In addition to precise whole rock geochemical analyses, an understanding of the timing of geological events is critical to understanding the geological evolution of an area. The temporal elements of this project will be addressed using radiometric dating techniques, mostly Ar-Ar. Additional samples will be submitted in this fiscal year for precise dating to augment those received in the last fiscal year and dated by the Ar-Ar method. Some critical stratigraphic units are beyond the age range for which Ar-Ar dating techniques. For these samples, dating will be done by U-Pb extraction of zircons or other techniques as deemed most appropriate for the age and type of rock being dated. Assistance will be given to the Chileans in terms of sample choice and sample processing through teleconferencing with Mr. Mike Villeneuve (GSC Ottawa).
First Quarter Action Items:
- Obtain time schedule for receipt of samples and estimate of numbers of samples to be sent at various times and type of dating required (e.g. Zircon).
Third Quarter Action Items:
< Determine if all samples have been sent.
Fourth Quarter Action Items:
D.97/C-4 |
Geophysical training in 3 dimensional modelling or gravity and aeromagnetic using Magi xl and oasis (GeoSoft) |
Chile |
$17,960 |
ongoing |
Budget change (October 1, 1997) |
no change |
$17,960 |
ongoing |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
-7,260 |
$10,700 |
Geophysical techniques are one of the ways three dimensional understanding of the geology of a region can be obtained.
First Quarter Action Items:
- Obtain software Magix vs. 3 and Oasis
- Arrange for training in three dimensional geophysical analysis.
Second Quarter Action Items:
< Evaluate need for geophysical expertise to assist in formulation of new geophysical group and identify training needs.
< Verify modules needed of Magi xl and Oasis and order.
< Translate and send questionnaire to help establish course(s) and expertise needed.
Fourth Quarter Action Items:
D.97/C-5 |
Fluid inclusion training and equipment |
Chile |
$28,500 |
ongoing |
Budget change (October 1, 1997) |
+1,500 |
$30,000 |
ongoing |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
-5,343 |
$23,157 |
Fluid inclusions are small trapped pockets of fluids within minerals. Determining the fluids that are contained within these small trapped bubbles helps understand the evolution of the minerals themselves. Understanding the evolution, or growth, of these minerals helps determine the evolution of potentially ore-bearing fluids. The analysis of these fluids provides critical clues to the understanding of the evolution of an ore deposit. The Chileans already poses a high level of expertise in fluid inclusion work.
First Quarter Action Items:
- Order necessary equipment.
- Arrange for specific training if required/requested.
Second Quarter Action Items:
Fluid Inc. Chosen as supplier of equipment - to be ordered in September
Third Quarter Action Items:
< Order equipment. No training is required.
Fourth Quarter Action Items:
D.97/C-6 |
Laboratory Equipment |
Chile |
$40,000 |
ongoing |
Budget change (October 1, 1997) |
no change |
$40,000 |
ongoing |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
no change |
$40,000 |
SERNAGEOMIN laboratories operate at a high level of international standards. However, there are some shortcomings in their operational capacity and ability that can be addressed by the acquisition of specific analytical equipment and possibly additional training.
First Quarter Action Items:
- Order necessary equipment (Frantz separator and micro balance).
- Arrange for specific training if required/requested.
Second Quarter Action Items:
Chileans sent specs on equipment- obtaining quotation. PO to go out in July.
Third Quarter Action Items:
< Equipment ordered and awaiting delivery. Follow-up on delivery date.
< Arrange for shipment by most expeditious method.
Fourth Quarter Action Items:
D.96/P-16 |
Palaeontological training and age determinations |
Peru |
$55,460 |
ongoing |
Budget change (October 1, 1997) |
-45,000 |
$10,460 |
complete |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
-54,508 |
$952 |
When producing geological maps age control is of paramount importance. Many ore deposits are associated with rock of a specific type or age. In order to make these correlations, lithological, geochemical and age dating must be carried out simultaneously. In regions that contain igneous and volcanic rocks age determinations are obtained through radiometric dating techniques. In regions that contain significant amounts of sediments the most cost effective way to obtain age control is through Palaeontological means. Under this activity samples containing micro fossils will be analysed and training will be given in the interpretation and laboratory techniques employed to obtain micro fossils.
First Quarter Action Items:
- Obtain time schedule for receipt of samples and estimate of numbers of samples to be sent at various times and types of fossils.
- Dependent on fossil types to be sent, set up appropriate contracts.
Third Quarter Action Items:
< Samples expected from Cuzco have not arrived. Follow-up
< Any additional samples to be processed must be received before December 15, 1997.
Fourth Quarter Action Items:
D.96/P-17 |
On-site training in digital manipulation, large format printing and map production |
Peru |
$8,000 |
ongoing |
Budget change (October 1, 1997) |
no change |
$8,000 |
ongoing |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
no change |
$8,000 |
Digital manipulation of data is a prime importance in the production of new and modern geological maps. The ability of the Peruvians to handle digital data will be upgraded through the purchase of equipment and through specific focused training on the use of the equipment to be purchased.
First Quarter Action Items:
- Radarsat imagery to be purchased.
Second Quarter Action Items:
Images not yet purchased. Will purchase after Peruvian field season
Third Quarter Action Items:
< Image coordinates have not been sent, they must be received before contract can be drawn up to procure images.
< Training under GLOBESAR II Radarsat imaging given late September. Follow-up on course.
Fourth Quarter Action Items:
D.96/P-18 |
Laboratory training and upgrading of laboratory (Hg environmental detection?) |
Peru |
$31,000 |
ongoing |
Budget change (October 1, 1997) |
no change |
$31,000 |
ongoing |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
+2,836 |
$33,836 |
The INGEMMET has indicated a need to upgrade their laboratory facilities in Lima, Peru. They have also expressed a desire to increase their ability to detect mercury. Mercury is a prime environmental contaminant. Initially assistance will be given in the interpretation of geochemical results.
First Quarter Action Items:
- Obtain list of equipment required
- Determine technical assistance required.
Second Quarter Action Items:
Equipment not yet purchased. Will purchase after Peruvian field season
Third Quarter Action Items:
< Equipment list received and will be ordered.
Fourth Quarter Action Items:
D.96/P-19 |
Precision dating by Zircon, Ar-Ar or other techniques as applicable |
Peru |
$25,000 |
ongoing |
Budget change (October 1, 1997) |
no change |
$25,000 |
complete |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
-15,000 |
$10,000 |
In addition to precise whole rock geochemical analyses, an understanding of the timing of geological events is critical to understanding the geological evolution of an area. The temporal elements of this project will be addressed using radiometric dating techniques for crystalline rocks (dating of sedimentary rocks will be through fossils). Assistance will be given to the Peruvians in terms of sample choice and sample processing through teleconferencing with Mr. Mike Villeneuve (GSC Ottawa) and discussions with Dr. Steve Gordey.
First Quarter Action Items:
- Obtain time schedule for receipt of samples and estimate of numbers of samples to be sent at various times and type of dating required (K-Ar, Ar-Ar, Zircon)
- Set up new standing offer for K-Ar analyses through Geochronology Laboratory, University of British Columbia and ensure sufficient funds are available in the Standing Offer to complete anticipated type and number of analyses.
Third Quarter Action Items:
< Samples to be sent for processing.
