Exploration Under Cover: Navigating the Complexities of Mineral Exploration in Glaciated Terrain

Presented by: Dave Sacco, SLR Consulting Ltd.

Summary: Most mineral exploration projects in Canada occur in previously glaciated areas and must integrate the effects of glacial processes into exploration strategies. Bedrock is often concealed beneath thick deposits of glacial sediments, presenting significant challenges to exploration. Industry-standard exploration techniques, such as soil sampling, are complicated by sediment displacement during glaciation and the diversity of glacial sediment types. Successfully exploring glaciated terrain requires a comprehensive understanding of glacial dynamics and their impact on sediment distribution and composition, as well as appropriate data collection and evaluation methods to identifying the dispersion of mineralized bedrock within the overburden.

To address these challenges, this one-day short course is designed to equip explorers with the necessary knowledge and skills to formulate effective exploration strategies and generate reliable drill targets under glacial cover. The course provides foundational insights into glacial processes and their role in sediment development and distribution. Participants will learn about the spectrum of glacial activities—from mechanical erosion and glacial entrainment to the primary deposition of till and subsequent modifications by meltwater and other post-depositional processes. Importantly, we will emphasize how these processes influence indicator mineral and geochemical concentrations.

Finally, participants will be shown how to leverage these fundamental principles to develop a data-driven exploration approach to support initiatives at both regional and property scales. Tailored strategies for surface and subsurface sample collection and data evaluation will be discussed. Attendees will gain a deeper appreciation of the complexities of the surficial environment, better preparing them to navigate the challenges of exploration under glacial cover. Ultimately, this knowledge can be used to reduce the risks associated with exploring under cover and shorten timelines to reliable targets.