Ep:123. Why Sampling Can Make or Break a Mine - Part 1 of 3

In this first of three episodes on sampling, Ian Glacken (Executive Consultant at Snowden Optiro) speaks with Mark Murphy (Manager of Geological Services at IGO), about why sampling is one of the most critical – yet often under-taught – skills in geology. From gold to base metals, exploration to mine geology, Mark shares four decades of experience on how sampling impacts decision-making, project economics, and geological understanding. This podcast at a glance:  00:00 – Introduction to Mark Murphy and the 3-part series 01:02 – Why sampling is vital for geologists 03:36 – Lessons from gold mining and coarse gold challenges 05:49 – How sampling principles apply across all commodities 07:38 – Key differences between exploration and mine geologists 10:33 – Precision, accuracy, and representativity in grade control 13:52 – Advice for young geologists to build sampling skills Keep tuned for Parts 2 and 3 of this Sampling series. Have a question or want to get in touch? Contact us: [email protected] Explore more: https://snowdenoptiro.com/ 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more technical mining insights from our global consulting team. LINK to Snowden Optiro Professional Development courses - Look for the Sampling Theory and Best Practice course: https://snowdenoptiro.com/professional-development/ You can find our Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro podcasts on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcast platforms. WHO WE ARE: 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 contact(at)snowdenoptiro.com