Fourth Quarter Action Items:
D.96/P-20 |
Precision analytical whole rock analyses for major, trace and rare earth elements |
Peru |
$8,750 |
ongoing |
Budget change (October 1, 1997) |
-7,000 |
$1,750 |
complete |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
-8609 |
$141 |
In order to assist the exploration community in focussing their exploration efforts, it is absolutely imperative that an understanding of the geological evolution of a region is acquired. It is through understanding the geological evolution of a region that focused exploration can progress. Specific types of geological features may be associated with mineralization or provide a control on the distribution of ore bodies. Volcanoes can have differing chemical signatures and origins - some associated with ore forming fluids, other not. Within this project, acquisition of excellent analytical data on rocks (particularly analyses of volcanic rocks) contained within the project area is of prime importance in helping to elucidate the relationships between various volcanic strata and mineralization. The Peruvians propose that over the next few years a significant number of samples will be analysed for a complete suite of major, minor and trace elements. A sub-set of these samples will be analysed for rare earth elements. Help for the Peruvians in the interpretation of the results will be through the Volcanology short course give at UBC June 9-12.
First Quarter Action Items:
- Obtain time schedule for receipt of samples and estimate of numbers of samples to be sent at various times.
- Set up new standing offer for petrogenetic quality geochemical analyses and ensure sufficient funds are available in the Standing Offer to complete anticipated number of analyses.
Third Quarter Action Items:
< Few igneous rock outcrop in map area thus limiting the number of samples to be sent. Check on actual number of samples to be sent (if any).
Fourth Quarter Action Items:
Project Management
Activity # |
Summary of Activities |
Country |
Budget |
Budget by Purpose |
Status |
PM |
Project Management |
$110,172 |
|||
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
-4,529 |
$105,643 |
PM.97/M-1 |
Preparation of final report (1996/97) and 1st quarter forecast |
Canada |
$3,150 |
Complete |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
+2,535 |
$5,685 |
PM.97/M-2 |
Preparation of 1st quarter financial report (April-June) and 2nd quarter forecast (July-Sept) |
Canada |
$1,050 |
Complete |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
-329 |
$721 |
PM.97/M-3 |
Preparation and attendance at mid year Executive Council Meeting |
Canada |
$11,500 |
Complete |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
+445 |
$11,945 |
PM.97/M-4 |
Preparation of mid-year report and 2nd quarter financial report (July-Sept) and 3rd quarter forecast (Oct-Dec) |
Canada |
$1,750 |
Complete |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
-315 |
$1,435 |
PM.97/M-5 |
Preparation of 3rd quarter (Oct-Dec) financial report and 4th quarter forecast (Jan-March) |
Canada |
$1,050 |
Complete |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
-172 |
$878 |
PM.97/M-6 |
Preparation and attendance at end-of-year Executive Council Meeting, preparation of Annual Work plan (including 4 year budget projection) |
Canada |
$2,100 |
Ongoing |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
No Change |
$2100 |
PM.97/M-8 |
Database management |
Canada |
$1,050 |
Complete |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
-1,050 |
0 |
PM.97/M-9 |
Annual Work plan 1998-1999 (March 15, 1997) including financial forecasts for project |
Canada |
$7,100 |
Ongoing |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
-3,000 |
$4,100 |
PM.97/M-10 |
Project Administration |
Canada |
$81,422 |
Ongoing |
Budget change (January 1, 1998) |
-2,643 |
$78,779 |
Project management will be carried out by the Geological Survey of Canada under the direction of Project Manager, Dr. Catherine Hickson. The goal of project management will be to provide effective and efficient management. Under project management the various reports requested by CIDA will be completed in addition to keeping strict financial control over the project.
First Quarter Action Items:
- Year end report to be completed and 1997/98 workplans reviewed and project activities modified for new fiscal year.
- Database system to be implemented and training taken
- Financial training to be taken.
- Revise four year financial plan reviewed and submitted with year end report
- Planning for Executive Council meeting in Antofogasta to be started
Second Quarter Action Items:
Year end and 1st quarter report completed and submitted
Rescheduling of mid-year Executive Council meeting begun and organizing meeting to coincide with Mines Ministers of the Americas hosted by Peru.
financial system fully functional and training complete, some follow-up training to be taken in this quarter.
Third Quarter Action Items:
< Second quarter report completed and budget revised, calender of event revised.
< Organized and participated in mid-year Executive Council meeting, Arequipa, Peru September 20-21.
< Planning for next executive council meeting to be completed in next quarter (Vancouver, January 1998).
< Develop questionnaire to assess effectiveness of training.
< Follow-up on volcanology short course questionnaire.
< Establish verifiable indicators.
Fourth Quarter Action Items:
Revised Detailed Budget Forecast Table to March 31, 1998
Equipment to be Procured to March 31, 1998
Revised Calendar of Activities for1997/98 Fiscal Year
ANNEX A
Third Quarter Detailed Financial Report
Itemized Expenditure Report
Argentina Activity Report
Bolivia Activity Report
Chile Activity Report
Multi-country Activity Report
Peru Activity Report
Report Totals
Annex B
Mineral Deposits Field Trip Report
Al Sangster and Andre Panteleyev
MULTINATIONAL ANDEAN PROJECT
Andre Panteleyev. Ph.D., P.Eng.
XDM Geological Consultants Inc.
1678 Hillview Avenue
Victoria, B.C., Canada V8N 2 N5
Tel: (250) 477-8192 , Fax: (250) 477-7125
Dr. Al Sangster
Geological Survey of Canada
601 Booth Street
Ottawa Ontario, Canada K1A 0E8
Tel:(613) 992-8603, Fax (613) 996-9820
MULTINATIONAL PARTICIPANTS TOUR OF MINES
- PERU and CHILE , October 31 - November 08, 1997
MINE VISIT REPORT - Andre Panteleyev & Al Sangster
Summary
A field trip consisting of mine visits and involving delegates from all 5 nations participating in the Multinational Andean Project was conducted successfully. The trip was well organized and highly instructive; a number of the largest, most spectacular and geologically interesting copper mines in South America were visited. A separate technical report is being prepared collaboratively by the Canadian participants.
Purpose
A fieldtrip to a number of the major copper mines in southern Perú and northern Chile was arranged for participants from all five Project member nations; the second and concluding part of the mine visits in Bolivia and Argentina is planned for late 1998. The trip was intended primarily to familiarize geologists from the various national surveys with the major ore deposits and main types of mineral deposits likely to be found in the Project areas. The exercise provided an opportunity for individual professional development and, more importantly, led to multinational discussions and team building within the Project. The visits also served to introduce mine staffs to the Multinational Andean Project and to familiarize the visiting geologists with the professional capabilities and requirements of their colleagues in the mining and exploration industry, and vica versa. More facile and direct personal interaction between geologists of the Surveys and members of industry is the desired outcome.
