mapping is required.

4) Mine Closure (2–10 years)

The closure of a mine is a multi-stage process. Shutdown & Decommissioning involves the removal of equipment, the dismantling of facilities and the safe closure of all mine workings. Reclamation involves earth work and site restoration including re-vegetation of waste rock disposal areas. The final stage of mine closure is Monitoring, which includes environmental testing and structural monitoring.