Ep 115: What Resource Geologists Need to Know About Mine Planning. Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro

In this episode, Dr Gregory Zhang (Resource Geologist) is joined by Hamish Guthrie (Mining Engineer) to explore how resource geologists can better understand and contribute to mine planning. From the importance of resource classification to the value of including waste domain data, Hamish shares insights from over 25 years of experience in mining operations and consulting. They also discuss the benefits of adding more geological detail - even in early-stage projects - and how small decisions in modelling can have major downstream implications. Whether you're a resource geologist, mine planner, or simply curious about how modelling feeds into real-world mining strategies, this episode offers practical takeaways and fresh thinking. Key Points Covered 00:04 – Introduction 01:05 – The typical workflow of mine planning 02:00 – Why modifying factors and mining constraints matter 03:01 – Resource classifications: how confidence impacts planning 05:00 – Adding more detail to the resource model: is it worth it? 06:00 – Should we model waste domains? 07:25 – What mine planners really want from geologists 08:30 – Including depletion, sterilised zones and geotechnical data 09:30 – ESG and the importance of understanding waste rock behaviour 10:00 – Geological inputs that influence plant performance 11:00 – Why even limited early data is valuable 11:40 – Final thoughts and podcast close 🔔 Subscribe to stay updated on future episodes 👍 Like, comment, and share to pass this information on to those who might be interested in this topic. If you would like to contact Greg and Hamish: contact(at)snowdenoptiro.com Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE for more straight-talking episodes from the world of mining and geology. Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro is available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Libsyn and all your favourite podcast platforms. Snowden Optiro is a resources consulting and advisory group that provides independent advice, consulting and training to mining and exploration companies, their advisors and investors. We help mine developers to advance their projects, mining companies to improve their operations and their professionals, and investors to de-risk their investments by the provision of quality advice, training and software in the field of Mineral Resources and Mineral/Ore Reserves. For training or consulting enquiries: training(at)snowdenoptiro.com  and  contact(at)snowdenoptiro.com https://snowdenoptiro.com/