Participants and Logistics
The trip was attended by 13 geologists; 2 additional geologists from INGEMMET (E. Boulanger, J. Chira) accompanied the group in Perú to assist with logistics. The trip convened October 31 in Cuzco, Perú and ended November 07 in Antofagasta, Chile. Travel was by tour bus under contract individually in Perú and Chile to MAP; the Arica to Antofagasta travel was by air via Iquique. Participants were:
Argentina: Rafael González, Eulogio (León) Ramallo
Bolivia: Jose Luis Argandona, Oscar Flores
Chile: Alejandro Diaz, Paul Duhart, Rodrigo Carrasco, German Pineda
Perú: Mario Carpio, Robert Monge
Canada: Mike Ellerbeck, Andre Panteleyev, Al Sangster
Mines visited:
(Perú) Tintaya - BHP Tintaya S.A. [BHP Copper], conventional mill skarn copper
Cerro Verde - Cyprus Amax, SX-EW porphyry copper
Caujone - Southern Peru Copper Corporation, conventional mill and
SX-EW porphyry copper
(Chile) Escondida - Minera Escondida Ltda. [BHP, RTZ Corporation and others],
conventional and SX-EW porphyry copper
Chuquicamata - CODELCO, conventional and SX-EW porphyry copper
Mina Sur - CODELCO, SX-EW exotic copper deposit
El Abra - Sociedad Contractual Minera El Abra, SX-EW porphyry copper
Organization
Al Sangster, in concert with country representatives and M. Ellerbeck, established a carefully constructed and well thought out trip itinerary and schedule. By good planning the trip followed a logical progression starting with new, large mines followed by even larger ones and, finally, the world-class, largest and most spectacular mines. INGEMMET and SERNAGEOMIN assumed much of the responsibility for arranging travel and other logistic matters in their own countries. The role of Ellerbeck for daily planning and execution of the trip was crucial; his ability to address and resolve unexpected problems and challenges, and to arrive expeditiously at ad hoc solutions, was a critical component in the successful outcome.
All requisites of a well-organized fieldtrip were in place: guidebooks were prepared, introductory talks on metallogeny of Perú and Chile delivered, and the mines to be visited on the agenda were arrived at roughly on schedule.
The style of mine visits followed a fairly universal pattern: arrival at minesite by bus was followed by safety/security clearance, technical talk(s), drive by tour bus to an overview lookout for a photo opportunity, (usually) a pit visit and examination of outcrops, and group meal in the company of tour leaders and invited technical staff. This style of visit was generally satisfactory as most mine staff were receptive, prepared and enthusiastic about explaining their work and presenting a good corporate image. The sole regrettable exception was Escondida where the tour was handled by the public relations office. They completely failed to understand the expectations of this tour group of professional geoscientists and presented a glossy but technically insipid public relations show. Organizers of future trips should specify to mine authorities that the visit requested is a technical tour that should include geological or engineering staff and that visits to pits and outcroppings are necessary and that the requested tour is not a visit by tourists. (This point is of such significance it is repeated in the section on Recommendations).
Training
The trip was structured to provide a number of scheduled, formal technical presentations by mine staff and to elicit comments by tour guides during pit visits. Many additional instructive opportunities arose through informal discussions and casual question-and-answer sessions, mainly with the Canadian participants during the course of the pit visits and ensuing communal meals and extended travel periods. At the start of the trip many particpants were rather passive during mine tours about soliciting information additional to that provided in talks by mine staff; a number were less than ambitious about breaking and examining rocks in the pits. Progressively during the tour the more experienced (generally older) tour members, notably Sangster and myself, set an example by our behavior and tried to motivate the tour members by asking questions of them and mine staff, challenging certain statements and observations, aggressively traversing pit benches and breaking and examining rocks, collecting representative specimens, and pursuing additional opportunities to visit other, unscheduled sites of interest.
Formal instruction to the group included two short lectures in English, ably translated by Al Sangster. An introductory talk delivered in Cuzco at the university discussed the role of exploration-oriented geological surveys - their scientific purpose, work methodology, and the types of products expected by industry from government agencies. Additional discussion outlined the main questions to pose during the mine tours and topics to consider regarding economic geology. Copies of a satellite colour image of the northern Andes were distributed to tour participants and a number of on looking geology students. A concluding discussion was delivered at El Abra mine in which the (three) fundamental attributes of porphyry copper systems were reviewed: 1. the genetic and spatial relationship of ore to intrusions, 2. the importance of stockworks and 3. the recognition of large zoned metal patterns. In this discussion the surface appearance to the mapping geologist of these critical aspects of mineralization in outcrop was stressed. The question posed to delegates was: "What do we see/look for in outcrop when mapping that indicates underlying porphyry copper mineralization ?"
A hands-on demonstration of a field mapping technique for quantifying and assessing the importance of (mineralized) stockworks was demonstrated in the Cerro Verde and Caujone pits. The application and practical use of this technique was of interest to a number of the participants and some mine staff.
Review of Mine Visits
Technical and scientific aspects, including ore reserve figures and some production cost information gathered during this tour, are summarized in a separate communal report principally authored by Al Sangster.
Annex C
Report on Field Work in Chile with SERNAGEOMIN
Lisel Currie
Dr. Lisel Currie
Geological Survey of Canada
1997 Fieldwork Report
by Lisel Currie
for the
LOW TEMPERATURE COOLING,
DENUDATION AND SURFACE UPLIFT STUDY
OF THE CHILEAN CORDILLERA,
BETWEEN LATITUDES 26OS AND 28OS
Purpose
This study will determine the denudation and surface uplift histories of the Chilean Cordillera, along an east-west transect between latitudes 26oS and 28oS. The results will be based on low temperature cooling histories determined from apatite fission track analysis, in conjunction with K-Ar and Ar-Ar biotite cooling ages, and other geologic constraints. By determining uplift rates, the faults that have accommodated differential uplift may be identified, and their ages constrained. Because some of the faults may have acted as conduits for mineralizing fluids, this information may help guide future mineral exploration.
Fieldwork in 1997
December 4-5: Santiago
I explained the fission track method of dating and determining cooling, denudation and uplift histories to two SERNAGEOMIN geologists, Sergio Iriarte and Jorge Clavero. We then planned our sampling program. I also had the good fortune to meet Dr. Andrew (Andy) Tomlinson, also of SERNAGEOMIN, who generously shared his unpublished apatite fission track data from the Chilean Cordillera, near 26oS. This information helped us plan our sample collection strategy more effectively.
December 6-17: Copiapó area - from the west coast to the Chile-Argentina border
Thirty samples were collected for fission track analysis from an east-west transect across the Chilean Cordillera, between latitudes 26oS and 28oS. I spent the first 9 days with Sergio Iriarte, collecting samples from the western portion of the transect (from the Chilean Coast to the Sierra de Fraga, east of Copiapó). The following three days were spent collecting samples with Jorge Clavero in the high Cordillera, near the Chile-Argentina border (Sergio Iriarte joined us on the last day).
Wherever possible, samples were collected from near-by sites separated by at least 300m of elevation. The difference in elevation is extremely useful for the interpretation of fission track data.
While we were in the field, Sergio and Jorge gave me excellent introductions to the geology of the Copiapó area and Andes to the east, respectively. This information will be critical to the interpretation of the fission track data.
December 18: I returned to Santiago, where I discussed the results of our fieldwork with Moyra Gardeweg.
December 19: I returned to Canada.
Follow-up
Samples 1-25 will be processed for mineral separates in Chile by SERNAGEOMIN. Mineral separates of apatite, zircon, biotite, and in some cases potassium feldspar separates will be saved. Samples 26-30 will be processed later (see Possible Additional Research, below). If there are any funding restrictions, the following 18 apatite separates will be sent to the Dalhousie University Fission Track Laboratory for analysis as soon as they are ready:
SJL-97-2, SJL-97-3, SJL-97-4, SJL-97-5, SJL-97-6, SJL-97-8, SJL-97-9, SJL-97-10, SJL-97-14, SJL-97-17, SJL-97-18, SJL-97-19, SJL-97-20, SJL-97-25, SJL-97-26, SJL-97-27, SJL-97-28, SJL-97-30.
On the basis of the results from these samples, we will be able to decide which of the remaining 12 samples should be analysed. However, if possible, all samples should be analysed.
