Basic and Intermediate Exploration

If there are favourable signs of above normal mineral evels, basic and intermediate exploration will begin. Geological mapping and aerial surveys will be used to obtain detailed geological data. Geophysical and geochemical tests on the ground will detect the possible presence of valuable minerals through measurements of electrical conductivity, magnetic fields, or sampling of rock, soil or water. Explorationists may explore rock formations by extracting core samples with a diamond drill, stripping (removing soil and vegetation) or trenching (removal of rock using jack hammers and explosives). Note: stripping and trenching usually covers only a few metres of ground.

Ontario's mineral reserves, particularly in base metals, are being depleted faster than they are being replenished. As a result, exploration is critical both to develop additional reserves near existing mining operations and for the discovery of new ore bodies.