Electrical Prospecting

By means of electrical geophysical methods it is possible to obtain a great deal of valuable information regarding the extent, depth and general type of mineralization present on a property. It is not a question, however, of how much information may be obtained from a geophysical survey, but only a question of conducting the survey and examination to such a stage that gives the most optimum return on the expenditure, considering the entire development program. The experience of the writer to date is that ordinarily the most information for the least expenditure can be obtained by locating the plan view of the conductors (the mineralized zones) and determining their approximate depth and width. Such work can be done at the rate of about 8 to 25 acres per day (with the usual four men field crew) depending upon topographic conditions and amount and type of mineralization present. The information derived from such work may now be studied in connection with the geology and known ore occurrence of the district and the exploration program more efficiently carried out. In some cases, however, more complete studies were required lasting over a period of months. In addition consideration must be given the training and personnel of the company for whom the work is being conducted.