At least some of the results of the study will be published in the SERNAGEOMINs annual publication. Some results may be published in outside journals.
Possible Additional Research
1. Determination of cooling, denudation and uplift histories would be greatly enhanced by zircon fission track ages for the samples from the 1997 transect. There are no labs in Canada that do zircon fission track analysis, so we would have to send the samples elsewhere for analysis.
2. Samples collected from Paleozoic plutons may contain xenocrystic zircons, the ages of which would shed light on the ages of the rocks that they intruded. The GSC SHRIMP could be used to determine the ages of the cores of the xenocrysts. Samples of Paleozoic rocks will not be processed for mineral separates until it is decided whether or not there is interest in this possible additional research because the GSC lab prefers to do their own mineral separations.
Possible Future Research
1. The fission track results for the samples collected in 1997 may indicate that additional fission track samples will be useful for the understanding of the denudation and uplift histories of the Cordillera between latitudes 26oS and 28oS. Also, we were unable to collect three samples that we had hoped to collect because the heavy rains of the past winter had washed out access roads.
2. Scientifically, the most interesting follow up to the 1997 transect would be a transect across the Chilean Cordillera between 28o30'S and 30oS (south of the latitude of the 1997 transect), because there is a significant change in structural style and geomorphology between the areas north and south of ~28oS. These changes are probably due to the decrease in the dip of the Nazca plate south of 28oS, which also resulted in a gap in arc volcanism in the south, starting in late Tertiary time (Barazangi and Isacks, 1976). A fission track study to compare the rates of uplift and ages of structures between the two transects may provide insight into the different deformation histories that resulted in two different structural and geomorphological provinces, north and south of ~28oS.
3. If Sergio and Jorge are going to continue to use fission track analysis for their research, I believe that they would benefit from visiting the Dalhousie Fission Track Laboratory, where they could see first-hand how apatite mounts are prepared, and tracks are counted and measured. While they are in Canada, it might also be useful for them to take a field trip across the Canadian Cordillera. I would also encourage Sergio and Jorge to attend the next International Fission Track Workshop, which will be held in Australia in the year 2000, if possible. There, they will be able to present their results, and meet fission track experts working in other parts of the world.
REFERENCES
Barazangi and Isacks, 1976. Spatial distribution of earthquakes and subduction of the Nazca plate beneath South America. Geology, v. 4, p. 686-692.
Annex D
Report on Field Work in Argentina with SEGEMAR
Andre Panteleyev
Andre Panteleyev
XDM Geological Consultants Inc.
1678 Hillview Avenue
Victoria, B.C., Canada, V8N 2N5
Tel: (250) 477-8192 , Fax: (250) 477-7125
January 12, 1998
\xdm reports\97-10CIDAreport.doc
MULTINATIONAL ANDEAN PROJECT
Summary of Field Program With Recommendations For Future Work
" Puna Catamarqueña Comision", November 09 - December 05, 1997,
- Cordillera De San Buenaventura and Antofalla Districts, Catamarca, Argentina
by Andre Panteleyev
Summary
Fieldwork as part of the Multinational Andean Project (MAP) was conducted in the Puna geologic province of the Andes Mountains during the last two weeks of November, 1997. The work was in Catamarca Province in the Cordillera de San Buenaventura and southern Salar de Antofalla regions. The SEGEMAR field party consisted of staff from the La Rioja (O.E. Cravero, D. Vargas), Cordoba (H. Lopez) and Tucuman (J. Loza S.) Delegations, and the writer on behalf of MAP. The group assembled in Tucuman November 10 for discussions, planning, review of reports and information about previous work, and examination of some stored drill core. Departure for the field took place on November 13 and the return date was November 29. Work in the field was staged from the villages of Antofagasta de la Sierra and Antofalla; baquaenos and mules were hired locally for a short period. Following work in the field five days were spent in the Tucuman Delegation office for debriefing, report writing and planning for future work.
Three sites of interest, all with a history of past geological and mineral exploration work by government agencies, mainly in the 1970s and early 80s, were selected for examination and visited. These were: La Borita [N.O.A.1 Reserve No.13; Catamarca Geological and Mining Map District No. 12]; La Hoyada [N.O.A.1 Reserve No.38; Catamarca Geological and Mining Map District No.13]; and Aguas Dulces [no N.O.A.1 Reserve nor Catamarca Geological and Mining Map District listing]. In addition an opportunity was pursued to tour the active exploration project near the height of land a few kilometres southeast of Volcan Antofalla, near the silver vein prospect of the Antofalla Este Reserve [N.O.A.1 Reserve No.5; Catamarca Geological and Mining Map District No.5]. The current exploration work is testing a newly-recognized advanced argillic epithermal alteration system for its gold potential in a rhyolite flow-dome complex. A fourth site of interest, an alteration zone and gold geochemical anomaly discovered during previous regional mapping by SEGEMAR to the west of Cerro Peinado, could not be reached during this campaign due to impassable road conditions; examination of this zone should be rescheduled.
The main purpose of these visits and examinations is two-fold. In the short term it provides a reassessment of the economic potential of the known alteration/mineralization zones and offers opinion, and possibly new interpretations, about the types of deposits and their origins and the style of alteration - a classification and genetic modeling exercise. In the longer term this work will generate new petrochemical, mineralogical and radiometric age data from samples collected from the mineral deposits and host lithologies. The information will assist fundamental metallogenic research and provide guides for future mineral exploration. Altogether the reassessed and newly gained information will assist the evaluation of regional mineral potential for the various types of mineral deposits likely to occur in the region and, when summarized and made available to the public through publications, will identify prospective areas to which mineral exploration might be attracted in the future.
Background
The field party convened in Tucuman for discussions and preparation for fieldwork. It is reassuring that concerns raised in the recent past about safety, style of work, equipment and other considerations and concerns about fieldwork have been addressed. Preparation/discussion time prior to fieldwork was adequate, the crew size ensured personal support for all members in case of difficulties in the field, effective communication could be maintained in the field by newly-acquired satellite telephone units, and the vehicles and field equipment were adequate.
The field party consisted of:
Osvaldo E. Cravero, La Rioja Delegation Party chief
Hector Lopez Cordoba Delegation Geologist
Andre Panteleyev MAP Mineral deposits geologist
Jose Loza Sanchez Tucuman Delegation Prospector and guide
Domingo Vargas La Rioja Delegation Driver and cook
Roque Cardoso El Peñon Baquaeno
Guillermo Cardoso El Peñon Baquaeno
The project was scheduled for the period November 10 to December 05, 1997. The distribution of time was:
Travel to and during fieldwork 9.5 days
Field logistics/office work 4
Tucuman office 7
Fieldwork 6.5
Project total 27 days
Samples Taken for Analysis
Samples taken during fieldwork have arrived in Vancouver from Tucuman by way of Buenos Aires and are being processed for various analytical procedures in Canadian laboratories. The collection of reference hand samples, thin section specimens and analytical samples includes:
- 12 whole rock samples for petrochemical and geochemical (total silicate) major
oxide analyses and minor element characterization
- 5 rock specimens for mineral separates and 2 primary alunite (mineralization)
for radiometric dating (K/Ar and Ar/Ar)
- 3 Pb-bearing samples for lead isotope analysis
- 4 samples for XRD mineralogy of ore and alteration minerals
Summary Conclusions About Visited Prospects
La Borita is a mineralogical curiosity but offers minimal economic potential. Metals, notably lead and some copper, are evidently deposited in a hotspring environment as chloride, sulphate and oxide minerals within a small, very young (post ashflow) evaporite basin setting in which geothermal activity took place. Some later siliceous carbonate veins with manganese minerals are superimposed on the altered rocks along the north-southerly axis of hydrothermal fluid pathways. If rock geochemical analyses indicate potential for deeper epithermal style mineralization, only gold and silver deposits are economically viable at this location.
