Lesson 1/Learning Event 3
Learning Event 3:
IDENTIFY THE SEVEN SOURCES OF INFORMATION FOR SELECTING A QUARRY SITE
INTRODUCTION
Use three steps to find and evaluate potential quarry sites, then make the final selection. First, do a site
reconnaissance survey. This is a research task to collect published and filed data, such as maps, reports,
and aerial photographs. Second, do a field reconnaissance of those potential sites which are evaluated as
high priorities. Finally, make a final site selection based on all available information.
SITE SELECTION
The first step you will take in site selection is the collection and study of all available information
relative to potential pit or quarry locations. A thorough reconnaissance survey saves time by limiting
the areas to be investigated to those having definite possibilities. Personnel trained in terrain analysis,
soils analysis, or related fields should be used as aids to locate potential sites. You should use as many
sources of data as possible to develop a reconnaissance plan to locate the best source of construction
material. The amount of planning for reconnaissance for pit and quarry sites varies according to time
limitations dictated by tactical considerations. Your reconnaissance survey will provide the plans
necessary for any required field reconnaissance.
Sources of Information
The following seven sources of information may be used in a reconnaissance survey. You should use as
many of these sources as possible to qualify potential pit and quarry sites.
Geologic Maps. These maps are excellent aids in finding pit and quarry locations. They provide
information on existing pits, quarries, and mines and on the distribution and structure of subsurface
geologic formations. Detailed geologic studies are not available for all parts of the world. Also, not all
studies provide complete information on all categories of material. For these reasons, you may have to
depend more on available topographic maps, soil maps, and aerial photography. The United States
Geological Survey (USGS) publishes geologic maps and reports for the United States and some foreign
areas. Many states and Foreign nations have similar geological survey agencies.
Topographic Maps. These maps show existing pit, quarry, mine locations and streams, transportation
routes, cliffs, and other terrain features. The information available depends on the age, scale, and
contour interval of the maps. Close inspection of topographic features, such as slopes and drainage
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