Redpath publishes mining cost book (July 20, 1987)

Junior mining companies wishing to estimate the preproduction capital costs of a small underground exploration project can do so themselves with the help of a new publication prepared by the experienced mining consultants J. S. Redpath of North Bay.

The 300-page booklet, called Underground Metal Mining is being marketed by the sales and publications division of the Canada Centre for Mineral and Energy Technology (canmet).

Capital and operating costs of a typical, small underground hardrock mine in north-central Ontario are presented in detail based on 1986 dollars. Costs in other regions in Canada can be calculated by applying a regional cost facto r, also supplied.

For the exploration geologist familiar with finding ore deposits, this is an excellent reference for making preliminary estimates of the value of an orebody. Its fill-in- the-blank format and logical layout should make these estimates relatively fast and easy.

But since each property is unique, numerous value judgments are required to adjust the information accordingly. When it comes time for a more definitive estimate, a more professional evaluation is recommended.