La Hoyada - the Descubridora and nearby workings in the Cerro Azul-Decubridora-Puesto Hoyada corridor occur in an east-westerly trending zone of fracturing with a width of about 200 metres. In this zone a diffuse array of small base metal quartz-carbonate veins and a number of narrow, hornblende biotite feldspar dykes are emplaced. However the presence of the few weakly-altered feldspar porphyry and other rare, small siliceous dykes do not suggest significant potential for intrusion-related porphyry copper style mineralization in the area. A zonation in quartz vein mineralogy over a vertical interval of 100 to 200 metres, with iron-rich carbonate and quartz at higher elevations and lesser carbonate, more clay/sericite, some pyrite and various types of quartz vein-filling, including both granular and chalcedonic quartz, suggest the veins have an epithermal affinity. An alkalic (hornblende-sanidine) porphyry, shown on some geological maps as a very young lava unit about 3 kilometres in length, is now recognized to be an intrusion. It reveals the presence of alkalic magmatism in this zone but the magma was apparently not hydrous and the potential for mineralization with these alkalic intrusions seems to be negligible. If this alkalic intrusion returns an Upper Miocene date (~ 8 to10 Ma) then a correlation with Farallon Negro magmatism will be established for these rocks.
Aguas Dulces is a zone of gently east-dipping Calchaquense (Miocene) redbeds that has been intruded by a series of hornblende biotite feldspar porphyry sills up to 30 metres in thickness. Alteration in the sills consists of weak chloritization of mafic minerals and the presence of gypsum on fractures. There are minimal contact thermal or hydrothermal alteration effects evident along the sill contacts. Rare debris of epidote-hematite-diopside? skarn, and sandstone with chrysocolla on fractures was found and this type of mineralization seems to account for the weak geochemical anomalies in the area.
Antofalla Este (quartz-alunite) alteration zone, at elevations 500 metres and more above the previously explored argentiferous lead-zinc-manganese-bearing quartz veins, is a highly instructive site in terms of regional exploration potential and mineral deposits modeling. The alteration forms a resistant, spectacular vuggy silica and silicified breccia zone of advanced argillic type that is associated with a rhyolitic flow-dome in a
(? Pliocene) stratovolcano setting. It demonstrates the viability of exploration in even very young volcanic areas, given sufficient dissection to expose subvolcanic intrusions and some deeper structures.
Discussion and Recommendations
A dialogue and rationalization about the scientific objectives and type of mineral deposits work being done in this Project needs to address the following question:
What value is there in the current style of repetitious visits to known properties, and is there anything more that could be done?
It is readily evident that there is an enormous repository of information from past work on government Reserves (N.O.A.1), as well as other Provincial data, in the various Delegation offices. Much of the past geological and exploration work has been done in great detail, especially when dealing with veins, but much of the reporting is repetitive and few new insights in understanding about the geology appear to have resulted from the many successive visits. Despite the multitude of analyses for metals in rocks, and a plethora of very basic petrographic and mineralographic descriptions, the most important information currently sought, data for gold, are generally unreliable or not available.
The following actions are proposed:
5. Area selection for future work should come from discussions within SEGEMAR because the priorities assigned to different areas and deposits for study are best understood by the local authorities. Notably, the use of the regional geology mappers to provide information and advice about areas of alteration/mineralization encountered during mapping programs is an effective, and possibly under-utilized, approach for the identification of NEW areas for economic geology follow-up work (in this, and other, projects). Surely the geologists working recently on Socompa, Antofalla, Paso de San Francisco and Fiambala (1:250 000) map sheets have noted areas of alteration and economic interest.
As a practical consideration, priorities should be given to known prospects or new areas where strong silicification and epithermal-type alteration (both high- and low- sulphidation styles) are noted. A natural choice for follow-up investigation is areas in which the presence of reported or geochemically anomalous gold, and favourable settings for mineralization are recognized from mapping such as intersecting regional structures, presence of subvolcanic and/or porphyry intrusions, and especially the congruency of structurally controlled alteration zones and/or intrusions.
Specific areas of evident interest identified by the writers in post-fieldwork discussion with Tucuman SEGEMAR staff are quart-alunite alteration zones (some with visible gold) to the west of Antofalla in the Lago de Patos, Cerro Tebenquicho and Salar de Rio Grande regions. Other possibilities are the Cerro Peinado anomaly that was not visited during this campaign and the interesting-looking, highly coloured alteration zones west of Laguna Purulla. Many other areas of interest have been identified by SEGEMAR staff geologists.
Metallogenic Considerations and Comments
Much consideration during this project has been given to outlining lithostratigraphic units, notably the mineralized ones, and sampling them in order to characterize their petrochemistry. Samples were also sought from these units to provide material suitable for radiometric age determination. These new petrochemical and age data will contribute to the scientific understanding about the age of volcanic units, mineralized and other, and hopefully will enable regional correlation of lithologies that will identify them as interesting to the exploration community. When analytical results are completed they and other summary data should be published jointly by the project participants in SEGEMAR or outside publications, with clear identification of the MAP contribution.
The Argentinean Andes are in large part constructed on, and their tectonic history is dominated by, Paleozoic and older metamorphic basement rocks. There are large blocks of these rocks exposed over relatively large areas in major north-south ranges. These rocks should be examined for their stratabound base metal (SEDEX deposit) and sediment-hosted (Carlin type) gold potential.
The younger Andean superstructure is in large part terrigenous Tertiary basin-fill with a (surprisingly) thin volcanic cover of relatively young age, seemingly mainly Pliocene-Pleistocene to Recent. This volcanic cover seemingly lacks development (or exposure ?) of the large Miocene and older (mineralized) volcanic complexes and stratovolcanoes present elsewhere in the Andes, for example, Chile.
Backarc extensional with deep mantle-source alkalic magmas are evidently related in the Farallon Negro region to the boundary zone between flat and steeper-dipping subduction slabs. The tectonic significance of the La Hoyada alkalic intrusion(s) needs to be deliberated.
The overall basin and range style of north-south trending ranges offers poor deep exposure due to little dissection within the structural blocks. Much of the uplift exposes only terrigenous (Miocene) redbeds and the overlying younger volcanic cover obscures whatever might be interesting for exploration in other areas where there is little dissection. However, some areas, for example La Hoyada (see TM 1:100 000 mosaic), show stronger dissection and these areas offer better opportunities for useful exposure of deeper volcanic levels and intrusions.
A question arises about whether geological mapping in Paleozoic intrusive complexes is adequate to identify possible Tertiary intrusions within them? Have Tertiary intrusions been recognized in Palaeozoic and older stocks ?
The regional east-west/northwest-southeast transverse structures are very important sites for younger intrusive and other magmatic activity. These zones represent better potential for exploration success because both dissection with deeper exposure is evident and more porphyry/subvolcanic bodies with successive intrusive emplacements are present. Note in the Cordillera de San Buenaventura it appears that the eastern extension with Bajo de la Alumbrera, and other deposits, is offset about 35 km with right-lateral movement.
