This SME classic is both a reference book for the working engineer and a textbook for the mining student. The hardcover edition gives a brief history of surface mining and a general overview of the state of surface mining today--topics range from production and productivity to technological developments and trends in equipment.

This useful text takes the approach that exploration and mining geologists must be expert in a number of fields, including basic finance and economics, logistics, and pragmatic prospecting. Readers will find material on all these topics and more.

The book's nine chapters include:

• Introduction,
• Exploration and Geology Techniques,
• Ore Reserve Estimation,
• Feasibility Studies and Project Financing,
• Planning and Design of Surface Mines,
• Mine Operations,
• Mine Capital and Operating Costs,
• Management and Organization, and
• Case Studies.