WZI has the capabilities to offer a broad range of services to the mining industry. These services span the full spectrum of needs experienced by a mining project from early exploration activities through development, operations and closure.
Property Acquisition and Exploration
Early evaluation of a mineral property includes the need to develop an understanding of the land ownership position and geology of the property. Equally important, however, consideration must be given to the geohydrology, plant and animal habitats, and existing environmental liabilities which are associated with the property. Failure to have a thorough understanding of these aspects may seriously impede, or prevent, development of an otherwise promising mineral property. Toward this end, WZI can assist in evaluating mineral properties with the following services:
- Reconnaissance Studies
- Site Assessment
- Geophysical Surveys
- Detailed Hydrogeological and Mineral Development Mapping
- Biota Studies
- Biological Field Surveys
- Due Diligence
Development and Operations
As a mineral property advances through the exploration phases, consideration must be given to conceptual design and preliminary economics of the project. Environmental and operational considerations are critical to the evaluation and decision making processes during this phase of the project. WZI’s professional staff has a thorough understanding of these important processes with a realistic and practical approach to their interrelationship, including:
- Conceptual Design
- Cost Estimating
- Preliminary Feasibility Studies
When a mineral property transitions from exploration to development and operations, a new spectrum of technical assistance needs arise. A team effort involving people from various functional areas is mandatory for successful development and operation of a mineral property. WZI can support these needs in the following areas:
- Environmental Permitting
- SMARA Mining and Reclamation Plans
- Habitat Conservation Plans
- Site Grading and Drainage
- Equipment Selection and Specification
- Operations Planning and Control
- MSHA Training and Retraining of Miners
- MSHA Training Records Program
- Environmental Audits
- Health and Safety Programs
Site Closure
At the end of the economic life of a mineral property, the operator must assure that operations cease and the project is closed in an environmentally responsible manner. WZI can assist in these activities with expertise in the following areas:
- Site Closure Planning and Documentation
- Mine and Tailings Site Characterization
- Mine and Tailings Site Remediation