Summary of Mineralization Styles
Mineralization styles encountered, or likely to be present, in the project area consists of:
- Salars and evporite basins with Li, B, NaCl, sodium carbonate etc. potential
- Solfateras with native sulphur
- (Fossil) hotspring settings - La Borita as a rare example in a basinal setting. Are
there others with Hg, Au/Ag potential in structurally-controlled sites ?
- Exotic" copper oxide/carbonate/chrysocolla deposits, commonly with
manganese minerals
- High level epithermal gold-silver vein systems of low- and high-sulphidation
types. Note the low sulphidation (adularia-sericite-carbonate type produce
little readily-visible alteration and these deposits require extensive work on the
ground to find and explore. High-level subvolcanic flow-dome complexes
are favoured sites, as are real structures related to volcanism, for example
calderas.
- Intrusive related deposits - mainly porphyry copper ± gold and molybdenum
deposits; of lesser importance are the related base metal veins and skarn
deposits. All skarns should be checked for gold content, particularly where
retrograde chloritic overprinting is evident.
- Ordovician rocks offer considerable potential for SEDEX and volcanogenic
massive sulphide mineralization. This type of work requires a program
dedicated to a basin analysis style of geological program. Paleozoic rocks
and metamorphic zones within them commonly contain abundant quartz
veins.
Have the veins been tested for gold ? More significantly, have zones of white
debris derived from older rocks been checked to determine if some of what has
been assumed to be quartz is actually barite ?
A separate report dated December 05, 1997 summarizing this fieldwork has been submitted to SEGEMAR. The report can be referred to as:
Cravero, O.E., Lopez, H. and Panteleyev, A. (1997): Summary of Field Program and Observations with Recommendations, Puna Catamarqueña Comision, November 09 -December 05, 1997 - Cordillera De San Buenaventura and Antofalla Districts, Catamarca; Proyecto Multinacional Andino - Argentina, 13 pages, including appendix with sample descriptions.
Annex E
Verifiable Indicators and Baseline Data of Each Member Country
ARGENTINA
Project Goals |
Expected Results |
Means of verification |
Risks |
Baseline Data (prior to September 1996) |
Verifiable Indicators (September 1996 to September 1997) |
Economic and social development of depressed regions along the borders of the four participating countries, mainly through mine and infrastructure development. |
Increase in investment in mineral exploration and development in target regions. |
Reports from Agencies responsible for compiling information on mineral investment and activities. |
Political environment favourable for industry investment. Qualified personnel to administer the development of mineral resources. Mineral occurrences must be economically attractive for mine development. |
Prior to September 1996 in the province of Catamarca and within the area of the Project the land claims extended over an area of 939,305 Has. |
After September 1996, in the province of Catamarca, the following companies have staked the following claims: Bell Costa Capital Corp. 8,589 Has. Canadian Mining 2,000 Has. BHP 10,000 Has BHP 10,000 Has. TOTAL: 30,589 Has This indicates an increase of 3% in land claims in this province. After September 1996, in the province of Salta, the following companies staked claims shown: Corriente Argentina 7,000 Has. Argex 6,898 Has. Borax 2,000 Has. BHP 7,000 Has. Romani 729 Has Romani 5,000 Has. Taca Taca S.A. 368 Has. Borax Arg. 7,000 Has. TOTAL: 35,995 Has |
Project Purposes |
Outcomes |
Means of verification |
Risks |
Baseline Data (prior to September 1996) |
Verifiable Indicators (September 1996 to September 1997) |
Geological work leading to more compatible geoscience data within the four National Geoscience Surveys. |
Maps and reports using updated standards. |
Maps and reports prepared by the participating countries. |
Availability of resources. Access to Project areas. |
-Geological map of Argentina at scale 1:2,500,000; -Geological maps of Pirquitas, San Juan de Oro and Santa Catalina at scale 1:200,000; -Metallogenic map of border area with Chile at scale 1:1,000,000 (five maps total); -Geophysical maps: two maps at scale 1:250,000; aeromagnetic, radiometric (U, K, Th and RGB) and a digital relief model of the area. |
-Geological maps of Pirquitas and Socompa at scale 1:250,000. -Geological maps of the provinces of Salta Jujuy and Catamarca at scale 1:500,000. -Geological maps of the Argentinean Republic at scale 1:2,500,000 updated version. -Exploration Targets in the San Francisco and Catamarca sheets (Blancos de Exploración en las Hojas San Francisco, Catamarca). Technical Contribution Series. -Metalligenesis of the Gold in Sierra Rinconada, Jujuy Province (Metalogénesis del oro en la Sierra Rinconada). Technical Contribution Series. -Zaphires in the Argentinean Puna: A potential mining resource (Zafiros en la Puna Argentina: Un potential Recurso Minero). Technical Contribution Series. Genesis of zaphire and hercinyte of the Argentinean Puna (Génesis del zafiro y hercinita de la Puna Argentina),VIII Chilean Geological Congress. -Paleogene vulcanism in the western Puna, Argentinean Republic (El volcanismo paleogeno de la Puna occidental, República d Argentina), VIII Chilean Geological Congress. A total of 6 geological maps and publications. -Geophysical maps: two maps of geophysical-geological interpretation. -Geological interpretation of aeromagnetic survey of the Puna Austral, provinces of Jujuy and Salta, Argentinean Republic (Interpretación geológica del relevamiento aeromagnético de la Puna Austral, provincias de Jujuy y Salta, República Argentina Technical Contribution Series. |
Project Purposes |
Outcomes |
Means of verification |
Risks |
Baseline Data (prior to September 1996) |
Verifiable Indicators (September 1996 to September 1997) |
Increased cooperation between Geoscience institutions in all five countries (Horizontal Integration). |
Exchanges of technical data and expertise. |
Reports, field trip guide books etc. |
Availability of resources and reporting mechanisms. Political will to continue cooperation. |
Previously not available. |
-Joint participation: The geological services of Argentina and Chile jointly carried out three field sessions in the Paso San Francisco sheet. -An agreement was signed with SERNAGEOMIN (Chile) to carry out joint geological and geophysical tasks: maps of geophysical interpretation (aeromagnetic) of the Puna, geological maps at scale 1:100,000 in the area of the Socompa volcano. -Signed agreement to carry out joint metallogenic and geological joint tasks with SERGEOMIN (Bolivia): metallogenic interpretation of Tertiary silver-tin belts and Paleozoic led-tin-bearing in the Puna area. Maps of geophysical integration (aeromagnetic) in the Puna and interpretation of geophysical survey in the Precambrian of Bolivia. -Update of metallogenic map of the northern border area between Argentina and Chile to generate an integrated digital product with the recently completed metallogenic map of the southern area. |
Project Purposes |
Outcomes |
Means of verification |
Risks |
Baseline Data (prior to September 1996) |
Verifiable Indicators (September 1996 to September 1997) |
Enhance institutional relationships with private sector (mineral exploration and mining companies). |
Increased number of requests for information from the private sector. Communication strategy for involvement of private sector. |
Sales and distribution information supplied by National Geoscience Surveys. |
Availability of resources to reproduce information. |
Previously not available. |
-Map sales. SEGEMAR sells geophysical maps, the new generation of maps is sold upon request based upon a plotting system using digital maps. The summary maps (provincial geological maps and of the Argentinean territory) are printed, and enough stock is available to satisfy the demand. SEGEMAR's library carries out the sale of maps, as well as the specific cartographic production. -There has been an increase of 35% on the demand of summary maps (scale 1:500,000 and geophysical information (digital format at scale 1:100,000 and 1:250,000). Since September of 1996 maps have been sold to more than 50 mining companies recently established in Argentina. -Project area. The private industry follows with great attention the generation of new information. In this manner it has co-financed the generation of geophysical information in the southern area of the Project (50,000 km2) with the participation of eight companies. They await the publishing of the geochemical information currently bring processed. The demand on information is observed by personal contacts and questions via E-mil and in the library. |
Project Purposes |
Outcomes |
Means of verification |
Risks |
Baseline Data (prior to September 1996) |
Verifiable Indicators (September 1996 to September 1997) |
Institutional strengthening. |
Increased product quality and analytical capacity. |
Maps and reports produced. User interviews. |
Lack of resources. Logistical difficulties. Insufficient analytical capacities. |
Previously not available. |
