Underground Mining - Frequently Asked Questions

What is an exploratory decline?
An exploratory decline is a tunnel that angles below the ground in the present mining lease, with an end point into the existing ore body. It is used to appraise ground conditions, rock mass characteristics and to assist with mine design.

What did the feasibility study cover?
The study prepared Argyle for a decision in 2005 about the feasibility of underground mining. It detailed a range of social, environmental, technical and economic matters, each of which relate to an underground project.

What does the underground mine mean for the life of Argyle?
Argyle's open pit had a scheduled life to 2008. There may be a further low grade open pit option in conjunction with the underground option. More >