Recommendations for assessments of undiscovered mineral resources

Abstract

In May 1993, the committee that prepared this report was selected and instructed to obtain broad input about the applicability of the report by Harris, Rieber, and others (1993) titled "Evaluation of the United States Geological Survey's three-step assessment methodology" (hereafter referred to as the Arizona Report) as a guide for improvements in the program to assess undiscovered mineral resources. The Arizona Report was prepared by an outside contractor for the Geologic Division of the U.S.G.S. in response to intra-Survey criticism of the methodology. The approach used to obtain the desired broad response was to conduct workshops, or forums, in six U.S. Geological Survey Centers and Field Offices and to invite written comments. The discussions in the forums led to and included additional related topics. This report, therefore, addresses a broader array of issues than that covered in the Arizona Report and blends the information into a single extended discussion. This report thus goes well beyond the scope of the Arizona Report; however, it is not necessary to read that report in order to understand any aspect of this report.