-During the course of last year the cartographic production has registered substantial changes, with the generation of the entire cartography in digital format. Such change is still undergoing due to the investment of time, resources, personnel and training that are necessary. -The digital production of maps ensures better quality on the representation of the geological information. It has been highly praised by the private sector due to the fact that the use of the data poses a higher degree of trust. |
Project Activities |
Outputs |
Means of verification |
Risks |
Baseline Data (prior to September 1996) |
Verifiable Indicators (September 1996 to September 1997) |
Scientific data and analyses of rock and mineral samples and some related training. |
Analytical data of high quality. |
Statistical data collected by Laboratory. |
Resources for analytical services. Lack of availability of laboratory services. |
Previously not available. |
-The interpretation of the geochemical data with the help of experts from the Geological Survey of Canada has began; from the results recently obtained and within the framework of the Project, important distribution patterns of elements of economic interest, that were unknown to us, have been detected. -In the same manner, the use of radar information and its interpretation has been implemented, and has been applied specifically to an area within the Project. This training allowed us to incorporate a new tool to the generation of geoscientific information. |
Seminars, workshops, field conferences and short courses to be given by Canadian Experts in areas to be agreed upon in consultation with Canada and National Geoscience surveys. |
Trained personnel using updated standards to produce maps and reports. |
Maps and reports produced. |
Insufficient trainees. Lack of support to reproduce maps and reports. Lack of resources for moving personnel. |
Previously not available. |
Field work with the participating of Canadian experts was carried out: -Identification of areas of potential mining interest in the Catamarca province have been reactivated. -Structural interpretation of a section of the Paso San Francisco map sheet. -A discussion of the cartographic standards among the four geological services has begun in order to produce collective geological cartography. This topic has advanced more with SERNAGEOMIN (Chile) where production of specific joint cartography has begun. These standards extend to the symbols' library for the digital production of cartography. |
Project Activities |
Outputs |
Means of verification |
Risks |
Baseline Data (prior to September 1996) |
Verifiable Indicators (September 1996 to September 1997) |
Produce Metallogenic Map of the border regions. |
Trained personnel in preparation of metallogenic maps. |
Metallogenic map. |
Lack of trainees. Lack of resources. |
The first joint work done by Argentina and Chile was done in 1995, and involves the creation of a metallogenic map of the border area between the extreme north and 34E southern latitude. |
-The continuity of this map was verified between 1996 and 1997, at which time the southern portion of the prepared map was concluded. This portion extends to the austral extreme of the continent. The map will be produced digitally. -It has been agreed that the northern portion of the map be updated, the MAP project is included in this area. It is necessary to incorporate the new data obtained during the MAP project and to generate the information in digital format, so it can be integrated to the southern portion. The new information will be produced in CD ROM format. |
Attendance at conferences to highlight work of Project. |
Conference attendance(s). |
Conference reports. |
Lack of favourable geology in target regions. Resources to attend conference. |
Previously not available. |
-Introduction of the Project during the XII Argentinean Geological Congress (1996). Approximate attendance 1500 people. -PDAC Conference in Toronto (1977) approximately 6000 people attending. |
BOLIVIA
Project Goal |
Expected Results |
Means of verification |
Risks |
Baseline Data (prior to September 1996) |
Verifiable Indicators (September 1996 to September 1997) |
Economic and social development of depressed regions along the borders of the four participating countries, mainly through mine and infrastructure development. |
Increase in investment in mineral exploration and development in target regions. |
Reports from Agencies responsible for compiling information on mineral investment and activities. |
Political environment favourable for industry investment. Qualified personnel to administer the development of mineral resources. Mineral occurrences must be economically attractive for mine development. |
In the area of the Project there are private companies carrying out exploration and prospect operations. The breakdown by country and company is as follows: Australia 4 Bolivia 9 Brazil 2 Canada 18 France 1 England 1 South Africa 1 United States 13 TOTAL 49 Mining concessions in the Project are before September 1996: 571 (Just to mention a few of the Canadian companies included above: Da Capo, Cameco, Cominco, Cominesa, American Barrick, Echo Bay, Eagle Crest, Orvana Samex, Teck Viceroy). |
Mining concessions in the area of the Project: Area Region No. of no. concessions 1-2 Charaña-Turco 190 3 Charangas 37 4-5-6-7 Chacoma-Sailica 132 8-9 Ollague-Pastos Grandes 107 10-11 San Pablo de Lípez 156 12 Charazani-Apolo 196 TOTAL 812 |
Project Purposes |
Outcomes |
Means of verification |
Risks |
Baseline Data (prior to September 1996) |
Verifiable Indicators (September 1996 to September 1997) |
Geological work leading to more compatible geoscience data within the four National Geoscience Surveys. |
Maps and reports using updated standards. |
Maps and reports prepared by the participating countries. |
Availability of resources. Access to Project areas. |
To September 1996, there were some maps of the Project area at different scales, produced by SERGEOMIN, the breakdown is as follows: 18 geological maps at scale 1:100,000 2 thematic maps at scale 1:250,000. |
To September 1997 SERGEOMIN produced the following maps of the Project area 36 geological maps at scale 1:100,000 6 thematic maps at scale 1: 250,000 The mapped area to September 1997 at different scales (1:100,000-1:50,000-1:10,000) breaks down as follows: Area Region Mapped area (km2) 2 Sajama-Turco 6200 3 Carangas-Negrillos 6390 4 Chacoma-Salinas Garci Mendoza 3130 5 Chinchilhuama-Altamira 1621 8 Ollagua Eskapa 2769 The following was published: -Open File, Vol. 2, 1997 -Bulletin No. 23, National Service of Mining and Geology "Investigations on Magmatism and Cenozoic Mineralization of the Bolivian Andes" (Investigaciones Sobre el Magmatismo y la Mineralizacion del Cenozoico de los Andes Bolivianos). |
Increase cooperation between Geoscience institutions in all five countries (Horizontal Integration). |
Exchanges of technical data and expertise. |
Reports, field trip guide books etc. |
Availability of resources and reporting mechanisms. Political will to continue cooperation. |
Between 1990-1994 some activities of horizontal cooperation took place between the Geological services of Peru and Chile: -Seminars and workshops -Training on the job -Visits to deposits and joint publications. |
Agreements of joint participation were signed during the Executive Council Meetings in Arequipa Peru (September 19-21, 1997). See attached agreements. |
Project Purposes |
Outcomes |
Means of verification |
Risks |
Baseline Data (prior to September 1996) |
Verifiable Indicators (September 1996 to September 1997) |
-Enhance institutional relationships with Private sector (mineral exploration and mining companies). |
Increased number of requests for information from the private sector. Communication strategy for involvement of private sector. |
Sales and distribution information supplied by National Geoscience Surveys. |
Availability of resources to reproduce information. |
SERGEOMIN's Geological Information Department has as specific function the dissemination of the information generated by SERGEOMIN through the sale of maps, bulletins, open files, and all the other materials produced. The sales of these materials is approximately $20,000 us. annually. |
The maps of study areas are the most commonly sold, and represent 60% of the total average sales. In the last two years there has been an increase in the information requested by private companies. |
Institutional strengthening. |
Increased product quality and analytical capacity. |
Maps and reports produced. User interviews. |
Lack of resources. Logistical difficulties. Insufficient analytical capacities. |
Previously not available. |
Starting this fiscal year, the maps are being produced in digital format, which offers better presentation and an advantage to the user. Private companies consider this format more useful. |
Project Activities |
Outputs |
Means of verification |
Risks |
Baseline Data (prior to September 1996) |
Verifiable Indicators (September 1996 to September 1997) |
Scientific data and analyses of rock and mineral samples and some related training. |
Analytical data of high quality. |
Statistical data collected by Laboratory. |
Resources for analytical services. Lack of availability of laboratory services. |
Previously not available.
