Terrain 3D Model for Mining Monitoring: A Case Study of Shahuindo Mine

Project Overview: Aerial Monitoring of Unauthorized Mining Activities

In 2021, DCMS was engaged to monitor unauthorized mining activities affecting the Shahuindo Mine in Cajamarca, Peru. This project was crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of the mining operations while also addressing the growing concerns over illegal encroachments in the area. By utilizing terrain 3D models along with advanced aerial photogrammetry, DCMS aimed to enhance the mine's surveillance capabilities and facilitate robust management strategies.

The Challenge

The challenge faced by the Shahuindo Mine was multi-faceted. Unauthorized mining activities posed substantial risks, not only to the company’s resources but also to the local environment. The absence of accurate, real-time data on land use changes made it difficult for site managers to enforce security measures and devise effective risk mitigation strategies.

• Environmental Impact: Illegal mining operations can cause significant damage to local ecosystems, leading to erosion, contamination, and loss of biodiversity.

• Resource Management: Without monitoring tools, it became increasingly difficult to track resource extraction accurately, risking operational inefficiencies and regulatory non-compliance.

• Security Risks: Unauthorized access to mining areas increased the potential for theft and other security breaches, necessitating a more stringent monitoring system.

The Solution: Leveraging Terrain 3D Models

To tackle these challenges, DCMS implemented a comprehensive aerial monitoring solution using the DJI Phantom 4 RTK drone. This advanced drone captures high-resolution aerial imagery, which is then processed to create detailed terrain 3D models.

 Key Advantages of Using Terrain 3D Models

1. Enhanced Surveillance:

   • The ability to create up-to-date terrain 3D models provided a complete visual overview of the mine and its surroundings. This capability made it significantly easier to spot unauthorized mining operations and encroachment into protected areas.

2. Identification of Topographic Changes:

   • By comparing the newly created models with baseline imagery, managers could quickly identify any alterations in the terrain, allowing for proactive management of environmental impacts. This capability ensures that any adverse changes can be documented and addressed promptly.

3. Improved Decision-Making:

   • Integrated into Geographic Information Systems (GIS), the 3D models facilitated data-driven decision-making. Managers could easily visualize data trends and land use changes, leading to more effective planning and enforcement of security protocols.

4. Visual Accountability:

   • 3D models can serve as visual reports that enhance communication among stakeholders. By presenting clear, precise visual data, site managers can better advocate for necessary actions and resource allocations.

Deliverables from the Project

The project yielded various critical deliverables designed to enhance security and provide ongoing monitoring capabilities for Shahuindo Mine:

• High-Resolution Orthophotos: These images facilitated the detection of new land movement and terrain alterations. By providing detailed views of the mine’s geography, they support ongoing monitoring and reporting.

• Aerial Imagery Maps: Maps generated from drone captures enable visual tracking of both active mining zones and unauthorized encroachments, ensuring that site managers have a thorough understanding of current conditions.

• 3D Terrain Models: These comprehensive models provide a detailed perspective of the mine's topography, allowing for volumetric analysis and environmental monitoring. This data is invaluable for assessing the impact of mining activities and planning any necessary interventions.

The Technology Behind Terrain 3D Models

Tools Used

• DJI Phantom 4 RTK: Known for its precision and reliability, this drone was instrumental in capturing high-resolution aerial imagery accurately geolocated for further analysis.

• Pix4D Mapper: This software was essential for processing drone data, transforming aerial images into detailed 3D models and orthomosaic maps that provide insights into site conditions.

• QGIS: A powerful tool used for integrating spatial data and creating GIS reports, enabling effective analysis and presentation of mining operations data.

The Impact of Terrain 3D Models on Mining Operations

The adoption of terrain 3D models for monitoring unauthorized mining activities has had a transformational impact on the operations at Shahuindo Mine:

1. Enhanced Compliance: By regularly monitoring land use and changes, Shahuindo S.A.C. can ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and environmental standards.

2. Proactive Management: Accurate and timely data allows site managers to act quickly on unauthorized activities, reducing the risk of operational disruptions and resource loss.

3. Informed Decisions: Terrain 3D models deliver actionable insights that enable strategic planning for future mining operations while considering environmental sustainability.

Need to Monitor or Map Mining Zones with Terrain 3D Models?

The growing demand for effective monitoring solutions in the mining sector emphasizes the importance of terrain 3D models. DCMS is committed to delivering cutting-edge technology and expertise for these vital applications.