NV5 was hired to assist with the client’s due diligence evaluation of the X-Rock Quarry in Marion County, Oregon. Our initial task was to estimate the aggregate resource volume currently permitted at the site using a combination of desktop records review, onsite reconnaissance, and computer modeling of the resource using AutoCAD Civil3D software. However, both aerial imagery and topographic data were dated compared to the degree of mining that had occurred at the site. Specifically, the most recent elevation data – a LiDAR survey conducted several years earlier – predated a significant amount of mining disturbance and resource removal by the previous operator.
We used our Trimble UX5-HP (an unmanned aerial system) to collect a fresh set of aerial imagery to create an updated orthomosaic image of the entire site and a high-resolution topographic dataset of the recent mining area. This inserted nicely into the existing LiDAR dataset to create a composite topographic model for the site. Using this, we were able to more accurately define the extents of mining and calculate the remaining resource available to the client for their planning needs.
In addition to our geological and mine consulting services, we assisted the client with environmental due diligence of the previous operation of the property. In this way, we served as a “one-stop shop” for the client and its management to develop an informed plan for their purchase of the mine.
“[NV5] was my first call when considering acquisition of a competitors’ quarrying operation. They worked to ascertain mineral reserves with state of the art technology, reviewed past and current operating requirements, and probed for any potential environmental issues so we could make an informed decision. After the acquisition, [NV5] was instrumental in helping with mine-planning and strategy for the long-term success of our business. … [T]he entire team [was] easy to work with and very professional throughout. Our company will continue to be a consumer of the services [NV5] offers both for this quarry and future opportunities.”
— Andrew Siegmund, Owner, Allied Rock LLC