|
Not available at the moment (results sent to Canadian laboratories have taken too long). |
Seminars, workshops, field conferences and short courses to be given by Canadian Experts in areas to be agreed upon in consultation with Canada and National Geoscience surveys. |
Trained personnel using updated standards to produce maps and reports. |
Maps and reports produced. |
Insufficient trainees. Lack of support to reproduce maps and reports. Lack of resources for moving personnel. |
Previously not available. |
Canadian expert in Bolivia (Glenn Woodsworth) a) Laboratory work -Assisted in the microscopic description of thin sections of volcanic and plutonic rocks. -Critical revision of geological maps of the Project area b) Field work -General reconnaissance of the Project area -Examination of some important geological sections -Technical visits to some of the prospects currently under study by Project personnel. |
Produce Metallogenic Map of the border regions. |
Trained personnel in preparation of metallogenic maps. |
Metallogenic map. |
Lack of trainees. Lack of resources. |
Previously not available. |
For the production of the metallogenic map of border areas the following basic information has been obtained: -The base geological maps are 70% completed -To date, 54 exploration targets have been identified, these include: hydrothermal alteration areas, mineralization, abandoned mineral deposits -Six of these targets were reviewed in detail to model the genesis of the deposit. It is estimated that ten more will be studied in this manner. |
Project Activities |
Outputs |
Means of verification |
Risks |
Baseline Data (prior to September 1996) |
Verifiable Indicators (September 1996 to September 1997) |
Attendance at conferences to highlight work of Project. |
Conference attendance(s). |
Conference reports. |
Lack of favourable geology in target regions. Resources to attend conference. |
Previously not available. |
Project personnel made seven presentations during the last Geological Congress of Bolivia in the city of Tarija: -Geology and alterations of the volcanic complex Panizo-Altamira -Geochemical prospection and statistical treatment of the Chinchilhuma (Potosi) prospect -Geology and mineralogy of the Chinchilhuma prospect -Geophysical prospection on vein structures -Cenozoic magmatic sequences in the Andean region of Bolivia, their geodynamic significance. Monitoring of sliding disasters through the use of satellite data. -Remote sensing technology and its application to the evaluation of non-renewable resources. |
CHILE
Project Goal |
Expected Results |
Means of verification |
Risks |
Baseline Data (prior to September 1996) |
Verifiable Indicators (September 1996 to September 1997) |
Economic and social development of depressed regions along the borders of the four participating countries, mainly through mine and infrastructure development. |
Increase in investment in mineral exploration and development in target regions. |
Reports from Agencies responsible for compiling information on mineral investment and activities. |
Political environment favourable for industry investment. Qualified personnel to administer the development of mineral resources. Mineral occurrences must be economically attractive for mine development. |
-Companies in operation in the Project areas prior to September 1996: Copiapó Area (CH-2): Exploration 14 Exploitation 14 Arica Area (CH-1): Exploration 50 Exploitation 86 (Attached is a listing of the companies mentioned above) -Mining concessions in the Project areas: Copiapó area (CH-1): Sept.30/96 Exploration 119 Exploitation 48 Arica area (CH-2) Sept.30/96 Exploration 1835 Exploitation 680 |
Companies operating in the Project areas to September 1997: Copiapó Area (CH-2): Exploration 20 (showing an increase of 42%) Exploitation 14 Arica Area (CH-1): Exploration 50 Exploitation 86 (Attached is a listing of the companies mentioned above) -Mining concessions in the Project areas: Copiapó area (CH-1): Sept.30/96 Oct.17/97 Exploration 119 226 Exploitation 48 48 Therefore showing a variation of +82% in exploration Arica area (CH-2) Sept.30/96 Oct.17/97 Exploration 1835 1067 Exploitation 680 541 In the Arica zone the MAP Project has not been formally initiated, therefore the changes can not be associated with it. |
Project Purposes |
Outcomes |
Means of verification |
Risks |
Baseline Data (prior to September 1996) |
Verifiable Indicators (September 1996 to September 1997) |
Geological work leading to more compatible geoscience data within the four National Geoscience Surveys. |
Maps and reports using updated standards. |
Maps and reports prepared by the participating countries. |
Availability of resources. Access to Project areas. |
Copiapó Area CH-2 Publications: -Geology of the Copiapo and Ojos de Salado map sheets, Atacama Province. K. Segerstrom 1968. 58 p, 1 map at scale 1:250,000. Bulletin No. 24. Institute of Geological Investigations. (The area of the project is in the eastern sector of this publication, only geological reconnaissance.) -Information from aeromagnetic flights 1986, ENAP-SERNAGEOMIN, Total Field Grid (Source not available at the moment). (Flight elevation 600 m Spacing between flight lines 2500 m, flight direction North-South.) Arica Area CH-1 -Geology and Mineral Resources of the Arica department. R. Salas, R.F. Kast, F. Montecinos, I. Salas. 1966, 114 p., 1 map at scale 1:300,000. (Preliminary mapping, High Cordillera and volcanic zone only photo interpretation. -Inventory of metallic and non-metallic deposits. First Region, Tarpacá. D. Pacci, 19890. Institute of Geological Investigations. Unpublished report, five volumes. (Reconnaissance work and geological compilation of deposits between 17'30E and 21'15E South. The High Cordillera area is based mainly on photo interpretation). |
Copiapó Area CH-2 Geological map sheet Nevados Ojos del Salado, a scale 1:100,000. M. Gardeweg, C. Mpodozis, J. Clavero. preliminary version. (Geological map at scale 1:100,000, with strong emphasis on field work, geochronology, petrography and geochemistry. -Geological map of Salar de Wheelwright-Paso San Francisco area, at scale 1:100,000, with strong emphasis on field work, geochronology, petrography and geochemistry. -Preliminary version of Bouger anomalies and Residual Anomalies in the Caldera Wheelwright, J. Cañuta, C. Bello, J. Harnecker. (Results of the detail gravimetric study, with two sections E-W and five Sections N-S, data was takes every 250 m on average.) Arica Area CH-1 The study of this area within MAP has not yet began. |
Project Purposes |
Outcomes |
Means of verification |
Risks |
Baseline Data (prior to September 1996) |
Verifiable Indicators (September 1996 to September 1997) |
Increase cooperation between Geoscience institutions in all five countries (Horizontal Integration). |
Exchanges of technical data and expertise. |
Reports, field trip guide books etc. |